Best Cheap Car Stereos – Budget Head Units [UPDATED 2023]

We got all the options you need when it comes to budget car stereos! Single or double DIN, touchscreen, with a CD player or Disc-player-free units (also called – digital media receivers) – we’ve got you covered.

Cheap Car Stereo – around and under $100 & $200 – DOUBLE DIN

ATOTO F7 Standard

ATOTO has hit it out of the park with its F7 budget head unit. Despite being a low-priced double-din head unit, F7 is compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (see more units).

Other ATOTO options:

• ATOTO F7 XE with wireless CarPlay & Android Auto
• ATOTO S8 10-inch screen
• ATOTO S8 Standard
• even more…

Also, the Android Auto or CarPlay connection of ATOTO F7 is intuitive, i.e., the unit automatically picks either of the phone operating systems. You don’t have to manually tap the “Android Auto” or “CarPlay” buttons on the stereo.

Like any standard contemporary head unit, ATOTO F7 is a mechless stereo system with multiple inputs. You can connect your input device via Bluetooth, USB, and AUX cable. Moreover, you can also connect front and rearview (HD 720P video quality) camera input to the display of the F7. With multiple input options, you are always ready to play your favorite media in the car.

The other great bit about ATOTO F7 is its AutoLink option that lets you mirror your phone screen on the stereo. This comes in handy when you want to use or cast an app (like Google Maps, Youtube, etc) on the stereo that is not supported by CarPlay or Android Auto.

Pioneer MVH-S620BS

Other Options:

• CD Version: Pioneer FH-S520BT
• Limited Edition: Pioneer MVH-S622BS
• Also Great: Pioneer MVH-S420BT

As mentioned earlier, Pioneer is one of the best companies for audio entertainment devices. It also offers double Din stereo systems at reasonable price points. Case in point: Pioneer MVH-S620BS Digital Media Receiver.

Like any other Pioneer device, this stereo also boasts many exclusive propriety features. To begin with, you can use the stereo through Pioneer’s Smart Sync with built-in Alexa. This app enables you to get a seamless experience of controlling the stereo from your Apple and Android smartphones.

Moreover, you get MIXTRAX— the virtual DJ — in your stereo. This built-in function lets you make your own hours-long audio mixes to transform your vehicle into a club.

The sound-coordinated LED display increases the club-like effect of the MIXTRAX manifold. The Pandora compatibility of this double Din stereo is also worth mentioning.

When synced with Pandora, you can bookmark songs and give them a like or dislike directly from the stereo’s front panel.

Pioneer MVH-S620BS also boasts great compatibility for Android devices— thanks to its AOA 2.0 support. You can use the control buttons of this stereo system to use any of the music streaming apps on your Android phone.

The two keys on the front panel of MVH-S620BS are also worth discussing. The BASS Boost Key lets you activate the dynamic bass-enhancing effect with a single touch. Then there is Navi Key that you can press to launch the navigation app.

It is also quite great with its call quality due to its state-of-the-art Wideband Speech Handsfree Profile 1.6. Unlike regular stereo Bluetooth configuration, Wideband Speech increases the bandwidth of call audio two times to provide a crystal-clear listening experience.

Video of Pioneer MVH-S420BT

JVC KW-X840BTS

JVC also offers a double Din stereo option for all those people looking for a quality sound system in the car but don’t want to break the bank either.

The first thing that catches our eye is the stunning display of this stereo. JVC has used a 1.5-line display with 2-zone variable color button illumination that creates a great ambiance of one color seamlessly bleeding into the other.

Besides an impressive display, JVC KW-X840BTS also boasts great functional features. It is compatible with Alexa, so you can play music, ask for news and weather and get navigation on without using your phone or fiddling with the front panel of the stereo.

When there is a group of friends in the car, playing songs that all agree upon becomes a challenge. JVC KW-X840BTS has devised a solution for this problem with its Streaming DJ feature. This feature allows you to connect five phones to the stereo at the same time so that everyone can play their favorite track from their own device on their turn. Moreover, the stereo can simultaneously handle calls from two phones.

The other impressive feature of this JVC double Din stereo is its intuitive volume-linked equalizer that amplifies certain frequencies to offset/neutralize the ambient noise.

Then there is a digital time alignment feature that you can use to synchronize the output of all the physically distant speakers by using a delay. For bonafide audiophiles, JVC KW-X840BTS also features the 13-band equalizer so they can customize their experience as per their aural preferences.

See it compared with this Pioneer model in the same price range.

JVC KW-X840BT Display and Controls Demo

Boss BV765B

A 6.2″ display sits Boss BV765B face to allow for touchscreen control. Its screen is sensitive enough for easy use. Nevertheless, the unit also comes with wireless remote control for alternative control.

Seeing that this is an in-dash DVD/CD player receiver, it can play a tremendous amount of audio and video files regardless of the time.

It accepts MP3, WAV, FLAC, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, and JPEG files. Bluetooth connectivity is only a bonus to this highly diversified novelty.

