Are you tired of the limited options and poor quality of your current car stereo? Look no further, as we have tested and reviewed the top single DIN touchscreen head units of 2024.
From flip-out screens to budget-friendly options, we have you covered. With over 20 years of experience in the car audio industry, we have helped numerous individuals upgrade their car audio systems and overcome common issues.
Our recommendations are based on thorough testing and real-world scenarios to ensure their effectiveness. So, let’s dive into the top single DIN touchscreen head units for 2024!
1. Sony XAV-AX8100 – The Overall Best Single DIN Touchscreen Head Unit
The Sony XAV-AX8100 is like a mini movie theater for your car! Its big screen shows cool maps and plays music from your phone. The sound is awesome, like having a concert in your car. It's not super cheap, but it's worth it for the cool stuff it does – like having a movie night in your car!
Design and Unboxing
The XAV-AX8100 boasts an 8.95-inch resistive anti-glare touchscreen, setting it apart from the competition. The three-way adjustable mounting ensures optimal positioning for an immersive viewing experience. The unit comes with a sturdy build, featuring clean and solid buttons, making it a sleek addition to your car’s dashboard.
Upon unboxing, you’ll find the unit, main harness, USB extension, Bluetooth microphone, and a remote control. Noteworthy additions include a steering wheel plug-in for added convenience and a unique Velcro strap for cable management. The thoughtful design extends to the included brackets and screws for a hassle-free installation process.
Features and Specifications
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Hands-free calling and music streaming via Bluetooth.
- Smartphone Integration: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for seamless connectivity.
- Wired Weblink Cast: Mirror your Apple and Android devices on the screen for enhanced functionality.
- Audio Capabilities: Supports various music file formats, a 10-band equalizer, and high/low pass filters.
- Dynamic Stage Organizer: Elevate your audio experience with this innovative feature.
- Expandable Functionality: Compatible with SiriusXM (requires SXV 300 tuner) and rearview camera input.
- Powerful Output: 5-channel pre-out (5V) for front, rear, and mono sub, with an internal amp of 20W x 4 RMS or 55W x 4P.
Additional Features
- Quick Wake-Up Feature: faster turn-on for immediate usability.
- HDMI Input: A notable addition for iPhone and Android mirroring.
- Remote Control
- Three-Year Warranty
Startup and Interface
The XAV-AX8100 impresses with its quick startup time, showcasing the radio, SiriusXM, Bluetooth, HDMI, and rearview camera options. The intuitive interface seamlessly integrates Apple CarPlay, providing access to navigation, music apps, and more. The web link feature enhances mirroring capabilities, although a wired connection is recommended for optimal performance.
Settings and Customization
The unit offers extensive settings for personalization, including language selection, beep control, camera settings, and software version checks. The 10-band equalizer, subwoofer control, balance, fade, and dynamic stage organizer contribute to a tailored audio experience. Visual customization includes wallpaper selection and dimmer settings.
Web Link and HDMI Input
The Web Link feature allows mirroring of select apps, although its compatibility is limited. The HDMI input, however, shines when connected to an iPhone or Android device, providing a versatile streaming experience. The demonstration emphasizes the importance of using an HDMI connection for services like Netflix and Hulu.
Android Auto
Android Auto seamlessly integrates with the XAV-AX8100, offering a user-friendly interface for maps, music, calendar, messaging, and more. The performance mirrors that of Apple CarPlay, providing a consistent and reliable experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Fast and easy-to-use UI
- Easy to install, fits well in various car models.
- 5V pre-amp outputs ensure you get powerful RCA audio signals that the amps can boost without distortion.
- Customizable screen size and background
- A 3-year warranty
Cons
- No wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Not iDatalink Maestro Compatible
- No Wireless CarPlay
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Sony XAV-AX8100 emerges as a top contender in the single DIN touchscreen head unit category. Its blend of features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HDMI input, and an affordable price, make it an attractive option for car enthusiasts. While it may lack some advanced features like wireless connectivity, the XAV-AX8100 offers a reliable and user-friendly experience, earning it a commendable rating of four and a quarter stars.
