Best Car Stereos with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: August 14th, 2024

šŸŽ¶Upgrading your car stereo to one that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can seriously change your driving game. Imagine smoothly integrating your navigation, music, and communication apps while on the road.

We dug into the research and combed through top reviews to bring you the best car stereos for 2024. Whether youā€™re looking for a high-end model or something more wallet-friendly, weā€™ve got solid picks to fit every need.

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Overall Best: Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX

Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX Double Din Wireless Mirroring Android Auto, Apple Carplay In-Dash DVD/CD Car Stereo Receiver DVD Receiver Receiver

The Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX stands out as our overall best pick for 2024, thanks to its comprehensive feature set and ease of use. What sets it apart is its wireless connectivity for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, freeing you from the hassle of cords. This model features a crisp 7-inch touchscreen display, a CD/DVD player, and Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring you have multiple media options. Not to mention, it supports HD Radio and has extensive sound customization options, allowing you to tweak audio settings to perfection. The built-in amplifier delivers robust sound performance, making for an impressive, all-around package that's hard to beat.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$899.00 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX Car Stereo? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How reliable is the wireless CarPlay on the Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX?
If you're weighing the Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX for its wireless CarPlay, you might be wondering about its reliability. According to our research, it varies a bit between Android and iOS users. For Android folks, the AVH-W4500NEX primarily uses Miracast for screen mirroring. Not every Android phone is Miracast-compatible, so it's a good idea to verify if your device supports it ahead of time. If it does, you can project your phone screen onto the receiver without the clutter of cables, which is pretty handy. On the flip side, if you're using iOS, Apple doesn't support Miracast, but the AVH-W4500NEX has Apple CarPlay. It's not your usual screen mirroring but more of an integrated experience. You can access apps like Maps, Music, and Messages right from the stereo display. This isnā€™t full-screen mirroring, but it offers a safer way to interact with your iPhone while driving. That said, some of our research pointed to issues with wireless stability, especially when using Android Auto. You might encounter some hiccups. Still, the stereo is praised for its quality sound, customizable equalizer settings, and solid Bluetooth features. So, if screen mirroring is essential for you and you're using Android, make sure your device supports Miracast for a smooth experience. For Apple users, CarPlay generally covers the basics, but you might need to consider different solutions if full mirroring is crucial. All in all, the AVH-W4500NEX seems like a reliable pick, particularly if great audio and features are what you're after. Just be sure to check that it matches your device's capabilities before buying.
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What are common complaints about the Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX?
The Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX is pretty cool with features like [Apple CarPlay](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dapple%2Bcarplay%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [Android Auto](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dandroid%2Bauto%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), and the bonus of choosing between wireless or wired connections. But not everything's perfect. Based on our research, some folks have run into issues when using the wireless connectionā€”it sometimes drops out unexpectedly, which can be a bit annoying. If this happens, shifting to a wired connection often solves the problem. Updating the firmware has also helped some people, though updates aren't always available regularly. While most people enjoy the wireless features for both [Apple CarPlay](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dapple%2Bcarplay%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [Android Auto](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dandroid%2Bauto%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), they're not completely hassle-free. There can be occasional hiccups with connectivity stability, though it doesn't seem to be a widespread issue. Keeping both your phone's software and the head unit's firmware updated can be a good move to improve things. In spite of these quirks, the AVH-W4500NEX still offers good multimedia options for its price. Having both wired and wireless options gives you a backup for [Apple CarPlay](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dapple%2Bcarplay%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [Android Auto](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dandroid%2Bauto%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) if wireless gets tricky. So, while it's a solid device, just keep in mind the potential for wireless connection issues. Staying on top of updates and knowing a bit about troubleshooting can definitely help you get the best out of it.
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Does the Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX have issues with freezing or rebooting?
The Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX is pretty popular for its wireless features with [Android Auto](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dandroid%2Bauto%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [Apple CarPlay](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dapple%2Bcarplay%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). But, youā€™re right to ask about freezing or rebooting issues. From what we've gathered, while it works well with both wireless and wired connections, there are occasional hiccups, especially with wireless [Android Auto](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dandroid%2Bauto%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). Some folks have experienced spotty connectivity, which sometimes makes them switch back to using a cable for a smoother experience. This seems to happen more often with non-[Google Android phones](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dgoogle%2Bandroid%2Bphones%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), so it might depend on what kind of phone youā€™re using. It might be a good idea to update the unitā€™s firmware when you first get it, since some people have said it comes with older versions out of the box. On the upside, the AVH-W4500NEX gets a thumbs up for its overall functionality, including great audio quality and responsive touch controls. If smartphone integration is a big deal for you, it's still a solid optionā€”just make sure to check for updates and compatibility with your phone.

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Runner-up: Sony XAV-AX5000

The Sony XAV-AX5000 is a great runner-up with its elegant design and a responsive 6.95-inch touchscreen. This model supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing a seamless smartphone integration experience. It includes essential features like Bluetooth connectivity and multiple USB ports, making it highly versatile. Users appreciate its intuitive interface, which simplifies navigating apps and media while driving. Combined with excellent sound quality and a competitive price point, the XAV-AX5000 offers solid performance and significant value.

Available at Amazon
View at Amazon

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Best Budget Option: Boss Audio Systems BVCP9685A

For those on a budget, the Boss Audio Systems BVCP9685A packs a lot of value without missing essential features. It supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through a 6.75-inch touchscreen display and includes necessary functionalities like Bluetooth connectivity and a USB port. The audio quality is commendable for its price range, making it a fantastic upgrade for older vehicles. This model strikes the perfect balance between affordability and performance, ensuring you don't have to compromise on essential features.

Available at Amazon
View at Amazon

Best Single DIN: Alpine Halo9 iLX-F309

If your vehicle has a single DIN slot but you still want a large display, the Alpine Halo9 iLX-F309 is an excellent choice. Its 9-inch floating display offers both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and provides a rear USB input, aux input, HDMI input, and Bluetooth connectivity. This unit is highly versatile, thanks to the floating design, which allows for height and angle adjustments. The functionality and screen size make it a perfect option for those needing a single DIN solution without sacrificing a large and versatile display.

Available at Amazon
View at Amazon

Best Big Screen: Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX

PIONEER CAR DMHWT8600NEX Top Of The Line 10.1-inch BT CarPlay Amazon Alexa Built-in, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth - Floating Type Multimedia Receiver

For drivers who prioritize an expansive display, the Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX is an outstanding pick. With a sizable 10.1-inch 720p capacitive touchscreen, this model offers a top-tier visual and interactive experience. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, HD Radio, Bluetooth, and multiple digital music formats. The large display makes navigation and media playback a breeze, ensuring you never miss a beat while driving. It's an excellent choice for those who want premium features combined with an impressive screen size.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$1,199.99 at Amazon
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