Top 10 Best Double Din Head Unit Reviews for Your Car 2020

best double din head unitIf you are looking for a new stereo for your car, then you must have realized by now that it’s not an easy task to find a quality stereo system.

But if you haste and go home with a sub-par stereo, it can cause you endless regret as your hard-earned money will go down the drain.

So, you need to comb the market well before you zero in on your ideal product.

However, to help you out, here we are with our review guide for the best double DIN head unit.

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the top stereos on the market. In addition, there will be proper guidelines on how to make the right decision.

Let’s begin.

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Editor’s choice: 

Best Choice: Pioneer AVH-1300NEX Multimedia DVD Receiver

This one is our best choice. It has everything you can desire in a car double DIN stereo. From compatibility with CarPlay and Android Auto to durability, it has all. So, if you want to make a quick purchase, this one is our recommendation.

Runner’s Up: BOSS Audio BVCP9685A Apple CarPlay 

After the Pioneer AVH-1300NEX, this one is the best in the market. If you use Siri a lot, then this one is the best choice for you as it catches voice commands perfectly. It’s sound and video quality can compete with any high-end stereo out there.

Best Double DIN Head Unit for Sound Quality Reviews

Among all the options on the market, how do you choose the perfect double DIN head unit? With the help of us. And we’ll provide our help in the form of reviews of the top stereos on the market

Highlighted Features

  • The responsive and bright screen helps you navigate in the sun
  • Great bass and clear sound due to the high-quality amplifier
  • Able to hook up multiple phones at the same time
  • Has GPS option that can be used to find restaurants and gas stations
  • Allows you to use Whats App

Specifications

  • Brand: Pioneer
  • Screen Size: 6.2-inch
  • Display Type: WVGA Touchscreen Display
  • Power Output: Peak 50 watts x 4 channels

Pioneer AVH-1300NEX Multimedia DVD Receiver with 6.2" WVGA DisplayWhen it comes to the car radio, there’s one brand whose name is bound to come up. Yes, I’m talking about Pioneer. Ther are the leading company in this industry and are known for producing best double DIN radios.

Now, this one employs a double-din installation and is pretty easy to set up. But the best thing about this device is its touchscreen. That’s extremely responsive and really bright. That way, you won’t have any difficulties reading the text on the screen if you are driving in the sun.

Also, despite being priced reasonably, it offers you the CarPlay feature of the apple. You can easily hook your iPhone with this thing and answer all the calls without moving your hands from the steering

What about WhatsApp? Well, you can send and receive voice messages with this one in WhatsApp as well. Isn’t that really cool? In addition, you can use multiple devices with this stereo. So, if you are watching GPS with your iPhone, you can use your other phone to make calls.

Regarding the sound, it’s pretty amazing. Is the best out there for sound? No, I won’t go as far as to claim this one as the finest option for sound, but it certainly belongs to the top-tier.

Our Verdict: This one comes at a reasonable price and has numerous features that make it a valuable purchase. So, if you are looking for value for the money, this one is a good choice.

Highlighted Features

  • With Siri, this one works best due to its high compatibility with apple devices
  • The installation is a breeze and shouldn’t take long
  • Bass is accurate and won’t fluctuate
  • Features an LCD touchscreen display for user convenience
  • Offers great Bluetooth connectivity

Specifications

  • Brand: Boss Audio System
  • Screen Size: 6.75-inch
  • Display Type: Touchscreen
  • Power Output: 80 Watts x 4 channels

BOSS Audio BVCP9685A Apple Carplay Android Auto Car Multimedia Player - Double Din Car StereoHere’s another brand, Boss Audio Systems, which I am fond of. Their stereo is reputed for offering great bass, and it has carried into this device as well. When it comes to sound, you’ll have a hard time to find another radio that can beat this one in performance.

What I like most about this device is its equation with Siri. This one works amazingly well with Siri. You can ask it to receive or sent texts or find Gas stations and hotels for you. As a result, you won’t have to divert your attention from the road, which will ensure a safe journey for you.

There’s a lot of options for customization. You’ll have software like Amazon, Podcasts, Radios Disney on your touchscreen. They’ll keep you entertained throughout the journey and will keep you from being bored.

The installation is pretty simple and shouldn’t be much difficult for you. It shouldn’t take you more than 2 hours to set the entire thing up. And if you are gonna add a backup camera as well, then add another 2 hours to the count.

