10 Best Head Units 2026 in the United States

The Pioneer DMH-1600NEX is a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their car’s head unit with modern features. Its 6.8-inch touchscreen is bright and responsive, making it easy to access apps and controls while driving. It supports wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can safely use your phone’s navigation, music, and messaging apps through the car’s display. Bluetooth connectivity also allows for clear hands-free calls, helped by an included external microphone. Audio quality is customizable with a 13-band equalizer, which is great if you enjoy fine-tuning your music to suit your car’s speakers. It also supports a rear-view camera input, making parking easier and safer thanks to customizable parking lines on the screen.

The unit fits most vehicles with a double-DIN slot, but installation might be tricky if you’re not familiar with car wiring, so professional help is recommended. One downside is that wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto aren’t supported, meaning you’ll always need a cable to connect your phone. Also, while it has some expandability options through USB and RCA, it doesn’t offer built-in Wi-Fi or support for multiple camera inputs. This head unit is well-suited for drivers who want a straightforward, feature-rich multimedia receiver with solid smartphone integration and customizable sound, but who don’t mind connecting their phone by wire and may need some help with installation.

The PLZ 10.1" Wireless Single Din Car Radio Stereo offers a substantial 10.1-inch IPS touchscreen, which should provide a vivid and immersive display experience. It supports both wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhancing convenience with voice control through Siri or Google Assistant. The compatibility with single and double din dash openings makes it versatile, but users should ensure their car's dashboard size matches or be prepared to purchase additional installation kits.

The audio quality is a highlight, with a built-in DSP system and powerful output, including two subwoofers for deep bass, which should satisfy audiophiles. Connectivity options are robust, featuring Bluetooth 5.3 for a stable connection and various input options like USB and auxiliary. Navigation relies on connected smartphones, which means the quality of navigation will depend on the apps used, but it generally ensures up-to-date maps and familiar interfaces.

The user interface is designed to be intuitive, and the steering wheel control support is a significant safety and convenience feature. However, installation might be complex for some users, and professional installation is recommended. The PLZ 10.1" head-unit is a well-rounded option for those seeking to upgrade their car's audio and entertainment system with modern connectivity and high-quality audio.

The Sony XAV-AX6000 is a 7-inch multimedia receiver that stands out for its wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, making it a great choice for users looking for seamless smartphone integration. The touchscreen display is responsive and user-friendly, enhancing the user experience. This head unit features a compact rear chassis which simplifies the installation process, even in tighter spaces. The inclusion of a rear camera input is a plus for those wanting to add a backup camera for safety, although the camera itself is sold separately.

Audio quality is a strong point, with 5V front, rear, and subwoofer gold-plated pre-amp outputs supporting both stereo and surround sound modes. Connectivity is versatile, with options for Bluetooth, USB, and HDMI, though it only has one HDMI port which could be limited for users needing more connectivity options.

While the unit is manufacturer refurbished, it comes with a 90-day limited hardware warranty and is described as showing little to no wear, which might be reassuring for budget-conscious buyers. This head unit is particularly suitable for iPhone and smartphone users who prioritize modern connectivity and high audio quality in their vehicle entertainment systems.