Best Double-DIN Head Units: Upgrade From OEM
Enjoy modern stereo features without having to buy a new car.
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There's no replacing my Toyota X-Runner, as the last production year was 2013. Despite my fan girl attitude, I do have some complaints. My particular truck is a 2007, which means it came with an old-school radio and CD player. No Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, navigation, fancy sound customization, backup camera, or USB ports. I decided to fix this by upgrading the head unit, speakers, and adding a backup camera. I knew the features I wanted and only wanted to do this project once. So I'm now going to make your stereo upgrade project easier by sharing what I've learned and the best double-DIN head units on the market.
Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX
- Capacitive touchscreen Display
- Two camera inputs
- Slow to recognize switched inputs
- Some screen usability issues
Boss 480BRGB
- Four-channel preamp outputs
- Built-in MOSFET amplifier
- Single-line display
- Colors other than white are not very bright
Kenwood DMX9707S
- 13-band digital graphic equalizer
- Two-way active crossover
- Resistive touchscreen
- Screen resolution could be better
Summary List
Best Overall: Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX
Best Budget: Boss 480BRGB
Honorable Mention: Kenwood DMX9707S
Best with Navigation: BOSS Audio BV9386NV Built-in Navigation
Best with Backup Camera: Boss BV775BLC Package
Best with Apple Carplay: Sony XAV-AX7000
Best for Android: Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX
Why Trust Us
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 moreOur Methodology
Shopping for a head unit is like wading through a sea of conflicting information. One person loves the bright and responsive screen, while someone else complains about the same unit being dark and lagging. Knowing what features to look for takes the confusion out. When creating this list, I only considered reputable brands to minimize unreliable performance.
From there, I looked for features in three categories, smartphone compatibility, sound quality, and vehicle features. I picked head units with a mix of features in each category. I referred to reputable specialty websites that focused on technology and music to ensure I chose products that included the latest desirable features. This ensured I stayed true to The Drive's methodology.
Best Double-Din Head Unit Reviews & Recommendations
Specs
- Smartphone Compatible: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Screen Size: 6.8 inches
Pros
- Capacitive WVGA touchscreen Display
- Built-in HD Radio tuner
- iDatalink Maestro RR and RR2
- Two camera inputs
Cons
- Slow to recognize switched inputs
- Some screen usability issues
Specs
- Smartphone Compatible: No
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Screen Size: 4 inches
Pros
- Front auxiliary input and USB port inputs
- Four-channel preamp outputs
- Built-in MOSFET amplifier
- User-friendly design
Cons
- Single-line display
- Colors other than white are not very bright
Specs
- Smartphone Compatible: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Screen Size: 7 inches
Pros
- Versatile listening options
- 13-band digital graphic equalizer
- Two-way active crossover
- SiriusXM Ready
Cons
- Resistive touchscreen
- Screen resolution could be better
Specs
- Smartphone Compatible: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Screen Size: 6.2 inches
Pros
- Built-in GPS
- Customizable EQ and EQ presets
- 80W peak power x 4 channels
- CD/DVD player
Cons
- No built-in voice command capability
- No dual functionality for music and GPS
Specs
- Smartphone Compatible: No
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Screen Size: 6.95 inches
Pros
- Includes rear-view camera with license plate bracket
- Built-in internal amp (20 watts RMS/80 peak x 4 channels)
- Eight-band equalizer
- Plays CDs, DVDs, SD cards, and USB memory devices
Cons
- No automatic backup camera function
- No Apple CarPlay
Specs
- Smartphone Compatible: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Screen Size: 6.95 inches
Pros
- Built-in internal amp (45 watts RMS/100 peak x 4 channels)
- Anti-glare capacitive touchscreen display
- Siri control
- 10-band equalizer with extra bass
Cons
- Very deep chassis
- Can overheat
Specs
- Smartphone Compatible: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Screen Size: 6.8 inches
Pros
- Capacitive touchscreen display
- Built-in HD radio tuner
- 13-band graphic EQ
- Built-in amplifier (14 watts RMS CTA-2006/50 peak x 4 channels)
Cons
- Small buttons
- Not powerful microphone
Verdict
My top pick for the best double-DIN head unit is the Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX because it offers the best mix of smartphone, music quality, and vehicle features. In addition, this gives you reliable and functional usability for most drivers.
