car lcd touch screen reviews manufacturer

When you need the ultimate in real estate, look no further than the Sony XAV-AX8100. Last year, its sister model, the AX8000, made this list but since then there have been even more improvements. First off, this unit has a massive 8.95” touchscreen, yet it fits a single DIN 2” opening. The clever design allows this massive monster to fit in so many more vehicles than a traditional 2 DIN opening. It is an outstanding upgrade for older vehicles once thought to be limited on touch screen stereo upgrades.

The biggest difference to highlight between the AX8100 and its predecessor, the AX8000 is that the AX8100 now comes with an HDMI input. This allows you to simply plug in ANY multimedia device that you want and play video directly on the head unit. Xbox, Playstation, Switch, or even your iPhone with an HDMI adapter – this HDMI input is a HUGE upgrade and really opens this unit up as a super powerful multimedia head unit. Additionally, it is also preloaded with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for a seamless music experience. It has one of the lowest glare screens we have ever tested as well. Simple, easily understandable icons help drivers stay focused on the road and not on searching for features they want.

The nearly 9” touch sensitive screen appears to hover above your dash when installed. The screen can be tilted to accommodate different angles and to provide a comfortable viewing angle for the driver. The simple, matte-finish look blends in nicely with many different vehicle interiors and gives a true high-end feel to any car or truck. The AX8000 is an instant upgrade for almost any car on the road today.

A touch screen car stereo is just what you need to significantly upgrade your in-car entertainment from those generic manual car stereos. It gives you so many options for listening to your favorite music, taking calls, playing videos, opening route maps, etc. Not to forget the added advantage of a touchscreen that can give you a smartphone-like experience on the go.

As there are many touch screen radios out there, not all of them are a good buy. To help you out, we have come up with a few of the best models out there. These models were picked based on the following criteria:

Form Factor: The size of your touch-screen car radio is revealed by its form factor, which is also crucial for compatibility when it comes to installing and correctly fitting a car stereo unit inside your vehicle. Except for a few bigger double DIN-sized vehicle stereos, practically all car stereos come with the smaller single DIN size to assure optimal compatibility.

Connectivity: Checking the connectivity choices given by your car audio is crucial because you’ll be using external media playback options with it rather frequently. As a result, nearly all vehicle stereos have standard connectivity choices including Bluetooth, USB, aux, and radio, with flexible versions sometimes including even more connectivity possibilities.

Power Output: Having a strong enough vehicle stereo is crucial if you want to connect your car speakers directly to your car audio without requiring an external amplifier. A greater power rating is always preferable for heavy-duty usage when it comes to using vehicle stereos, and it may be provided as up to 100 watts, up to 150 watts, or more.

There are still a lot of things you need to think about in addition to these ideas. To let you choose the best touch screen car radios, at the end of this listicle, all of the best car stereos included here have all of their crucial characteristics and factors accurately detailed along with a thorough “Buying Guide.”

If you’re looking for a new Android Auto head unit for your car and want something reasonable and cost-effective, you can also have a look at Hikity’s choices.

As one of the least expensive solutions available, Hikity’s Android Auto head unit is among the top touch screen car radio systems in this list. It comes with a 10.1-inch display that is coupled with a respectable 1024 x 600 screen resolution.

As a bonus, this Android vehicle stereo has a backup camera. Rearview camera with 170° viewing angle, HD, and night vision. When in reverse, the screen instantly shows stereo reverse views, making parking safer and easier.

Another manufacturer of Android Auto head units that provides a variety of affordable and entry-level alternatives with useful capabilities for use in your car is Podofo.

The JOY-D006 is a 100% standard size, universal IOS interface that was specially developed for the American market. You may easily control the 1024*600 responsive 7″ touchscreen display with your fingertips, and the reaction time is swift.

Sync your iOS smartphone with a large screen to easily make calls, listen to music, send and receive messages, utilize navigation, and more. You can connect your smartphone through Carplay/Bluetooth or the AUX input. It is Mirror Link compatible as well. Additionally, there is a USB port and TF card slot that supports MP3/WMA/FLAC/WAV and ID3 Tag.

This automobile radio system has a 7-inch double din and excellent quality. For optimum results, use a fingernail or tip to touch the screen. Sharing music as well as videos on your devices with ease.

Take a phone call hands-free by using the BT connection to dial and listen to a call on the radio. BT and hands-free calling, USB, FM Radio, AUX-IN, TF Card (up to 32G), video player, music player, and remote control are all supported.

The Apple CarPlay feature is supported by this radio. You may use the original mobile phone data line to connect to IOS and use the music, map, and call features. Get instructions, send and receive information, etc. also possible with SIRI. Android phones can work with this double din vehicle audio.

To satisfy your various demands for sound quality, it contains built-in DSP sound effects and 16-band EQ, Vbass, balance, volume, and filter adjustments. The most recent version 5.0, which boasts quick transmission speed and greater stability, is used by this Carplay Car Stereo System. supports interference-free, hands-free call taking and answering.

The head unit dimension for this Android car stereo is 250x145x40mm, with a double din installation. 10-inch capacitive touch large screen. It has high resolution and 1080P super clear video capability. Its screen is made of 2.5D arc anti-scratch tempered glass.

Additionally, this gadget has twin USB connections and RCA video output/input connectors. Use the Android vehicle stereo’s 10-inch radio touchscreen. Connect to WiFi and download a variety of apps for the radio, including YouTube, TikTok, Maps, email, and more.

A high-resolution, colorful, clear, bright LCD display with support for clear movies is included with this device’s 7-inch double din vehicle entertainment system. On your devices, you may watch clear pictures and movies at any time from a variety of channels.

The 7-inch LCD Touch screen on the vehicle stereo provides you with an excellent viewing experience. The majority of cell phones can use the mirror connection function with this twin vehicle radio.

This dual vehicle radio is compatible with most smartphones’ mirror connect feature. Your car audio will display the phone navigation map when you turn on the navigation app and connect through USB.

The HD 1024*600 LCD display technology used in this car stereo gives you a comfortable user experience. On the stereo display, it offers 1920 x 1080P video and music playing. Via a USB cable connection, you may project the screen of the smartphone onto this car stereo screen.

