Best Single DIN Head Unit for the Money

‘Better safe than sorry’ is a motto best suited while driving. Distractions have become so common these days that it is difficult to focus on the road by blocking all of them. Hence wireless stereos have become the need of the hour.

The best single DIN head units are an essential item to own when it comes to car receivers. These only allow you to have a wireless audio streaming experience but also make sure that you attend all your calls without lifting your hands off the steering wheel.

The development of Bluetooth technology has ensured that we don’t miss out on important things even while driving. The best single-DIN head units are equipped with built-in Bluetooth and are compact so that they don’t take up much space.

Picking this car electronic device can be a daunting task. So, to reduce some of your legwork, we have come up with a list of the best single-DIN head units in the current market. Hopefully, this guide will make your selection easier.

Sometimes things with the most appealing features and design turn out to be useless, and the ones with the cheapest price tags steal the show. It is important to choose the best only after evaluating the others.

To save you some of your precious time, here is a list of the top 15 best single DIN head units in the market:

Top 15 Best single DIN Head Units  2021

1. Pioneer single-DIN

Pioneer single-DIN Best single-DIN Head Unit

This new single-DIN CD player stereo receiver is a full boost for your car’s entertainment system. It not only has a CD playback option, but it can also support USB and AUX input options. It is compatible and works great with most portable devices.

Pioneer has been a trusted brand for so many years now. With bass boost capabilities, it can provide fuller sound for a wholesome effect. For a complete sound experience in your car, this is your go-to.

With a variety of choices for wireless streaming of audio and video, Pioneer leads the industry with this aesthetic-looking versatile stereo, which has earned a rightful spot on our best single-DIN head unit guide.

Key Features

  • Android compatible
  • Smartphone control
  • MOSFET 50W x 4
  • MIXTRAX
  • USB and AUX support
  • CD playback capability
  • Bass boost capacity for fuller sound
  • 1 set of 2V preamp outputs

 Pros

  • Looks good
  • Performs better than stock radio sets
  • Easy installation
  • Convenient settings and control
  • Easy to read and bright display
  • Value for money

Cons

  • No Bluetooth compatibility
  • It is not durable.
  • It doesn’t support the iPhone.

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2. UNITOPSCI Multimedia Car Stereo

UNITOPSCI Multimedia Car Stereo

A multimedia receiver with a high-quality stereo, UNITOPSCI Multimedia Car Stereo gives you numerous benefits in a small package. The FM radio can search channels by itself using fully-automatic, semi-automatic, and accurate adjustment ways.

Enjoy music, news, or sports on the go with this stereo receiver in your car. Insert a U disk for continuous playback while driving. It also supports AUX if you wish to connect any handheld device. The USB port allows you to charge your phone simultaneously so that it doesn’t run out of power while you enjoy a musical journey.

The single-DIN touch screen car stereo is Bluetooth compatible as well. You can now answer calls hands-free while driving and also control music wirelessly. With rearview camera support, this stereo is one of the best single-DIN head units in the market.

Key Features

  • FM radio with high-quality stereo
  • Two USB ports and U disk support
  • Bluetooth compatibility
  • AUX support
  • Rearview camera input
  • Supports remote control and steering wheel control

Pros

  • Decent sound quality
  • Multi-functionality
  • Easy controls
  • Good customer service

Cons

  • It is not very reliable in the long run.

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3. BOSS Audio Systems BV9986BI

Be hands-free and away from distractions while driving with the Boss Audio Systems Car DVD player. With Bluetooth connectivity, make and answer calls without any hassles. You can play and operate the system wirelessly.

The system comes with a screen for watching movies and videos. Pop in a DVD and watch your favorite films while on the move. It also comes with USB ports so that you can connect to any handheld device and enjoy music on long drives.

The screen works with the rearview camera as well. The system comes with multi-color illumination so that you can light up your system with the colors of your choice. Enjoy your journeys with this single-DIN head unit.

Key Features

  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Auxiliary compatibility with handheld devices
  • USB/SD ports
  • Video output
  • Rearview screen
  • 85 Watts of power x 4 Max Power
  • Multi-Color Illumination with over 16 million color combinations
  • Equalizer to customize your music
  • Steering wheel control

Pros

  • Nice design
  • The Bluetooth connection is a breeze
  • Easy to navigate menus
  • Great sound
  • Value for money

Cons

  • The screen shows movies in the wide-screen mode, not utilizing the entire screen.
  • It takes time to scan and pick Radiostations.
  • It is difficult to adjust the unit in the dashboard.