One thing that I didn’t like about the device is that it takes a bit longer, like 10 seconds to start. In addition, there’s no option for folders. So, all your tracks will be on a list, which makes finding a particular track a bit difficult.

Our Verdict: Laden with numerous attractive features, this one is certainly gonna catch your attention. If you don’t have any problem with a slightly slow start, you can give this one a chance.

Highlighted Features

  • Has many attractive features like sports flash feature and weather updates
  • Features a graphics equalizer so that the quality of video is consistent
  • Has a high-quality touchscreen with user-friendly interface
  • DTA is included

Specifications

  • Brand: Pioneer
  • Screen Size: 7-inch
  • Display Type: Touchscreen
  • Power Output: 50 peak x 4 channels

Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX Double DIN Wireless Mirroring Android AutoIf you are a huge sports fan like me, then you will love this Pioneer double din radio. Suppose you are on the road, and your favorite team is playing. Wouldn’t you like to be updated on the score? This one helps you to be updated about the game score with its sports flash feature.

The device is also able to keep you updated on the weather. So, if a storm is brewing, it will tell you beforehand so that you can take the necessary preparation. It features built-in Bluetooth as well, which allows you to communicate with other people via phone with taking your eyes off the road.

Another feature that I like about this thing that it provides you with a graphic equalizer, which is of 13 bands. So, it will be able to hold two custom curves. In addition, to make the installation a bit easier, the makers have included DTA.

If you are into Android Auto, then there’s good news for you. This one works effortlessly with Android Auto. Also, you have the CarPlay option on this device. That means, if you own an iPhone, you can enjoy a host of features.

You’ll love the touchscreen display it features as it’s very user-friendly and intuitive. You won’t have any issues figuring out all the features.

Our Verdict: Overall, it's a great product that scores high due to features like sports flash features and weather updates. Also, the sound quality it provides is great as well.

Highlighted Features

  • An awesome option for watching videos due to the high pixels on the screen
  • No lag problem in the GPS system and will provide real-time info
  • Great wifi reception and doesn’t drop
  • Supports 256 GB sd

Specifications

  • Brand: Atoto
  • Screen Size: Full HD 7"
  • Display Type: TFT-LCD Touchscreen
  • Power Output: NA

ATOTO A6 Double Din Android Car Navigation Stereo with Dual BluetoothIf you like watching videos while driving the car, then this one can be a great choice for you. It has a great screen and is an ideal option for watching youtube videos. So, if you install this in your vehicle, you are never going to get bored while driving.

Some double din system has GPS that have lag problems. However, that’s not the case with this one since it’s pretty accurate and will show you real-time data. So, you won’t get into problems while riding through unknown areas.

Unlike the previous version, this one has a markedly improved wifi reception. So, internet connectivity won’t be a problem. Also, there’s a built-in microphone to help you make phone calls safely while in the car. The quality of the microphone is great and has improved from the previous model.

I must tell you that there are some negative reviews on the internet about this product. However, if you inspect closely, the source of most of the complaints is the wrong installation. Most people find it difficult to connect the wires properly. So, read the installation guide properly before you get started.

This one supports 256 GB SD card, which is a plus for the radio. When it comes to sound, this one excels as well.

Our Verdict: This one is the ideal choice for you if you are gonna watch videos on it. Also, it has a good GPS system. Needless to say, this one is certainly worth the money.

Highlighted Features

  • Allows you to use almost all the features of an iPhone
  • Provides clear sound for greater experience
  • Able to pick up a wide range of frequencies
  • The microphone is of high-quality and can convey words clearly
  • The price has been kept within budget as well

Specifications

  • Brand: Pioneer
  • Screen Size: 7-inch
  • Display Type: Touchscreen
  • Power Output: NA

Pioneer AVH-2300NEX Multimedia DVD Receiver with 7" WVGA DisplayThis one has a highly responsive touchscreen, which you will enjoy using. It’s a very light-touch screen, so you won’t have to push hard on the surface. Also, the screen is well-illuminated so that you don’t face issues while driving in the sun.

I like how compatible this one is with apple devices. Due to the CarPlay, you can hook up your iPhone with this device. It allows you to use every option of the iPhone there basically. From answering calls to sending messages on social platforms, you can do it all with this guy.

But how about the sound? Really great. You’ll be able to listen to all the tracks clearly with this guy. There won’t be a sudden drop in quality. Also, the microphone is quite great as well. You can be heard clearly on the receiving end if you speak with this microphone.