To get the speaker listening, hands-free calling, and wireless music streaming without any interruptions, simply link this stereo unit with the smartphone. This Bluetooth-enabled dash car stereo unit comes with a front camera and backup camera input. The dual auto radio enables the driver to have HD quality footage of the rear view when reversing the vehicle.

It is also compatible with iOS Carplay and Android Auto. This improved double din vehicle stereo receiver has a built-in smart chip to speed up touch sensing, giving you a smoother experience.

Apple has created a system called Carplay that is specifically tailored for IOS devices. You may use the 7-inch stereo touch screen to control apps from your phone, including navigation, phone, music, and radio, after connecting your iPhone to the stereo using the original USB-Lighting cable.

A method for connecting cars and computers called Android Auto was developed especially by Google for Android smartphones. Connect your Android phone to the L1 stereo using the original USB data cable, and then use the 7-inch touch screen to control a variety of apps that have been specially designed for vehicle stereos.

The MINYE 1024*600 HD capacitive screen solution provides more sensitivity and accuracy than the conventional 800*480 resistive screen. Meanwhile, the complete touch solution takes center stage and the conventional physical buttons are eliminated.

You would like to enhance your driving experience with the best in-car audio system, whether you use your automobile for a daily commute between cities or big interstate trips. However, because a car touch screen stereo must be placed inside your vehicle in order for this to be feasible, we’ve already included some of the top car stereos in the list given above.

Installing your vehicle audio correctly is necessary before you even start utilizing it. Checking the car audio system’s form factor is crucial for ensuring the same. Single and double DIN car touch screen stereos fall under the standardized form factor for car stereos known as DIN.

Regarding the numerous vehicle stereos listed above, nearly all of them include double DIN connectors to enable high compatibility and bigger displays that are ideal for car stereos running Android.

You must connect a media playback device to your car radio to play any type of music via it. Therefore, it is crucial to examine your vehicle stereo’s connectivity choices to see if it’s compatible with the car’s audio device you want to use.

You should also verify the power output rating if you intend to use your car touch screen stereos’ internal amplifiers rather than the external one. This is mainly to make sure that your vehicle stereos can power your car speakers effectively and without any problems.

You can perform a lot of things with your car audio while using it, like switching tracks, or playing and pausing music, adjusting the level, navigating through different music sources, etc. This makes having an appropriate display and the controls for your car audio very crucial. As far as the controls are concerned, practically all vehicle stereos include touch screen buttons for all of your standard settings and choices.

However, if you select more expensive car stereos, one may even find models with sizable touch screens, perfect for Android car touch screen stereos that provide the user with a variety of smart functions and applications.

All of these head units feature screens, as you may already be aware, because they are rather large and need two dins for installing them in the car. Choosing the preferred display size you want to install in your car is the first chore, thus.

Even though the bulk of double din head units has displays that are about 7 inches wide. If you’re looking for a bigger one, there are a couple of good options that even have displays that are 10 to 11 inches wide. Therefore, you must decide if a 7-inch display would do for you or whether your car needs a larger one.

You want your present car audio to last long since you don’t constantly install new car stereos in cars. Checking the vehicle radio’s warranty might be a terrific alternative for ensuring the same. Almost all vehicle stereos have a one-year guarantee for your peace of mind. You may anticipate that any vehicle radio will provide an even higher lifespan and dependability if it has a longer guarantee period.

Sensors and other cutting-edge safety measures are visible on the touch screen display. More crucially, it can be connected to a backup camera equipped with proximity sensors. Some automakers go a step farther and provide a 360-degree overview of the vehicle.

Headphones with touch screens can also receive satellite radio and HD radio. With satellite and HD, audio is clearer and sharper. Satellite and HD radio offer fewer blind spots than an FM/AM stereo since they don’t rely on radio towers.

You must link your mobile device to the car stereo through Bluetooth in order to make hands-free phone calls utilizing the vehicle’s audio system. This turns on the car stereo’s microphone for the duration of the conversation.

You can still install a normal DIN-sized car radio even if your car doesn’t come with one. You may achieve this by utilizing a DIN adapter, which will modify the dashboard of your automobile so that it is compatible with stereos with the common DIN size. Since touch screen vehicle radios often have huge displays, double DIN is required.

If you’re looking for a new car audio system for your car, there are likely to be a lot of good alternatives available to you. We’ve previously listed some of the top vehicle stereos above since picking the proper one can be a bit challenging.

In reality, all of these top vehicle stereos come with a list of their important features and characteristics. A comprehensive shopping guide for the top vehicle stereos mentioned above is also available. We provide our top selections and suggestions for the top touch screen vehicle stereos while keeping all of these factors in mind:

Hikity Touch Screen Radio This is one of the best touch screen car radio or stereos on this list with its 10.1-inch screen. It is perfect if you are looking for a bigger screen size. It is easy to install and control. You can install this car stereo in your car to enjoy seamless music, FM radio and enhance your car ride experience.

Podofo Touch Screen Radio The Podofo vehicle radio, in contrast to other single DIN alternatives available, nevertheless features a touchscreen display that is 7 inches in size. You can easily make the most of this touchscreen because it also has connectivity choices including USB, Bluetooth, SD card, aux, and radio. This vehicle radio has a one-year guarantee, much like the majority of other car stereos.

To select the best touchscreen car stereos, I reviewed pricing, functionality, customer reviews, and quality ratings. I selected head units with the best reviews possible, but I also looked at ease of installation and longevity. Paying someone to install a stereo can add up to big bucks, so it’s good to have the option to install it yourself. I also selected screens that fit in the largest number of vehicles, as a big screen can be a big pain in older cars.

I also kept entertainment in mind, because that’s the primary purpose of a car stereo. I selected head units that offer the broadest possible feature set, including things like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and SiriusXM tuner compatibility. You can be confident that these touchscreen car stereos are packed with the most desirable features.