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4. Pioneer AVH-3300NEX 7″

With excellent sound quality and a plethora of other features, this single-DIN head unit from Pioneer has earned a spot on our best single-DIN head units guide. With an excellent equalizer, you can tweak the sound according to your requirements.

The screen works well and has an amazing integration. It is easy to operate and control with a smooth touchscreen and sensitive voice activation. Now you can request songs and navigate using maps with just your voice.

It is suitable for both Android and Apple devices. The screen smoothly tucks away as soon as you switch off the unit. Just plug in your phone using the USB port and enjoy unlimited hands-free music and movies while on a journey.

Key Features

  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Voice activation
  • Bluetooth mic for calls
  • Video output
  • Plays DVDs, CDs, and handheld devices using AUX
  • Easy fold back screen

Pros

  • Boots quickly
  • It doesn’t hang or freeze.
  • Easy to adjust the screen
  • Nice sound quality
  • Durable system
  • Compact design
  • CarPlay works well

Cons

  • Unreliable CarPlay connectivity
  • Reboots unnecessarily at times
  • It ruins the USB cables somehow, and eventually, the port has to be fixed.

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5. Sony MEX-N5300BT

Stay safe while driving by being hands-free for all operations, including answering calls and listening to music with the Sony MEX-N5300BT. With the built-in Bluetooth and wireless audio streaming, you can now enjoy your drive without lifting your hands off the steering wheel.

You can easily pair your handheld device with the system to get complete access to navigation, music, and communication features. A second device can also be connected for making and answering calls.

You can play music while on a long journey using CDs, Bluetooth, and AM/FM. With the dual-zone color illumination, change the lighting of your system according to the mood. Enjoy driving effortlessly with this single-DIN head unit.

Key Features

  • Dual-phone Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming
  • iPod, iPhone, and iPad music playback via USB
  • AM/FM Radio With RDS
  • CD receiver with AM/FM tuner
  • Detachable face with dual-zone variable color illumination
  • Built-in Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming
  • Remote control included

Pros

  • Crisp sound quality
  • Vintage looks
  • Highly customizable color panel looks great
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • It doesn’t have a rear bass enhancement mode, so if you need bass, you will have to add a substitute.
  • It might reset to factory settings every now and then, which is quite annoying.

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6. Pyle single-DIN Head Unit Receiver

A car entertainment system with a multi-colored LCD screen is all you need for a long trip on the road. Pyle single-DIN Head Unit Receiver features a 7” LCD touchscreen that makes listening to music much more interesting.

The stereo setup comes with wireless audio streaming, thanks to the built-in Bluetooth connectivity and AM/FM features. You can now answer calls hands-free without letting go of the steering wheel at any point.

The in-dash car deck console unit is compatible with various handheld devices, including Android and iPhone. You can plug in your device with AUX support, as well. Have full control over your car’s music and visual entertainment with this single-DIN head unit.

Key Features

  • 7” fold-out multi-colored touchscreen monitor
  • Built-in Bluetooth
  • Hands-free operation
  • Smart device compatibility
  • 320 Watt stereo
  • AM/FM radio and CD/DVD player input
  • 3.55-millimeter front panel AUX input
  • Rear panel RCA output connectors

Pros

  • Supports external rearview camera
  • Easy to operate
  • Responsive to touch
  • Smooth and clear sound
  • Affordable

Cons

  • The screen remains bright even in sharp sunlight.
  • The touchscreen is not quite durable and reliable.
  • The screen only has two resolution settings that are not quite helpful in changing the picture.

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7. Kenwood KDC-168U

It is safe to say that the Kenwood KDC-168U Car Stereo is one of the best single-DIN head units in the market. You can enjoy wireless audio streaming throughout your journey with this stereo set.

It can be modified according to your speaker size so that you have better sound quality. It gives a decent bass when adjusted according to your speaker size. With a big bright display, you can easily read and operate the screen even during the day. With adjustable brightness, you can dim the screen when you feel the need for it.

It is quite easy to get it installed, and it works great with both iPhone and Android. The AUX port comes in handy whenever you need it. If you are looking for a low-cost, reliable stereo set for your car, then Kenwood won’t disappoint.