However, there are some bugs in the software. But that’s pretty much expected since pioneer isn’t exactly a graphics software developing company. However, it would be better if they made some beta-test on some people to see if issues persist. However, that’s not a very big deal and certainly not worth it to opt-out of the buying decision.

I like the price point as well. It would be hard to find another double din head unit at this reasonable price.

Our Verdict: When you take the price into account along with the features, it seems to me that this one is a really good deal. And it’s certainly worth checking out.

Highlighted Features

  • Able to download apps from google play store
  • Short bootup time to save your precious moments
  • Great GPS system and accuracy
  • The radio can find a lot of channels easily

Specifications

  • Brand: Corehan
  • Screen Size: 7-inch
  • Display Type: Touchscreen
  • Power Output: Max 4 channels×45 Watts

Double Din Android Car Stereo - Corehan 7 inch 2GB Ram 32 ROM Touch Screen in Dash Car RadioThis double din stereo supports google play store. That means you can download all your necessary apps from the store. However, they need to be compatible with the stereo. Also, there’s Bluetooth connectivity, meaning you can always answer or call your spouse and inform them about your whereabouts.

There’s also 2 GB ram, which is good enough for a stereo. In addition, there are 3 USB ports on the stereo to make your life easier. And what’s more, there’s also an option for 2 SD card slots.

I like how quickly it boots up. It will take you only mere seconds to start this thing up. Another feature that is worth mentioning is that the reverse camera will turn on by itself when the car gets in the reverse mode.

Moreover, this double DIN stereo supports google map, and the GPS system is pretty accurate. So, if you are about to traverse through somewhere unknown, then this one can be a reliable companion.

The sound and video quality are commendable as well. And you won’t find much fault in them. Also, the radio works great and can find a lot of channels. So, you will have an enjoyable time on your journey.

Our Verdict: As you can see, if you have an android phone, this is an ideal option for you. However, it works well with IOS devices as well. In fact, I will say that this one can be considered among the best double DIN car stereos.

Highlighted Features

  • The design is very attractive and will complement most car décor
  • Bluetooth is great for connecting with the phone
  • Able to hook up both IOS and Android devices
  • Has a built-in amplifier
  • User-interface is easy to navigate

Specifications

  • Brand: Alpine
  • Screen Size: 7-inch
  • Display Type: Touchscreen
  • Power Output: 50 peak x 4 channels

Alpine iLX-W650 7" Mech-Less Receiver Compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android AutoI like its shallow-mount chassis design, which is great for user convenience. Also, it has a premium look to it. So, if you care about how your car stereo looks, then you can give this one a chance.

You may be wondering if the touchscreen is responsive enough? Well, to answer your question, I must say that it’s of the finest when it comes to responsive displays. You won’t have any problems using this thing. The user interface is user-friendly as well. So, elderly people won’t get confused regarding its functions.

The Bluetooth connectivity options work fine, and don’t interrupt between phone calls. So, if you are in an important phone call, the network won’t suddenly get dropped.

What I like most about this stereo is that it’s compatible with both CarPlay and Android Auto. So, no matter which operating system you have on your phone, you can hook it up with the radio.

There’s a built-in amplifier to provide great sound. Amplifiers are really important for car audio. And the provided microphone is well-built and offers a nice performance. So, you won’t have any complaints against them.

Our Verdict: Overall, this product is very user-friendly. And it would be a good option for senior citizens.

Highlighted Features

  • Glossy touchscreen with impressive UI
  • The crisp display enhances the watching experience of videos
  • Offers large texts so people with sighting problems won’t find it difficult to navigate the features
  • Supports Apple CarPlay

Specifications

  • Brand: Kenwood
  • Screen Size: 6.75-inch
  • Display Type: Touchscreen
  • Power Output: 50Watts x 4 channels

Kenwood Excelon DDX9905S Multimedia Receiver with Apple CarPlay & Android AutoNow you must have heard this brand at least once from a friend or acquaintance. This one is a very reputed brand that offers A1 standard stereo. However, their products are a bit expensive. That said, stereos from their company are usually worth the money. You’ll see how when you go through the features of this Double Din head unit.

The moment you get to see the 6.75-inch touchscreen display, you’ll get to realize how top-notch this thing is. Also, the touch panel is glossy, and will certainly improve the overlook of your vehicle.

