Although car stereos, also known as head units have been in the market for as far as we can recall, they’ve come quite a long way from the uninteresting and rugged-looking single din decks to now the beautiful, touch screen, easy to use and highly functional units.
However, as more companies continue to improve on theirs, making up your mind on one can prove to be quite an exhilarating task. Fortunately, our list of five best touch screen car stereos and also a buyer’s guide got your back, and you can now make an informed choice.
Contents
Best Touch Screen Car Stereos
1. Sony XAV-AX100
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This Sony car stereo prides itself on being the first aftermarket receiver which works with Apple car play which takes the experience of Apple device users a notch higher. However, that is not the only good thing about it as it packs a punch of features which ensure that your driving life shall never be the same again. Check out the A to Z of this car stereo receiver below.
Features
Sony XAV-AX100 Car play offers you much more than just design and looks and packs a bunch of cutting-edge features to make your days while driving much brighter. Check them out below.
- Built-in Bluetooth
- Works with both android auto and apple car play thus no one is left out
- It has two inputs namely; USB and rear camera input.
- It boasts a 20 watts x 4 RMS amplification and various audio controls which deliver bold and crisp sound quality so you can enjoy every moment you are in that car through good music.
- Has an AM/FM tuner for further convenience.
- Boasts Pandora control for both iPhone and Android
- Fits double din dash car openings
Installation
You do not have to be a guru to set this radio touchscreen in your car. It comes with an excellent car stereo manual to guide you, and all you need to do is perform the initial settings after you replace the car battery or change connections and then perform a factory reset.
To do so, touch the language option and set it to your language, next touch DEMO and then off to prevent the DEMO mode from being activated. Next set the date and time and after that touch ok. After this, a caution box will pop up, read through and press OK, and you will be good to go.
Performance
The performance of this radio touch screen is no joke either. Thanks to the Bluetooth feature, you can easily connect it to your phone and listen to your favourite mobile playlist. It also has a USB unit which when you plug your iPhone, it automatically switches to Apple car play mode, offering you access to maps, music, use of Siri and you can even make or receive a call.
The feature is also applicable to Android phones with android auto. With 800 by 480 pixels, it offers you a high-quality display for easy viewing and is also incredibly touch-sensitive. The sound of this LED stereo system does not disappoint thanks to the 20 watts built-in amplifiers and various audio controls, and you will also love the fact that you can customize the screen controls to suit your preferences and also make it easy for you to make adjustments and drive at the same time.
Lastly, if you have an adapter, all you need to do is connect it, and you gain control and also enjoy the convenience of getting your car steering wheel audio controls.
For its price, taking this car stereo with you is an excellent idea as it offers the versatility and convenience which only comes with more expensive models and if you want to enjoy almost all the features provided by pioneer car stereo receiver at a lower price, then this is the best alternative.
Pros
- Budget-friendly price for a highly functional car stereo
- Supports Apple’s car play and also android auto thus adding a little sunshine to a driver’s life.
- Plenty of audio controls such as built-in crossovers and ten band equalizer
Cons
- Resistive touch instead of capacitive
- It lacks several preferred features such as a CD player and HDMI input
2. Jensen VX4022
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If you drive a lot, then you’ll appreciate Jensen VX4022 compatibility with smartphones as it ensures you have no reason to glance at your phone while driving. Take a look at the reasons behind the conclusion.
Design
They say simplicity is the ultimate sophistication and this LED stereo system provides sufficient credence to that. For instance, it offers you a 6.2-inch screen with a high-resolution touch-sensitive screen which provides a smooth sailing viewing experience because you don’t have to strain to see what’s playing.
It also features high definition wallpaper backgrounds which enhance your vehicle’s appearance and RGB colours which match your car’s interior and help create positive vibes to anyone who happens to ride with you. Additionally, you can also upload your own.
Features
- Compatible with CD’s, DVD’s, USB and MicroSD
- App connectivity for iPhone, blackberry, and Android
- HDMI/MHL connectivity
- Five selectable wallpaper backgrounds and you can also upload yours
- RGB colour optimization
- Ten bands parametric equalizer with about eight selectable tones
- Built-in Bluetooth technology
- Rear RCA video and audio output.
- Sirius XM satellite radio-enabled
- Compatible with favourite apps such as Pandora and is steering control ready.
- One year warranty
Installation
One common feature among most of Jensen’s car stereo receivers is that they come with all the necessary hardware to ensure that you get a smooth sailing installation process so you can be good to go within no time. Once you set it in place, you don’t need any special tools for installation.
All you need to do is press the front panel volume knob to turn it on, then on the screen touch the SRC icon to view the source menu, select your desired option between the disc, phone, USB or camera or any other connected source which you may prefer. For each setting, you will hear an audible beep which confirms your selection.
Performance
Just like its design, the performance of Jensen VX4022does not disappoint. First of all, it makes navigation a walk in the park thanks to its state of the art Bluetooth technology. For instance, once you connect it to your phone, the Bluetooth allows you to receive a call hands-free while the phone book access profile will enable you to access your contact list directly from the cars stereo and also get to see the name or number of an incoming call.
