You want something with style and functionality when replacing your old car radio. We understand that searching for the best single DIN head unit is daunting. Fortunately, our experts have spent days testing several top-rated units to enable you to find a car stereo that fits your needs.
The DIN unit is the heartbeat of the car entertainment system. It is the final determinant of the quality of sound you get from your speakers and the types of devices you can connect.
The best DIN head units create quality sound and integrate the latest trends in technology. Let’s get to it!
How We Chose the Best Single DIN Head Unit
Apart from thoroughly engaging our full-time car-product review experts, we also looked into the following:
- Design
- Power ratings
- Affordability (price)
- Type and quality of materials used by manufacturers
- Available online reviews from Amazon and other electronic-selling websites
- Type of display
- Essential features such as Bluetooth and sound equalizer
Remember that the best single DIN unit is the one that meets your everyday needs.
Pioneer DEH-X8800BHS Single DIN Car Stereo
Are you looking forward to upgrading your car stereo without breaking the bank? The Pioneer DEH-X8800BHS single DIN head unit is for you. This CD receiver comes MIXTRAX, Bluetooth, HD Radio and SiriusXM ready.
Features and Benefits of Pioneer DEH-X8800BHS
- The stereo uses an advanced sound retriever which enhances the storage of files that can be lost due to compression. Furthermore, it enhances audio reproduction up to 20 kHz frequencies.
- Connects with RCA, Bluetooth, Auxiliary or USB
- Allows you to listen to your FLAC files without converting while keeping playback quality and CD level.
- This stereo offers a 5-band graphic equalizer to enable you to customize your sound. It also includes high and low- pass filter settings and subwoofer controls.
- Built-in amplifier
- 13-band DPS equalizer
Pros
- Simple interface
- Fits perfectly into different types of dashboards
- Low price
- Great sound quality
- Detachable faceplate for security
Cons
- Has no touchscreen
Our verdict
The Pioneer DEH-X8800BHS is an impressive single DIN head. Even though it is suspiciously affordable, its wide range of features makes it an excellent buy.
Alpine UTE-200BT Single DIN Head Unit
Alpine UTE-200BT will not disappoint. It is a perfect choice if you happen to be looking for a basic Bluetooth-enabled car stereo.
Features and Benefits of Alpine UTE-200BT
- Its built-in Bluetooth device facilitates audio streaming so you can answer calls while keeping your hands on the wheel and your eyes focused on the road.
- It also includes a WMA and MP3 that enables you to play your music in a format you choose with an extensive display of song time, title, and artist information.
- The stereo also includes fast-forward and playback features for your convenience.
- The rear USB ports support the charging of your smartphone.
- This single DIN head unit automatically changes to a hands-free call, and thanks to its microphone integration, you can now talk as much as you want without taking your hands from the wheel.
- The five sound settings enable you to choose one that perfectly fits your audio needs. The MX setting on this Alpine stereo can be adjusted accordingly, resulting in improved sound audio. It is, therefore, essential to learning how to use the controls on this car stereo to fully enjoy these incredible features.
- This Alpine head unit comes with six rear RCA jacks so that you can connect to external amplifiers whenever needed. The subwoofer output is easily adjustable and includes on and off, so you won’t need other external components if you add a subwoofer to the system.
- Alpine does not restrict you to presets. For this reason, it includes a 9-band parametric equalizer with user storage presets that work awesomely.
- For added convenience, control your Pandora music using the faceplate controls. You can also change your faceplate button backlighting from various colors, such as blue, green, and red.
Pros
- Excellent sound audio
- 6 RCA outputs
- iPhone and Android app wireless audio support
- Hands-off call feature
- Four colors
- Detachable faceplate and storage casing
- Pandora control functionality
- Nine-band equalizer with user presets
- Includes time and date
- USB support WMA/M4A/MP3
Cons
- Has a separate push button
- Has a separate iPod plug-in support
- Has no digital audio output
- Limited internal amp power
Our verdict
Do not give it a second thought; the Alpine UTE-200BT is the best DIN head unit if you are genuinely looking for a car stereo that will give you an unforgettable experience.
BOSS Audio BVCP9700A-FL
This single DIN does not slouch in specifications and features. The Boss Audio BVCP9700A-FL has many extras and comes with the trusted Boss name. has been around for around three decades. It definitely deserves its spot on our list of best DIN head units in the market today.
Features and Benefits of Boss Audio BVCP 9700A-FL
- This Boss car stereo has a wide display with an innovative graphic design thanks to its 7’’ TFT touchscreen. The screen’s functionality is fantastic, even though it lacks anti-glare features in case of excessive sunlight.
- The DIN head unit is Bluetooth-enabled, making it convenient for hands-free calling and music streaming. Additionally, you can play audio from your device via a Bluetooth connection.