In addition, you can take advantage of the apple CarPlay through USB. So, whenever you are on a long journey, you can turn the podcast on and keep listening. Moreover, you can plug in multiple phones with this stereo, which is a very helpful feature.

Regarding videos, you can watch youtube clips on this without a hitch. The display is crisp, and the overall experience will be enjoyable. The sound output is quite fantastic as well. With HD tracks, you can go up to 24/192, which is extremely impressive.

Kenwood stereos are known for offering large font texts. However, the text size in this one seems a bit too large. On the flip side, this feature is helpful for people who have problems reading small fonts.

Our Verdict: If you have no qualms regarding spending a good amount of money, then it can be a good option for you as it has numerous attractive features.

Highlighted Features

  • The bezel-less display provides a clean look
  • The touchscreen panel is responsive and user-friendly
  • Bass is more than enough for good experience
  • Feature both CarPlay and Android Auto option

Specifications

  • Brand: Sony
  • Screen Size: 6.95-inch
  • Display Type: Touchscreen
  • Power Output: NA

Sony XAV-AX5000 7” Apple Car Play, Android Auto, Media Receiver with BluetoothThere’s nothing new that I can tell you about Sony. It’s a brand that is trusted by millions of people. And they are unlikely to offer a sub-par product less they upset their huge consumer base. So, you can trust this stereo to be of good quality.

The best thing about its look is that there’s no bezel in there. So the stereo looks a lot cleaner than other options out there. However, for this cleaner look, you’ll need to fork out around 500$. However, it has other features that make it worth the investment.

Every high-end double DIN stereo must have the CarPlay option, and in accordance with the norms, this one has it also. So, you can use your iPhone with this radio easily. Android users, no need to get disheartened. There’s an Android Auto option here as well so that you can hook up your android phone with it.

The touchscreen panel is a bit bigger than others and provides you with a seamless experience irrespective of if you are using the map or any other feature. The quality of sound will leave you impressed.

The sound makes it worth the price as the bass is simply awesome. Regarding the video quality, it isn’t the best out there, but certainly up to the standard.

Our Verdict: As it comes from a reputed brand, you can trust the product to provide value for the money. Also, the features are quite interesting as well.

Highlighted Features

  • Bug-free software makes it easy to use
  • Sound quality is up to the standard
  • Crisp video quality
  • Great touchscreen and fun to use
  • Minimalistic device

Specifications

  • Brand: Pioneer
  • Screen Size: 6.2-inch
  • Display Type: Touchscreen
  • Power Output: NA

AVH-200EX 6.2" WVGA Touchscreen Display Double DIN Bluetooth Car Stereo ReceiverI like this one most for its simplicity. The device keeps things simple yet is perfectly able to execute the tasks it is meant to. So, if you are looking for something minimalistic, give this one a chance.

This one is very easy to install. And even If you have never installed one, it shouldn’t take you more than an hour to set the who system up. Just like other quality stereos, this one is also compatible with both android and IOS  devices. So, no matter which brand you use, you won’t have a problem with this one.

I’d rate the sound system of this stereo as good. Could it have been better? Definitely. But is it bad? Certainly not. In fact, the sound quality is really good, but it isn’t the best out there. So, do not forget to keep your expectations in check.

Due to the Bluetooth connectivity, you will be able to make calls without calling in the assistance of your hands. Also, the bootup time is pretty fast, and you won’t have to wait long for the device to get started like some other budget options.

The touchscreen is really nice and has a lot of features. But the thing that I liked most is the software. There are no bugs in it. So, they must have beta-tested it on users before releasing it on the market.

Our Verdict: If you like simple, this one is for you. Regarding features like sound, touchscreen, and design, this one scores a high point in all of them.

Let’s Check the Complete Buying Guide Before Choose A Double Din Car Stereo

You can’t just go and choose a double DIN head unit. In order to find your ideal stereo, you gotta keep some factors in mind. Below, we are going to talk about those factors in detail so that it gets easier for you to make the decision.

  • Interface

The first thing that I look at any stereo is the interface. Is it good?

Yes, that's the question you must ask yourself before investing your hard-earned cash in it. You gotta see if the screen is responsive enough. If you see the touch isn’t that smooth, then you are gonna have trouble using this device. A good touchscreen should allow swipe movements so that you don’t have to put too much effort in there.

Also, you need to see if the interface is customizable. There are many things that you won't like. That doesn't mean you need to live with it. So, a customizable interface will help you make the screen truly yours.

