Best Kenwood Double Din Stereo Reviews 2025

When I recently upgraded my truck’s head unit, I spent hours sifting through options trying to find the ideal feature set—something with great audio and reliable connectivity. Kenwood consistently rises to the top, but knowing which model fits your needs, whether you prioritize wireless connectivity, superior sound control, or budget, can be tough. This guide cuts through the noise, detailing five of the best kenwood double din options available right now, comparing everything from screen clarity to wireless integration so you can choose the right car stereo upgrade easily.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	KENWOOD DMX150BT 6.8″ Capacitive Touchscreen Digital…	View on Amazon
	KENWOOD DPX505BT Double DIN in-Dash CD Car Stereo. AM/FM…	View on Amazon
	KENWOOD DMX8709S 6.8-Inch Capacitive Touch Screen, Car…	View on Amazon
	Kenwood DPX395MBT Double DIN in-Dash Digital Media Receiver…	View on Amazon
	KENWOOD DMX500S 6.8″ Capacitive Touchscreen Digital…	View on Amazon

KENWOOD DMX150BT 6.8″ Capacitive Touchscreen Digital Multimedia Receiver – Bluetooth, USB Mirroring for Android, Rear Camera Input, 13-Band EQ

The DMX150BT is a fantastic entry point if you’re looking for a reliable double din with a modern feel without breaking the bank. I found the 6.8″ capacitive touchscreen remarkably responsive for a receiver in this price range, making navigation simple. While it doesn’t offer wireless phone integration, the USB Mirroring for Android is a great substitute, allowing you to display and control certain smartphone apps directly on the head unit screen. It also boasts excellent audio customization thanks to the 13-band EQ.

Key features that stand out:

• Seamless Bluetooth Connectivity: For hands-free calling and music streaming.
• USB Mirroring for Android Devices: Allows screen display on the receiver.
• Superior Sound Customization: Fine-tune your audio with the 13-band graphic equalizer.
• Rear Camera Input: Essential for safer parking and reversing maneuvers.

Pros:
– Affordable price point for a touchscreen unit.
– Responsive capacitive screen improves user experience.
– Detailed 13-band EQ for audio enthusiasts.

Cons:
– Lacks Apple CarPlay and dedicated Android Auto (only offers basic Android USB mirroring).

Best for: The budget-conscious driver who needs a responsive touchscreen, modern looks, and rear camera compatibility.

Expert Opinion: This is one of the most reliable entry-level digital media receivers Kenwood offers. While it skips the advanced wireless integration, the sound quality processing and robust touchscreen make it an excellent upgrade over most factory stereos.

KENWOOD DPX505BT Double DIN in-Dash CD Car Stereo. AM/FM with Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa Voice Control, High-Contrast 3-line Display with Variable-Color Illumination, SiriusXM

For those who still rely on their CD collection, the DPX505BT is an impressive choice that blends legacy features with modern technology. This unit foregoes a large touchscreen for a high-contrast 3-line display, which is excellent for visibility even in bright sunlight. The standout feature here is the integrated Amazon Alexa Voice Control, which allows you to seamlessly request music, check traffic, and manage smart home devices just by speaking, once paired with your smartphone. It also features a customizable color illumination system to match your dash lights perfectly.

Key features that stand out:

• Built-in CD Player: Perfect for enjoying physical media.
• Amazon Alexa Voice Control: Enables hands-free control via voice commands.
• High-Contrast 3-line Display: Easy readability for source, clock, and song info simultaneously.
• Variable-Color Illumination: Offers 24 preset colors or custom RGB settings.
• Detailed EQ Control: Features 13-band manual EQ and 8 presets.

Pros:
– Retains the functionality of a CD player.
– Alexa integration brings advanced smart features to the car.
– Excellent audio tuning capabilities, including Drive EQ to compensate for road noise.

Cons:
– It is not a video screen unit, limiting navigation options.

Best for: Drivers who need a high-quality, non-touchscreen receiver that supports CD media and integrates the convenience of Amazon Alexa.

Expert Opinion: The DPX505BT demonstrates that not every modern head unit needs a video screen. Its robust feature set—especially the sound customization and Alexa functionality—makes it a powerhouse for pure audio performance and convenience.

