Best Android Auto: Top Picks & Buying Guide
The top pick for most people is the Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX because it combines a crisp 6.8-inch capacitive touchscreen, wireless Android Auto, and excellent sound tuning options in a double-DIN chassis that fits thousands of cars. It nails the essentials—fast boot, reliable connection, and bright display—while avoiding the gimmicks that drive up the price on pricier flagships.
What to Look For
Before you buy, focus on these five criteria—they matter more than any single spec sheet number.
- Wired vs. wireless Android Auto: Wireless is far more convenient, but it drains your phone’s battery faster and can drop connection in crowded areas. If you have a newer phone (2020 or later), wireless is worth the premium; otherwise, a good wired unit is cheaper and more stable.
- Screen size and resolution: Bigger isn’t always better—a 6.8-inch screen fits most dashboards, but a 10-inch floating display may block vents or buttons. Look for at least 720p resolution; 1080p is noticeably sharper for maps and text.
- Display type: Capacitive touchscreens are the standard—they respond to light swipes and support pinch-to-zoom. Resistive screens (older tech) require firm presses and are frustrating for map panning. Always choose capacitive.
- Audio quality and tuning: If you care about sound, look for units with a 13-band EQ, time alignment, and high-voltage preamp outputs (4V or 5V). These features let you correct speaker placement and reduce distortion.
- Installation fit: Double-DIN is the most common size, but check your car’s dash opening. Some vehicles need a dash kit or wiring harness, and a few have shallow dash depth that won’t fit a deep chassis. Measure before buying.
Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX
Strengths: Wireless Android Auto with a 6.8-inch capacitive display that’s bright and responsive. It has a 13-band EQ, time alignment, and 4V preouts for clean signal. The unit boots in under 5 seconds and reconnects to your phone quickly after a restart.
Trade-offs: It’s pricey—around $700–$800. The screen is not detachable, which may be a theft concern. Also, the interface for non-Android Auto functions (like radio) is a bit cluttered.
Who it’s for: Audiophiles and daily drivers who want a reliable, feature-rich unit without paying for a giant floating display. It’s the best all-rounder.
Kenwood DMX907S
Strengths: A 6.8-inch capacitive display with wireless Android Auto and a clean, modern UI. It has a 13-band EQ and built-in DSP for time alignment. The unit supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and the screen is glare-resistant.
Trade-offs: The volume knob is touch-sensitive, which some find less intuitive than a physical dial. The wireless connection can occasionally drop in busy urban areas, though it reconnects quickly.
Who it’s for: Those who want a familiar, well-supported brand with excellent sound tuning and a slightly lower price than Pioneer’s top model (around $600–$650).
Sony XAV-AX6000
Strengths: A 6.95-inch capacitive display that’s one of the brightest in its class, making it easy to read in direct sunlight. It has wireless Android Auto and a simple, fast interface. The unit also includes a physical volume knob, which is a rarity in modern head units.
Trade-offs: The EQ is only 10-band, and there’s no time alignment—so it’s not for serious audio tuning. The display is slightly smaller than the 7-inch competitors, and the plastic frame feels less premium.
Who it’s for: Sunbelt drivers who prioritize screen visibility, and anyone who prefers a physical knob for volume control.
Alpine iLX-507
Strengths: A 7-inch capacitive display with wireless Android Auto and a minimalist design that looks factory-installed. It has a fast processor and a very stable wireless connection. The unit also includes a USB-C port for wired connections and fast charging.
Trade-offs: The EQ is only 3-band, which is basic for a $500+ unit. There’s no CD/DVD drive, and the interface for radio is plain. Also, the display is not as bright as Sony’s.
Who it’s for: Those who want a clean, reliable unit that blends into the dash and don’t need advanced audio tuning.
Boss Audio BVCP9685A
Strengths: A 6.75-inch capacitive display with wireless Android Auto at an aggressive price—often under $250. It has a 10-band EQ and supports both Android Auto and CarPlay. The unit also includes a backup camera input.
Trade-offs: Build quality is lower—the screen can be slow to respond, and the wireless connection may drop more often than in pricier units. The interface is less polished, and the sound quality is average.
Who it’s for: Budget buyers who want wireless Android Auto without breaking the bank, and who are willing to tolerate occasional glitches.
Atoto F7 WE
Strengths: A 7-inch capacitive display with wireless Android Auto and a very low price (around $150–$200). It has a clean interface and supports dual Bluetooth connections. The unit also includes a USB-C port and a physical volume knob.
Trade-offs: The wireless connection can be finicky—some users report needing to re-pair frequently. The display brightness is mediocre, and the EQ is only 5-band. Also, the build quality feels cheap.
Who it’s for: First-time Android Auto users on a tight budget who want to test the waters before upgrading.
How to Choose
Start with your budget. If you can spend $500+, you get a reliable wireless connection, a bright screen, and good sound tuning. For $200–$400, you sacrifice some reliability or audio features. Under $200, you’re gambling on connection stability and screen quality.
Next, consider your use case. If you drive in sunny areas, prioritize screen brightness (Sony). If you’re an audiophile, look for 13-band EQ and time alignment (Pioneer or Kenwood). If you just want a simple, clean interface, Alpine is great. If you’re on a strict budget, Boss or Atoto will work, but expect occasional disconnects.
Finally, think about installation. Double-DIN units are standard, but some cars need a dash kit (around $20–$50) and a wiring harness (around $10–$20). If you’re not comfortable with wiring, factor in professional installation ($100–$200). Also, check if your car has a shallow dash—some units are deeper than others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Android Auto work with any phone?
Android Auto requires a phone running Android 10 or higher, and the phone must have Google Play services. Most phones from 2019 onward work fine. Some budget phones may lack the necessary hardware for wireless Android Auto, so check compatibility before buying.
Can I use Android Auto without a head unit?
Yes, you can use the Android Auto app on your phone’s screen, but it’s not recommended while driving because it’s small and less safe. A head unit with a larger display is the proper way to use it.
Is wireless Android Auto worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you get in and out of the car frequently and don’t want to plug in every time. However, wireless uses more battery and can occasionally drop. If you have a phone with a large battery and don’t mind plugging in, wired is more stable and cheaper.
Do I need a special wiring harness?
Most aftermarket head units use a standard ISO connector, but your car may need a vehicle-specific harness to retain steering wheel controls or factory amp. Check with the retailer or a professional installer.
Can I keep my factory backup camera?
Many head units support aftermarket cameras, but integrating the factory camera often requires an adapter (around $30–$60). Some vehicles need a special module to keep the camera working. Check the unit’s manual for compatibility.
How do I update the firmware on my head unit?
Most brands offer firmware updates via USB. Download the update from the manufacturer’s website, copy it to a USB drive, and follow the on-screen instructions. Updates can fix bugs and improve Android Auto stability.
Bottom Line
For most drivers, the Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX is the best investment—it balances price, performance, and audio features. If you’re on a tighter budget, the Boss BVCP9685A is the best value, but be prepared for occasional quirks. And if screen brightness is your top priority, the Sony XAV-AX6000 won’t disappoint. Measure your dash, set a budget, and choose the unit that fits your car and your daily driving needs.
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