Best car stereos with Apple CarPlay® for 2025

Why did we choose these as the best CarPlay stereos?

First, these stereos have received high customer satisfaction ratings. That means our customers bought them, reviewed them, and love them. These stereos offer a variety of features and price points. Use them as reference points for your own shopping needs.

Let's take a look.

BOSS Audio BE7ACP — Best budget stereo with CarPlay

What you need to know: The BOSS Audio BE7ACP digital multimedia receiver puts wired-only Apple CarPlay (and Android Auto™) in your dash without a heavy price tag. You can explore on its 7" touchscreen, taking advantage of your media sources and more. It also boasts a dedicated button for calling up Siri® digital assistant.

Audio/Video features: Don't let the "budget" tag fool you — the BE7ACP's ready to play with a pair of USB inputs and a memory card slot for playing your digital files. You can dial in the sound with its 10-band EQ with six presets, along with independent sub control and low-pass crossover. Six preamp outputs let you add amps with ease for a more dynamic system. You can add a backup camera and a secondary camera thanks to its dual video inputs.

Details

• 7" capacitive touchscreen fits double-DIN dash openings
• Built-in amplifier (20 watts RMS/85 watts peak x 4 channels)
• Inputs: two rear USB ports; front SD card slot; rear A/V input (RCA); rear-view and front camera inputs
• Outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, subwoofer)

JVC KW-M595BT — Best stereo with wired CarPlay

What you need to know: The JVC KW-M595BT digital multimedia receiver plays well with wired Apple CarPlay (and Android Auto). You'll find this radio fits most double-DIN (4" tall) dash openings nicely, giving you a generous 6.8" touchscreen for all your information needs. It also works with a number of steering wheel control adapters, including the iDatalink Maestro RR and RR2.

Audio/Video features: A 13-band graphic equalizer with high- and low-pass filters lets you find the sound that fits your mood. If you want to add SiriusXM satellite radio, you can do so with an optional tuner and your paid subscription. There's a video input for a backup camera.

Details

• 6.8" capacitive touchscreen fits double-DIN dash openings
• Built-in amplifier (22 watts RMS/50 watts peak x 4 channels)
• Inputs: rear USB input, backup camera input
• Outputs: rear video output (RCA), 5-channel preamp outputs (2.5-volt front, rear, mono subwoofer)
• Compatible with optional SiriusXM satellite radio tuner (subscription required)
• Works with iDatalink Maestro RR and RR2 modules

Kenwood DDX5707S — Best stereo with wired CarPlay that plays discs

What you need to know: Kenwood's DDX5707S DVD receiver gives old-school disc fans a reason to cheer with DVD/CD playback to go along with wired CarPlay (and Android Auto). The radio's 6.75" capacitive touchscreen display delivers info with clarity from many double-DIN dash openings.

Audio/Video features: You can play high-resolution music files (up to 24-bit/192kHz) through the USB input. This radio's 13-band equalizer with time alignment gets your music sounding just the way you want it. Five preamp outputs give you flexibility in adding amplifiers to your system. And it'll work with SiriusXM satellite radio with an optional tuner.

Details

• 6.75" capacitive touchscreen fits double-DIN dash openings
• Built-in amplifier (21 watts RMS/45 watts peak x 4 channels)
• Inputs: rear USB input, rear camera input, rear A/V input (mini)
• Outputs: video output (RCA), 5-channel preamp outputs (2-volt front, rear, mono subwoofer)
• DVD/CD playback
• Compatible with optional SiriusXM satellite radio tuner (subscription required)

Kenwood Excelon Reference DDX9907XR — Best wireless CarPlay stereo that plays discs

What you need to know: When it comes to laying features out like a smorgasbord, it's tough to top the Kenwood Excelon Reference DDX9907XR DVD receiver. It plays well with all kinds of digital media — including discs — and it features wireless CarPlay (and Android Auto) connectivity. Kenwood packs this stereo with high-quality audio components and a high-resolution 6.75" touchscreen display, plus all kinds of connections for sources. It features a 2-year warranty and works with iDatalink's Maestro RR and RR2 steering wheel control modules.