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.Learn more

The Pioneer DMH-WT7600NEX is one of the most complete and feature-rich touchscreen car stereo systems on the market today. It’s not cheap, but its nine-inch HD display, single-DIN fit, and wired or wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities make it a great choice for a wide variety of vehicles. The WT7600NEX features an 8.0-inch screen, but if you’re looking for a larger display, Pioneer sells the same unit with a 10.1-inch display.

Installing an aftermarket head unit can be annoying in older vehicles with factory tape players and other basic stereos due to the size of newer products. Pioneer addresses that issue with a single-DIN installation that easily slides into an existing stereo slot. The only downside here is that the large screen “floats” in front of the dash, and can obscure buttons or air vents if they are too close to the display.

Boss is a strong brand in the aftermarket audio space, and it offers touchscreen car stereos with great value and plenty of features. The BE950WCPA offers wired OR wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, voice controls, Bluetooth, auxiliary inputs, inputs for a backup camera, and more. With 20 watts RMS or 80 watts peak by four channels, the Boss system also has enough power to fill almost any vehicle with clean sound.

Buyers report that the Boss unit is reasonably easy to install, but many complain of poor documentation and unclear directions. Unlike some touchscreens on our list, the Boss is a full double-DIN unit, meaning you can’t install it in a smaller single-DIN space. Even though the body is larger, the screen measures just 6.75 inches, so in this case, the tradeoff for a lower price is a smaller screen and annoying directions.

Sony has decades of experience building audio equipment, and its expertise shows in the XAV-AX8100. The touchscreen car stereo system offers an 8.95-inch display that mounts on a single-DIN chassis. The display is three-way adjustable, so you can get the positioning just right, and Sony included physical buttons for fast access to functions like volume and track adjustments. The unit also comes with a 10-band EQ system to dial in your desired sound.

Although it features a large screen, some buyers state that the Sony unit is not bright enough for easy viewing in direct sunlight. Most rave about the responsiveness and value represented by the Sony unit. The physical controls make it easy to change the volume level or track, making the device less distracting to use when driving.

Many newer vehicles come with giant infotainment displays from the factory, but if you want that functionality in an older model, you can’t go wrong with the Alpine Halo11 iLX-F411. The 11-inch touchscreen car stereo system features a single-DIN chassis with the ability to install in larger spaces using an adapter. The floating screen design is adjustable and offers multiple viewing angles.

The Alpine head unit comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with Pandora and Spotify controls with a connected smartphone. The unit offers inputs for a rearview camera and a switcher to accommodate a two-camera system. SiriusXM requires a separate tuner, but once installed, the head unit supports traffic, weather, and sports info from the satellite radio company.

Stereo manufacturers do their best to build head units with the ability to install in a wide variety of vehicles, but sometimes the fit just isn’t there. If you have an oddball car with a dash that seems like it will never fit a new touchscreen car stereo system, the DMH-WC5700NEX could be your ticket. Pioneer designed the unit to accommodate modular installation, meaning the screen and chassis can be installed together or separately. If your dash is giving you hassle, you can mount the display and hide the chassis in the glove box or other out-of-the-way location.

The Pioneer’s 6.78-inch display isn’t the biggest on our list, but it’s bright, responsive, and easily viewable from almost any angle. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility come in wired or wireless, and Amazon Alexa capability is built in. A 13-band EQ allows fine-tuning of sound and SiriusXM is available with a separate tuner.

When you desperately want a touchscreen but don’t want to spend much cash, Kenwood’s got you covered. The DDX276BT doesn’t offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but it does have smartphone connectivity for streaming music, and you can still use it to take phone calls hands-free in the car. The 6.2-inch is bright and responsive, and the head unit includes USB inputs and can be installed to work with factory steering wheel controls.

I picked the Pioneer DMH-WT7600NEX as the best overall touchscreen car stereo system because it offers an excellent mix of screen size, features, ease of installation, and quality. I chose the Boss BE950WCPA for value because it gives up very little in the pursuit of a good price.

The most important thing to consider before buying a stereo is the size. The best touchscreen car stereo system in the world won’t do you any good if it doesn’t fit your car. It’s also good to check for overall fit, meaning the space the screen takes up on your dash. Air vents and physical buttons can be obstructed by a giant screen, which will be annoying even if you love the display. That said, it’s possible to buy adapters and brackets that allow you to install single-DIN head units in larger spaces, but that’s an added cost you’ll have to pay on top of the purchase and installation price.

You have a couple of options when it comes to choosing a touchscreen head unit. The lower-cost option is to prioritize the touchscreen and price over all other functionality. On average, expect to pay $300 or less for a budget touchscreen stereo.The second option is to prioritize features and functionality. Most touchscreen car stereo systems with robust feature sets start for around $500, but it’s possible to spend more than $1,500.

A: While it’s common to find touchscreen car stereo systems without a CD player, we’re not yet in a place where they can be phased out completely. Many people have older cars with old stereos that play CDs and many companies still make them, so we’re likely to have them around for some time to come.

A: “Best” depends on your needs and wants when it comes to car audio. If you prioritize a display and want the graphical component that they bring, a touchscreen may be best, but if you want a simpler experience, there are dozens of straightforward head units on the market.

A: The stereos in many newer cars are integrated with several vehicle functions, like climate and safety systems. Even if a replacement fits, which in many cases it won’t, you’ll lose all of the functionality benefits that a tightly wound in-vehicle ecosystem brings.

A: You can install a backup camera with a standalone display, so you’re not required to buy a new stereo to get a camera. If you want an all-in-one solution, many touchscreen car stereos offer connections for backup cameras, but it’s an extra cost.

For a car stereo, a touchscreen isn’t just a luxury. It’s dangerous to fiddle with knobs, dials, and buttons while driving as it’s a distraction that can’t be afforded. Touchscreens are intuitive and functional, helping you to focus on driving while using them.

By 2022, a whopping 98.8% of cars sold in the United States will have a digital display screen. But it’s not realistic for everyone to buy a new vehicle every time technology changes! (1)

Fortunately, you can upgrade your car with a touchscreen stereo without splashing out on a new vehicle. We have compiled a list of the best aftermarket touchscreen car stereos on the market.

