Tired of dealing with old car audio systems that can’t keep up with your smartphone? Want a seamless, intuitive and feature-packed way to connect your iPhone to your car’s infotainment system? If so, a single DIN Apple CarPlay car stereo might be the answer for you.

In this article we’ll dive into the world of single DIN Apple CarPlay head units, explaining the features, benefits and top models on the market. By the end you’ll know how these head units can improve your driving experience and which one is for you.

BOSS Audio BE10ACP-C

The BOSS Audio BE10ACP-C is a budget single DIN Apple CarPlay head unit with a 6.75” capacitive touchscreen for an intuitive and responsive experience. With wired Apple CarPlay only, this unit allows you to connect your iPhone and access your apps and features on the road. The audio output capabilities of the BOSS Audio BE10ACP-C ensure a powerful and clear sound experience.

One of the best things about the BOSS Audio BE10ACP-C is the price, it’s very affordable so if you want to upgrade your car’s infotainment system without spending too much, this is a great option. It also features an aux input, allowing you to connect external audio devices like MP3 players or smartphones. However it doesn’t have Android Auto compatibility which might be a drawback for Android users. Some users might also find the build quality and sound quality not as good as higher end models.

BOSS Audio BCPA10RC

The BOSS Audio BCPA10RC is another budget single DIN Apple CarPlay head unit with wired Apple CarPlay and 6.75” capacitive touchscreen. The interface and touch controls are intuitive and responsive so you can easily navigate your iPhone’s apps and features on the road. It also includes a backup camera, enhancing the ease of parking and reversing.

One of the best features of the BOSS Audio BCPA10RC is the built in microphone, it allows for clear hands free calling when paired with your iPhone. The head unit also has Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming and Bluetooth audio capabilities. Like the BE10ACP-C, it doesn’t have Android Auto and may not have the same sound quality as higher end units.

Alpine iLX-W650

The Alpine iLX-W650 is one of the best single DIN Apple CarPlay head units due to its 7” capacitive touchscreen for a responsive and intuitive experience. Wireless Apple CarPlay is a big plus, no cables required. It also has Android Auto so it’s good for both iPhone and Android users. Additionally, the voice control feature allows users to access music, navigation, and other functions hands-free.

For sound quality, the Alpine iLX-W650 sounds great with its advanced audio features, built in amplifier and 9 band parametric equalizer. The head unit’s sleek design will add a modern touch to your car’s interior. However some users might find the price a bit high compared to other single DIN units.

Pioneer DMH-WT3800NEX

The Pioneer DMH-WT3800NEX is a top of the line single DIN Apple CarPlay head unit with a 10.1” floating capacitive touchscreen for an immersive and intuitive experience. It has both wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so it’s good for both iPhone and Android users. It also supports HD radio, providing access to a wide range of entertainment options.

One of the best features of the Pioneer DMH-WT3800NEX is its advanced audio capabilities. It has 13 band graphic equalizer, time alignment settings and a lot of sound optimization features so you can customize your audio to your liking. It also has built in amplifier for powerful and clear sound. However the premium features comes with a higher price tag compared to other single DIN units so it might be a drawback for budget buyers.

Sony XAV-AX3200

The Sony XAV-AX3200 is a feature-rich stereo system and single DIN Apple CarPlay head unit with a 6.95” capacitive touchscreen for a clear and responsive interface to navigate your iPhone’s apps and features. It has both wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so it’s good for both iPhone and Android users.

One of the best features of the Sony XAV-AX3200 is the built-in amplifier for powerful and clear sound. It also has a 10-band equalizer so you can customize the sound to your liking. However, the higher price and no wireless Apple CarPlay might be a drawback for some buyers.

Kenwood DMX4707S

The Kenwood DMX4707S is a feature rich single DIN Apple CarPlay head unit with 6.95” capacitive touchscreen for clear and responsive interface to navigate your iPhone’s apps and features. It has both wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so it’s good for both iPhone and Android users. Additionally, it includes an FM radio feature, providing access to a wide range of radio stations.

One of the best feature of the Kenwood DMX4707S is its audio focus. It has 13 band equalizer, time alignment settings and a lot of sound optimization features so you can fine tune your car’s sound to your liking. It also supports high resolution audio playback for clear and detailed sound.

But the DMX4707S doesn’t have wireless Apple CarPlay so that’s a drawback for those who want cable free setup.

