The best double DIN radio options: 9 top picks for your car
Contributing Editor
When you’re upgrading your car entertainment system, the best double DIN radio can be a must-have purchase. A good double DIN radio gives you exceptional performance on the move.
A car radio keeps you on the edge of your seat (metaphorically) with an endless supply of talk shows, new music and entertainment to discover.
For many people, tuning into the radio is even better than listening to their own Bluetooth playlists.
The best double DIN radio is an all-in-one entertainment system for your vehicle, designed to offer a fantastic alternative to your smartphone when you don’t want to waste your bandwidth, or your battery life.
Double DIN radios are particularly appealing in the modern world because they go beyond the basics of a standard radio device.
With the right double DIN system, you can access everything from GPS coordinates, to personalized playlists.
Here, we’re going to check out some of the best double DIN radio products around, to help you make the best investment for your car.
Our choices for the best double DIN radio are:
- Pioneer MVH1400NEX (best Pioneer double DIN radio)
- Kenwood DMX9075 (best with HD radio)
- Sony XAV-AX5000 (best Android Auto)
- BOSS Audio Systems BVC9850W (best Apple CarPlay)
- P.L.Z MP-800 Car Entertainment (best with camera)
- Jensen CMR270 Digital (best Bluetooth)
- Boss Audio Systems BVCP960A (best with DVD player)
- Mantian Android radio (best multi-function)
- Sound Storm Labs DD988ACP (best apps)
1. Pioneer MVH1400NEX (best Pioneer double DIN radio)
When it comes to double DIN radio technology, there are a handful of manufacturers which seem to consistently deliver incredible results. Pioneer is one of those companies.
The MVH1400NEX Pioneer double DIN radio comes with an 800 x 400 resolution touchscreen, equipped with display and color customization options, dedicated app control, and screen mirror functionality.
With a multi-lingual performance, the Pioneer double DIN radio can stream radio, play audio via a USB port, or even connect to your phone for hands-free calling.
There’s even a fun “Mistral” feature, which takes the music from your phone or device, and plays it back with added transition and virtual DJ effects.
Features include:
- Bluetooth connectivity for streaming
- Dedicated Spotify app control
- 800 x 400 Touchscreen
- Multi-language display
- Video and audio playback in multiple formats
- Backup camera input
- Wired remote input
- Mistral app for DJ experience
- Wiring harness and extension cable included
The Pioneer double DIN radio comes with everything you need to play all kinds of files on the go.
You can even use the USB input to play videos for your kids when you’re on the move. Alternatively, connect a backup camera so you can see where you’re going when you’re parking in tight spots.
For most drivers, this device will exceed expectations, but you might find it’s a little difficult to set things up initially, even with the manual.
Pros:
- Bluetooth streaming
- Mistral DJ experience
- Multi-language display
- Video and audio playback
- Dedicated Spotify control
Cons:
- Difficult initial setup
2. Kenwood DMX907S (best with HD radio)
Kenwood is another well-known brand in the world of audio technology, and a company well worth considering for your double DIN car radio.
This device might be a little pricier than some of the other options on our list, but it comes with a host of impressive features, including Apple CarPlay and access to Siri for hands-free control.
The intuitive voice-controlled interface means you can always keep your eyes on the road.
The Kenwood double DIN radio with Apple CarPlay features Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, so you can make and receive calls hands-free, or stream your favorite music from any app. Plus, you can set up navigation too!
There’s also HD radio built-in, so you can enjoy a higher quality of radio transmission, wherever you go.
Features include:
- Double DIN radio with Apple CarPlay
- Siri access for hands-free control
- Access to Waze or Google Maps navigation
- Built-in Bluetooth 5.0
- Head unit wide-band speech capability
- HD radio streaming
- 6.95-inch touchscreen with backlighting
- High-resolution sound
If you’re looking for a high-quality double DIN radio that will stand the test of time, the Kenwood could be the best future proof option on the market.
This powerful device is great for those who want to stay safe on the road, with its voice control functionality, and the sound is fantastic.