A front USB port is highly convenient; the rear 3 sets of preamp outputs (2-volt front, rear, subwoofer) allow for marriage with other powerful components (like sub preamp output).

With the Boss BV765B, there’s no need to second guess its capability if you’re after a budget DVD/CD player; just go on ahead and buy it.

Jensen CMR270

From the look of things, the Jensen CMR270 was engineered for ease of use and consistent yet splendid faculty.

It not only comes with a look to kill, but it also sounds and functions just as well. Its authentic flair makes it unique, a diamond in the rough to say the least.

I thought it fit to first highlight the CMR270’s touchscreen control feature. In a world where every gadget is pretty much touch screen controlled, this feature comes through with much relief for users.

Hands-free calling eliminates potential distractions while on the road. Push-to-talk voice assistant (Siri or Google) lets you give vocal commands such as calls, music, navigation, and others.

It features a microSD card, UBS (with Fast Charging), and AUX inputs which make it possible to hook on and operate external players. Its outputs include front and rear preamp outputs. It also comes with rear camera input, handy for reverse gearing.

You can easily switch between camera mode and the normal display at the push of a button. A preset EQ helps adjust tunes to a more customized sound. Finally, the CMR270 comes with wireless remote control for eased control.

Dual DM620N

Pros:

• Easy installation and slim mount design that fits various dash opening
• Plays various music files
• The touch screen allows for easy control

Cons:

• Limited display option
• Navigation is slow in urban areas
• Requires an antenna adapter for navigation
• Poor brightness settings

The Dual DM620N features many of the same features you would expect in a double din receiver. With built-in Bluetooth, USB port, and aux input, you can play several audio files, but not discs. Moreover, the stereo features seven preset EQ curves and bass and treble controls to offer more control over the audio.

With 50 watts of peak power and 16 watts RMS, you can play your audio to a larger quality. Moreover, the push-to-talk voice assistant allows you to use your mobile device with your iPhone Siri or android Google Assistant without taking your eyes off the road.

Moving on to what sets the Dual DM620N apart from all the others in the list. The stereo comes with a spacious 7″ touchscreen display and offers navigation features with more than 1.2 million points of interest using the iGO primo navigation software. Moreover, you can connect a rear-view camera to the stereo, allowing you to see your car’s blind spot.

The LCD offers a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels. The on-screen map allows you to switch between a 3D or 2D map view and different color themes for any time of day. Moreover, the navigation system is updated with lane information, signposts, junction view, tunnel view, and freeway services.

Pyle PLRDN43

This budget-friendly double din unit offers users benefits that would otherwise be unattainable within its price range.

Despite its inexpensive price, it has a unique charm that separates it from the rest.
For one, its distinguished property is its edgy appearance, which is also the cause of its proficiency. Second, it offers up a total of 300 Watts worth of power at maximum capacity. On its own, this device is quite powerful, so imagine what it’ll sound like when paired with an amp.

Making calls is easy since Bluetooth connectivity is available. A built-in microphone ensures the calls are clear and free from any nuisance crackles (which can be common on cheap units). But besides Bluetooth functionality; this head unit plays USB/AM/FM tuner radio as well as AUX and USB connections further broadening your play options.

Pyle’s PLRDN43 also features multi-color illumination. You can also curve your musical tunes with its preset EQ. Due to its compatibility with both iOS and Android, it is extremely versatile. Last but definitely not least is the wireless stream ability; this lets you stream music from your phone right to the unit.

Sony Dsx-B700

This budget double Din stereo option is another sleekly designed device that quickly grabs your attention with its illumination. Sony has introduced Dynamic Color Illuminator in this stereo.

This feature allows you to choose a host of colors and patterns on the stereo display to match the rest of your car’s interior. You can also synchronize this illumination with the music being played.

Sony Dsx-B700 also offers dual Bluetooth connectivity. You can connect one phone to play music, use navigation, etc., and simultaneously connect another phone to make/receive calls.

The stereo also features an AOA 2.0-compatible USB port from which you can play songs directly from your charging Android phone without using Bluetooth.

Sony Dsx-B700 also features a 10-band equalizer. If you like to fine-tune your songs with perfect audio ingredients, you can use the 10 virtual sliders of the equalizer on the stereo’s wide display.

You will love Dsx-B700f if you like to sing along to songs, particularly during long drives. Sony has also introduced a karaoke mode in this stereo. The stereo fades the vocal tracks away as you activate the karaoke mode.

Regular MP3 files of any song have missing track details. Therefore, the MP3 quality bothers those who are used to enjoying the studio versions/master files of a track. The lossless master audio files come in FLAC files that many digital stereos can’t play.

However, that’s not the case with Sony Dsx-B700. Besides other formats, you can also play the FLAC files of your favorite music to enjoy every little detail.

Kenwood DPX304MBT

Kenwood DPX304MBT is another double Din option to consider if you are planning to spend around $100 on the stereo replacement. The stereo features nearly all the options you would like to have in any contemporary double Din digital receiver.

First of all, there is a 3-line wide LCD screen that offers a display visible from every car seat. Moreover, you can pick 24 different colors for the screen display and the control button illumination.