JVC KW-M560BT

The JVC KW-M560BT is a well-equipped single DIN Apple CarPlay head unit with a 6.8” capacitive touchscreen for an intuitive and responsive interface, making it a great addition to your car's sound system. It has both wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so it’s good for both iPhone and Android users.

One of the best features of the JVC KW-M560BT is its advanced audio settings with a 13-band equalizer and time alignment settings. These features allow you to optimize your car’s sound to your vehicle and listening preferences. It also supports high-resolution audio playback for clear sound. Plus, it has wireless audio streaming and hands-free calling via Bluetooth for added convenience.

But like the Kenwood DMX4707S, this one doesn’t have wireless Apple CarPlay, so that’s a drawback for some users who want a cable-free setup.

BOSS Audio BVCPA10W

The BOSS Audio BVCPA10W is unique among single DIN Apple CarPlay head units because of its wireless Apple CarPlay, making it an excellent choice for those looking for an apple car stereo system. This means cable free connection to your iPhone for a clean and clutter free installation. It has 6.75” capacitive touchscreen for responsive and user friendly interface.

It also has Bluetooth for hands free calling and audio streaming. The head unit has built in microphone for clear call quality and basic sound settings for sound customization.

But like other BOSS Audio units, the BVCPA10W doesn’t have Android Auto and may not have the same audio quality as higher end units. And the wireless Apple CarPlay may have connectivity issues sometimes which is a concern for some users.

FAQs

Here are some of the frequently asked questions about single din car Apple CarPlay head units and the answers:

What is Apple CarPlay?

Apple CarPlay is a feature that allows you to connect your iPhone to your car’s infotainment system and access apps, navigation and more. It’s safer and more convenient way to use your iPhone while driving with a simplified interface optimized for in car use. Also, some Apple CarPlay head units are portable while others, like the ones featured above, are not.

Single DIN vs Double DIN?

Single DIN head units are smaller, 2” tall and 7” wide and are found in older vehicles. Double DIN head units are larger, 4” tall and 7” wide and has more space for features like bigger touchscreens and advanced audio controls.

Can I install single DIN Apple CarPlay head unit myself?

You can install single DIN Apple CarPlay head unit yourself but it’s recommended to have it installed by a professional. Professional installation ensures that the unit is properly connected and minimizes the risk of damage to your vehicle’s electrical system.

Is wireless Apple CarPlay available in single DIN head units?

Yes, some single DIN Apple CarPlay head units have wireless connectivity so you can connect your iPhone without the need of USB cable. But wireless Apple CarPlay is less common in single DIN units compared to double DIN.

Can I use Android Auto with single DIN Apple CarPlay head unit?

Many single DIN Apple CarPlay head units also have Android Auto so you can connect your Android smartphone to your car’s infotainment system. But please check the specific model’s Android Auto compatibility before buying.

Do single DIN Apple CarPlay head units have steering wheel controls?

Most single DIN Apple CarPlay head units have steering wheel controls so you can control basic functions like volume, track selection and voice commands without taking your hands off the wheel. But some vehicles may require additional adapter for steering wheel control compatibility.

Can I play high resolution audio files on single DIN Apple CarPlay head unit?

Some high end single DIN Apple CarPlay head units can play high resolution audio files for better sound quality than standard audio files. To enjoy this feature make sure the head unit supports high resolution audio formats and you have high resolution audio files.

How to update software on single DIN Apple CarPlay head unit?

Software updates for single DIN Apple CarPlay head units are done through USB drive. Check your head unit’s manual for instructions on how to download and install software updates.

What's the Best Single DIN Apple CarPlay?

The BOSS Audio BVCPA10W single DIN head unit is the best choice for wireless Apple CarPlay functionality. It offers a user-friendly interface with a 6.75" touchscreen, built-in microphone, and basic sound settings. However, it lacks Android Auto compatibility and the same audio quality as higher-end units.

The Alpine iLX-W650 is another good choice for a single DIN Apple CarPlay head unit. It boasts a responsive 7" capacitive touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity, Android Auto compatibility, and advanced audio features like a built-in amplifier and 9-band parametric equalizer for superior sound quality.

For those in the market for a single or double DIN Apple CarPlay head unit, BOSS Audio offers excellent options. Their units provide reliable performance, user-friendly interfaces, and great value for both car audio enthusiasts and DIY installers, making them a top choice for upgrading your vehicle's infotainment system.