If you require a quick answer, the best single din head unit is the Sony DSXA410BT, which is an affordable car stereo that delivers excellent sound quality and is packed full of features. However, if you require something a bit more special, the Alpine iLX-F903D has an impressive 9 inch display and is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
To rate the single din head units within this article, we based our recommendations upon our own experience of using multiple head units, research and multiple factors. Some of the factors that we considered included the type, DAB and Bluetooth functionality, inputs and outputs, display, additional features, warranty and value for money.
Table of Contents
Single Din Head Unit Comparison
| Single Din Head Unit | Type | DAB |
|---|---|---|
| Sony DSXA410BT | Standard | No |
| Alpine iLX-F903D | Digital Media Station | Yes |
| Pioneer SPH-10BT | Smartphone App Controlled | No |
| Pioneer AVH-Z7200DAB | Flip-Out Display | Yes |
| Vanku Android | Digital Media Station | Yes |
| Alpine CDE-205 | Standard | Yes |
Single din head units with a DAB radio tuner is highly desirable and often worth paying the premium. However, it’s important to note that you will also require a DAB aerial, which isn’t always included with the stereo.
Below is a list of the best single din head units that are direct replacements for factory stereos and provide a wide range of additional functionality.
The Best Single Din Head Unit
1. Sony DSXA410BT Single Din Head Unit
For those that require an affordable direct replacement stereo with Bluetooth connectivity, the Sony DSXA410BT is the perfect solution. It even includes a built-in four channel amplifier that provides extra bass and excellent sound quality.
Compared to similar priced alternatives, this single din head unit offers far more connection options such as dual Bluetooth, USB and AUX. The only thing that it misses is the DAB functionality but the brand offer this with the successor to this model. However, the newer model does come with a premium price tag and not everyone requires DAB.
Other features of the Sony DSXA410BT include:
- Built-in four channel amplifier
- Dual Bluetooth connectivity
- 4 x 55 watts max output
- Steering wheel control compatible
- Built-in microphone for handsfree calling
- Extra bass button for an instant increase
Overall, the Sony DSXA410BT is an excellent all-round single din head unit that won’t disappoint. Considering its affordable price tag, it’s packed full of functionality and delivers impressive sound quality that can be customized to suit your requirements. The simplistic design also means that it’s not obtrusive, which makes it an ideal OEM replacement.
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2. Alpine iLX-F903D 1-DIN Media Station
If you want something a bit special, the Alpine iLX-F903D is a premium single din head unit that features an impressive 9 inch touchscreen display. The digital media station slots into the 1-DIN installation space and the super-slim touchscreen display hangs out. Due to the additional touchscreen size, this single din stereo has many of the desirable premium features that are found upon most double din head units.
Other features of the Alpine iLX-F903D include:
- DAB+ radio tuner
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- 3-pre outs (front/rear/subwoofer)
- White LED ambient light
- USB video playback and smartphone mirroring
- Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming and handsfree
- Easy to install and comes with all accessories
Although expensive, the Alpine iLX-F903D is an impressive head unit that completely transforms your in-car entertainment. Not only does it look great but it provides all the functionality you could ever need inside of your car.
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3. Pioneer SPH-10BT Single Din Head Unit
The Pioneer SPH-10BT is a unique single din head unit that’s designed to be used alongside a smartphone. It connects with the Pioneer Smart Sync App, which then allows you to control multiple features of the head unit.
In terms of holding the phone, it uses a robust holder, which is compatible with the majority of smartphones. The placement also makes it ideal for viewing Waze, Google Maps or Apple Maps when using the navigation.
Other features of the Pioneer SPH-10BT include:
- Rotatable smartphone holder
- Voice control and handsfree calling
- Dedicated navigation button
- Customise sound and theme settings
- Optional parking sensor upgrade
By using your smartphone as the display, this single din head unit provides plenty of functionality whilst remaining fairly discrete. The SPH-10BT stereo is a great bit of kit for the money and the dedicated Pioneer smartphone app allows you to tailor all the settings to your own preferences.
