10 Best Double Din Head Units 2025 in the United States

The KENWOOD eXcelon DMX1057XR is a solid choice for anyone seeking a versatile double-din car stereo with a large 10.1-inch HD touchscreen. Its capacitive touch panel offers bright, sharp visuals and easy swipe navigation, making it user-friendly on the road. It supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing safe access to phone functions, music, and popular navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze.

The audio quality is enhanced by a built-in equalizer and support for stereo and surround sound modes, providing a satisfying listening experience whether you prefer radio, streaming apps, or USB playback. Connectivity is strong, with Bluetooth, USB, HDMI, and multiple camera inputs that let you add front, rear, and side cameras for better safety and convenience. The unit also integrates well with factory features if you use the optional iDatalink Maestro interface, retaining parking sensors and driver assistance systems.

Build quality and Kenwood's reputation add confidence, though some users might find the setup process a bit involved, especially when adding multiple camera inputs or advanced features. Additionally, while the display is large and sharp, it may be bulkier than other models. This head unit suits drivers wanting a large, feature-rich, and expandable multimedia system with reliable brand backing.

The Alpine iLX-F511 Halo11 stands out with its large 11-inch HD touchscreen, providing a clear and spacious display that floats above the dash for better visibility and easier control. It supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it convenient for most smartphone users to access calls, messages, music, and navigation hands-free, which helps keep your focus on driving. Audio enthusiasts will appreciate the included 13-band parametric equalizer, allowing fine tuning of sound quality for a customized listening experience. The unit also supports two camera inputs, allowing you to add front, side, or rearview cameras for enhanced safety, though these cameras are sold separately. Connectivity options like Bluetooth, USB, and HDMI ensure you can connect various devices, but it offers only one HDMI port which may limit additional video sources. The user interface is straightforward, supported by Google Assistant for voice commands, which adds ease of control while on the road.

The single-DIN chassis with an adjustable mount makes installation flexible for most vehicles, but the relatively large footprint (18 x 8 x 14 inches) means it requires a bit of space behind the dash. Build quality is solid, backed by Alpine’s reputation, and customer reviews rate it positively with a 4.4-star average. The price and size might be more than casual users want, and the best seller rank suggests it’s popular but not a top choice for everyone. This unit is well-suited for drivers who want a large, feature-rich multimedia experience with advanced audio controls and good smartphone integration, especially if you value a big screen and plan to add camera inputs.

The PLZ 7" Wireless Double Din Car Stereo is a solid choice for anyone seeking an upgrade to their car audio system, especially if you value modern connectivity options. With its 7-inch IPS touchscreen and a resolution of 1024x600, it offers a vivid display for navigation and media, enhancing your driving experience. The wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features allow for easy integration with smartphones, making it convenient to access navigation apps like Google Maps and control playlists hands-free. The built-in DSP and a powerful 240W output with 4.2 channel support ensure high-quality sound, catering to audiophiles who appreciate rich audio performance. Moreover, the independent Bluetooth 5.3 module enhances call clarity and reduces static noise, further adding to the user experience.

The PLZ stereo may fall short in some areas. It lacks a Wi-Fi hotspot function, which could disappoint users who want to stream content without relying on their phone's data. Additionally, the mirror link feature does not support Apple iOS 18.0 and above, limiting its usability for some iPhone users. Installation can also be a challenge; some vehicles may require additional adapters, and it's recommended to have the unit installed by a professional to avoid compatibility issues.

This car stereo is well-suited for tech-savvy drivers looking for seamless smartphone integration and excellent audio quality. However, potential buyers should consider their specific vehicle requirements and be prepared for possible limitations with connectivity and installation.