Connecting to Bluetooth, however, can be quite slow.
Pros:
- Apple CarPlay and Siri control
- Waze and Google Maps navigation
- Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
- Excellent HD radio streamlining
- Easy-to-use touchscreen display
Cons:
- Slow Bluetooth connection
- Quite expensive
3. Sony XAV-AX5000 (best Android Auto)
If you’re looking for a double DIN radio with Bluetooth connectivity and hands-free functionality, then you’ll love this device from Sony.
Delivered by one of the best-known tech companies in the world, the Sony XAV-AX5000 comes with Apple CarPlay so you can get directions, make calls, send messages, and listen to music hands-free.
There’s also Android Auto support so you can show your Android device and applications on your vehicle screen.
With the power to see and control everything from a responsive 6.95-inch touchscreen, the Sony will make you feel more confident behind the wheel.
There’s even a quick access panel where you can set up buttons to help you reach your favorite features fast.
Features include:
- Double DIN radio with Apple CarPlay
- 6.95-inch diagonal touchscreen display
- Android Auto connection
- Quick access panel
- Dual USB ports
- Sirius XM radio support
- Rear camera ready
- Navigation support
You can easily set up navigation instructions on your Sony double DIN radio when you need help finding wherever you’re going. There’s also the option to connect a rear camera if you’re looking for help parking your vehicle perfectly.
One slight issue is you can’t customize the colors or brightness of the screen, and there doesn’t seem to be an HDMI input.
Pros:
- Excellent Android Auto support
- Rear camera ready
- Dual USB ports
- Apple CarPlay ready
- Sirius XM radio
Cons:
- No HDMI ports
- No brightness or color customizations
4. BOSS Audio Systems BVC9850W (best Apple CarPlay)
Apple CarPlay is quickly becoming a popular feature for double DIN radios, but some manufacturers seem to really excel at making the most of this feature.
The BOSS Audio systems double DIN radio with Apple CarPlay allows you to access all the icons on your phone by activating Siri through the touchscreen. You can unlock audiobooks, radio, podcasts, music, maps, text messages, and even phone functionality.
Whenever you need directions or you’re running late and need to send someone a message, you can do this with Siri.
There’s even Android Auto with Google Assistant for people who prefer Android devices. Bluetooth and SiriusXM radio access are available for entertainment.
Features include:
- Apple CarPlay supported
- Hands-free calls and messages
- GPS connectivity
- Android Auto and Google Assistant
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Customizable app screen
- Touchscreen for easy use
- USB and USB charging ports
- Aux input
- Front and rear camera connections
- IHeartRadio and CBS radio apps
Designed by a tech company you can trust this double DIN radio from BOSS Audio is sure to deliver excellent entertainment on any driving experience.
Plus, there’s a USB port included where you can charge your phone when you’re on the move. You can even connect a front or rear camera to the system.
One slight downside is the radio is only available through apps. Bluetooth may also be a little slow to connect.
Pros:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- USB charging port included
- Support for front and rear camera
- GPS functionality
- Touch-screen ease of use
Cons:
- Radio only available through apps
- Slow Bluetooth connection
5. P.L.Z MP-800 Car Entertainment (best with camera)
Get the ultimate driving experience with this P.L.Z radio system.
This double DIN radio with backup camera included promises to keep you feeling safe and confident when you’re on the road. With a fantastic 7-inch touchscreen display, the P.L.Z device is easy to use.
There’s a highly responsive set of apps to choose from, and you can add your own media through a USB connection or aux input too.
Compatible with a wide range of devices, this double DIN radio will connect to your smartphone so you can enjoy your music and receive messages while you drive.
What makes this product extra impressive is it comes with a rear-view camera included. The camera features an ultra-wide viewing angle and night vision support.
