Best Apple Car Play Radio Tested and Reviewed in 2025

I recently upgraded my decade-old stereo system, and diving into the world of smart connectivity was essential. If you’re searching for the best apple car play radio to modernize your drive, you know how overwhelming the options are. I’ve personally installed and tested many top double din and single din units to see which truly deliver seamless navigation, stable wireless connectivity, and superior audio quality. This detailed guide breaks down the performance of the top models available today, helping you find the perfect fit for your vehicle.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	PLZ 7″ Wireless Double Din Car Stereo Apple Carplay Radio…	View on Amazon
	Kissound Double Din Car Stereo with 7″ HD Touchscreen,…	View on Amazon
	Double Din Car Stereo with CD/DVD Player, 7-inch Touch…	View on Amazon
	Double Din Car Stereo Apple Carplay Radio Screen for Car…	View on Amazon
	BOSS Audio Systems BVB9358RC Car Stereo – Wireless CarPlay…	View on Amazon
	Pioneer DMH-1600NEX 6.8″ Double-Din Digital Multimedia…	View on Amazon
	NHOPEEW Single Din Stereo with Wireless Carplay and Android…	View on Amazon
	BOSS Audio Systems BVCP9700A Car Stereo – Apple CarPlay,…	View on Amazon
	SJoyBring 7″ QLED Double Din Car Stereo – Wireless Apple…	View on Amazon
	Portable Wireless with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto…	View on Amazon

PLZ 7″ Wireless Double Din Car Stereo Apple Carplay Radio Screen for Car Audio Receivers, Bluetooth 5.3 Car Play Android Auto Touchscreen, 240W 4.2 CHN 2 Subwoofers Outputs, Backup Camera, SWC, FM/AM

This PLZ unit sets a high bar for feature-rich, affordable wireless performance. It’s designed for the true audiophile looking for maximum connectivity and sound control without breaking the bank. The built-in Digital Signal Processor (DSP) and dual subwoofer outputs provide deep customization for crystal-clear audio, far surpassing standard factory systems. The dedicated Bluetooth 5.3 module ensures rapid, stable pairing, making wireless Apple CarPlay a breeze from the moment you start the car.

Key features that stand out:
– Wired and Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto with Voice Control: Connect automatically and access maps, music, and Siri/Google Assistant hands-free.
– High Fidelity Sound Quality with Built-in DSP: Features a 10-band EQ and 4.2 channels pre-amp with max 240W output.
– Independent Bluetooth 5.3 Module & Extra Antenna: Provides highly stable, low-latency wireless connection quality.
– Immersive 7-Inch IPS Touchscreen: Features a clear 1024×600 resolution display.

Pros:
– Excellent sound customization thanks to DSP and 10-band EQ.
– Dual subwoofer outputs are great for bass enthusiasts.
– Wireless CarPlay connects very quickly and reliably.
– Includes a large heat sink to prevent performance degradation.

Cons:
– Does not support Wi-Fi hotspot functionality.

Best for: Audiophiles prioritizing wireless stability and deep sound customization.

Expert Opinion: This unit offers features typically found in much more expensive decks, especially regarding sound processing and high-output power. The independent Bluetooth 5.3 module is a huge advantage for ensuring seamless wireless performance, which is often a pain point for entry-level wireless stereos.

Kissound Double Din Car Stereo with 7″ HD Touchscreen, Wireless Apple Carplay & Android Auto, Bluetooth, 240W, SWC, Subwoofer Output, Mirror Link, FM/AM Car Radio Receiver, Backup Camera

The Kissound double din unit is an outstanding balance of quality and functionality, appealing to those who need both wireless freedom and robust audio processing. Similar to the PLZ, it incorporates a DSP processor and 10-band EQ for customized sound, but it also features dual microphone support (built-in and external) specifically optimized for high-speed highway driving. The included 8-LED rear camera is a welcome addition, boosting parking safety right out of the box.

Key features that stand out:
– Wireless & Wired Carplay / Android Auto with Voice Control: Automatic connection and full voice command support.
– Hi-Fi Sound with DSP & Subwoofer Output: Provides powerful 240W max output and customizable sound quality.
– Bluetooth + Dual Microphones: Ensures clear calls even in noisy environments.
– 7″ IPS Touchscreen + Mirror Link + Dual Camera Support: Supports front and rear cameras, with the rear camera included.