- The Boss Audio BVCP9700A-FL includes four channels of up to 85 watts, together with its RDS tuner and inbuilt graphics equalizer; listening to music will never be the same again, it is a whole new experience.
Pros
- Aux, USB and AV input
- Seven-inch touchscreen with a detachable front panel
- SD card slot
- Detachable faceplate
Cons
- Has no anti-glare on the touchscreen
- Lesser known brand as compared to its competitors
Our verdict
The Boss Audio BVCP9700A-FL is an impressive single DIN head unit with high functionality and design. There is no doubt that this car stereo will give you more than you bargained for.
Pioneer AVH-3400NEX 7” Single DIN Unit
The Pioneer AVh-3400NEX is undoubtedly one of today’s smartest and most modern single DIN head units. The Pioneer team has collaborated with application providers to offer high-level compatibility with some essential vehicle applications.
Key Highlights of Pioneer AVh-3400NEX
- The Pioneer AVH-3400 NEX allows you to obey the traffic rules thanks to its built-in Bluetooth receiver that easily pairs with your phone without a series of settings. The head unit automatically connects to a Bluetooth-enabled device within range.
- The Bluetooth call quality is top-notch and includes a comprehensive new wideband speech hands-free profile. The AVH-3400NEX allows you to browse music libraries on devices wirelessly.
- This car stereo is compatible with Apple iOS and Android.
- The car stereo easily connects to your iPhone through the USB interface cable. The 7-inch screen excellently displays the album’s artist, time, and title. This Pioneer head unit includes tools like link play and alphabet search to help you find the song or content you want without wasting time.
- This Pioneer NEX features excellent sound quality with inbuilt adjustable EQ controls. You can now enjoy audio in several formats, including FLAC, without converting them.
- The USB connection gives direct signal transfer from any device for sound clarity while providing 1 amp of current to keep your gadget fully charged.
- This car stereo is Sirius-ready. It provides you with access to a wide range of over 140 channels worldwide. All you have to do is connect the Sirius tuner to the DIN head unit and get additional features to make driving more convenient.
- Plays DVDs
- For the Pioneer team, safety comes first. For this reason, they included a detachable faceplate as a unique anti-theft feature. So you have no reason to worry when parking your car in some questionable neighborhood. Simply carry it with you wherever!
Pros
- Has a great design and a modern look
- A wide range of audio and video sources
- Detachable faceplate
- Bluetooth music streaming and hands-free calling
- Customizable touchscreen interface
- Ability to link two devices wirelessly at the same time
- A firm screen that does not flex when pressed on
- Easy to navigate the menu with GPS integration
Cons
- Has only five screen colors which may not match many car interiors (but it does have 112 key colors!)
- The screen takes quite some time to pop out
- Inability to move the big picture on the radio source and use the space for other functions
Our verdict
The Pioneer AVH-3400NEX is a unique single DIN car stereo with a great design and detailed functionality; it simply offers what you could be looking for in a modern single DIN head unit.
Sony MEX-N5300BT Single DIN Unit–Best Budget Pick
Sony MEX-N5300BT is simply awesome. With its unique and excellent features, transforming your car into an entertainment powerhouse has never been this simple or affordable!
Features and Benefits of Sony MEX-N5300BT
- This car stereo comes with a sound synchronization feature that enables the front panel to alternate colors to the beat of the music. With over 35,000 colors to choose from, you’ll never get tired of playing with this cool feature.
- Bluetooth, Pandora, Sirius XM compatible.
- This single DIN head unit has an AUX and USB port that allows connection to a wide range of devices.
- Sony MEX–N5300BT DIN head unit is a warehouse for all your audio options, such as MP3, WMA, WAV, and AAC. Together with its support for Pandora and Sirius satellite radio, your audio experience will be through the roof.
- CD player, AM/FM radio with RDS
- 10-band digital equalizer
- Four-channel amp built-in
- Three pre-outs to add extra components of your choice
Pros
- Supports endless audio formats and applications
- An excellently built unit with a well-known brand name
- Offers convenient wireless control
- Dual Bluetooth allows for two smartphones to be connected wirelessly
- Detachable faceplate
Cons
- Has no Bluetooth 4.0 support
- Sound synchronizing may be a bit annoying
- Has no touchscreen
Our verdict
The Sony MEX-N5300BT has unique features and excellent car entertainment abilities you will love. This is perfect if you want more in a car stereo than just basic functionality.
Pyle PLTS78DUB Best Budget Single DIN Head Unit
What we like most about Pyle PLTS78DUB is its full range of features. This single DIN head unit has everything you could expect in a modern car head unit. The fact that it is low-priced makes it a great option if you are on a budget.
Key Highlights of Pyle PLTS78DUB
- The Pyle PLTS78DUB is equipped with hands-free Bluetooth technology to pair it with your smartphone so that you can receive calls and listen to music over your car stereo system.