2. Pioneer AVH-3500NEX – The Best Flip Out Screen Car Stereo
The AVH-3500NEX features a 7-inch motorized fold-out screen, bringing a touch of modernity to vehicles with single DIN openings. Pioneer, a trusted name in car audio, is the sole manufacturer of single DIN pop-out units, catering to those who have held onto their cars for years. This unit is a fantastic option for vehicles where a double DIN radio isn't feasible.
The AVH-3500NEX features a 7-inch motorized fold-out screen, bringing a touch of modernity to vehicles with single DIN openings. Pioneer, a trusted name in car audio, is the sole manufacturer of single DIN pop-out units, catering to those who have held onto their cars for years. This unit is a fantastic option for vehicles where a double DIN radio isn’t feasible.
Key Features
- Display and Controls
- 7-inch LCD touchscreen with motorized fold-out design.
- Physical volume knob and additional buttons for easy control.
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
- Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.
- Weblink compatibility for displaying YouTube and other content from iPhones and Android devices.
- Media Playback
- AM/FM, CD, and DVD receiver.
- High-resolution FLAC audio file support up to 192 kHz/24 bit.
- 13-band graphic equalizer and high/low pass filters.
- Expandability
- SiriusXM tuner compatibility (tuner sold separately).
- Compatible with factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required).
- Inputs and Outputs
- Rear USB port, audio/video input, mini-jack, and rearview camera input.
- 6-channel pre-outs (front, rear, sub) with a built-in amp of 14 watts RMS/50 watts peak.
Unboxing and Installation: Inside the box of this stereo, you will find a Bluetooth mic, wireless remote control, USB extension, main harness, and hardware screws. The unit’s weight reflects the multitude of features packed into this single DIN chassis, making it deeper than typical shallow-mount radios.
User Interface and Settings: The intuitive user interface offers convenient features such as a favorites list, system settings, and sound adjustments. It allows users to personalize their experience, from background images to illumination colors and clock settings.
The unit’s capabilities, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Additionally, the DVD drive and video output are highlighted, providing rear entertainment options for long trips.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 4-volt pre-outs for enhanced audio quality.
- High-res audio support (192 kHz/24 bit).
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
- Audio/video input for versatile media playback.
- Flip-out design suitable for older model vehicles.
Cons
- No HDMI input (can be addressed with an HDMI to composite converter).
- Higher price compared to double DIN units with similar features.
- Wireless Android Auto and CarPlay not supported.
Conclusion
The Pioneer AVH-3500NEX is a standout choice for those seeking a modern upgrade in vehicles with single DIN openings. While lacking wireless connectivity and HDMI input, its unique flip-out design and comprehensive features make it a top contender. With a rating of Nine and a half stars, this head unit strikes a balance between functionality and affordability, ensuring a worthy investment for those in need of a single DIN solution.
Related Posts – Best Single Din Head Units – Top 10 Latest Models
3. BOSS Audio BCPA10 – The Best Floating Screen Head Unit
If you are looking for a budget friendly head unit, then this can be the best option for your car.
In this stereo you get a 10″ Capacitive touchscreen display.
The touch response of this head unit is quite responsive. The boot-up is approx. 5 seconds which is good. However, the display is not full HD.
It has a built-in internal amp (20 watts RMS/85 peak x 4 channels).
Overall, its a value for money stereo!
The sound quality of this stereo is quite loud and clear due to its powerful built-in amplifier which has a power output of 340 watts max.
Many audio settings present in this unit to customize the audio styles such as a equalizer. This head unit supports many audio formats like FLAC, MP3, AVI, MKV, WMV . You play radio with many presets options, however, it lacks an HD Radio option.
With built-in Siri, you can use voice command features with the help of CarPlay to play music, videos, Text messages, or GPS Navigation via voice command which is very helpful while driving.
You can use both Hands-Free Calling and Wireless Music streaming via built-in Bluetooth which has a really strong connection.
You will get the installation kit which includes a wiring harness, screws, RCA power extensions, mounting brackets, external microphone, and a Free License Plate Backup Camera.
