You love your Android smartphone. It offers you everything from the ability to surf the internet, listen to your favorite music, receive and send text messages as well as taking and making phone calls, so it is only natural you’d like to be able to integrate it into your cars stereo system.
In order to accomplish this, car stereo designers have created the Android Head Unit, which allows you to have all the convenience of your smartphone at your fingertips as you drive.
To assist you on your quest to find the best android auto car stereo, we have compiled a list of some of the best android auto head units (stereos) on the market today, along with some helpful tips to get you started.
List Of Top Android Auto Car Stereos
| photo | Brand | Model | Screen Size | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony | XAV-AX100 | 6.4" | |
| Panlelo | PA09YZ16 | 7 in | |
| Pioneer | AVH4200NEX | 7" | |
| Kenwood | Kenwood | 6.95" | |
| Pyle | No | 7 in | |
| Pioneer | AVIC-5100NEX | 6.2 in | |
| LESHP | No | 7 in |
Things to Consider When Buying an Android Auto Head Unit
When we talk about a ‘head unit’ we are speaking of the heart of your vehicle’s stereo system. If you look in your car, you’ll find that your head unit is in the dashboard, and it is what you use to choose your favorite radio station, play a CD or cassette, Bluetooth, GPS among others.
So, as you can probably guess, the Android head unit works with drivers who own an Android smartphone, and come in 2 sizes, based on country: ‘Double DIN’ or ‘2 DIN’ being 180 x 100mm for Japan, UK, US, and Single being 180 x 50mm for Europe, South America and Australia. Features of each head unit will vary, so we’ve selected some of the basic considerations to help those unfamiliar with head units, to get started.
Audio – This is always going to be the first consideration, after all it is what the head unit was originally built for. When you look for a head unit, think of how you listen to music, what apps you employ. For instance, do you stream your music from sites like Pandora, or do you store it on your phone, how much storage space will you need to store music on the unit?
Another consideration is can the Android head unit make it so you can browse and playback music, as inexpensive head units may not allow you to sort or browse for your favorite tunes.
Power Handling – This is where audiophiles first look, the ability of the head unit to handle power, as you are using this to play music and want the best bass, treble and midrange you can get for the money. When you read your specs, you will see ‘peak’ and RMS’, where RMS refers to the power output when you use your speakers continuously, and Peak refers to how powerful they are at full blast.
When you look for power handling, please ignore the ‘peak’ numbers, as they are useless and are for reference only, as you would burn out your speakers if you played them at peak power continuously. Numbers will vary, but RMS will usually look like this in the specs: 17 watts RMS.
User Friendly – Some of these Android head units can have so many features and functions, that it may be confusing for some people who are not tech savvy. So it’s a good idea to be honest with yourself and consider just what you want from the head unit.
Look for one that you would feel comfortable operating as you will be using it as you are driving. For example, many users like the steering wheel control option, which lets you control the head unit via buttons on the steering wheel, while for others it will be the voice control option, and others simply use the touch screen.
AppleCar – Even though this article concerns Android Head unit reviews, we also know that not all of your passengers will use an Android smartphone, some may own an iPhone.
So, it can’t hurt to consider all of those on your passenger list, and look for a head unit that services both the Android app as well as the AppleCar apps. This way, if you have an Android phone, and your partner has an iPhone, your head unit will be able to service you both, depending on who is driving.
Rear View/Dash Camera Capability – A few high end models will have both rear and dash camera capabilities. The dash cam is useful for recording any events that happen while driving, such as a bump or accident, and this video footage can be useful for insurance claims. The rear view camera is extremely useful as it assists you in backing up, so you don’t accidentally hit another vehicle, pedestrian or object.
7 Best Android Auto Head Units Reviewed
1. Sony XAV-AX100 Review
First on our list for the Best Android Car Stereos, is the Sony XAV-AX100 6.4″ Car Play/Android Auto Media Receiver with Bluetooth is a double DIN audio visual center which lets you enjoy your music and smartphone while driving. Simply hook your Sony AV center to your smartphone handset, and you have the power and convenience of voice control while you drive.