Features of the kit include:
- Complete audio and visual experience
- Hands-free calling
- USB and aux-cable connection
- Color touchscreen with rapid wakeup
- Widely compatible design
- Rear and front view camera support
- HD rear camera with night vision
- Standard size fit
- 7 color LED buttons
Ready to suit a range of car requirements, the P.L.Z double DIN radio comes with built-in pre-set and a 10-band EQ system so you can adjust the quality of your audio.
There’s even a set of buttons you can use to skip through capabilities more quickly. You might find it’s a little difficult to install this product initially.
Pros:
- Comprehensive audio and visual support
- HD rear camera included
- Touchscreen with adjustable apps
- Access to hands-free calling
- Easy radio connectivity
Cons:
- Difficult installation
6. Jensen CMR270 digital (best Bluetooth)
Promising an upgraded Bluetooth experience, the Jensen CMR270 is an easy-to-use double DIN radio with navigation functionality, voice assistance, and more.
The 7-inch multimedia display ensures you get a comfortable viewing experience, and you can customize your home screen to keep your favorite apps in reach.
The Siri or Google voice assist button ensures you don’t have to take your eyes off the road when you’re searching for music, podcasts, or navigation information. Plus, there’s a variety of ways to listen to your music beyond the AM/FM tuner.
You can use the charging USB port to plug in a thumb-drive, or link to the MP3 player.
Features include:
- Standard double DIN sizing
- Fast charging via USB
- Google and Siri voice assistant
- 7-inch LED screen
- Navigation functionality
- Convenient streaming apps
- Upgraded Bluetooth
- 1 year warranty
- USB port connection
Convenient and surprisingly affordable, the Jensen digital comes with a range of capabilities designed to make your life easier.
You might find the buttons and knobs are very small, making it a little harder to deal with things like volume levels.
Pros:
- Google and Siri voice assistant
- Navigation functionality
- Upgraded Bluetooth
- Fast USB charging
- Easy streaming
Cons:
- Small components
7. Boss Audio Systems BVCP960A (best with DVD player)
One of the best things about shopping for the best double DIN radio, is discovering all the extra features you can get alongside AM/FM streaming.
From a double DIN radio with backup camera functionality, to devices with smart assistant access, there’s something for everyone. This Boss double DIN radio comes with Apple CarPlay for controlling your apps, Siri support, and third-party navigation apps.
Bluetooth connectivity means you can easily stream music from your favorite apps, like Pandora or Spotify, and there’s Android Auto support too – just in case you don’t have an iPhone.
Rearrange how you want your apps to appear in CarPlay and you can access everything from Radio Disney, to Amazon, Google Play, CBS radio, and more.
Plus, there’s a range of inputs to use, including a USB drive, aux-in, and a slot for your DVDs, so you can keep the kids entertained on long drives.
Features include:
- Android Auto or Apple Carplay
- 6.75-inch double DIN display
- Voice assistant access
- A range of apps available
- Bluetooth streaming
- AM/FM radio output
- USB, aux and rear-view camera support
- Adjustable color buttons
- DVD slot for video content
With everything you need to keep you and your kids entertained on the road, this double DIN radio with Bluetooth is a delight to use.
You may find it takes a little work to make everything fit properly when you’re installing this device for the first time, however.
Pros:
- Easy voice assistant access
- Wide selection of custom apps
- Rear-view camera support
- Fantastic Bluetooth streaming
- DVD slot included
Cons:
- Can be difficult to install on your own
8. Mantian Android radio (best multi-function)
If you’re investing in a double DIN radio for your car, you need to ensure you’re getting the most out of your equipment.
The best double DIN radio won’t just deliver FM content, it can also connect to your phone via Bluetooth for hands-free calling and connect to a range of streaming services. This Mantian Android radio offers endless functionality for the radio lover.
Aside from Bluetooth and radio, you also get a full android touchscreen with up to 16GB of memory, a USB input, SD card slot, and aux-in functionality.
There’s a built-in Wi-Fi receiver, so you can turn your radio into a hotspot, and you even get free GPS functionality to find your way.