Key Features

  • 50 W x 4 Channel Max
  • 22 W x 4 Channel RMS
  • 1 set of 2.5V preamp outputs
  • 3-Band graphic equalizer with selectable tone curves
  • 3.5mm Front Audio auxiliary input
  • USB and AUX ports
  • Modifiable according to speaker size

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • Good bass
  • Bright and readable display
  • Works great with iPhone
  • Value for money

Cons

  • The track changing buttons are too small.
  • The volume knob looks and feels cheap.
  • The remote doesn’t work beyond 10 feet.

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8. JVC KD-T900BTS SiriusXM

Enjoy the music of your choice on the go with JVC Car Stereo Player. It comes with built-in Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming. Compatible with almost all handheld devices, it pairs well with both Android and Apple.

This single-DIN head unit works with Pandora and Spotify as well. It can play music using CD/DVD, AM/FM Radio, Bluetooth, USB, and AUX. With such a wide range of options to choose your music from, it is hard to find a better stereo set.

You can conveniently operate this single-DIN head unit using a remote or even your phone while it is actively connected to the system. Enjoy soothing music while driving without lifting your hands off the steering using this stereo system.

Key Features

  • Built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calls and music
  • SiriusXM Satellite Radio Ready (subscription has to be bought separately)
  • 3.5mm Front Audio Auxiliary Input
  • Front USB Input
  • 2 Sets of 2.5V preamp outputs
  • Remote control
  • Compatible with Android, iPhone, Pandora, and Spotify

Pros

  • Easy to install and operate
  • Great sound quality
  • Old-school design
  • A brighter screen even during the day
  • Lots of EQ adjustability

Cons

  • It doesn’t have great bass.
  • It doesn’t import the Android phonebook properly.

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9. UNITOPSCI Car Stereo single-DIN Car Radio

Don’t just listen but rather watch your favorite music albums while driving with UNITOPSCI Car Stereo single-DIN Car Radio. With a 7 inch HD digital motorized retractable touchscreen, you can easily change and watch whatever you wish to see while driving.

A free 8IRR rearview camera and an 8G TF Card with a map are also included in the package. It doesn’t offer a CD/DVD Player, but it allows you to listen to your favorite music and answer all calls hands-free with the built-in Bluetooth.

This single-DIN car radio offers GPS support and navigation so that you don’t get lost on a long journey. With AM/FM radio, AUX input, Bluetooth, and a retractable screen, amongst other features, this is one of the best single-DIN head units in the market.

Key Features

  • 7” HD digital retractable touchscreen
  • AM/FM radio
  • AUX and USB support
  • 8IRR rearview camera and 8G TF Card with free map included
  • Built-in Bluetooth
  • GPS Navigation with External GPS antenna
  • Rearview Camera Input Function

Pros

  • The GPS navigation works well.
  • The touchscreen is great.
  • Easy to install
  • Durable and reliable

Cons

  • You need to have Android 4 to 8 only to use the Mirror link.
  • It looks too simple.

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10. Alpine CDE-HD149BT

Alpine Single-DIN Bluetooth Car Stereo comes with an HD Radio, Premium LCD screen, and SiriusXM compatibility. It is easy to install and detach. It comes with a remote control so that you can sit back and relax while you scroll through your playlists or radio stations.

The versatility of the stereo system allows you to either pair it with any handheld device using Bluetooth or play music using other options like AUX, USB, or AM/FM. The customizable display can be modified according to the mood.

The built-in equalizer enables you to adjust the sound according to your liking. With a bright screen and easy controls, this single-DIN head unit is a perfect companion on a long journey for a truly hands-free music experience.

Key Features

  • single-DIN detachable stereo system
  • Peak Power Output: 50 watts x 4 channels
  • RMS Power Output: 18 watts x 4 channels
  • Preamp RCA Outputs: 3 Pairs (Front, Rear, and Subwoofer)
  • Built-In Equalizer: 9-band parametric equalizer
  • LCD touchscreen with 4 selectable colors
  • Compatible with Android and iPhone
  • USB and AUX connectivity
  • Bluetooth enabled

Pros

  • Bluetooth syncs up easily.
  • Convenient audio controls
  • Great sound quality
  • Compatible with Pandora
  • Looks elegant when it lights up

Cons

11. Regetek single-DIN Car Stereo

Have a fun musical drive with Regetek single-DIN Car stereo with a completely hands-free experience. It comes with a 7-inch retractable touchscreen that can be manually stretched. The screen is full HD and highly sensitive.

It comes with a built-in Bluetooth so that you can enjoy your favorite tracks wirelessly while on the go. The Bluetooth also allows you to make and answer calls without taking your hands off the steering wheel.