- The on-screen controls allow you to play a CD, SD card, or USB drive directly from storage. The car stereo also supports radio in the AM and FM frequencies.
- The motorized screen telescopes boast a clear resolution of 1440x 230 pixels, enabling you to maneuver without struggle. The telescopes also fold away easily when the car is turned off.
- The wide 7’’ screen lets you enjoy your favorite DVD movie and gives you desired information using the screen display and wireless remote control.
- The detachable front panel enables you to remove the car stereo and put it away when security is a concern.
Pros
- Hands-free Bluetooth technology
- Easy compatibility with a smartphone and other portable devices
- Very high screen resolution
- Multiple audio format support
- Great Bluetooth call quality
Cons
- Screen glares in a high-light environment
- Non-versatile EQ which provides only base and treble instead of mid-range adjustments
Our verdict
The DIN’s ability to connect to multiple sources is one incredible feature we can’t overlook. Again, its Bluetooth call quality and connectivity are on another level. Unlike budget units that often disconnect, the stereo stays clear when connected to calls.
We recommend this head unit to customers on a budget, not major audiophiles. Even though its sound is clear enough, it does lack some essential features for sound adjustments.
Kenwood KDC-X304 eXcelon Single DIN Head Unit
Looking for a car head unit with a sturdy build and great features? Kenwood KDC-X304 is built for power and longevity. Kenwood is known to manufacture high-quality stereo systems. Here’s why we included Kenwood KDC-X304 in our review.
Key Highlights of Kenwood KDC-X304
- This head unit is housed in a metallic box for strength. The front control panel is made of high-quality plastic with a stylish design.
- The Kenwood KDC-X304 comes with an AM/FM radio tuner. This lets you catch your favorite radio shows and music while moving.
- Built-in Bluetooth for dual phones
- What could be more secure than a car head unit with a detachable faceplate? Kenwood KDC-X304 has a detachable faceplate for enhanced security.
- This head unit boasts a 13-digit display, allowing you to read details about the currently playing track, making using different settings and controls easy.
- It comes with modern technology features, including support for iPod and iPhone. You can easily stream music and radio. It also supports Android music playback through USB.
- This head unit features sound reconstruction technology. This technology improves audio from files encoded at very low bit rates.
Pros
- Remote control
- Compatible with most audio controls on the steering wheel
- Supports MP3, WMA, FLAC, and WAV audio formats
- Plays all major types of CDs
- Memory card reader
- USB port
- Front-facing AUX input
Cons
- No remote
- Lacks good knob resistance, making settings sensitive to wind gusts/bumps
Our verdict
Kenwood KDC-X304 won’t disappoint. Check it out today on Amazon.
JVC KD-T720BT Single DIN Head Unit
JVC KD-T720BT is a powerful head unit with all the key features necessary in a modern car stereo unit. Here’s why it outshines its competitors on the market today.
Features and Benefits of JVC KD-T720BT
- This head unit features Bluetooth functionality that can pair two devices at once. You can pair your tablet or smartphone and stream music wirelessly from your device. You can also answer phone calls via Bluetooth.
- You can easily detach the faceplate that comes with this unit. You’ll deter theft by removing the faceplate when leaving your car in unsecured parking lots.
- The variable LED color illumination makes the panel decorative. The illumination sets the right ambiance for listening to music.
- This head unit comes with a USB port for music playback.
- It supports JVC remote control application. You only need to install the app on your smartphone and control the unit from the app.
Pros
- Bluetooth connectivity
- USB port and USB charging
- Easy installation
- 2-line display
- 13-band equalizer
- Remote control app
Cons
- A bit challenging to program Sirius XM satellite radio stations
Our verdict
JVC KD-T720BT stands out for its modern features. Any tech-savvy car owner should get this head unit and enjoy controlling it from their smartphone. Its overall quality is great, and has everything you’d want in a car head unit.
We recommend JVC KD-T720BT for its high-quality and multiple control options.
What Should You Consider in Buying the Best Single DIN Head Unit?
Remember that the head unit determines how smart your car is. There are higher chances of making the right decision when you know what features you are looking for. Let’s have a look at the important factors to pay attention to:
Power Ratings
The power ratings give an impression of the performance. Such ratings help one determine functionality. The max power out refers to the maximum power that can be produced quickly. Besides, do not forget to consider the RMS power output, which is continuously produced.
Expandability
The car stereo should be versatile. A versatile head unit enables you to make different connections to external sources. Most have audio or video inputs and outputs, microphone, and camera input. You can make a single DIN stereo multifunctional with expandable inputs and outputs.
Design
When it comes to the single DIN head unit, aesthetics is what to pay attention to. It is advisable to choose a design that matches your car’s interior. You must know that the most expensive single DIN head units have advanced displays such as customized lighting and LED display. However, several single DIN head units have great designs at a cheaper price.