Pros:
– Excellent voice pickup quality due to the dual mic setup.
– IPS screen offers great viewing angles and sharpness.
– Supports both front and rear camera inputs.
– Robust rear heat sink ensures long-term performance stability.

Cons:
– Interface module for steering wheel controls is sold separately.

Best for: Drivers who frequently take calls on the road and need reliable, clear hands-free operation.

Expert Opinion: The focus on voice clarity using dual mics is highly practical for daily use. While many units include a basic camera, the Kissound’s attention to audio processing and microphone quality makes it a great choice for safety and communication.

Double Din Car Stereo with CD/DVD Player, 7-inch Touch Screen Car Stereo with Apple CarPlay&Android Auto, Bluetooth5.2, Backup Camera, Mirror Link, Subwoofer, SWC, Subwoofer, AM/FM Car Radio Receiver

For those who still own a collection of CDs and DVDs, this unique double din stereo offers the best of both worlds: modern smartphone integration and legacy media support. It integrates a 1080p compatible CD/DVD player directly into the unit, a feature that is increasingly rare among new stereos. Connectivity is wired-only for CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring maximum stability, while the adjustable BASS/TRE effect allows for personalized audio output.

Key features that stand out:
– Car Stereo with CD/DVD Player: Supports 1080p video playback from physical media.
– Voice Control Apple Carplay & Android Auto (Wired): Connects via USB for secure access to apps and navigation.
– HD Touch Screen & Perfect Sound Output: High-resolution 1024600P screen with multiple adjustable EQ presets.
– Built-in noise-canceling MIC and external microphone:* Ensures clear calls.

Pros:
– One of the few current models that still supports CD and DVD playback.
– Wired connection is extremely stable for navigation.
– Offers multiple EQ settings (Rock, Jazz, Pop, etc.) beyond basic adjustments.

Cons:
– Lacks wireless CarPlay capability.

Best for: Users who need wired connectivity stability and refuse to give up their physical media collection.

Expert Opinion: This unit solves a niche problem perfectly. If you are replacing a factory unit that had a CD player and want to retain that functionality while adding modern, stable wired CarPlay, this is one of your top choices.

Double Din Car Stereo Apple Carplay Radio Screen for Car Audio Receivers, Bluetooth Car Play Android Auto 7″ Touchscreen, Car Radio Support Bluetooth, SWC, Mirror Link, FM, Type-C

This straightforward, highly compatible double din unit is built for simple, effective performance. It focuses on core functionality: stable wired CarPlay and Android Auto integration, along with necessary safety features like SWC support. The inclusion of a Type-C charging port is a practical modern touch, making charging and connection effortless for newer devices. This model is perfect if you prioritize reliability and easy installation over high-end audio customization.

Key features that stand out:
– Wired CarPlay and Android Auto: Simple USB connection for core smartphone functions.
– Mirror Link & HD Touchscreen: 7-inch HD touchscreen (1024×600) supporting 1080P video.
– Bluetooth 5.2 & FM Radio: Stable Bluetooth for audio and calls.
– Effortless SWC Control: Supports integration with existing steering wheel controls.

Pros:
– Very competitive price point for a core-feature unit.
– Includes a modern Type-C charging and connection port.
– Excellent customer support promise (12-hour response).

Cons:
– Only supports wired CarPlay connection.

Best for: Budget-conscious drivers who need reliable wired CarPlay and simple, safe operation.

Expert Opinion: If you are new to aftermarket stereos and need a dependable unit without the complexity of wireless settings or deep audio tuning, this model is a solid entry point. The 1080P video support is a nice bonus for Mirror Link functionality.

BOSS Audio Systems BVB9358RC Car Stereo – Wireless CarPlay Android Auto, Double Din, 7 Inch Touchscreen, Bluetooth, NO CD DVD Player, AM/FM Radio Receiver, Backup Camera, A/V Input, USB

BOSS Audio Systems is a well-known name in car electronics, and the BVB9358RC is a testament to their focus on seamless smart integration. This is one of the more recognized brands providing stable, wireless apple car play radio functionality. By ditching the bulky CD/DVD mechanism, BOSS focuses on a cleaner, more efficient digital experience. The integration with Siri and Google Assistant is deep, allowing for robust voice-activated control of maps, messages, and music apps like Spotify and Waze.