Your Sony comes with a built-in 4 x 55 watt power Dynamic Reality Amp 2 which is more than enough to create immersive audio, along with defined, clear sound at any volume.
The easy to read, 6.4 inch full color touchscreen display allows you to have total control over all of your music and smartphone functions such as maps, taking phone calls, handling text messages, and is rear camera ready in case you need to install a rear camera.
This is all accomplished by the Apple CarPlay or Android Auto apps. If you are concerned that you will no longer have access to Siri with your Apple CarPlay, fear not, for you still retain full access to Siri and be able to enjoy all of the same features, including navigating your journey, using Siri.
If you enjoy your Android, simply use the convenient Android Auto app to handle your voice commands, control what music you listen to, talk out messages, take calls or check the maps.
One thing is for certain, you will be able to control the music, hearing it just the way you choose by using the customization options available to you, such as the Dynamic Stage Organizer feature, the 10 band graphic equalizer, and three pre-outs which let you add extra amps and/or sub-woofers.
- Apple CarPlay and Andoid Auto.
- Built in Bluetooth.
- Pandora Control with iPhone and Android.
- Intelligent voice control.
- Large 6.4 inch easy to read display screen.
Summary- The Sony XAV-AX100 6.4″ Car Play/Android Auto Media Receiver with Bluetooth allows you to navigate, communicate and play music with its intelligent voice control technology. Siri works with Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto for android phones.
Built-in 4 x 55 watt power amp, easy to use touchscreen, rear view camera ready, 10 band equalizer, pre-outs to expand your system. This is a great system and we give it 5 stars due to function, features, usability and ability to expand by adding extra amps and/or subwoofers.
2. Panlelo PA09YZ16 Review
The Panlelo PA09YZ16, 7 Inch Double Din Car Stereo’s features are diverse and quite useful, such as the ability to turn the Panlelo into a tablet using WiFi, which means you have internet access.
Features include a nice, large 7 inch TFT-LCD, full HD, capacitive touch screen, 1.6 GHz quad core, and 1G DDR3 RAM with Android 5.1 that provides efficient, fast and easy to use interface, a 16G NAND and 16G Flash C10 high speed memory card for storage of maps, music, videos and apps.
Free lifetime map updates with points of interest (POI) and navigation. Bluetooth 2.0 Technology with A2DP protocol, allows for hands free control so you can relax and take calls, Bluetooth music, and a built-in AM/FM/RDS radio which comes complete with 30 preset stations: 18 FM stations and 12 AM stations.
Features include MirrorLink, and access to offline GPS navigation features, so if you are out late driving, and the internet goes out, you can still have access to maps to get you back to your point of interest.
This unit also has the convenience of steering wheel control, which means you can control the features of the head unit via buttons on the steering wheel. You also have a rear view camera with this head unit, so will find backing up a little easier.
- Turns into a tablet with WiFi.
- 7 Inch Full HD LCD touch screen.
- 1.6 GHz quad core with 1G RAM.
- Android 5.1.
- Bluetooth 2.0 capabilities.
Summary- The Panlelo PA09YZ16, 7 Inch Double Din Car Stereo is packed with fantastic features, including the ability to use it as a tablet via WiFi so you can surf the internet. Blueooth 2.0 Technology with A2DP protocol, Steering Wheel control for hands free, offline GPS navigation, 16G NAND and 16G flash C10 high speed memory card.
Fast and responsive Android 5.1, 1.6 GHz Quad core and 1G DDR3 RAM. All of this plus the addition of the rear view camera make this a nice buy for many drivers.
3. Pioneer AVH4200NEX Review
The Pioneer AVH4200NEX 2-DIN Receiver, with the 7 inch WVGA, clear resistive touch screen display and CEA-2006 compliant amp, is manufactured by one of the most dependable and reliable audio companies, Pioneer.
While this article concerns Android head units, we are well aware that there may be passengers who use Apple products, so it is good to know that the Pioneer caters to both by having the Android Auto, as well as Apple Carplay capabilities.
Power output is RMS 17 watts x 4 channels, 18 FM preset stations and 6 AM preset stations, a built-in HD radio, Sirius XM radio ready, and Pioneers own MixTrax Technology which gives you non-stop mix of your personal music library.