Specifications
- Model: BOSS Audio BCPA10
- 10.1-inch Capacitive Illumination Display
- Chassis Size: Single Din
- Resolution: 800 x 480 LCD Screen
- Power Output: 4 x 80 watts
- RMS: 4 x 20 watts
- Built-in 13 Band Equalizer
- Dual Bluetooth Connection
- Dual Backup Camera Connection
- Support Steering Wheel Control
- Audio Formats: FLAC, WAV, MP3, WMA, APE, OGG
- Video Formats: WMV, AVI, OGM, MOV, MKV
- Other Formats: JPEG, PNG, BMP
- GPS Navigation Ready
- 36 Months warranty
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Large and responsive touchscreen display
- Great Audio quality with many customizable option
- Built-in High Power Output Amplifier
- Not Too expensive compared to other Pioneer or Alpine Head Unit
- Front and rare backup camera input
Cons
- No CD/DVD Player
- Lacks HD Display
- No HD Radio
Related Posts – 5 Best floating Screen Car Stereo of 2024, Tested & Reviewed
4. Alpine iLX-F509 – Another Great Option
Forget bulky decks, the iLX-F509's floating screen puts your tunes and maps a finger tap away. CarPlay, Android Auto, all wireless! Audiophile sound? Check. Sleek looks? Double check. Upgrade your ride, not your dash. Grab the iLX-F509. You won't regret it.
In Alpine Halo9, a large 9-inch touch screen display with a mech-less design is given and can fit easily in a single din dashboard. The screen is adjustable; you can adjust the height and the display according to your viewing angle.
iLX-F409 offers a premium sound quality due to its awesome built-in amplifier and 5 Band parametric equalizer. Bluetooth support is given for hands-free calling and for playing music.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available to be integrated with iPhone, iPod, Android, and other devices. Voice identification also works due to Siri Eyes Free and Google Assistant.
You can do multiple tasks such as sending a message, taking calls without touching the display, set reminders, and a lot more.
HD Radio is given in which sound quality is of top class and contains many AM and FM channels. Satellite Radio also works in it due to built-in Sirius XM. It can even support FLAC files and runs in high resolution.
Alpine iLX-F509 can assist various car accessories such as backup cameras and steering wheel control; also, truck accessories and multi-camera switchers work fine.
Specifications
- Model: Alpine Halo9 iLX-F509
- 9” WVGA Capacitive Touch Display
- Satellite Radio with tuner
- iPhone/ Android Compatible
- Built-in Bluetooth V 5.0
- Built-in 5-band HD graphic equalizer with time correction
- Comes with GPS Navigation with Antenna
- Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto
- Power Wattage: 45 watts x 4 channels
- RMS: 18 watts x 4 channels
- USB and HDMI input
- Adjustable Screen
- Sirius XM Compatible
- High and low pass filters
- Inputs: USB port, HDMI input, backup camera harness
- Output: 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt) Front, rear, and subs.
- Works with iDatalink Maestro
- Audio files: MP3, WMA, AAC
- AVI and MPEG, MP4
- 12 months Warranty
Pros and Cons
Pros
- The Big screen makes it easy to use and can be fitted in a single din dashboard
- Support Dual Backup Camera, which is super helpful
- Apple CarPlay and Android auto works well
- Compatible with all smartphones
Cons
- USB port is present at the back which makes it tough to reach
- No-CD/ DVD player, but an HDMI port is given for connecting external monitiors
- Very Expensive unit
5. Binize – Best Single DIN Android Car Stereo
This single din head unit comes with a large 10 inch large touchscreen display. This unit offers several basic features as well as many advanced features like mirror links.
This 1 Din stereo is supported by Android 9.1 and comes with a quad-core processor having 2GB ram and 32 GB ROM, which can smoothly run any apps like Spotify, Pandora, Google Maps, and a lot more.
Wi-Fi connectivity is given to connect it with the hotspot of your phone. iPhone and Android both connect easily. Bluetooth supports, and FM radio is given for entertainment purposes.
Specifications
- Large 10 inch HD Display
- Android 9 OS
- RAM: 2 GB, ROM: 32 GB
- Mirror Link supported via Wi-Fi or USB
- 1024 x 600 Resolution
- 4 x 45 Watts Power Peak
- A7 Quad-Core Processor
- Supported offline GPS Navigation
- Built-in Radio with 18 FM Channels
- EQ Settings with many preset
- AVI, WMA, MP3,
- MP4, DIVX, MPEG, 3GP, MPG
- Bluetooth supported
- Backup Camera and Steering Wheel control input
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Super large 10” HD Display
- Easy to install and simple to use interface
- Affordable price
- Mirror link works fine with iPhone
- Support Offline GPS Navigation system
Cons
- Touch response is slightly slow
- No remote control
- Cheap Build Quality
Why buy a Flip-out Car Stereo?
