10 Best Apple Carplay Head Unit 2025 in the United States

The PLZ 7" Wireless Double Din Car Stereo stands out in the Apple CarPlay head unit category, primarily thanks to its dual wired and wireless CarPlay and Android Auto functionalities. This feature allows seamless connection to your smartphone, making it easy to access navigation and music apps while keeping your focus on driving. The 7-inch IPS touchscreen is another highlight, providing vibrant visuals and a responsive touch experience, ensuring that all your multimedia looks sharp and clear.

Audio quality is impressive with a built-in Digital Signal Processor (DSP) and a powerful 240W output, making it an excellent choice for music lovers. The inclusion of EQ settings lets you customize your sound preferences, which is a big plus. Bluetooth 5.3 enhances connectivity, enabling clearer calls and smoother streaming without annoying static. Plus, steering wheel controls make it convenient to adjust settings without taking your hands off the wheel, promoting safer driving.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While it supports a variety of video formats, it lacks a Wi-Fi hotspot function and does not support Apple iOS 18.0 or higher for mirrorlink, which might limit some users. Installation can be tricky; it’s advisable to have a professional handle it since some vehicles may require additional components for proper fit. Also, the necessity to ensure the dashboard's opening size matches the stereo could be a hassle for some. The PLZ 7" Wireless Double Din Car Stereo is a great option for those seeking a feature-rich car audio upgrade, especially if you prioritize smartphone integration and sound quality, while keeping its installation considerations and some limitations in mind.

The PLZ 10.1" Wireless Single Din Car Radio Stereo offers a large, immersive 10.1-inch touchscreen, which is a significant advantage for those who prioritize display size and clarity. The screen's IPS display with 1920*1080P resolution ensures vivid visuals and multi-angle adjustments, which can enhance the user experience. However, users with Apple devices running iOS 18.0 or above should note that the MirrorLink feature is not supported for their devices yet.

The unit supports both wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing flexibility and convenience. Voice control via Siri or Google Assistant is a major plus for hands-free operation. On the audio front, the built-in DSP system and 10-band EQ allow for high-quality sound customization, with a powerful 240W output and 2 subwoofers for deep bass, appealing to audiophiles. Bluetooth 5.3 ensures a stable connection for hands-free calls and streaming.

Installation might be a bit challenging for some, as the unit requires a specific dash opening size and potentially additional accessories like a wire harness adapter and radio antenna adapter. The inclusion of a backup camera and steering wheel control (SWC) support adds to driving safety and ease. Connectivity options are robust with Bluetooth, Auxiliary, and USB. The user interface is user-friendly, though some users might find professional installation necessary. This head unit is a strong contender for those seeking a feature-rich upgrade to their car stereo system, with excellent audio quality and a wide range of connectivity options.

The Pioneer DMH-WT3800NEX Digital Multimedia Receiver offers a compelling package for those looking for a high-quality Apple CarPlay head unit. Its standout feature is the 9” capacitive floating screen, which is large and provides ample space for viewing and interaction. The touchscreen is responsive, making it easy to navigate through menus and functions. Compatibility is a strong suit, as this unit supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless integration with a variety of smartphones. Audio quality is robust with stereo sound output, enhancing the listening experience during drives. However, it only supports a 2.1 surround sound configuration, which might not satisfy audiophiles seeking more advanced audio setups.

Installation is relatively straightforward given its single-DIN design, but the floating screen could pose some challenges for those with less experience in car audio installations. Connectivity options are plentiful, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB, allowing for flexible ways to connect devices. The inclusion of Amazon Alexa via the Vozsis app adds an extra layer of convenience, allowing for voice-controlled operations.

The user interface is intuitive and user-friendly, with features like split-screen mode and automatic light/dark mode adjustments enhancing usability. One potential drawback is the unit's size and design, which could be cumbersome for smaller dashboards. Another consideration is the price point, which, while justified by the features, might be on the higher side for some buyers. In conclusion, the Pioneer DMH-WT3800NEX is a feature-rich head unit ideal for users looking for robust smartphone integration, a large responsive screen, and multiple connectivity options, though it may require some installation know-how and budget consideration.