If that were not enough to interest the music lover in you, then knowing you have USB options for your iPod and iPhone, 13 band graphic equalizer to customize your audio, rear auxiliary input, 2 rear USB inputs, HDMI and an SD Card reader for both your video and audio needs. Just in case you want to expand your system one day, you get a total of 3 sets of 4V pre-amp outputs for your front, rear and subwoofers.
- Both Android Auto and AppleCarplay.
- 7 inch WVGA touch screen display.
- 18 FM preset and 6 AM preset stations.
- MixTrax Technology.
- Connectivity including both USB and HDMI inputs.
Summary- Pioneer AVH4200NEX 2-DIN Receiver is a reliable head unit, easy to use, having a 7 inch touch screen display, CEA-2006 compliant amplifier Android Auto app as well as Apple Carplay capabilities.
RMS 17 watts x 4 channels, 18 FM preset stations and 6 AM preset stations, built-in HD radio, Sirius XM radio ready, MixTrax Technology and USB options for iPod and iPhones. Audio customization through 13 band graphic equalizer, 2 rear USB inputs, HDMI input, SC Card and 3 sets of 4V pre-amp outputs for yoru front, rear and subwoofer.
4. Kenwood DDX9703S Review
The Kenwood DDX9703S 2-DIN In-Dash has a 6.95 inch, VGA color LCD Clear Resistive Touchscreen Display which is illuminated by using an LED back light and a motorized 7 step tilt angle adjust.
It has a power output of 17 watts x 4 channels RMS, a built-in radio with 18 FM preset stations and 6 AM preset stations, HD radio, SiriusXM Satellite radio ready, plus RBDS with Radio Text Plus. Now this is a unique feature to offer: The Kenwood will be the first car stereo to work with K40 radar detectors.
It has dual phone connection capabilities, Android rapid charge and a car portal for iDataLink Maestro RR, MirrorLink, supports Pandora and Spotify apps, CarPlay as well as Android Auto with Apple Carplay giving you access to Siri Voice Control Technology. As for playback ability, it supports DVD, MP3, and has a 13 band graphic equalizer so you can customize the audio you hear.
Expansion is made simple with 3 sets of 4V pre-amp outputs for the front, rear and subwoofer, HDMI/MHL input, rear GPS receiver input, steering wheel control input, rear video output, rear mini jack AV input, and a rear USB detachable input.
Bluetooth Technology includes built-in hands free talking and audio streaming ability, with the HFP Hands Free Profile letting you hook up to your mobile device, A2DP, AVRCP1.5, SPP capabilities, a security key, and comes with 2 dedicated rear camera inputs.
- 6.95 inch TFT and LCD Touch screen display.
- Supports Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
- MirrorLink, iDataLink Maestro.
- Rearview Camera ready.
- Built in HD Radio, SiriusXM radio ready, Bluetooth ready.
- Security Key prevents use after theft.
Summary- The Kenwood DDX9703S 2-DIN In-Dash has a 6.95 inch, VGA color LCD Clear Resistive Touchscreen, Bluetooth Technology, rear view camera ready inputs, built-in HD radio, SiriusXM radio ready, and a security key which prevents use after theft.
Multimedia options include DVD, MP3, 13 band graphic equalizer. Expansion with 3 sets of 4V pre-amp outputs, a rear USB detachable input, rear mini jack AV input, rear video output, steering wheel control input, rear GPS receiver input and HDMI/MHL input.
5. Premium Android Stereo Review
With a 7 inch, motorized folding adjustable touchscreen display, the Pyle Premium Android Head Unit is a head unit with CD/DVD player, which makes using your smartphone during a drive, simple and fun as you can stream your favorite music, enjoy Bluetooth, surf the internet, and make your calls. What makes all this work is the powerful, Quad core 1.6 GHz Cortex A9 processor, 16 GB memory, and Android 4.4.4.
A valuable feature is that it doubles as a dashboard camera, so there is no need for a separate DVR dash cam which mounts on the interior of your windshield, records high resolution, full HD video with the ability to tilt and rotate, as well as a rear view camera constructed of marine grade, waterproof materials and an adjustable lens angle.