Another thing that is super important is the software. If it’s full of bugs, you will have a hard time using it. So, make sure the bugs are minimal or better, non-existent.

  • Design

Obviously, you want your car to look good. However, if the stereo looks bland, it takes away the shine from your car.

So, if you are someone who cares a lot about aesthetics, then you must choose a stereo whose design goes well with your car interior.

  • Durability

When you buy a device, you would want it to survive at least a few years so that you get your money’s worth. However, if you have to replace the stereo after just a few months, then it’s pretty much a waste of your money.

So, always buy from a reputed brand as they are more concerned about the durability than any regular brand.

  • Sound

When you are on the journey, you are bound to play some tracks. So, it’s highly important that the quality of the sound is at the level where you can enjoy the track.

You wouldn’t want to listen to a podcast that has unclear sounds. So make sure the device you are buying provides a clean and loud sound. Also, keep in mind that for good sound quality, you will also need a quality car speaker.

  • Video

While on the road, you will sometimes playing a YouTube clip on Michael Jordan or Shaq o' neal. So, what do you do? You open YouTube start playing his videos.

However, you seem to notice that video qualities are so bad that it's even making Shaq look bad. It will ruin your entire mood.

So, it’s important the screen provides crisp footage so that you can enjoy the clips completely.

  • Compatibility

It’s highly important that your double din stereo is compatible with your phone. If both aren’t compatible with each other, you are in serious trouble as your stereo’s almost all the features will be useless.

So, it’s of paramount importance that you ensure that the stereo is compatible with both ios devices and android devices.

You might be thinking, I have an iPhone, why would I need compatibility with android?

Well, you may wake up one day and decide you want to change your phone brand. So, it would be wise to get prepared for that possibility.

Apart from the windows phones, which have now become obsolete, any phone will work with your stereo if it has CarPlay and Android Auto.

  • Radio

Radio is a great companion on the roads. So, it’s imperative that your car radio manages to pick up as many channels as possible.

That will have a lot of options on the road. So, if you don't like one channel, you can keep changing until you find one of your choices.

  • Bluetooth Connectivity

If a stereo doesn’t have Bluetooth connectivity, it isn't a modern stereo and shouldn't be bought. With the help of Bluetooth connectivity, you can answer and make calls. So, if you have something important to tell someone, you can do that by making the call without removing your hands from the steering wheel.

  • CD/DVD

I am fully aware that the age of CDs has gone already. But they are still some people out there who prefer the old way and have a wide collection of CDs. If you find yourself among them, then you need to buy a stereo with a cd/DVD player.

  • Boot Up Time

There will be instances where you would shut down the stereo. And when you turn it back on, if it takes too long, you are bound to get a bit frustrated. You don’t want that.

So, you will need to get a stereo for yourself, which gets started in a breeze.

  • GPS System

Suppose you are in a place about which you don’t know much. In such a situation, if your GPS isn’t working properly, you will be in real trouble.

So, the GPS system of the stereo must be accurate.

Also, you have to see if it lags. If the GPS is unable to provide current-time info, then it won’t be of much help to you as you wouldn’t which road to avoid for saving yourself from the traffic jam.

Thus, before you make your investment, make sure that the GPS system of the device works well.

Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQ)

  • What is a double DIN head unit?

It’s double the size of a regular DIN unit stereo. The meaning of the abbreviation is Duetch Industri Normen. This was first used in German cars. Normally a double DIN head unit comes with a lot of features like GPS, CarPlay, Android Auto, and many other things.

  • What is the best double DIN head unit?

Now, that’s a bit difficult question to answer. If fact, this one doesn’t have an answer. And it varies from person to person. In my opinion, our first pioneer recommendation is the best of the lot.

  • What is the best head unit for sound quality?

Again that depends on personal perception. However, the answer remains the same. I think the Pioneer AVH-1300NEX is the best option for sound quality.

  • Will any double DIN fit my car?

No, it won't. If your car is designed for single DIN stereos, then it won't fit. So, before you make the purchase, make sure your car is compatible with the system.

  • Does the head unit affect sound quality?

Of course, yes. If the double DIN system isn’t good, it won’t provide good sound. So, make your investment carefully.

Conclusion

Now, we have come to an end after this long article. And if you are still with me, the chances are high that you have made your decision.

If you haven’t yet already, then go through the review and buying guide section again. I’m sure after that you will have no confusion regarding which is the best double din head unit.

Good luck with your purchase.

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