There are plenty of reasons for upgrading to a flip-out stereo, some of them we have listed below:
If you are using your phone to view maps while driving, it will be hazardous for you as there are chances that you can crash your vehicle because you are getting your attention towards the phone instead of the road. To reduce this risk, flip out stereo can help you with its built-in GPS navigation feature, which will allow you to use maps in the prominent display of the receiver and significantly reduce the risk. You can use this feature via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Connectivity
Bluetooth is one of the main features of a flip-out head unit. In the latest head unit, you can connect multiple phones at a time with the stereo. With Bluetooth, you can do various tasks like hand-free calling without even touching the phone and music streaming in the radio, you need to pair your phone with the car stereo, and then you can play audio/music in the stereo.
Large Touchscreen Display
A large touchscreen display is available in Single Din flip-out stereos, which helps the user to use it without any problem. In short, these are like smart tablets for vehicles.
Latest Features
Flip Out stereo offers many entertainment features, such as Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. You can use your smartphone apps like Spotify and Pandora for music streaming and play videos on YouTube using Google maps, making and receiving calls, and many more. These flip up stereos can also support the voice command feature, which means you can control the head unit with your voice. You can do many things such as picking up calls, sending a text message, setting up an alarm, and many other features without touching the display.
FAQs
What is a Flip Out Head Unit?
The Flip-out head units are those car stereos that come with a motorized touchscreen display and can be fit in a single din dashboard. The display of these radios can be tilt outside and inside the dashboard and can be adjusted to your viewing angle. If you plan to buy a flip up radio, it will be effortless for you to fit this stereo in your dash without a technician’s help.
Which is the best Single-Din touchscreen head unit?
The best single-DIN touchscreen stereo is ATOTO F7 XE. It comes with 10-inch touchscreen display. You can use Apple CarPlay and Android Wireless with your iPhone or Android phone. It also support 720 HD backup camera functionality, which makes it perfect for upgrading your factory single din radio.
Does flip-out stereo fit in my car?
Although Flip out Stereo is usually made for single-din dashboards but can fit in a double din dashboard, the head units we have listed here can fit almost all types of vehicle dashboards.
Can I install a flip-out stereo myself?
You can install the stereo yourself, but you need some information before installing, which you will get from reading the user manual, watching YouTube tutorials. Click here to know more
Does every flip-out head unit support Apple CarPlay?
No, all stereo does not support Apple CarPlay. Only premium stereos like alpine, pioneer, and some other company provide apple CarPlay.
How much does it cost to get a head unit installed?
It really depends on the specific head unit that you have purchased, as well as how much labor is involved in the installation process. Generally speaking, however, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $200 for professional installation of a new head unit. If you are comfortable with doing the installation yourself, then you may be able to save some money; however, it is always best to consult with a professional beforehand to ensure that you are doing everything correctly.
What is the point of a detachable faceplate?
A detachable faceplate is a protective cover for the front of a device, typically used to keep the device’s screen from getting scratched or damaged. Faceplates can be made of different materials, such as plastic, metal, or glass. Some faceplates are also decorated with designs or logos.
Are stereo faceplates universal?
No, stereo faceplates are not universal. Each brand and model of car stereo has its own specific faceplate that is made to fit that particular unit. If you try to put a different faceplate on a car stereo, it will not fit properly and will not work correctly.
This is because the faceplates are designed to be used with specific models of stereos and they have different mounting points and dimensions. If you need to replace the faceplate on your car stereo, you will need to buy a faceplate that is made specifically for your model of stereo.
Bottom Line
There are many Units in the market, but ultimately you have to pick the best that suits your Car and your budget. In our suggestion, Sony XAV-AX8100 performs the best of all other radios.
Also, the price is not high if you consider its numerous Feature and incredible design. But if money is not your problem and you are searching for the best flip-out car stereo inspection of all terms, then Alpine Halo9 will be a perfect choice.
Related Article – Best Single Din Head Units – Top 10 Latest Models