KENWOOD DMX8709S 6.8-Inch Capacitive Touch Screen, Car Stereo, Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, AM/FM Radio, MP3 Player, USB Port, Double DIN, 13-Band EQ, SiriusXM

If you demand the absolute best in connectivity and multimedia options, the DMX8709S delivers a premium experience. Its biggest draw is the Wireless Apple CarPlay and Wireless Android Auto, meaning your phone connects instantly when you start the car without fumbling for a USB cable. I was particularly impressed by the three separate camera inputs (front, rear, and third), which is invaluable for trucks or RVs. The responsive 6.8-inch capacitive screen is clear and vibrant, making it an excellent hub for navigation and media playback.

Key features that stand out:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Hassle-free smartphone integration.
• BIG Capacitive Touchscreen: Provides a high contrast, clear, and highly responsive display.
• Three Camera Inputs: Allows for connection of multiple viewing angles (rear view camera input includes parking guidelines).
• High-Resolution Media Playback: Supports FLAC and other high-res formats.

Pros:
– Superior wireless connectivity for both major smartphone platforms.
– Unmatched camera flexibility for complex installations.
– Excellent sound control via 13-Band Graphic EQ and Time Alignment.

Cons:
– This is a high-end unit, reflecting a higher price tag.

Best for: Technology enthusiasts and drivers who prioritize seamless, wireless smartphone integration and require multiple camera views for safety and maneuvering.

Expert Opinion: The DMX8709S is the definitive choice for a feature-packed Kenwood head unit. The inclusion of Time Alignment, combined with triple camera inputs and flawless wireless integration, justifies its position as a top-tier choice among the best kenwood double din systems.

Kenwood DPX395MBT Double DIN in-Dash Digital Media Receiver with Bluetooth (Does not Play CDs) | Mechless Car Stereo Receiver | Amazon Alexa Ready – Black

The DPX395MBT is the mechless (no CD player) version of Kenwood’s affordable digital receivers, perfect if all your music lives on your phone. It keeps the same practical Amazon Alexa integration found in the DPX505BT, providing easy, hands-free voice control for music and information. This unit offers a clean, straightforward interface focused entirely on digital media, Bluetooth streaming, and voice commands. Its shallow chassis makes installation easier in vehicles with tight dashboard space.

Key features that stand out:

• Mechless Design: No CD player, resulting in a lighter and easier installation.
• Amazon Alexa Ready: Voice control for music playback and information retrieval.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Reliable streaming and hands-free calling.

Pros:
– Highly affordable entry point into the Kenwood line.
– Easy to install due to the mechless design.
– Voice control via Alexa is a massive convenience upgrade.

Cons:
– Limited display functionality compared to full touchscreen models.

Best for: Minimalists seeking the best kenwood double din audio experience without needing a CD player, screen video capabilities, or complex settings, focusing primarily on smartphone audio and convenience.

Expert Opinion: If your primary goal is clean digital audio streaming and the added safety of hands-free control, the DPX395MBT is a smart, economical choice. It strips away video and CD components, leaving a focused and powerful audio receiver.

KENWOOD DMX500S 6.8″ Capacitive Touchscreen Digital Multimedia Receiver – Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth

The DMX500S sits perfectly in the middle—offering the coveted Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality at a more accessible price point than its DMX8709S big brother. The 6.8” high-resolution capacitive screen is crisp and smooth, making your maps and media look fantastic. For those serious about audio, this unit is highly appealing due to its robust 13-band graphic EQ, digital time alignment, and a powerful built-in amplifier (50W x 4).

Key features that stand out:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Provides seamless, instant connection to your phone.
• High-Resolution Touchscreen: Crisp 1024×600 display for stunning visual clarity.
• Pro-Level Sound Customization: Includes 13-band EQ and Digital Time Alignment.
• Powerful Built-In Amplifier: Delivers clear sound right out of the box (50W peak per channel).

Pros:
– Offers wireless connectivity features usually reserved for higher-priced units.
– Excellent audio tuning suite for advanced sound staging.
– Dual phone pairing capability is great for shared vehicles.

Cons:
– It only supports one camera input (rear).

Best for: The majority of drivers seeking the best blend of premium connectivity (Wireless CarPlay/AA) and superior sound quality without the cost associated with extra features like multiple camera inputs.