For a more affordable option, the Boss 480BRGB will give you a basic upgrade from your worn-out OEM stock stereo. While it won't have all the features that more expensive units have, it is still an upgrade.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Double-DIN Head Unit
Resistive vs. Capacitive Touchscreen
Double-DIN units with a touch screen will have a resistive or capacitive touchscreen. Resistive is an older technology and is often used on budget models. Higher-end and newer models tend to have capacitive screens. Resistive screens have two layers with a gap in between. They work well at different angles, have a reduced chance of accidental touches, and can sense any object that touches them with adequate pressure. Their drawback is that they require more pressure to work, the screens are easily damaged, will not work when damaged, and have more issues with visibility.
Capacitive screens use your body's natural conductivity to operate. They tend to have a crisper display and are more responsive and durable. Their drawback is that they look best when viewed straight on, which can be an issue if your dash is angled. They are also more expensive.
Sound Control Features
You could have the highest quality speakers on the market, but without a suitable stereo head unit, you will never get the full performance out of them. Replacing a stock unit means you can improve the built-in power and circuit design for richer, detailed, and cleaner sound. They also have enhanced controls for increased customization ability. Basic controls include bass and treble and a few preset sound options. Higher-quality units have multi-band equalizers that allow you to customize the sound and get the full potential out of your aftermarket system.
Smartphone Compatibility
Let's face it, we all have a smartphone that we depend on. Having your smartphone communicate with your car's stereo unit is necessary for full functionality. This is a staple in new vehicles, so adding a stereo with these features helps modernize your vehicle. First, it should have Bluetooth. This lets you use any smartphone-enabled device with your stereo. Second, consider what type of phone you have. If you have an iPhone, then Apple CarPlay is excellent because it lets you have complete functionality of your phone through your stereo. If you have an Android phone, then the stereo you choose should have Android Auto.
Double-DIN Head Unit Pricing
Double-DIN units are available for less than $100, but they have limited features and no touchscreen. Pricing for double-DIN units with a touchscreen range in price from $200 to $800. The more expensive the price, the more features and the better functionality and sound you will get. Instead of focusing on price, look for a unit with the features you need, such as smartphone compatibility, Bluetooth, and sound customization.
In addition to the cost of the double-DIN unit, you should also consider installation costs. These could be free if you plan to install the unit yourself. However, if you pay for installation, it could be as little as $75 for a simple installation or as high as $2,000 for a customized complete system installation.
FAQs
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.
Q: What connectivity options should we look for in a double-DIN head unit?
A: Look for a unit with multiple connectivity options for the greatest functional flexibility. Bluetooth, USB port, and SD card are excellent features.
Q: How do the backup cameras work with double-DIN head units?
A: If you have a stock backup camera, you might need an adapter harness if your new double-DIN unit isn't compatible. If you don't have one, you can install an aftermarket one. Typically, this requires you to mount the camera on your vehicle and then run a wire to your stereo unit.
Q: What is the most powerful double-DIN head unit?
A: Look at peak and RMS power to determine the most powerful double-DIN unit. If you are serious about sound, check out the Alpine iLX-407 and 4-channel Amp Package. It has everything you need to add some serious power to your stereo system without committing to a ton of bulky equipment.
Q: Will a double-DIN head unit fit in my dashboard?
A: If your OEM stereo unit was two inches tall, you could only do a direct replacement with another single-DIN unit. To install a double-DIN unit, you will need to cut the dash or replace it with an aftermarket trim piece designed to accommodate a larger unit. You also need to consider the unit's depth because some are too deep for the shallow space available.
Q: What is the difference between a single-DIN and a double-DIN head unit?
A: The difference between these two units is their size. A single-DIN unit is two inches tall and seven inches wide. A double-DIN unit is four inches tall and seven inches wide. However, you will find modern touchscreen options that are up to six to seven inches tall.
Q: Can my double-DIN stereo work without an antenna?
A: Yes, you can still use your double-DIN stereo through Bluetooth, USB, or another music source. If you want to listen to the radio, you will need to do some modifications. The simplest method is to connect the ground wire and coax wire to turn the vehicle's metal chassis into the antenna.