It also works with almost all Bluetooth enabled cell phones from Android, iPhone to blackberry. Another reason why VX7022 is on our best touch screen car stereo list is thanks to its compatibility with HDMI. It, therefore, mirrors the display of your smartphone on it and users of iPhones have even more reasons to smile because they can plug in the HDMI cable and it will immediately mirror their device’s display without any need for an app connection.
You will also fall in love with its top-notch audio features and with three sets of 4V preamp outputs, you get nothing but great sound and even experience.
The JensenVX7022 makes your days in traffic more worthwhile thanks to its great sound, simple yet sophisticated design, myriads of colour optimization, selectable wallpapers and on top of it all, it’s top-notch navigation. It makes switching from one song to another a walk in the park but also keeps you and other road users safe because you don’t have to concentrate on picking or making calls.
Pros
- High-end Bluetooth connectivity
- Compatible with the latest technology such as HDMI and MHL
- It is expandable to a backup camera which comes in handy as you can always be aware of your surroundings
- Buyers can stream music from CD’s, DVD’s and even MicroSD’s
Cons
- You have to keep on resetting the volume to your desired level every time you start the car
- It does not automatically update itself
3. Pioneer AppRadio
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Pioneer has a reputation for bringing forth incredible products, and this one is no exception. In fact, it is much better as it mimics the look of an Apple iPad. Take a look at its design, features, and performance below.
Design
When put in place, it looks more like an iPad hence giving your car a sophisticated and luxurious interior outlook. It boasts a 6.2-inch capacities touchscreen which is highly responsive to your touch you thus a single touch and you can adjust any setting you want. That means even during winter you don’t have to remove your gloves because it will still respond as it should.
It has a column of touch buttons to the left of the screen. It has a high-quality resolution of 800×480 which offers a comfortable viewing experience even in low lit conditions. A home button is in the middle while the mode button is in the lower half making it easy to switch between various modes. Also, the fact that it has a similar interface to that of IOS devices makes it easy to use because you are already familiar with how it works.
Features
- Fits double din dash openings
- 6.2 capacitive touchscreen display
- Dual USB inputs, auxiliary and rearview camera input
- External GPS antenna which is compatible with the GPS apps available on your phone
- Works with Siri eyes for iPhone users
- MIXTRAX audio and visual effects
- app radio Live offers integration with over 35 apps
- great sound thanks to the digital multimedia 14 watts receiver
- Five band equalizer with seven preset EQ curves
- AM/FM, MP3 and USB receiver
- One year warranty
Performance
Like the others on the best touchscreen car stereos on our list, the performance of this LED stereo system is on another level. First of all, it comes with the app radio live which allows you to connect your smartphone to the unit and brings most of your apps to dashboard for smooth operation.
For instance, it supports up to 35 smartphone apps including Spotify hence you can listen to your favourite music right from the app. Besides the app, Bluetooth connectivity and built-in microphone enhances your safety on the road and also ensures that you stay on the right side with the law as you can now pick or make calls hands free.
This car stereo receiver is the ultimate all-round deck because besides the impressive performance features we’ve just mentioned it also boasts voice recognition and car play.
In a nutshell, the Pioneer AppRadio car stereo receiver prides itself on features which will ensure you have the best driving experience thanks to the rearview camera. It also enhances your safety on the road thanks to the various hands-free operation and app integration.
Pros
- Offers the best app integration
- Boasts both voice and touch control
- Has an IOS device design hence easy to use as you are already familiar with how it works
- It has a rearview camera input thus you can install a camera to ensure the safety of your surroundings
Cons
- No built-in storage
- AppRadio lives require constant input from your phone. Hence it’s not as hands-free as you’d want it to be
4. Boss Audio BV9364B
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Another company which has a reputation of gifting the market with top-notch products is Boss audio and similar to its reputation this one is no exception and what is even better is that it offers you something to smile about from its price to its features. Take a look at some of its features.
Design
Boss Audio BV9364B comes with a great and easy to use design which implies you don't need to be tech-savvy to install or use it. It boasts a 6.2 inch LCD motorized screen hence giving you a more extensive viewing and toggling area for you to switch from one feature to another.
The faceplate is detachable for safety purposes and boasts electronic shock protection to ensure that you, your loved ones and your car are safe at all times. Additionally, the display is top notch as it boasts 800 by 480 pixels and its brightness is adjustable up to 600 pixels with this touch screen car stereo every moment in your vehicle will never be dull.
Features
- Built-in Bluetooth
- Compatible with audio from smartphones
- Boasts USB, SD, rear camera, auxiliary, AV and steering wheel control input
- Three-band equalizer
- Two sets of preamp outputs
- Bass, treble, balance and fader controls
- AM/FM tuner bands
- Pandora support when connected with interface cables
- Plays DVD, CD-RW, DVD-R, MP3, MPEG4, CD-R, and many other audio options.
Performance
For its price, Boss audio BV9364B packs a punch of functionality features which will have you smiling all the way whenever you are driving. As shown above, it boasts Bluetooth technology for you to listen, receive calls and even make calls without having to touch your phone so you don't find yourself on the wrong side of the law and also so you can drive without any distractions. What enhances your safety, even more, is that it comes with a remote control so you can quickly switch from one feature to another.
