A growing number of newer cars now have Android Auto built in, but certainly not all of them. Whether you have a new car that doesn’t support Android Auto or an older vehicle that predates the technology, you can still get all the same functionality with Android Auto head units that can be installed aftermarket.
Pioneer Android Auto Head Unit
Jul 28, 2019 Our team of experts narrowed down the best android auto head units on the market. Read this review and save yourself time and money. For those with Android Auto, all you have to do is download. May 02, 2019 The Kenwood eXcelon DNX995S is similar to the other devices on this list, but is one of the best Android Auto head units you can buy because of.
Android Auto Aftermarket Head Unit
When it comes to Android Auto head units, there are quite a few options available at different price points. Having trouble deciding? To make your purchasing decision a bit easier, we have compiled a list of the best Android Auto head units you can currently get. Manufactured by companies like Sony, Kenwood, Pioneer, and others, they are priced between $300 and $800, so we’re sure you’ll be able to find one that fits your budget.
Kenwood eXcelon DNX995S
The Kenwood eXcelon DNX995S is similar to the other devices on this list, but is one of the best Android Auto head units you can buy because of the fact that the device display comes with 1280 x 720 resolution. It supports Android Auto wireless, Bluetooth, can connect two smartphones at the same time, and is compatible with various internet radio apps such as Pandora, iHeartRadio, and others. It also has a built-in HD Radio tuner and features 2 RCA video inputs to set up rear and front cameras. The extra resolution and features come at a price though, with the eXcelon DNX995S priced at around $700.
Sony XAV-AX5000
The Sony XAV-AX5000 is the latest Android Auto head unit from the company and is a big upgrade when compared to its predecessors (AX100 and AX200). This head unit comes with a 7-inch capacitive display with an 800 x 480 resolution. Built-in physical buttons let you control the volume, skip tracks, and return to the home menu with ease.
You get Bluetooth connectivity, USB support, HD radio, SiriusXM access, and of course, Android Auto and Apple Car Play support. Even with the upgraded display and added features, the Sony XAV-AX5000 is priced the same as previous Sony units were at around $400. If you’re okay with using a cable to connect to it to your smartphone, this is much more affordable than the devices that support Android Auto Wireless.
Pioneer AVIC-W8500NEX
This is another high-end unit that is similar to the Kenwood option above, but it’s equipped with a 7-inch capacitive display that has a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels. It has the map of the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico on board provided by HERE along with 12.4 million points of interest. It is compatible with both Android Auto Wireless and Apple Car Play.
Pioneer’s device supports Bluetooth connectivity as well as SiriusXM Satellite Radio and has 16GB of storage. It also offers a bunch of different customization options, as it allows you to choose from five display colors, 112 key colors, and more. As already mentioned, the AVIC-W8500NEX is quite expensive and will set you back around $1200 on Amazon.
JVC KW-M855W
Pioneer Head Units Receiver
The JVC KW-M855W is the third head unit on this list to feature Android Auto Wireless connectivity via its built-in Wi-Fi and also offers phone mirroring. The device comes with a 6.8-inch display with an 800 x 480 resolution, but it is of the resistive variety. Two USB ports are available, and it allows up to 5 simultaneous Bluetooth connections for audio and 2 fully connected smartphones that can access all features. It also comes with a mobile app remote to control certain features. This Android Auto head unit is priced at $600.
Cheap Pioneer Head Units
These are our picks for the best Android Auto head units that you can get right now. Of course, there are quite a few other great options available that might not be included in this post. If you think we have missed any major ones, do let us know by posting a comment down below.