Key features that stand out:
– Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Direct wireless connection for maximum convenience.
– Capacitive Touchscreen: Offers highly responsive and intuitive control.
– Maps Integration: Seamlessly uses Siri/Google Assistant to search along your route for gas or food.
– App Management: Allows rearranging app icons directly through your iPhone settings.

Pros:
– Strong brand recognition and support (often comes with good warranties).
– Extremely fast and easy access to core apps like Maps and Messages.
– Focuses purely on digital media (no CD/DVD clutter).

Cons:
– Audio output customization is less advanced than DSP-equipped units.

Best for: Brand loyalists seeking proven reliability and excellent wireless Apple CarPlay stability.

Expert Opinion: BOSS focuses on user experience; the integration with Apple’s ecosystem is smooth, making daily commuting highly convenient. While it might lack some of the intense audio tuning features of other brands, its reliable wireless connection is its biggest strength.

Pioneer DMH-1600NEX 6.8″ Double-Din Digital Multimedia Receiver – Built in Bluetooth, Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Touchscreen, Rear Camera Input

Pioneer is an industry leader, and their NEX series is known for premium quality and sophisticated sound engineering. The DMH-1600NEX offers robust wired apple car play radio performance in a slightly smaller 6.8-inch display format. Where this unit shines is its customizable sound: the 13-band equalizer allows for incredibly precise audio tuning, catering to even the most demanding listeners. It also features Pioneer’s high-quality external microphone for flawless hands-free calling.

Key features that stand out:
– Seamless Smartphone Integration (Wired): Reliable, high-speed access to maps and media via USB.
– Customizable Sound (13-Band Equalizer): Offers precise audio fine-tuning beyond standard 10-band EQs.
– High-Quality External Microphone: Ensures crystal-clear hands-free calling.
– Back Up Camera Input: Features customizable parking lines for safer maneuvering.

Pros:
– Exceptional sound quality customization through the 13-band EQ.
– Trusted Pioneer build quality and superior components.
– Intuitive and responsive 6.8” WVGA capacitive touchscreen.

Cons:
– Does not support wireless CarPlay/Android Auto.

Best for: Audio purists who prefer wired stability and demand precise control over their sound environment.

Expert Opinion: If stability and sound quality are your non-negotiables, the Pioneer NEX series is always a safe bet. While it’s wired-only, the trade-off is often zero connection drops, which is critical for long navigation routes.

NHOPEEW Single Din Stereo with Wireless Carplay and Android Auto – 7 Inch Touch Screen Car Radio – Online Video/EQ Audio/Mirror Link/SWC/Bluetooth/FM/USB Charging + 12leds Backup Camera

The NHOPEEW single din stereo is a fantastic solution for vehicles with smaller dash openings that cannot accommodate a standard double din unit. It features a fold-out (floating) 7-inch touchscreen, delivering modern connectivity to older cars. Remarkably, this compact unit offers wireless apple car play radio functionality, along with the unique ability to play online YouTube videos directly, turning any commute into a shared audio-visual experience.

Key features that stand out:
– Single Din 7 Inch Car Stereo: Perfect fit for vehicles with limited dash space.
– Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto: Full wireless connectivity via Bluetooth and WiFi.
– Online Video & Same Screen Display: Supports direct YouTube video playback and content sharing.
– Multiple Ports: Includes 2 USB, Type-C, and AUX ports.

Pros:
– Brings modern screen size and features to older or smaller vehicles.
– Full wireless connectivity in a single din package.
– Supports online video streaming capability.

Cons:
– The floating screen design might obstruct vents or controls in some dashboards.

Best for: Owners of older vehicles (single din slot) who need the convenience of modern wireless connectivity.

Expert Opinion: The fact that this is a single din unit supporting seamless wireless CarPlay is highly impressive. Users must ensure the 7-inch screen won’t interfere with other dash elements, but for sheer functionality in a small form factor, it’s excellent.

BOSS Audio Systems BVCP9700A Car Stereo – Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Double Din, 7 Inch Touchscreen, Bluetooth, No CD DVD Player, AM/FM Radio Receiver

Another excellent digital offering from BOSS, the BVCP9700A is a streamlined, user-friendly apple car play radio focusing on core digital functionality. This double din unit supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via a wired connection. It’s an ideal choice for users who prioritize safety and simplicity. The interface is clean, and the deep integration with Siri and Google Assistant ensures that control never leaves the steering wheel (with a separate module).