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4. Pioneer AVH-Z7200 Motorized Car Stereo
Another single din head unit by Pioneer is the motorized AVH-Z7200 stereo and it’s the brand’s new and improved model. The flip-out 7 inch touchscreen display provides a host of functionality and it flips in or out in seconds.
Along with the long list of features, this particular model has many high-grade audio functions. These include a 13 bang graphic EQ and even time alignment, which allows you to tailor the sound settings to your requirements.
Other features of the Pioneer AVH-Z7200 include:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- DAB+ radio tuner
- Dual camera input
- 7 inch touchscreen flip-out display
- Bluetooth for audio streaming and handsfree
- Multi-colour illumination to match your interior
Although there are many cheaper flip-out single din head units available, you really do get what you pay for. The Pioneer AVH-Z7200 is a premium option but it’s built to the highest of standards, delivers great sound quality and is packed full of functionality.
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5. Vanku Android Single Din Head Unit
Android car stereos are very desirable for many car owners as they allow for plenty of customisation and this Vanku head unit is a great option to consider. It uses the latest Android 10 operating system that allows for a fast boot up time and also compatibility with all the popular applications such as Waze, YouTube, Facebook and so much more.
A unique feature of this particular model is the OBD2 scanner connectivity, which allows you to display car diagnostics and real time data with compatible devices.
Other Features of the Vanku Android Single Din Stereo include:
- 10.1 inch inch display
- Android 10 operating system
- DAB+ functionality
- 16 band EQ with front, rear and subwoofer outputs
- Bluetooth audio streaming and handsfree calling
- Steering wheel control
- Built-in digital signal processor
- Supplied with all installation accessories
- 18 month warranty and lifetime support
Overall, the Vanku Android stereo is a premium single din option that not only looks great but is also designed for superior sound quality. It can also be customised to best suit your requirements with a whole host of downloadable applications available.
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6. Alpine CDE-205 DAB Single Din Car Stereo
Alpine are a highly reputable brand in the car audio industry and their CDE-205 single din head unit is a great option to consider. It’s the brand’s new and improved model that features Bluetooth and DAB functionality. In terms of playing music, you have the choice to use a USB stick, Bluetooth, AUX or connect your smartphone via the USB port.
Other features of the Alpine CDE-205 include:
- High speed USB port upon the fascia
- Variable RGB illumination
- Bluetooth for handsfree and audio streaming
- 4 x 50W amplifier
- 3 pre-outs (2V)
- Supplied with a wiring harness
If you are looking for a premium single din head unit that’s ideal for replacing an OEM stereo, you can’t go wrong with the Alpine CDE-205. It’s built to the highest of standards and has everything you need in a single din head unit.
How We Tested & Rated The Single Din Head Units
Over the years of replacing many single din head units with aftermarket alternatives, we have tried and tested a wide range of options. This includes budget to premium options that offer every possible feature you can imagine.
Nowadays, there is a huge selection of aftermarket head units to choose from and if your budget can stretch to the media stations that fit within a single din opening, we would highly recommend them. As you can see in the photo, they slot straight into the opening but provide a much larger display and many more features.
As well as testing a number of single din head units, we also based our recommendations upon hours of research and multiple factors. Some of the factors that we considered included the type, DAB and Bluetooth functionality, inputs and outputs, display, additional features, warranty and value for money.
Conclusion
Unlike the 2-DIN alternatives, single din head units are available in many different types to best suit your requirements. These days, Bluetooth is an essential feature for audio streaming and handsfree but many drivers also require a DAB tuner for all their favourite radio stations, additional outputs for extra speakers and so much more.
To avoid disappointment, we highly advise that you buy from a well-known brand in the UK. There are hundreds of cheap head units available but they lack many essential features and may also ruin the overall appeal of your interior.