It is also highly compatible as it has an auxiliary input where you can connect your iPhone, MP3 player or iPod and listen to your favourite playlist. The audio is also on another level, so if you are looking for better sound, then your search might as well end here.
It offers four channels that can be connected to several speakers. Additionally, it prides itself on a guiding wheel interface which adds to its list of safety enhancers as you can control the volume, change the channel or music and even answer calls from the steering wheel. To sum it up, this receiver has cutting-edge functionality and makes your days more bearable.
Pros
- Great audio system
- Excellent expandability
- User friendly
- Highly affordable price
- Detachable faceplate keeps you at ease
Cons
- Only four wallpaper options
- You might encounter Bluetooth connectivity problems
5. Boss audio BV9986B1
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Another Boss product and this time it's closing our top five best touch screen car stereo list, and that's because it packs an incredible punch of features to keep you dancing to the music and also safe while on the road. Below is the A to Z of this car stereo receiver to help you see why people are all hyped up about it.
Design
One of the most outstanding features of this car stereo receiver is its seven-inch screen which means that you and also those who are travelling with you get a great view of any videos playing or any songs on your playlists.
It comes with a fully detachable front panel which comes in handy particularly if you reside in areas which are not safe. It has a motorized faceplate and a blue display colour which easily blends in with your vehicle's interior and great 800 by 480-pixel display.
Features
- Built-in Bluetooth technology
- Full iPod control
- Front, rear and sub outputs
- Comes with wireless remote
- AM/FM / RDS radio
- Compatible with WMA, MP3, MP4, DVD, VCD, and CD.
- Inputs include USB, SD, AV, rear camera and steering wheel control input
- Preset equalizer switch
- 800×480 pixel resolution
- Three sets of 2V preamp outputs
Performance
If you are looking for a radio touch screen which is compatible with plenty of data sources including your phone and MP3 players, offers for rear camera installation, motorized and is still affordable then the Boss audio BV9986B1is a perfect fit for that description.
It also has Bluetooth connectivity which means you can either stream music directly from your phone or receive hands-free calls thus enhances your safety on the road. In addition, Boss audio BV9986B1 enhances your safety on the road thanks to the steering wheel interface via which you can control the volume, answer calls among many other features which give you a comfortable driving experience.
If you don't like the idea of pairing the Bluetooth with your phone every time you want to listen to music, then it has a microSD input on which you can insert your SD which packs all your favourite videos and songs for more convenience. Lastly, it is the perfect definition for versatile as it has full iPod control and also boasts last position memory which means you don’t have to keep on adjusting the settings every time you start the car.
There is so much that we found out during our review that we could go on and on about this car stereo receiver. Nevertheless, in a nutshell, Boss audio BV9986B1is an excellent touch radio stereo and one which you can never go wrong with. Besides its incredible features it also comes at a price which won't leave dents in your bank account hence offers the best value for money.
Pros
- Wireless remote control
- Up to 30 USA/Europe FM stations
- Last position memory
- Seven-inch display
Cons
- Lacks great app compatibility features
- Interface for the steering wheel control input is sold separately hence the extra cost
Best Touch Screen Car Stereo Buying Guide
Now that you are aware of the best touch screen car stereos in the market it is also essential that you know how we selected so that you can avoid making blind choices.
Bluetooth compatibility
As you can see, all products on our list of best touch screen car stereos have Bluetooth compatibility. The reason behind that is that the best part about having a touchscreen stereo is its wireless connectivity which gives room for hands-free operation. So while making a selection ensure you consider whether it has Bluetooth connectivity.
Size of the display screen
What is the point of having a touchscreen which cannot let you view your songs, videos or calls comfortably? Opting for a car stereo with a large screen display makes it easy not only for viewing but to also make adjustments.
Safety
No one wants to pack their vehicle and find it mugged or with a dent. So also consider whether the LED touchscreen you've made up your mind on is compatible with a backup camera for safety purposes.
Also, a touchscreen with rear sensors is essential as it offers feedback on how close you are to another car hence preventing collisions.
Compatibility
Besides safety and hands-free connectivity, you will want a receiver which will allow you to listen to music from Pandora, Spotify or any other music or video app on your phone.
You will want to receive calls via your stereo so opt for one that is not only compatible but also supports HDMI. It should also be compatible with USB and even CD's for ultimate comfort.
Amplifier and Sound Controls
Another aspect to consider is the sound quality. Most cars often come with factory stereos, which have low-quality amplifiers. So also consider this factor and the level of control you have.
For instance, consider whether it has parametric equalization so you can adjust it to suit your preference.
Final thoughts: Did you Find Best Touch Screen Car Stereo?
Additionally, always remember what works for another consumer might not work for you so if you hear someone saying that a particular car stereo did not work, don’t be quick to think that it won’t work for you. In my recommendation, you may choose one of those: Sony XAV-AX100 Or Pioneer AppRadio It might become turn out to be the best decision you’ve made in a while so hope you end up with the best and if you have any comments or suggestions be free to share with us.