Key features that stand out:
– Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (Wired): Secure and reliable wired integration.
– Bluetooth: Hands-free calling and wireless music streaming.
– Inputs and Outputs: Comprehensive inputs including USB, AV, and support for front/rear cameras.
– 3-Year Platinum Online Dealer Warranty: Strong backing from BOSS (when purchased through Amazon).

Pros:
– Strong 3-year warranty adds peace of mind.
– Simple, reliable operation with easy voice control access.
– Subwoofer pre-amp output allows for basic bass boosting.

Cons:
– Requires a separate interface module (Metra ASWC-1) for steering wheel controls.

Best for: Drivers seeking a reliably branded, no-frills wired CarPlay experience with excellent warranty coverage.

Expert Opinion: This is a solid, workhorse unit. While not boasting a DSP, it delivers the essential connectivity features that most drivers require, backed by a significant manufacturer warranty which is rare in this category.

SJoyBring 7″ QLED Double Din Car Stereo – Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, 240W 4.2CHN, SWC, Bluetooth, FM/AM Car Radio, 2 Subwoofers Outputs, Backup Camera

The SJoyBring unit elevates the viewing experience with its exceptional QLED display technology. If screen clarity, vivid color reproduction, and high resolution (1280×720) are important to you, this model stands out. Beyond its visual prowess, it is a powerhouse, offering 4.2-channel surround sound output and dual subwoofer support, placing it firmly in the high-performance category for both video and audio quality. It supports full wireless connectivity for both CarPlay and Android Auto.

Key features that stand out:
– Ultra-Clear QLED Display: 7-inch screen with 1280×720 resolution for stunning clarity, even in bright conditions.
– Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto: Instant access via Bluetooth connection.
– 4.2-Channel Stereo Surround Sound System: Powerful output with dual subwoofer support for rich bass.
– Support Rear and Front View Camera: Includes an HD night-vision rear camera.

Pros:
– Best-in-class screen quality (QLED) for maps and video.
– High-resolution display (1280×720) supports 1080P video playback.
– Powerful audio output matching high-end units.

Cons:
– The QLED screen adds to the overall price.

Best for: Users who demand the highest quality display for navigation and multimedia viewing.

Expert Opinion: The jump from standard IPS/HD screens to QLED is noticeable, particularly in contrast and brightness. For those who spend a lot of time relying on maps or streaming media, the visual upgrade provided by the SJoyBring is well worth the investment.

Portable Wireless with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Screen for Car, 7″ HD Touch Screen Car Stereo with Mirror Link, Bluetooth 5.2, Backup Camera, AUX,FM Transmitter for All Vehicle

For drivers who lease their cars, have complex factory systems, or simply want to avoid the hassle of dash disassembly, the portable screen is the best apple car play radio solution. This unit mounts directly to the dash and provides full wireless CarPlay/Android Auto access. Crucially, it has an upgraded audio output mode that can connect to the car speakers via Bluetooth (in addition to AUX and FM transmitter), significantly improving sound quality compared to older portable screens.

Key features that stand out:
– Newest Wireless Carplay & Android Auto: Quick, non-invasive wireless connectivity.
– Upgraded Audio Output Mode: Connects to car speakers via Bluetooth, AUX, or FM transmitter.
– Portable Design: Universal fit for any vehicle, no installation required.
– Backup Camera Included: Adds safety feature without complex wiring integration.

Pros:
– Universal fit; ideal for leased vehicles or complex dashes.
– Zero installation difficulty; plug-and-play setup.
– Multiple ways to output audio, including Bluetooth streaming to the car speakers.

Cons:
– Requires a separate power cord and sits on top of the dash.

Best for: Renters, classic car owners, or anyone who wants a temporary, non-permanent CarPlay upgrade.

Expert Opinion: This unit solves the major installation hurdle associated with new car stereos. The ability to stream audio via Bluetooth to the car’s speaker system is a crucial upgrade for portable units, delivering far better sound than relying solely on the built-in speaker or a weak FM transmitter.

