The Best Double Din Stereos
If you can't remember the last time you updated your car speakers, a double din stereo system might be the perfect new addition to your auto. These devices offer seamless integration between your phone and your car, letting you access apps, music, and directions with simply the sound of your voice. They also can increase audio fidelity, too. There are a lot of lesser brands peddling subpar technology, though, and you don't want to get stuck with one that turns your car into a lemon. That's why we're listing off our favorite double din stereos and letting you know why they deserve a place in your car. Turn up the volume and read on.
What to Look For
To win our recommendation, the double din stereo in question would have to be easy to set up, compatible with a wide variety of apps, and fas to integrate with the normal functions of a car. Heiha’s model won our top spot thanks to its ease of installation and rearview camera functionality. That said, we also had to give special mention to Sjoybring’s high fidelity stereo, whose screen has stunning 1080p resolution and an HD mic with clear sound. Keep reading to find a double din stereo you’ll love to press play on.
Heiha 7-Inch Touchscreen Double Din Stereo
The easy way to upgrade
This Heiha model became our favorite double din stereo thanks to its robust feature set and ease of use. It integrates perfectly with both Apple Carplay and Android Auto and comes with its own rearview camera optimized specifically for this device. Its mirror link function and crisp 1080p resolution let you use any of your phone’s apps as you drive, too. This double din stereo is ideal for anyone looking to bring a new level of convenience to their daily drive.
Pros
- The included instructions are helpful and detailed, including steps on how to test your features to make sure they’re working properly.
- You can connect your phone through either Bluetooth or by cable, so no need to worry about compatibility problems.
- The HD touch screen is responsive and lets you move through your apps with ease.
Cons
- There’s no physical volume knob, meaning you’ll need to interact with the screen to adjust your sound levels.
Sjoybring Android Double Din Car Stereo
We can’t help but be impressed with the level of polish this Sjoybring double din stereo brings to the table. An HD microphone with noise-canceling features ensures that calls will be crisp and clear, while its high-definition touch screen lets you navigate with ease. And since it’s modeled to the standard dashboard size, installation is simple in the majority of cars. This double din stereo has been custom-tuned to make sure you get high quality with no hassle.
Pros
- Software updates are routinely available to download, making sure your system is always current.
- This model comes with steering wheel controls, letting you adjust your stereo and screen settings without taking your eyes off the road.
Cons
- It takes some extra equipment and technical know-how to install this double din stereo in certain older car models.
Pioneer AVH-120BT 6.2-Inch Double Din Stereo
Quality you can touch
A good touch screen is a vital aspect of any double din stereo. With this model, the venerable Pioneer has supplied one of the best. This slickly designed unit features a crisp high-definition resolution, with a monitor that responds swiftly to the touch. And with both USB and auxiliary input, you have options for how you want to connect your phone in transit. If a clear screen is your number one priority, this is one double din stereo you shouldn’t pass up.
Pros
- Its wiring is clearly labeled, which greatly helps to expedite the installation process. Most cars can be set up in less than half an hour.
- This double din stereo is designed for compatibility with a wide range of cars and dashboard styles. It’s also universally easy to use.
Cons
- There are no pre-installed apps, so it can take a while to customize it to your preferred settings.
Pioneer AVH-X490BS Double Din Stereo
The next step
For those who need the absolute cutting edge in double din stereos, this robust model can’t be beat. A remarkable Time Alignment feature adjusts your audio to best suit your position in the vehicle, and the Mixtrax feature lets you blend songs into an ad-hoc DJ set. And with four 50-watt channels at its disposal, that audio is sure to come through perfectly. For the latest and greatest in double din stereos, you can’t go wrong with this advanced choice from Pioneer.
Pros
- It has widely customizable EQ optimization, so this is the perfect pick for those who like to tinker and fine-tune their audio system.
- User choice extends down to the appearance of the double din stereo itself, with customizable button illumination and a swappable background.
Cons
- Playing music off the USB connection can be hit or miss.
Corehan 7-Inch Double Din Stereo
More sound for less
Anyone who wants a great double din stereo for less will be well served by this choice from Corehan. This gives you everything you’d want from a marquee double din, including compatibility with Android and Apple, steering wheel controls, GPS, and more. But surprisingly, the price is super affordable. Plus, installation is simple and straightforward thanks to the clear yet detailed instructions provided. If you’ve been curious about getting a double din stereo and have been looking for a starter, look no further.
Pros
- It boots up very quickly, allowing you to start using it almost the instant you start your car.
- This is a very lightweight model, further reducing the hassle of installation.
Cons
- It doesn’t come with its own bezel for installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
I want a double din stereo, but what if I’m not talented at installing electronics?
Replacing your default stereo with a double din does usually take a few tools and some minor car work, but almost all models will come with detailed instructions that will guide you. Some don’t require you to remove your old stereo, and you can always call a mechanically-minded friend to help out.
Do I need a double din stereo even if I don’t listen to music while I drive?
A double din isn’t just for music. These devices can give access to your apps and GPS in a way that doesn’t distract you from your driving. You never know when you may need to check something, and speaking your desires aloud via voice control is much safer than reaching for your phone and potentially distracting yourself.
About the Author
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.