The AM and FM Radio support RDS function. You can also use AUX, USB, and even your memory card for audio streaming. The system also supports mobile phone charging. This kit has rightly earned a spot on our best single-DIN head unit guide.

Key Features

  • Retractable 7” capacitive HD touchscreen
  • Built-in Bluetooth
  • AUX, USB, memory card support
  • Mobile interconnection for charging
  • AM and FM
  • Equipped with a remote control

Pros

  • Aesthetic looks
  • Decent sound quality
  • Bluetooth connection is swift.
  • Affordable
  • Value for money

Cons

  • It is a basic stereo, so if you are looking for something fancy with more features, this should not be on your list.
  • It is not quite durable and reliable in the long run.
  • The rearview camera system might not work well.
  • It doesn’t have CD or DVD compatibility.

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12. Pioneer AVH-2300NEX Multimedia DVD Receiver

Enjoy your drive with your favorite playlist with Pioneer Multimedia DVD Receiver. The in-dash system comes with a 7-inch screen with a bright and readable display. You can easily choose and change the tracks whenever you feel like it.

It is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well. The system works well with Pandora and Spotify too. The screen provides you with a smarter and more fun way of operating your phone.

Sit back and attend to all your calls hands-free while driving. The built-in Bluetooth easily connects with most handheld devices without having to go through complicated settings. Never miss out on your favorite shows and sports events, even while driving with this stereo system.

Key Features

  • Multimedia stereo with 7″ WVGA Display
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
  • Built-in Bluetooth
  • SiriusXM-Ready
  • AppRadio Mode +
  • Works with Spotify and Pandora

Pros

  • Trustworthy brand
  • Compatible with almost all handheld devices
  • Big, bright, and readable display
  • Works well with a rearview camera
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • It doesn’t allow you to cast videos from your phone.
  • It makes using your phone difficult while it is connected to the system.
  • The stereo doesn’t work with many apps.

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13. JVC KD-R888BT CD/MP3 Car Stereo

For a truly wireless audio streaming experience, JVC Car Stereo is a great option. With wireless Bluetooth technology, be tension-free while driving as you won’t have to leave the steering wheel for either answering your calls or changing music.

You can also play your favorite tracks using USB and AUX. The system comes with a detachable face and can be installed quite conveniently. The dependable Bluetooth connectivity doesn’t disappoint.

The interface is simple and easy to operate. It truly is one of the best single-DIN head units in the market at an affordable price. With amazing sound quality, this stereo system can make any drive memorable.

Key Features

  • Bluetooth Wireless Technology (Wired-Mic included)
  • Hands-Free Call (HFP1.6 Wideband Speech)
  • Audio Streaming & Control (A2DP, AVRCP)
  • USB, audio line-in, front channel output, rear line-out/subwoofer output
  • Connector Type: 4 pin USB Type A, RCA x 2, mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm
  • Detachable face

Pros

  • Great sound quality
  • Easy to install and operate
  • Multiple modes for personalized settings
  • Reasonable price

Cons

  • You might experience a slight lag while connecting with Bluetooth.
  • It is not quite reliable and durable in the long run.

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14. Kenwood 1-DIN In-Dash CD Receiver

Safe driving habits help you in the long run. That’s why it is better to drive with your hands on the steering wheel all the time. Kenwood 1-DIN In-Dash CD Receiver comes with built-in Bluetooth to keep you away from distractions while driving.

Have hands-free conversations on the phone by connecting your phone with this single-DIN head unit. The display is bright and easy to read. The system works well with both Android and iPhone.

To add to the versatility, App/iPod Mode disables the receiver’s integrated control, enabling passengers to control the iPod manually, including some selected Apps. You can enjoy wireless music on the go with this stereo system.

Key Features

  • Hands-free Bluetooth technology
  • Built-In Bluetooth A2DP Music Streaming
  • USB Connectivity for iPhone and iPod
  • Easy-to-use user interface
  • Pandora Connectivity
  • USB connectivity
  • Reverse Browsing, Alphabet Search, and Skip Search for easy accessibility

Pros

  • Amazing and crisp sound quality
  • It has a great display even in sunlight.
  • Versatile
  • Works well with Pandora

Cons

  • It takes time to install due to the different-colored multiple wires; it is recommended that you get it done by a professional.
  • The faceplate does not make good contact, and if it gets bumped or jostled, it resets itself.

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15. JVC KD-TD71BT

This CD car stereo from JVC comes with an AM/FM tuner and a detachable face, which has a white 13-digit 2-line LCD screen, 2-zone variable color illumination, and is Amazon Alexa compatible. The colors look amazing.