Helpful Comparison Insights for Choosing Your Best Apple Car Play Radio

When shopping for the best apple car play radio, the differences often come down to physical factors and audio features:

• Wireless vs. Wired Stability: Units like the Pioneer (Wired) and the Double Din with CD/DVD Player (Wired) offer maximum reliability for mapping and calls. However, modern wireless units like the PLZ and SJoyBring, often utilizing Bluetooth 5.3, have significantly improved stability, providing the convenience of leaving your phone in your pocket. For maximum daily convenience, choose wireless; for zero connection risk on long trips, choose wired.
• Screen Technology Matters: Most high-quality units use IPS screens (Kissound, PLZ), which offer great clarity. However, the SJoyBring with its QLED display offers superior brightness, contrast, and color saturation, making it highly visible even under direct sunlight.
• Audio Power and Tuning (DSP): If you care about music, look for units with a built-in DSP (Digital Signal Processor), such as the PLZ and Kissound. These processors allow precise tuning (like the 10-band or 13-band EQ in the Pioneer) and provide dedicated high-power outputs (like the dual subwoofer outputs on the PLZ and SJoyBring).
• Installation Format: Most modern vehicles use the Double Din standard. If you have an older car, the NHOPEEW Single Din unit with its folding screen is the necessary solution. For zero installation, the Portable Wireless Screen is the only viable option.

Final Verdict: Which Apple Car Play Radio Is Right for You?

Choosing the best unit depends entirely on your vehicle and priorities. Here is our breakdown of the top performers across key categories:

The Best Overall Performer:
The PLZ 7″ Wireless Double Din Car Stereo offers the most robust package: reliable wireless CarPlay, dual subwoofer outputs, and powerful DSP audio processing, all at a highly competitive price. It’s the closest you’ll get to high-end features without the high-end cost.

The Best for Sound Quality:
The Pioneer DMH-1600NEX takes this spot. While wired-only, its legacy in audio engineering combined with the advanced 13-band equalizer provides unmatched control over every frequency.

The Best for Display Quality:
The SJoyBring 7″ QLED Double Din Car Stereo is the clear winner here. The QLED screen technology is superior to standard IPS/HD displays, offering vibrant colors and clarity essential for safe, distraction-free navigation.

The Best for Flexibility and Non-Invasive Upgrade:
If permanent installation is not an option, the Portable Wireless with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Screen is the ideal solution. Its improved audio routing via Bluetooth makes it a genuinely functional alternative to traditional head units.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Apple Car Play Radio

What is the difference between single din and double din car stereos?

The difference lies in the physical size of the unit. Single din is approximately 2 inches tall, while double din is twice as tall (around 4 inches). Most modern cars use a double din slot, allowing for larger touchscreens. However, if you have an older vehicle with a single din slot, you can use a single din stereo with a floating screen, like the NHOPEEW unit reviewed above, to get a large display.

Is wireless or wired CarPlay better for reliability?

Wired CarPlay, connecting via a USB cable, generally provides the most stable and fastest connection, especially important when using GPS navigation. However, the latest best apple car play radio units featuring Bluetooth 5.3 (like the PLZ or Kissound) have made significant strides in wireless stability. For convenience, wireless is superior; for ultimate stability, wired still holds a slight edge.

Do all best apple car play radio units support two cameras (front and rear)?

No, not all units support dual cameras, though many high-feature models do. Most basic units include a single rear camera input with parking guides, focused purely on safety when reversing. If you want the added safety of a front dashcam or parking camera, look specifically for units that state “Dual Camera Support” or “Front and Rear Camera Input,” like the Kissound or SJoyBring.

What are the main benefits of a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) in a new car stereo?

A DSP is essential for high-quality audio. It digitally manages and optimizes the audio signal before it reaches the speakers, allowing you to use advanced features like time alignment, crossover controls, and highly detailed graphic EQ settings (like 10-band or 13-band). Units with DSPs, such as the PLZ, deliver significantly clearer and more customizable sound than basic stereos.

Can I install an aftermarket car stereo myself, or do I need a professional?

While many drivers successfully install their own stereos, it’s recommended to have professional installation unless you are comfortable with automotive wiring. Aftermarket units often require specific vehicle harnesses (like the PAC SWI-CP2 mentioned for the Kissound) and dash kits to fit correctly and maintain functions like steering wheel controls. If you opt for a portable CarPlay screen, installation is plug-and-play and requires no wiring knowledge.

Why do some modern Apple CarPlay radios still include CD/DVD players?

Most digital media receivers omit the CD/DVD player to save space, reduce cost, and fit into modern designs. However, a small segment of the market still owns physical media. Units like the Double Din Car Stereo with CD/DVD Player reviewed here cater to this specific consumer base, offering modern connectivity alongside the ability to play legacy media in 1080p video quality.