If you do not already have an Apple CarPlay stereo installed in your car, you are missing out. Apple CarPlay is an amazing head unit that allows you to use your favorite iPhone apps while driving, including streaming services like Apple Music or Spotify, navigation apps like Apple Maps or Google Maps, and send and receive phone calls and text messages.

If you are looking to install a new Apple CarPlay into your car, the car stereo experts at Audio Shack in San Diego have compiled a list of the best Apple CarPlay head units for 2021.

1. Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX

The first thing that stands out about the Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX is the size of the display. Packing an impressive double DIN head unit, this Apple CarPlay stereo allows you to easily see text messages, driving directions, and your music while driving. It also offers both a wireless and wired option, allowing you to easily connect your phone to your Apple CarPlay at any time. 

2. Pioneer DMH-1500NEX

The Pioneer DMH-1500NEX is the less expensive Pioneer Apple CarPlay option, costing less than half the price of the AVH-W4500NEX. However, don’t let the low price tag fool you, this head unit works great! It has a clear 7-inch touchscreen display and is compatible with most accessories, offering unique digital audio devices and camera outputs.

3. Kenwood Excelon DNX997XR

The Kenwood Excelon DNX997XR is a luxury head unit and has a price tag to match. However, if you are looking for the best possible Apple CarPlay stereo, the Kenwood Excelon DNX997XR is a great place to start. The head unit comes with a built-in Garmin GPS navigation system, meaning that losing your signal does not mean losing your driving directions! Another awesome perk is that your passengers can help DJ from the back seat, wirelessly controlling Pandora music from their smartphone.

4. Alpine Halo9 iLX-F309

If you have a single DIN car stereo slot, the Alpine Halo9 iLX-F309 may be the best choice! The stereo snuggly fits within a single DIN slot and still boasts a 9-inch floating display. The floating display also allows you to easily adjust the look and feel of the head unit to best suit your needs.  The Alpine Halo9 iLX-F309 comes with all of the bells and whistles, allowing you to control various iPhone apps through voice control or with the push of a button.

5. Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX

Pioneer has earned a reputation as the best producer of Apple CarPlay head units, and it is no coincidence that three Pioneer head units made the top 5 list. The Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX boasts a massive 10.1-inch touchscreen that can easily fit into a single-DIN dash slot. The huge display is what garners most of the attention, but the Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX also is compatible with a ton of digital music formats and offers top-notch sound quality.

Install an Apple CarPlay Stereo at Audio Shack in San Diego

Audio Shack is home to a team of San Diego Apple CarPlay experts, helping tons of customers upgrade their car stereo system. If you are interested in upgrading your car stereo head unit to a device that is Apple CarPlay compatible, contact Audio Shack in El Cajon today.

To learn more or to get a quote on the cost of installation, give us a call at (619) 749-5750.