Features include:
- Full Android touchscreen
- Wi-Fi connectivity and custom apps
- GPS navigation built-in
- Bluetooth and mirroring function
- SD card, aux and USB slots
- Quad-core processor with 16GB memory
- 1080p video format
- FM radio with 30 pre-set stations
- 12-month replacement warranty
- Rear camera support
You can use your Mantian double DIN radio to access a rear camera and ensure you’re parking safely, or to save your favorite radio stations so you can listen later.
There’s hands-free phonebook access and calling, a full set of steering wheel capabilities, and even a 12-month warranty for peace of mind.
Some users think the large tablet-style screen takes up too much space.
Pros:
- Wi-Fi connectivity and hot spot
- 1080p video and FM radio
- Tons of apps available for extra functionality
- Quad-core processor
- GPS navigation
Cons:
- Large tablet takes up a lot of space
9. Sound Storm Labs DD988ACP (best apps)
This double DIN radio from Sound Storm Labs is a quick and easy way to enjoy more entertainment on the move.
Like many leading radio solutions, there’s support for Apple CarPlay, so you can access various functions on the move without taking your eyes off the road.
Siri even reads your text messages to you, so you can stay connected with friends. Android Auto is also available if you aren’t using Apple devices.
The Sound Storm Labs double DIN radio comes with GPS map access, Bluetooth calling, and USB port connectivity so you can watch your own movies or listen to music.
There’s also a 5mm aux-in port, and AM/FM radio for staying up to date with your channels.
Features include:
- Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free functionality
- Siri or smart assistant support
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- USB port and aux-in
- Complete touch-screen functionality
- Maps and GPS
- AM/FM radio stations
- Multiple custom apps
One of the best things about this double DIN radio is it comes with a variety of custom apps to explore, including radio Disney, WhatsApp, Google Play Music, CBS radio, and even iHeartRadio.
With a custom screen, you can even choose which apps are available first. One problem is the video resolution isn’t great, though this may not matter to some users.
Pros:
- Siri and smart assistant support
- Plenty of custom apps
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Maps and GPS
- AM/FM radio
Cons:
- Low video resolution
Finding your double DIN radio best buy
Choosing the right double DIN radio for your car can be a bit of a headache. There are so many devices out there to choose from, and each have their own impressive features. Here are a few tips to help you as you search for the perfect radio.
Make sure you look at:
User interface
How easy is the radio to use? Have you got a touch screen with apps you can customize? What about buttons and knobs for controlling your channels or the volume? The best radios often come with access to smart assistant controls so you can access features with nothing but your voice.
Connectivity
Most double DIN radios come with AM/FM access. If you want to play more of your own content, then you may need to consider looking at additional connectivity options too. Look at things like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. Are there any USB or aux ports? Can you connect multiple phones at the same time?
Features
Aside from radio access, what else can you unlock with your double DIN radio? Is there support for GPS so you can navigate easily, and do you have the option to connect with a rear-view camera? Can you watch DVDs on your device, and experiment with various streaming apps?
Sound quality
How good is your double DIN radio at delivering high-quality audio? Your music should sound amazing, and you may even find devices which allow you to adjust the EQ to suit your needs. On the other hand, don’t forget to think about how your voice sounds to other people when you’re using features like hands-free calling.
Installation
Is your double DIN radio easy to install? You may not want to pay extra for a professional to implement the device for you. If this is the case, then you need something standard size which can slot easily into the space available for your radio and entertainment system.
Choosing the best double DIN radio
In a world where we all love listening to the radio as we travel each day, the best double DIN radio is a must-have. Fortunately, there are a huge selection of double DIN radio options available today.
If you’ve been keen to upgrade your car’s entertainment system, hopefully you’ve found a double DIN radio in our list above.
Don’t forget to check out other lists on Radio Fidelity for more help finding the ideal tech.
Radio Fidelity: For the love of radio.
Now read these:
—What is a double DIN radio?
—Your guide to single DIN radio
—Single DIN vs double DIN
—The best single DIN products
—Best double DIN head units