Playback Features
A single DIN head unit should be able to playback audio, videos, MP3, CD, HD Radio, and Bluetooth. It is important to check the consistency of the playback methods, or else you will find yourself with a DIN head unit that does not play music in the available format. Have a look at the following playback features and their importance:
USB port: The USB port allows you to connect all your music devices through a USB connection. The port also charges your phone as you listen to your favorite music
Bluetooth: The Bluetooth feature allows you to play music by connecting to your smartphone or any other Bluetooth-enabled device.
CD player: The CD player plays your music from a compact disk in several formats.
HD Radio: HD radio is usually higher quality than the usual radio.
XM Radio: This feature should allow you to connect and listen to several songs and radio channels through satellite. However, this service requires paid subscriptions; importantly, will enjoy a wide selection of channels.
Controls
The head unit buttons should be well-positioned to enable you to make calls and play songs while you are still alert on the road. The controls should be strategically placed for your safety as you drive around.
Smartphone integration
Choosing a single DIN head unit with a smartphone connection is advisable to give you access quickly and make phone calls wirelessly. Furthermore, you can listen to music in the same manner as you drive out and about.
GPS Navigation
Besides the fact that GPS makes driving much more comfortable and convenient, it also makes your car look smart and modern. Thanks to its rich, accurate maps and traffic data, this feature lets you know how much time you need to get to where you are going. This is not a feature to overlook if you want a smart car.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why should I upgrade/install a new single DIN head unit?
Answer: Aftermarket head units produce cleaner sound than stock head units. The first major reason for installing a new single DIN head unit (single DIN HU) is for better sound quality and an improved driving experience.
Secondly, a new head unit allows you to fully utilize wireless connectivity. Hands-free phone operations, such as calls and browsing, are two benefits of Bluetooth connectivity.
Thirdly, you can stream media on your new single DIN HU. No more CD burning or having to download and store music files so that you can enjoy them. You can now watch and even listen to live radio stations directly. This doesn’t mean that you cannot connect to other media devices. USB ports/AUX jacks on new head units allow you to connect the HU to older devices such as MP3 players.
Q. Which devices does the new single DIN head unit connect with?
Answer: Most current models of head units integrate with smart devices. While some single DIN HUs are compatible with Android and iOS devices, others are compatible with iOS alone or Android alone. If you are an Android user, ensure that your head unit supports Android Auto interfaces. iOS users should ensure that their chosen head unit works with Apple CarPlay.
Q. Can factory speakers work with a new single DIN head unit?
Answer: Although most factory speakers can handle the output from a new head unit, their performance is limited. You can test the limits for your speakers by turning up the volume and noting the level at which the speaker starts to distort. Blasting factory speakers can cause damage due to cranking. Since you want to achieve the best value from your investment in a single DIN HU, adding a new set of aftermarket speakers to the system makes sense. With aftermarket speakers, you will take advantage of all that your new head unit can offer.
Q. Can a single-unit head unit fit any car audio system?
Answer: The most important thing to consider when installing your new HU is whether there is enough installation space. If you used a single DIN HU earlier, you have less to worry about. Chances are high that the space left by the older head unit is enough for the new model. If the older stereo was a double DIN unit, you will have to do a considerably big chunk of work adjusting the available space to fit the size of your new HU.
Q. My car stereo stopped working. Did I burn my head unit?
Answer: A car stereo can stop working if a fuse blows or connection wires get loose. If a pop sound keeps disrupting the head unit’s sound delivery, the problem could result from insulated wires getting crossed. It could also be due to some power leads, which were probably not correctly crimped, and they keep getting in each other’s way. Check wire connections and put the head unit back in place to see if it works. If the issue is not resolved, you might have to start thinking about using the warranty to get a replacement from the manufacturer.
Q. How can I test my new single DIN head unit without a car?
Answer: Testing a new head unit without a car is possible. Touch the yellow, black, and red terminals to an AV battery. Check to see if the head unit lights up. If the HU has extra features such as GPS, USB, and AUX, you need a battery over 9V for the test.
Q. Which types of radio can I listen to via my new single DIN head unit?
Answer: All new models of head units have in-built AM/FM radio. Some more advanced radios (like satellite radio and HD radio) are only available on some models. Satellite radio allows you to listen to your favorite radio stations from anywhere globally. HD radio enhances the quality of audio of the local radio stations.
Our Final Thoughts
We are confident you cannot compare these systems with the rest of the market today. Choosing an excellent single DIN head unit is not a walk in the park. Therefore, you should read through the reviews and have a chance to choose the product that suits your everyday needs.
All the single DIN head units come in a sleek package with a clear-to-read and understandable manual. Remember that the best prices and unbiased customer reviews are found on Amazon. Choose today and take your car music experience to the next level.