This easy to use, basic Android head unit’s GPS navigation is controlled with a touch screen control interface. GPS offers you the convenience of talking turn by turn direction assistance, plus map and statistic display.
If you have Bluetooth, then enjoy the connectivity as you can listen to streaming music, use the built-in Microphone for convenient hands free phone calls, so your hands can stay on the wheel where they belong, or any of your Bluetooth devices.
- 7 inch touch screen display.
- Quad core 1.6 GHz, Android 4.4.4.
- Bluetooth Technology.
- High resolution, full HD video Dashboard camera.
- Rear view camera, waterproof, adjustable lens angle.
- GPS navigation.
Summary- The Pyle Premium 7 inch Double-DIN Android Car Stereo Receiver is a basic and capable multimedia player as well as functioning as a DVR dash cam and convenient rear view cam.
Wireless WiFi streaming, Bluetooth Technology, GPS navigation, receive calls and talk via the built-in Bluetooth microphone. CD/DVD player, AM/FM radio capable, 1.6 GHz Cortex A9 Quad core processor, Android 4.4.4, 16 GB memory.
6. Pioneer AVIC-5100NEX Review
The Pioneer AVIC-5100NEX comes with a 6.1 inch double DIN in-Dash TFT, 5 color LCD touch screen display, 800 x 480 resolution with LED back lighting. The built-in GPS navigation with 8 GB storage area, is preprogrammed with 7.9 million Points of Interest (POI) and offers the driver text to speech voice guidance, compatible with AVICSYNC and has a 3D hybrid sensor.
The Built-in Bluetooth Technology comes with HFP, A2DP, AVRCP and SSP which allows for convenient wireless audio streaming as well as phone operation. A Mosfet Power amp gives an output of 17 watts RMS, MirrorLink ready, wireless Pandora control for iPhone, Siri Eyes Free compatible, iDatalink Maestro compatible, and Aha Radio App compatible.
Multimedia features include the ability to Play DVDs, VCD, CD, MP3, MPEG4, WMA, DivX, AVI, FLAC, Dolby Digital Decoder, MKV/FLV, all with electronic shock protection due to a buffer. Tuner options include an AM and FM tuner that comes with 24 preset stations, Radio Data Service tuner (RDS), and SiriusXM radio ready.
Connectivity is important, and the Pioneer makes sure you remain connected with 3 sets of 4V pre-amp outputs for front, rear and subwoofer, rear input for a backup camera, rear video output for external monitors, rear audio/video input, rear RGB video input, 2 rear USB connection up to 32 GV, SC memory card reader up to 32 GB, steering wheel control input. The Dual zone control feature means that as you drive, you can play cartoons or movies for passengers in the back seat while you can listen to your favorite music in comfort.
- GPS navigation.
- iPhone and Android control.
- Bluetooth Technology.
- MirrorLink ready, AM/FM radio.
- iDatalink Maestro compatible.
Summary- The Pioneer AVIC-5100NEX has a TFT, LCD 6.1 inch touch screen display, 800 x 480 resolution, LED back lighting, built-ini GPS navigation and Bluetooth Technology. Wireless audio streaming, phone call capable, Mosfet power amp with 17 watts RMS, MirrorLink ready, Pandora ready.
Compatible with Siri Eyes Free, iDatalink Maestro and Aha Radio App, Dual zone control feature, multimedia playback includes DVD, CD, MP3, VCD, MPEG4, AM/FM turner, Radio Data Service tuner and SiriusXM radio ready.
Connectivity including 3 sets of 4V pre-amp outputs, rear input for backup camera, rear video output, rear AV input, rear RGB video input, 2 rear USB inputs, SC memory card reader, steering wheel control input.
7. LESHP Double DIN Stereo Review
The LESHP Double DIN Android 5.1 Quad Core, 1G DDR3, 16GB internal NAND memory, Car Radio Stereo is an affordable android head unit that uses Android 5.1 for a swift and responsive 7 inch, high definition touch screen display with a crisp, clear WVGA 1024 x 600 resolution.