If you want easy access to GPS navigation, music streaming, and infotainment systems, be sure to read on and find the best touchscreen car stereo for you.

Pioneer MVH1400NEX features a 6.2-inch capacitive touch screen with a resolution of 800 x 400 pixel. The screen stereo includes a dedicated Spotify that can be control with your either an iPhone or Android.

The touchscreen on the Pioneer MVH1400NEX supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for hands-free calling and media playback from your smartphone. As a reputable Japanese brand in electronics, it’s not surprising that the stereo can handle many audio and video playback formats.

Pioneer MVH1400NEX comes with all necessary accessories and wiring for a quick and easy DIY installation. While it may not be the largest touchscreen car stereo on the market, the 6.2-inch display is large enough to see without squinting your eyes. The touchscreen stereo also supports Apple CarPlay, providing a safer and more engaging way to use your iPhone while driving.

The Pioneer MVH1400NEX also includes Waze for real-time driving directions, although you can still use Google Maps if preferred. Keep in mind that you’ll need to install a parking brake bypass to access essential features while driving. This touchscreen car stereo is suitable for both sedans and SUVs, although the software can be slightly buggy and the display may be difficult to navigate while driving. Android Auto support is also limited to certain vehicles.

That said, despite these drawbacks, the wide range of functionality and reasonable price make Pioneer MVH1400NEX a good choice for your car infotainment system.

The Alpine ILX-W650 is an excellent way to bring the functionality of your smartphone into your car stereo. It’s compatible with smartphones, speakers, and tablets and has a convenient 7″ size with intuitive touchscreen swipe controls.

Unlike other touchscreen car stereos that claim compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the Alpine ILX-W650 actually delivers on these promises. Both systems work smoothly without the common issues and glitches found on lesser car stereos.

The Alpine ILX-W650 utilizes a hands-free control that allows you to control your apps through voice commands. The setup is easy and the controls are intuitive and responsive, allowing you to completely eliminate the need for touch.

The Alpine ILX-W650 touchscreen has a clear and understated display, and the audio quality is crystal clear. You can play various video formats through the USB, and it also has built-in iPhone and iPad controls for Spotify and Pandora.

This compact Alpine ILX-W650 receiver is suitable for users who need an affordable touch screen radio with specific features. It’s double-DIN hardware with dual video inputs, but it doesn’t have a built-in camera and you will need to purchase one separately to install it in your vehicle. The Alpine ILX-W650 also only has one USB slot, which may be a deal-breaker for some users.

Despite these limitations, the Alpine ILX-W650 system has seamless integration with Waze and Google Maps. Its shallow design improves airflow, preventing overheating, and makes it easy to install in any vehicle, even those with limited installation space. There will also be room to install other aftermarket hardware to enhance this touchscreen car stereo.

The ATOTO A6 is a double-DIN unit that offers extensive customization features. It can be connected to the internet seamlessly through Wi-Fi, USB, or Bluetooth tethering. A pro tip is to use the Wi-Fi connection for the easiest internet access on the screen.

You’ll love the mirroring feature that allows the ATOTO A6 to mirror video content on your Android or iPhone. However, it’s worth mentioning that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto don’t support specific apps like YouTube, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and Netflix, which don’t work with MirrorLink. In simple terms, you can’t cast your movies directly from your smartphone.

The display of ATOTO A6 is a 5-touch capacitive touchscreen with one of the widest viewing angles at 178 degrees. This feature ensures you can enjoy the view no matter your sitting position. It’s a good HD user interface with a 1024 x 600-pixel resolution. In truth, the touchscreen quality feels like a smartphone built into a car stereo. It’s intuitive and responsive, there’s almost non-existent lag, and the display is super sharp. The video quality is impressive, and you can watch your favorite video formats in the highest quality.

It’s rather annoying that the screen protector isn’t practical and not worth installing. You may also experience some lag when installing apps, but the ATOTO A6 is still a more than capable touchscreen stereo for your needs.

Right off the bat, the BOSS BV9364B is a double-DIN device that has an inbuilt DVD player and USB ports for playing a wide variety of video and audio formats. You’ll also appreciate the Auxiliary Out that allows wired connectivity to your smartphone. Additionally, there is Bluetooth connectivity for wireless support. The entire BOSS BV9364B package is built into a 6.2-inch color screen that’s intuitive, although it may not be the most responsive.

It’s shocking how affordable the BOSS BV9364B is, given that it has features you’d normally find in a more expensive touchscreen. Consequently, this BOSS infotainment screen is an excellent choice for the gadget enthusiast who needs an upgrade without breaking the bank.

Given the low price point, it’s not surprising that the BOSS BV9364B’s touchscreen stereo looks like it could have a better finish. There are some complaints that you need to press hard on the interface multiple times before it responds to touch. If you want something sleek and feels like an iPhone flagship, you’d be better served looking elsewhere. The touch screen also has a steering wheel accessory to control the touch screen function as you drive, although you’d need to buy this interface as a separate purchase. That said, the video doesn’t skip at all and you can tweak the wiring to watch videos while driving (although we don’t recommend this!).

In sum, the BOSS BV9364B is suitable for old cars that are too modern to use a cassette player and too old for the more sophisticated touchscreen head units.

The BOSS BV9364B touchscreen may not be the most responsive on the market, but it offers terrific value for the price and will be a great choice for older vehicles.

The P.L.Z AN-500 is an ambitious touch screen car stereo that elevates your vehicle’s infotainment system without bankrupting you. It’s a double DIN head unit with a whopping 10.1″ screen.

Even with the large screen, the IPS (In-Plane Switching) display of P.L.Z AN-500 is neat and sharp compared to other head units. The inbuilt receiver provides the latest highway information, allowing you to enjoy Waze or Google Maps. Additionally, the sound output is powered to 240 watts, and you can elevate P.L.ZAN-500 by getting yourself a subwoofer. One feature you can’t ignore is the dashcam with a 170-degree viewing angle, including night vision features.