Audio/Video features: High-res music files are no problem for this radio's 13-band equalizer with a built-in digital signal processor and time correction. The DDX9907XR also includes three pairs of gold-plated 5-volt preamp outputs that provide an ultra-clean signal when it's time to add amplifiers to your system. You have up to four camera inputs at the ready for total coverage around your vehicle. And you can enjoy your favorite radio broadcasts with a built-in HD Radio™ tuner (with participating stations) or by adding an optional SiriusXM satellite radio tuner with your subscription.

Details

• 6.75" high-definition capacitive touchscreen fits double-DIN dash openings
• Built-in amplifier (22 watts RMS/50 watts peak x 4 channels)
• Inputs: two rear USB inputs, rear A/V input (mini), four camera inputs (including one proprietary Kenwood input)
• Outputs: rear A/V output, 6-channel preamp outputs (5-volt front, rear, subwoofer)
• DVD/CD playback
• Compatible with optional SiriusXM satellite radio tuner (subscription required)
• Built-in HD Radio tuner
• Works with iDatalink Maestro RR and RR2 modules

Alpine iLX-W770 — Best Alpine radio with wireless CarPlay

What you need to know: Alpine was the first aftermarket manufacturer to sell car stereos equipped with CarPlay and wireless CarPlay, so it makes sense that people associate the two. The Alpine iLX-W770 digital multimedia receiver delivers top-notch performance with smooth operation. Its slim chassis allows fitment in most dash openings, and it can even pair with Alpine's dockable "PowerStack" amps for a convenient power boost that won't take up extra room in your vehicle. And if you have Alpine's "PrismaLink" subs, this stereo will let you control the subs' lighting effects.

Audio/Video features: This Alpine stereo will play high-resolution music files via the USB input with no problem. Alpine loads the iLX-W770 with a 13-band graphic EQ, 6-channel time correction, and crossovers for the front, rear, and sub channels. Three sets of 4-volt preamp outputs enable easy addition of amps. Alpine's innovative Sound Boost menu features expanded Bass Boost and Mid-Bass Boost controls, along with tools to optimize your sub (or subs), including sub level and sub phase settings. It can connect with your optional SiriusXM receiver, and it features a pair of camera inputs.

Details

• 6.75" capacitive touchscreen fits double-DIN dash openings
• Built-in amplifier (16 watts RMS/50 watts peak x 4 channels)
• Inputs: rear USB port, rear 3.5mm audio/video auxiliary input, dual camera inputs
• Outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, subwoofer)
• Compatible with optional SiriusXM satellite radio tuner (subscription required)

Jensen CAR140MW — Best budget CarPlay stereo with a floating screen

What you need to know: People love a giant screen on their dash, and they don't get much bigger than the Jensen CAR140MW's 10.1" floating display. Not only does this digital multimedia receiver offer wireless CarPlay (and Android Auto) compatibility, its chassis can fit in dash openings as small as 2" tall. It works with a number of steering wheel control adapters, including the iDatalink Maestro RR and RR2. And this bad boy gives you a volume knob for on-the-go sonic adjustments.

Audio/Video features: The CAR140MW comes with a 10-band graphic equalizer with seven presets, plus a separate subwoofer level control. You can play FLAC or MP3 files through a thumb drive, while the audio/video input lets you connect an additional audio or video source. It also allows connection to an optional SiriusXM satellite radio tuner, and you can add up to two cameras.

Details

• Adjustable floating 10.1" capacitive touchscreen display
• Screen monitor measures 10.125" x 6.75"
• Built-in amplifier (16 watts RMS/60 watts peak x 4 channels)
• Inputs: two rear USB inputs (2.1A), rear A/V input (RCA), two camera inputs
• Outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, subwoofer)
• Compatible with optional SiriusXM satellite radio tuner (subscription required)
• Works with iDatalink Maestro RR and RR2 modules

Sony XAV-9500ES — Best-sounding CarPlay stereo with a floating screen

What you need to know: The Sony XAV-9500ES is part of Sony’s flagship Mobile ES Series of car audio gear. It's the best of their best, for fans who value modern tech and premium sound. It leads off with a 10.1” high-capacitive floating screen, while fitting a single-DIN dash opening, which means it’s a great choice for older vehicles. It offers the convenience of wired (after a firmware update) and wireless Apple CarPlay and Sony’s LDAC technology to improve sound quality when streaming over Bluetooth connections.