Bluetooth enabled gets you the convenience of enjoying calls with hands free technology by way of using a built-in microphone. This model has a rear view, backup camera with a 170 degree viewing angle, with guide line grids to help you back up and a waterproof rating of IP67 to IP 68 (as per product description), something you’ll be required to have for your vehicle in 2018.
Features include a GPS receiver and which comes with a GPS antenna you install, which supports Google maps, Waze and Sygic maps as well, steering wheel control ready, and rear Auxiliary input.
Other features include a WiFi receiver to enjoy your favorite sites such as YouTube and Netflix, MicroSD card slot handles cards up to 64 GB . As for music, the LHSP comes complete with RDS, FM/AM radio, and customization of your sounds is enhanced with an easy to use equalizer.
- Quad core, 1GB DDR3, 16 GB internal NAND memory.
- Affordable and Bluetooth enabled, hands free calling.
- Responsive 7 inch HD touch screen, 1024 x 600 resolution.
- Backup rear view camera, 170 degree viewing angle.
- GPS receiver with antenna.
Summary- The LESHP Double DIN Android 5.1 Car Radio Stereo is perfect for those who are looking for an affordable Android Head Unit. This has a 7 inch high definition touch screen display, Quad core, 1 GN DDR3, 16 GB internal NAND memory, and is easy to install.
Backup rear view camera has a waterproof rating of IP 67 to IP 68 (from their description), 170 degree viewing angle with grid lines. Bluetooth enabled, hands free phone using a built-in microphone, WiFi receiver, MicroSD card slot. RDS radio, FM/AM radio and an easy to use equalizer to customize audio.
How to Install Android Head Unit?
Now that you have chosen and purchased your Android head unit, it is time to install it into your vehicle. We heartily encourage you to consider having a professional mechanic install your head unit if you do not feel capable, or unsure.
It is always a good idea to get your car or truck manual out of the glove compartment, just in case you need a little help, such as locating your car or trucks stock head unit. Another helpful hint, is to take a video as you remove your head unit, so you have an idea how the wiring should work.
NOTE: Please disconnect your cars battery before starting to install your Android head unit. As each vehicle and Android unit are unique, the steps below are to be used as a guideline only, to familiarize yourself with the steps. Each and every Android head unit will come with its own user manual, and you are responsible for following the steps in that user manual to install your head unit.
Step 1: Make sure your car is parked on a level surface, and apply your parking break. Next, look at the manual that came with your head unit and gather all of the tools before you start. Tools will usually include a Phillips head screwdriver, flat head screwdriver, and a container to place the screws when you remove them.
Step 2: Remove your old head unit from the dash. Depending on the vehicle you have, you may have to remove the trim. Be careful here, and using a flat head screwdriver, gently pry the trim instead of forcing it. If you feel that the trim is ‘stuck’ do not force it, and instead look to see if it is connected to anything.
Step 3: Now it’s time to free the stereo from your vehicle, again do not force anything or yank on any wiring. Depending on your vehicle, the old head unit could be held in with clasps, or Torx bolts or screws, so act accordingly. Gently disconnect the original head unit wiring, this is usually done by disconnecting the wire harness from the radio. Also disconnect the antenna wire.
Step 4: Take your new, Android head unit and proceed to wire it, using the harness, making certain that you match the colors. If you have to, take a look at the video you took of the original wiring just to make sure. Connect the antenna wire to the radio.
Step 5: Insert your new Android head unit into your dashboard. Next, replace any trim or panels that you removed. Finally, go and reconnect your cars battery. Switch on the ignition and test your new head unit, and enjoy!
The Final Thought (Conclusion)
We’ve come a long way from the simple AM/FM radio unit of days gone by. Today, the head unit you choose for your vehicle is packed with useful and fun features to make your day to day commute a pleasant one, as many of these Android head units can be used to surf the internet, GPS map navigation, chat on the phone, enjoy music, plus incorporating a dash and/or back up rear view camera.
As always, we sincerely hope you gained some knowledge regarding Android head units, and that this knowledge can be used to help you in your search for the Best Android Auto Head Unit. Be sure to check back soon to see what new, useful and unique products we find on the market which will enhance your driving experience.
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