And guess what? You can watch all of that recording on your P.L.Z AN-500 head unit via USB cable. The Dash Cam also supports the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) to prevent forward collisions, lane departure warnings, and other hazardous situations that can lead to a rear-end collision. Interestingly, the P.L.Z AN-500 head unit is a standard fit for most dual DIN vehicles. You can make hands-free calls through Bluetooth, and the touchscreen also has 12 equalizers tailored to genre and style, including Rock, Pop, Jazz, Loud, and Classic, to give you an exceptional audio experience.

As a result, the P.L.Z AN-500 touchscreen car stereo doesn’t feel cheap, with a decent FM tuner. It pairs seamlessly with iOS and Android, and the PHONE LINK feature can function as your GPS. However, there are complaints of the dash camera failing without warning and the P.L.Z AN-500 head unit heating up when in use for an extended period. Despite this, P.L.Z AN-500 is a robust unit with some impressive features. The build quality is decent with premium materials, and the touchscreen is as responsive as any top-notch head unit on the market.

This Kenwood DDX25BT double DIN head unit is reliably built and impressively robust, making it one of the most durable out there. If you’re looking for a touch screen car stereo that will outlive touch screen technology, then the Kenwood DDX25BT could be for you.

With a tuner that gives you as many AM and FM stations as you want, and the option of Sirius XM satellite radio, the Kenwood DDX25BT head unit offers a multitude of ways to enjoy music. Additionally, through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you can enjoy hands-free phone calls or listen to third-party services such as Spotify and Pandora.

This Kenwood DDX25BT multimedia receiver has a responsive touchscreen and superior audio quality, including voice control, making it a great choice for on-the-go use. It also has a GPS mapping feature that supports Google Maps and Waze, and you can screencast the content from your Android phone to the car touchscreen using Kenwood’s free app Mirroring OA. This allows you to use your phone apps on a larger screen and with better audio quality.

The JVC KWV140BT has a reasonable size of 6.2″ and features a customizable user interface. The touchscreen stereo also includes an inbuilt DVD player that’s compatible with CDs. In addition, you can play a variety of media formats including FLAC, WAV, MPEG, JPEG, WMA, and MP3.

The major drawback of the JVC KWV140BT is the lack of satellite radio in the form of Sirius XM, and some may find the EQ (equalizer) to be insufficient. There have also been reports of the screen freezing up on some faulty units. Despite this, the JVC KWV140BT is still a great head unit for the price.

The Pioneer AVH-X390BS is the second Pioneer touchscreen car stereo on this list. It is a testament to the brand’s quality. The standout feature of the Pioneer AVH-X390BS is its intuitive and sharply defined interface. This makes it comfortable on the eyes, even on the sunniest day!

Of course, the Pioneer AVH-X390BS comes with a wiring harness for seamless integration with your car, and the installation is straightforward. It has a built-in microphone and Bluetooth connectivity that works great for hands-free calling.

If you want a touchscreen car stereo that you can personalize, the Pioneer AVH-X390BS is for you. The standout feature is the satellite radio that is Sirius XM ready. The audio quality is superb, even with the stock speakers in your car. The sound is clearly defined with minimal distortion at high volume.

The Pioneer AVH-X390BS is a budget-friendly head unit from a renowned brand. It is designed to improve your car audio system. The satellite radio option packs a punch, adding an extra level of entertainment to your driving experience.

There is no definitive answer on which type of touchscreen to choose for your touchscreen stereo. It ultimately boils down to personal preference. Typically capacitive touchscreen is considered better as compared to resistive touchscreen screen especially in touchscreen stereos.

Capacitive touchscreens use the natural conductivity of the human body to function. They are highly sensitive and accurate, and can easily detect multiple touches at once, particularly for pinch gestures. However, they are typically more expensive and can’t be used with gloves.

On the other hand, resistive touchscreens rely solely on pressure to function, so they can be operated with a pen or stylus. They are usually less sensitive and accurate, but they can be useful in areas with heavy rain and high temperatures. While resistive touchscreens may offer more options for operation, capacitive screens tend to have better screen clarity and contrast.

Single DIN (50mm x 180mm) head units are typically used for compact touchscreen stereos. These systems, while they might not offer a lot of features, still offer great sound quality and basic functionalities.

You may want to get a double-DIN touchscreen car stereo as it has the largest screen display on the market. A double-DIN touchscreen head unit is also the best solution for occupying kids on a long trip. However, it’s important to measure the dimensions of your dashboard to ensure that you get the right size head unit that will fit easily.

Bluetooth allows you to connect and control a variety of devices, wirelessly. In a touchscreen car stereo, Bluetooth can be used to connect the stereo to other mobile devices, such as a smartphone, tablets, etc. This allows you to play music from your smartphone through the car’s audio system, and make hands-free calling and voice controlling make things easier and safer especially while driving. Keep your eyes on the road!

Generally, it’s recommended to choose a touchscreen stereo that has a minimum Bluetooth 3.0 version, however, the above is always better. This allows you to enjoy the stereo’s advanced features with a higher connectivity range, and data-transfer performance.

Touchscreen stereos with USB ports can be extremely useful for a variety of purposes. For example, you can play audio or video files directly from your connected device. The USB port is also handy for charging your mobile devices, especially during long trips.

It’s worth noting that a USB port can be convenient for upgrading the stereo’s firmware with new software. This helps to add more features and improve the performance of your touchscreen stereo.

The number of USB ports varies across different touchscreen stereos. It really depends on your specific needs. Generally, having a touchscreen stereo with at least 2 USB ports is a good starting point.

If you don’t want to rely on streaming music from your mobile devices, it’s important to have a built-in CD player (compatible with DVD) in your touchscreen stereo. This will allow you to play music or videos, especially when you are in a location with no Wi-Fi or mobile data/cellular connection availability.

The latest touchscreen receivers support third-party apps such as Spotify and Pandora. They offer convenience and easy streaming of on-demand music from your subscription service.

If you enjoy iHeartRadio, Sirius XM, and other satellite channels, you should look out for touchscreen head units that support them. If you prefer to listen through your smartphone, all you need is Bluetooth connectivity or AUX-IN to play the audio on your screen.