Audio/Video features: High-end DAC (digital-to-analog converter) allows for high-resolution audio files. That means your high-res music will sound great. The 14-band graphic EQ and 3-zone crossover lets you fine-tune the music to your liking.

Details

• Adjustable floating 10.1" capacitive touchscreen display
• Screen monitor measures 10.635" x 6.695"
• Built-in amplifier (20 watts RMS/55 watts peak x 4 channels)
• Inputs: rear USB Type-C port, backup cam input, two additional camera inputs
• Outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (5-volt front, rear, subwoofer)
• Compatible with optional SiriusXM satellite radio tuner (subscription required)
• Works with iDatalink Maestro RR and RR2 modules

Pioneer AVH-3500NEX — Best CarPlay stereo with a flip-out screen

What you need to know: If you want to roll old school, then the Pioneer AVH-3500NEX DVD receiver is for you. When parked, the screen is concealed within the stereo body. But when powered on, the screed slides out, folds upright, and once your phone is plugged in, CarPlay is ready to go. This stereo is great for older vehicles that need a single-DIN radio. Everything else about this top-seller is strictly top-tech.

Audio/Video features: The AVH-3500NEX will play your high-res audio files just fine. It's equipped with a 24-bit/192Hz digital-to-analog converter for superb quality audio playback from disc, USB, iPhone, Android, and Bluetooth. You can get down with this radio's 13-band graphic EQ, while high- and low-pass filters let you control the frequencies. You also get a USB port, rear aux input, and you can add satellite radio with an optional tuner.

Details

• 6.94" motorized, fold-out touchscreen fits single-DIN dash openings
• Built-in amplifier (14 watts RMS/50 watts peak x 4 channels)
• Inputs: rear USB input, rear A/V input (3.5mm minijack), rear-view camera input
• Outputs: 6-channel preamp outputs (4-volt front, rear, subwoofer)
• DVD/CD playback
• Compatible with optional SiriusXM satellite radio tuner (subscription required)

Bonus item — Convert a stereo's wired-only Apple CarPlay into wireless CarPlay with the CRUX ACP-WLX

Thanks for reading to the end! Here's an extra item that might solve a problem for you.

What you need to know

For starters, the CRUX ACP-WLX interface is not a radio. However, it does present a useful solution for a frequently asked question: How can I make my wired-only CarPlay stereo work wirelessly?

This handy dongle plugs into nearly any factory or aftermarket wired-only CarPlay (and Android Auto) radio's USB port and converts it to compatibility with wireless operation. Nothing else should change about the operation of your stereo and the interface will remember your settings when you hop back in your vehicle. The ACP-WLX includes a USB pass-through if you need to charge your phone or just want to use wired CarPlay.

Details

• Plug-and-play interface that converts wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in factory and select aftermarket car stereos to wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
• Compatible with select Kenwood, Pioneer, JVC, Alpine, Jensen, Boss, Dual, Axxera, and Stinger car stereos with wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
• Select Sony car stereos require a firmware update for compatibility

Let us help you shop for a CarPlay stereo

As mentioned above, our customers love CarPlay for many different reasons. These are just a few of their favorite models, but we have many more options. Tell us what you drive, and we’ll filter the selection to only those stereos that’ll work in your vehicle. Once those choices are available, think about what other features you might enjoy from a new stereo, including disc playback, sonic upgrades, satellite radio compatibility, cameras, and other add-on possibilities. We're ready to help you find the right fit for your car, needs, and budget.

We encourage you to contact our advisors if you have any questions or to confirm what you need to install a new CarPlay stereo in your car.

Looking for more of our best picks? Check out our full Best Picks article lineup.