The built-in Bluetooth allows you to enjoy hands-free calling while driving. You can have endless hours of wireless audio streaming when you are on a long journey. The Streaming DJ feature allows five Bluetooth audio source devices to be connected at once for an enhanced experience.

It is capable of playing CDs and USBs as well. You can customize the music settings according to your choice by using the built-in equalizer. It has 4-volt subwoofers so that you can enjoy uninterrupted rich sound quality while on the go.

Key Features

  • Detachable face with white 13-digit 2-line LCD screen
  • 2-zone variable color illumination
  • Amazon Alexa compatible
  • Built-in Bluetooth for hands-free call experience and music streaming
  • Streaming DJ feature for five Bluetooth audio source devices to be connected at once
  • USB 1.5 A connection for quick charging
  • 13-band equalizer with digital time alignment
  • K2 technology for improved digital sound for all music sources
  • 6-channel preamp outputs

Pros

  • Easy to install and operate
  • Crisp and clear sound
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • It is a pretty basic stereo system, so if you are looking for fancy settings, then this is not for you.

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Factors To Consider Before Buying The Best Single-din Head Unit

If you are an automobile aficionado, you would understand it better when someone says it is not easy to pick a stereo system for your car. It is not a straightforward process as it involves a few intricacies to be looked at before putting in the money.

The most appealing designs can also be misleading at times, and so you need to have some criteria to choose the best single-DIN head unit for your car. Here is a list of factors that you should look at before investing in the best single-DIN head unit:

1. Design

Looks are an essential requirement for enhancing the aesthetics of any space. The best single-DIN head units are sleek yet stylish. The idea is to choose a style that complements the interiors of your car. If your car has space for a double-DIN stereo, then either buy one or use the additional area as storage.

2. Operations And Controls

You don’t want to have complex options or buttons that are hard to understand on your single-DIN head unit. Always remember that you are probably going to operate the system while driving, so you can’t give your full attention to the control panel. Hence, the controls should be simple and easily accessible.

3. Smartphone Connectivity

In the age of smartphones and the internet, it is always recommended that you buy a stereo system that can be integrated with your handset. This will make your drive even more comfortable as you would be able to control everything wirelessly. It would help you to have a hands-free calling and music experience.

4. Ratings And Specifications

Never forget to read the technical specifications of any single-DIN head unit before buying it. Reading reviews of others is of great help too. It helps you have a fair idea about the performance of any single-DIN head unit even before you buy it.

5. Expandability And Versatility

For enhanced performance, always choose a stereo system that can be connected to multiple devices at once. Also, look for options that give a variety of audio streaming options like Bluetooth, AUX, USB, etc. If you are looking at units with screens, make sure that they have rearview camera compatibility.

Single DIN Head Units – What’s your pick?

A good car stereo system has become a necessity these days. Without Bluetooth connectivity, it is nearly impossible to imagine a long journey on the road. The cheapest products are tempting, but you must always do your research before picking up anything.

The best single-DIN head units offer the best features at the best price. All you need to do is find them. So what are you waiting for? Go get your car keys and get the best single-DIN head unit for your car now.

Happy Shopping!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What Does DIN Mean In Single-DIN And Double-DIN Stereo Systems?

    DIN is used to denote the standard slot size of 2”x8” in a car. DIN stands for Deutsche Industrie Normen, which the Germans started using to standardize the radios in Audi’s, BMW’s, Mercedes, and VW’s way back in the mid-’80s.

    Double-DIN stereo systems have the same width of 8-inches but are 4-inches tall instead of 2-inches like in a single-DIN head unit.

  2. Are Head Units Universal?

    No, most head units are not universal. The size varies from place to place. Thus, it is better to let a stereo expert choose and fit in a stereo system in your car that snugly fits inside the car’s dashboard.

  3. Can I Put A Single-DIN Stereo In A Double-DIN?

    If your radio has specifications of around 7 inches long by 4 inches tall, then it’s double-DIN. In that scenario, you can conveniently fix another double-DIN radio, or you can use a single-DIN unit along with the existing one. There is also a 1.5 DIN size of stereo systems that is in the middle of the two, but it is not used regularly.

  4. Do All The Car Stereo Systems In The Market Have The Same Connectors?

    Yes, nearly all car stereos can be put in place using the same wiring harness available in the market. However, the fitting and wiring choice depends on the owner of the car.

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