The far-distant days of the cassette stereo are long gone. They have been replaced by head units that offer far more than just music. However, there are still other considerations to keep in mind when choosing a head unit. The following factors can make the difference between a good and an excellent touchscreen head unit.

The touchscreen display with sound controls makes it easier to see all the sound settings at a glance. This allows you to quickly customize the sound settings based on your personal preferences.

Some touchscreen stereos even connect to other mobile devices, allowing you to control sound settings directly from your smartphone. This is especially useful when you’re on the go.

Interestingly, these sound control settings aren’t only limited to touchscreen stereos. Some budget-friendly stereos also feature better sound quality and adjustment settings compared to the factory-installed head unit in your vehicle.

When looking for a navigation system in a touchscreen stereo, it’s important to check that it covers the area of certain regions that you will be driving in and offers real-time traffic updates with the quickest routes to your destination. Additionally, if the navigation system offers voice control, it can be much easier to control it without taking your eyes off the road.

Many touchscreen stereos offer access to navigation apps such as Google Maps and Apple Maps, but you will need to connect to a Wi-Fi or cellular connection if you have not already downloaded the map of your destination.

While GPS navigation is pretty standard for many head units, it’s not uncommon to find a touchscreen car stereo without one! Therefore, if the navigation system is your priority, you can always check out our top-picked GPS navigation stereos.

Touch screen car stereos are simply smartphones on steroids. It’s no surprise that many large screen car stereos support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These apps integrate with your compatible Android and Apple devices to enhance your driving experience. They provide easier access to music, hands-free calling and texting, navigation, and other phone features without picking up the phone. This helps you stay focused on the road and reduces the chances of accidents.

Additionally, multi-line displays provide more information without fiddling with the display. You can buy touchscreen car stereos with floating screens to give your infotainment that extra oomph.

Even some premium head units fall short of certain expectations or may not have it all. However, they can be expanded to support other features. For instance, some touchscreen head units have preamp outputs that allow you to connect to a powered subwoofer or external amplifiers.

If you intend to add a subwoofer, it’s important to get a head unit that supports subwoofer output. Additionally, it’d be beneficial to have the ability to adjust the subwoofer volume separately without using the touchscreen volume control.

However, it’s important to note that in some touchscreen head units with dual-zone functioning, only certain audio and video formats can be played in the back seats.

The cost of a touchscreen stereo varies depending on the brand and desired features. Generally speaking, prices can range from $120 to $300. It’s important to consider your budget and only purchase the features that you need in order to avoid overspending.

Typically, most touchscreen car stereos come with an installation manual or you can watch this YouTube video to learn how to install your touchscreen stereo correctly.

Typically, most touchscreen car stereos are plug-and-play devices, which makes them quite easy to install. Simply remove your old or factory-installed car stereo and plug in your new stereo in its place. That’s it, you’re all set.

If you don’t know how to install a car stereo, don’t spend hours scouring the internet for installation tips. Instead, check out our step-by-step guide for a successful car stereo installation with ease.

The installation cost of a touchscreen stereo will depend on various factors, including the type of product, its functionality, the location, and the type of vehicle. Generally, hiring a professional for installing such a stereo can cost anywhere between $25 to $250. However, if you’re handy with tools, you may choose to do it yourself (DIY) in order to save costs.

Touchscreen car stereos can improve your driving experience and make traveling more enjoyable. These aftermarket options are becoming increasingly popular as almost all devices now use a touchscreen. Not only do they provide in-car entertainment, but they also keep you informed of important information that can make your trip safer. They can also improve the aesthetic of your car, making your dashboard look like something out of a spaceship.

Adding a rearview camera can also provide a better view than a traditional side mirror. In addition, installing a premium touchscreen car stereo can increase the value of your vehicle if you decide to sell it in the future. It’s a smart investment that’s sure to pay off.

The Kenwood DMX905S is one of five Kenwood models that feature wireless Android Auto, along with a traditional corded Apple CarPlay app. The Kenwood worked well in our testing, but small usability details separated it from our top pick. It has a capacitive display, although pinching-and-zooming didn’t work in Google Maps. The unit’s hard buttons are large enough to press easily, but they don’t have the nice tactile feel of the Pioneer models’.

Because the Kenwood and JVC brands are owned by the same company—JVCKenwood Corporation—the JVC KW-M845BW is similar to the Kenwood DMX905S, above, with wireless Android Auto and only minor design differences. Its 6.8-inch screen is resistive instead of capacitive; it has only one USB port, instead of two; and you can’t change the buttons’ illumination color. It has also only three small, hard buttons, which offer less versatility and are more difficult to use than the Kenwood’s. Most irksome for us, though, is that we had a difficult time wirelessly connecting to Android Auto with our Pixel 2 XL test phone, and switching between two Bluetooth-connected phones wasn’t as seamless as with the Pioneers.

The JVC KW-M730BT, our previous runner-up, and the newer JVC KW-M740BT are almost identical models. When plugged in with a USB cord, both CarPlay and Android Auto worked well. The Pandora and Spotify apps were also flawless when using a Bluetooth connection. Our main gripes are the three tiny hard buttons across the top, which offer less functionality and aren’t as easy to access on the fly as those on the other models we tested. Also, you can’t customize the buttons’ illumination colors.

The new Sony XAV-AX5000 is very similar to our budget pick, except that it has a larger, 7-inch, bezel-less display and smaller, hard buttons across the bottom, rather than the XAV-AX100 model’s volume knob and left-mounted buttons. We had no problems connecting to CarPlay and Android Auto through a USB cord, and the AX5000 provides dual USB ports and satellite radio capability. It could be another good budget choice, but it’s sparse on features, compared with our other picks. It doesn’t come with a GPS antenna; it uses the one in your phone. The display isn’t as customizable. You can’t vary the buttons’ colors. And you can’t connect this model to an iDatalink adapter for use with a car’s steering-wheel controls and other features.