Expert Opinion: The DMX500S hits the sweet spot for feature-per-dollar value. Wireless integration and advanced audio processing are typically must-haves today, and this unit delivers both flawlessly, making it perhaps the most widely recommendable of the Kenwood double din options.

Comparison Insights: Finding Your Ideal Kenwood Double Din

Choosing the right unit often comes down to two major questions: Do you need a physical media player (CD), and do you require the absolute best in wireless connectivity?

If your dashboard space is limited or you prefer a classic audio focus, the DPX505BT (with CD) or the DPX395MBT (mechless) are your best choices. They both offer practical Amazon Alexa integration and excellent audio tuning, but they lack a video screen.

For users prioritizing touchscreens and smartphone integration, Kenwood offers three excellent steps:

1. Budget Touchscreen: The DMX150BT is the cheapest touchscreen option and supports rear cameras, but you’ll need a cable for Android mirroring and it doesn’t support Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
2. Mid-Range Wireless Champion: The DMX500S is our top recommendation for most buyers because it provides Wireless Apple CarPlay and Wireless Android Auto at a very competitive price point and includes advanced audio settings like Digital Time Alignment.
3. Premium Multimedia Hub: If you have advanced needs, such as managing three separate cameras (front, rear, and blind spot) or demanding the highest-end display quality, the DMX8709S is the clear winner, though it requires the highest investment.

Final Verdict: Which Kenwood Double Din Should You Buy?

After reviewing these receivers, my takeaway is that Kenwood has excellently segmented its double din lineup to serve very specific needs, making it easy to recommend a unit based purely on your daily driving requirements.

For the Best Overall Value: Go with the KENWOOD DMX500S. It successfully merges the convenience of wireless connectivity (CarPlay/Android Auto) with serious audio features like Time Alignment, providing a premium experience that feels intuitive and snappy every single time you get in the car.

For the Budget-Conscious Touchscreen User: The KENWOOD DMX150BT offers a modern aesthetic and rear camera support for minimal investment, ideal for basic upgrades.

For the Audio Purist: If you don’t need a screen, choose the KENWOOD DPX505BT. You retain your CD player, gain Amazon Alexa, and benefit from excellent audio controls that will make your music sound phenomenal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Kenwood Double Din Stereos

How difficult is it to install a Kenwood double din unit?

Installation difficulty varies depending on your vehicle. Modern double din units typically require a wiring harness adapter and a dash kit specific to your vehicle year and model. While the wiring can be complex (connecting power, ground, speakers, etc.), the physical size standard is generally consistent. If you are uncomfortable with electrical work, professional installation is always recommended to ensure all features, like steering wheel controls and backup cameras, function correctly.

What is the difference between a resistive and a capacitive touchscreen?

The distinction is crucial for user experience. Resistive touchscreens (older technology) rely on pressure and are often less sensitive and less clear. Capacitive touchscreens, like those found on the Kenwood DMX series, use electrical fields and are similar to smartphone screens. They are brighter, clearer, and require only a light touch, resulting in much smoother operation for swiping through maps or scrolling playlists.

Does “Mechless” mean the car stereo can’t play CDs?

Yes, that is correct. A “mechless” receiver, like the Kenwood DPX395MBT, is a head unit without a physical CD/DVD mechanism. These units are dedicated to digital media playback (Bluetooth, USB, radio), making them lighter and sometimes easier to fit in tighter dashboards.

What is the advantage of Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

The primary advantage is convenience and speed. With Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, your phone connects automatically via Wi-Fi/Bluetooth when you turn on the car. You don’t need to plug in a USB cable every time you drive. This is a must-have feature for the premium best kenwood double din receivers, such as the DMX8709S and DMX500S.

What does the 13-band EQ feature do, and is it necessary?

The 13-band graphic equalizer (EQ) gives you detailed control over specific audio frequencies, from bass to treble. It allows you to tailor the sound output to compensate for the acoustic characteristics of your specific vehicle interior. If you are an audio enthusiast or plan on installing aftermarket speakers and subwoofers, a 13-band EQ is essential for achieving optimal sound quality.

Can I use the Amazon Alexa feature without connecting to my phone?

No, Kenwood’s integrated Amazon Alexa feature requires a compatible smartphone (iOS or Android) connected via Bluetooth and running the Amazon Alexa app. The head unit acts as the interface, but it relies on your phone’s data connection and processing power to access Alexa’s cloud services.