Our former also-great pick, the Alpine iLX-107, was the first replacement car stereo to offer a wireless connection to Apple CarPlay, although it doesn’t include Android Auto. The iLX-107 model’s interface is relatively easy to use, with responsive capacitive volume buttons below the screen. Its screen can be finicky, though, and we often had to hunt and peck to find what we wanted in the menus. The iLX-107 has a 7-inch screen and a host of extra features, such as satellite radio and HD Radio, multiple color choices for the controls, and the capability to pair with up to five smartphones over Bluetooth, but it tends to be more expensive than our top pick.

The Alpine iLX-207 has the same bright, 7-inch display as its cousin, the iLX-107, along with Android Auto, which the iLX-107 lacks. However, it doesn’t have the iLX-107 model’s wireless CarPlay connectivity or its slick capacitive volume buttons. Instead, it has a thick lip across the bottom of the screen that protrudes about half an inch from the display, and houses several large plastic buttons that provide some tactile feedback. The iLX-207 worked fine overall, and includes satellite radio compatibility, HD Radio, selectable illumination colors and wallpaper, and an HDMI input and output. But as with the iLX-107, we often had to hunt and peck to find what we wanted in the menus.

The Sony XAV-AX210 is similar to our budget pick, the Sony XAV-AX100, with a 6.4-inch display and volume knob. But it adds a CD/DVD player, satellite radio capability, variable illumination, and the ability to connect to an iDatalink adapter for use with a car’s steering-wheel controls and other features. An SXM version that includes a SiriusXM tuner as part of a package is currently being sold.

The Pioneer AVIC-8201NEX is very similar to our upgrade pick, but without its wireless capability for CarPlay and Android Auto; you need to plug in with a USB cord. Like the AVIC-W8500NEX, this Pioneer comes with a built-in navigation system, capacitive touchscreen, satellite radio compatibility, HD Radio, and Pioneer’s Dual Zone Entertainment (which gives rear-seat passengers the option to enjoy different content than front-seat passengers).

The Kenwood DNX875S is essentially the same as the DMX905S digital media receiver, above, but with an integrated Garmin navigation system. You can connect to Android Auto either wirelessly or with a USB cord, and to CarPlay with only the cord. But, as with the JVC KW-M845BW, above, we had problems wirelessly connecting to Android Auto with our Pixel 2 XL test phone, and switching between two Bluetooth-paired phones wasn’t as seamless as with the Pioneers. We like the nav system; in our car GPS testing, we’ve found Garmin’s navigation system to be easy to use, with an intuitive interface, reliable and responsive routing, and helpful lane guidance at highway interchanges. As with Pioneer’s Here mapping, Garmin’s traffic data isn’t as comprehensive or accurate as that of Google Maps and Waze, though. The DNX875S is compatible with Kenwood’s DRV-N520 dash cam, and can accept two camera inputs.

Our previous upgrade pick, the Kenwood DNX694S, and the newer Kenwood DNX695S are very similar models. We had no trouble connecting to CarPlay and Android Auto through a USB cord. Both models come with built-in Garmin navigation, a CD/DVD player, HD Radio, satellite radio compatibility, variable color adjustments for customizing the controls’ backlighting, and dual video inputs for connecting multiple cameras. Unlike on the other Kenwoods we tested, the buttons are located on the left side of the screen, where they’re easier for a driver to reach, and the CD/DVD slot is visible above the 6.8-inch display. Both models can connect to the company’s DRV-N520 dash cam, and when a backup camera is connected, the stereo overlays helpful parking-guidance lines onto the camera’s image. According to Kenwood’s Seth Halstead, drivers can also connect other accessories, such as an add-on forward-collision warning system.

I really like this system. For the price and features offered it can"t be beat. I installed this unit in my 2000 F-150 about 3 weeks ago and I"m very impressed. I"m still getting used to the features and switching between modes but it"s just a matter of practice. The installation was relatively easy but I would strongly recommend that you buy a vehicle specific wiring adapter. I hard wired mine and it was a little tricky getting the wiring matched up with the vehicle harness. An adapter would have made it a breeze. I only had to make one small modification to the console that involved removing a small strip of trim plastic from the bottom of the mounting area. The sound quality is exceptional for a unit of this price. The only improvements I would suggest to the manufacturer would be to allow for screen mirroring for my android phone. (for navigation) and that the there be a "clock" function that is a little easier to read. The UI with this unit has a relatively small clock. (see photos). These functions might be built in already but like I said, I"m still getting used to it. I recommend this system.

Post-Tesla, we got the Taycan, and a whole new style of Porsche interior. Yes, Stuttgart has been dabbling with touchscreens in 911s and Caymans already and gone a bit pixel-crazy in the 918 Spyder, but all of a sudden, buttons were verboten. Alongside a main touchscreen front and centre, you can option in a second monitor for the passenger.

The climate control switches are gone, replaced by you-guessed-it. Even the classic five-wide Porsche dial cluster is completely digital and framed by touch-sensitive buttons to stiffen up the suspension and turn on the lights. Brave new world, huh?

All of us have a tendency to treat the driver"s seat as our personal throne. That"s where we"re in our element, so we get comfortable—and complacent. Whether our fingers were last tapping on our phone screen, grasping the handle of a wrench, or carefully unwrapping a half-melted Hershey bar, we all tend to jump in, tune the radio, adjust the AC, and set a destination on the nav screen—all without first washing our hands.

And if you have a family? Other drivers use the car and its touchscreen, too. Of course, kids can"t resist touching any kind of screen, ever, and who knows where those tiny fingers have been? All parents have swiped their car"s touchscreen and felt... mystery muck. Yuck.

Touchscreens are likely one of the dirtiest, most germ-covered surfaces of any automobile. Sure, your dash gets dusty and your floorboard accumulates (a disturbing amount of) trash. However, it"s that dash-mounted screen that gets the most fingers, and therefore germs, on it.

Not necessarily. Many typical household glass cleaners contain either ammonia or alcohol. Most manufacturers recommend avoiding harsh chemicals on touchscreens, as they can affect functionality and perhaps damage the surrounding dashboard.

Sure, it"s cheaper and easier to use plain ol" Windex or Glass Plus, mainly because you"ve probably already got that stuff. Despite the temptation, though, you should avoid using household glass cleaner on your car"s touchscreen unless you"re positive the one you"re using contains neither ammonia nor alcohol. Besides, you may already own a great screen cleaner and not realize it.

Many modern automotive detailing products, including Chemical Guys Interior Cleaner and Meguiar"s Total Interior Detailer, are safe and effective to use on your car"s touchscreen. Read the label to be sure.

The fact is, there"s an even less expensive method to clean your car"s touchscreen, no products required—except a microfiber towel. (Again, you want to avoid scraping dust particles across the surface of your touchscreen to prevent scratches, so always use a clean microfiber towel.)

Many of the experts and gearheads in our Hearst Autos test garage told us they rarely use any kind of cleaner on their personal touchscreens. Up and down the line, those who saw us testing and photographing screen cleaners—we"re talking about people whose opinions we trust and whose bylines our readers know and respect—told us that whenever they get behind the wheel, they just drip a bit of water onto a clean microfiber towel, and wipe. Done.

As a parent, however, I"m left asking the question: Will a simple water wipe eliminate germs in the family SUV? Yeah, no. Sorry, but knowing my children, and the impressive but disgusting level of filth they can achieve, I"m going to use a cleaning agent on my car"s touchscreen.

To get to the bottom of whether car screen cleaners were truly necessary, we used a very scientific methodology. That is, we got our fingers and hands dirty, and touched the heck out of a screen in a test vehicle in the Hearst Autos stable. We let it dry for a while, and then cleaned it according to the product"s instructions. We did that five times.

We first made sure all the products did the job they claimed to do—and they all did. The wipes left droplets on the screen, which required a second wipe with a microfiber. But they all cleaned the chocolate and grease off the screen, leaving it clean and clear.

Word to the wise: Don"t discount a screen cleaner because it leaves streaks on your screen. Take your time and do it right. We noticed far too many people online complaining that the product they used wasn"t some sort of magical solution that cleaned perfectly with just one wipe. All screen cleaners—all glass cleaners, really—will streak unless you take the time and care to give the surface a soft buff at the end of the process.

With a combined 206 years of automotive publishing experience, Hearst Autos—Car and Driver, Road & Track, and Autoweek—knows cars better than just about anyone. The Gear Team is committed to delivering honest evaluations, hands-on tests, and product reviews driven by decades of knowledge and experience. We get our hands on almost every product, tool, and piece of gear we feature.

A lot of things have improved in the automotive world over the years, and some things seem to have done so without being noticed at all. The humble car stereo is definitely one of these items, and today’s touch screen models boast a range of useful features and high-end functionality that car stereos of yesterday could only dream of.

The right model can be a key part of the dashboard installation, and through syncing with various devices can make your car a safer and fun place to be. Buying a new stereo can be a big investment with both the initial financial outlay plus installation time taken into account. That’s why we’re here to help you find the perfect model.

It lives up to its name, bringing with it the ability to use a number of playback formats – CD, DVD, Bluetooth connectivity, and pretty much anything you can think of. The screen size in particular is impressive, a 6.2-inch LCD monster that is especially useful for DVD playback.

So, it’s shame that in any mode other then DVD, the display is pretty boring. That’s especially true in Bluetooth playback mode where there is virtually no visible display at all. That seems like a bit of a shame given the effort that Jensen went through to cram such a big and bright screen into the stereo.

Still, it does pretty much everything you want from a touch screen car stereo, and while it may not do it with the flair of more premium brands, that midrange price tag makes this a very appealing model.

This single din model is a pretty unique design from Boss Audio, and it is in fact the only one of its kind on the list. Naturally, a double din is usually going to beat a single din at least in terms of usability. There is simply more space to work with, so the screen is nice and big, the display is crisp, and it’s easier to use.

Not all cars are set up for double din radios though, and if yours is not then this product could interest you. The main body of the stereo is single din sized with a large touch screen mounted atop it.

The only downside is that the interface can be a little sluggish, often with a bit of a delay between pressing an option on the screen and seeing the command carried out. That could well be patched in a future software release however, and until then it’s a pretty minor complaint for an otherwise very good stereo.

The NEX (Network Entertainment Experience) is the jewel in the crown, boasting a totally innovative blend of built-in synching and external cloud-based services to provide an incredibly easy and intuitive way to use all of your apps on the go. The 7-inch screen is both gorgeous and huge and really helps you make the most of the NEX functionality too.

This model from Regetek is a pretty low-priced entry, and as such has a few pros and cons. The pros, other than the price, are definitely the screen, which at 7 inches is one of the biggest on the list.

That brings us neatly to one of the drawbacks, however, which is a complete absence of DVD and CD playback. It’s a shame to have a screen this big and not be able to play DVDs on it.

We like JVC products here at Car Bible. The veteran electronic manufacturer may not have the star appeal it did back in the day, but it can still crank out quality products like this one. Add in the fact that it comes with a decent price tag and you can see why it piqued our interest.

However, if you want a good-quality model that just quietly goes about its business answering phone calls and playing the radio (which is at least HD, that’s a big plus) this is a very good car stereo that’s just a tad boring.

There are a number of different features which can make up a car stereo, however broadly speaking the main thing that separates them is size, and that comes down to Double and Single DIN, which by the way stands for Duetch Industri Normen, because it was originally used to standardize car radio sizes in Germany. It’s not complicated; it just refers to the height of the front panel.

Single is the traditional (read old school) size, double is the modern size. A double gives space for a nice big screen, which is why most of the models on this list are double sized.

Screen Size –There may not be a huge difference in screen sixes, however if you are planning on watching AV playback, it does make sense to pick the biggest screen size you can find. A stereo that can play films can be a life saver when you are driving distances with kids on board by the way. In addition, if you are planning on using GPS, naturally a bigger screen will display the map that bit better.

Backlight –Most (but not all) models have backlit screens. That makes them easier to see at night, so if you drive after dark a lot, consider getting a backlit model so you’re not peering at a gloomy display.

Detachable Front –This is a useful anti theft feature. If the front clicks off, you take it away when you park the car. The head unit left behind is useless without the front, deterring any would be thieves.