Kenwood DPX304MBT also has a Music Mix feature where you can simultaneously connect five devices to the stereo and play everyone’s favorite track. Similarly, you can connect two phones at the same time and make/receive calls from either of them through the stereo.

To offer you a complete digital experience, Kenwood has also developed a remote app for this double Din stereo. You can access and use the controls of the DPX304MBT from this app on your phone.

The stereo also features a 13-band equalizer and digital time alignment. The latter feature comes in handy when your car cabin is large, and multiple speakers are fitted in different locations. The other great bit about Kenwood DPX304MBT double Din digital receiver is it plays all music file formats.

From standard MP3, AAC, and WMA to high-definition/fidelity FLAC and WAV, every audio file is playable on Kenwood DPX304MBT.

Cheap Car Stereo – Under $100 – SINGLE DIN

Alpine UTE-73BT

Looking at the face of this digital media receiver says it all; stylish, simple…yet somewhat sophisticated! After all, it’s the latest Alpine and it comes for less than $100 bucks!

Other Alpine options:

• CD Version / No Bluetooth: Alpine CDE-170
• CD + Bluetooth Version: Alpine CDE-172BT

Alpine is a Japanese electronic company particularly known for making top-quality car audio devices and navigation systems. Its mech-less UTE-73BT tops our list among the best budget car stereos for single Din fitting. The stereo is designed in line with the demand of a contemporary user.

You can use the stereo to play your music directly from a smartphone or a flash drive. This budget Alpine stereo is compatible with both Apple and Android devices.

On regular stereos, you get to play your cellphone music either through Bluetooth or Aux port. Alpine offers more than these stock options in UTE-73BT.

For instance, you can also play your playlist from an Android smartphone through a USB port via AOA (Android Open Accessory) 2.0 connection. Moreover, you can connect and play your iPhone and iPod to the stereo to the USB port via the KCU-445i adapter.

Alpine UTE-73BT Display and Controls Demo

The benefit of playing from your device via a USB connection instead of Bluetooth is you get better sound control and quality.

Another thing we like about Alpine UTE-73BT is its call handling. While using the phone as the music input device, we all have experienced how an incoming call disrupts everything. Alpine has ensured that you can use its stereo for hassle-free call handling.

First, UTE-73BT comes with a microphone with a built-in noise-cancellation feature. Second, you can set up the head unit to automatically answer your call. Moreover, you can see the caller ID, missed, dialed, and received calls on the unit’s display so that you don’t have to open your phone while driving.

With all its attributes that support digital media and connections, Alpine UTE-73BT doesn’t support the function of a classic stereo system.

It’s a mech-less stereo with no moving parts and can’t play cassettes, CDs, and DVDs. In short, this stereo is not for those who like to get retro once in a while on their rides.

But don’t despair Alpine also made the CD version (Alpine CDE-172BT) of this unit.

JVC KD-X260BT

JVC is another Japanese company known for making audio equipment. Its KD-X260BT is another great budget car stereo you can get without spending over $100.

Other JVC options:

• JVC KD-R690S
• JVC KD-X370BTS
• even more…

The most impressive bit about  JVC KD-X260BT is its multi-device Bluetooth connectivity. You can connect five Bluetooth devices to the stereo at the same time. In other words, everyone in the car can take turns and blast their favorite music without fighting.

Moreover, you can connect two phones to the stereo at the same time for both audio streaming and hands-free calling. JVC KD-X260BT offers simple and secure pairing and lets you receive calls on either of the phones with one touch.

Another noteworthy feature of this budget one Din stereo is its K2 Technology. It is JVC’s patented technology designed to reproduce the original master sound by the frequency range expansion. For instance, if the digital file of a song has been recorded at 66 kHz, KD-X260BT can expand it to, say, 144 kHz to offer a better sonic experience.

We have also shortlisted this stereo because of two other features you will mostly find in high-end car systems only, i.e., space enhancement and time alignment. The space enhancement option of KD-X260BT lets you adjust the output of the two connected speakers in line with the size of the vehicle/space of the cabin.

Moreover, the time alignment feature lets you set a delay between the output of speakers installed at different locations inside the car. By using this feature, you can ensure that the collective sound coming from all the speakers reaches the listening position at the same instance.

The JVC KD-X260BT also boasts a Sound Response function that amplifies the low frequencies that vanish in AAC or mp3 files due to compression. You can also fully control your stereo from your phone through the app called JVC Remote.

One thing to watch out for is it keeps track of your connected cell phone and doesn’t stream from it if its battery is less than 40%.

Pioneer MVH-S320BT

Pioneer is also a Japanese enterprise specializing in making top-quality digital entertainment products. Its MVH-S320BT is another single Din stereo that you can buy for around $100.The stereo has all the features that you would like to see in any digital receiver.

Other Pioneer options:

• Pioneer MVH-S322BT
• even more…

It features wireless audio streaming and hands-free call handling with its powerful built-in Bluetooth. You can also connect your Android devices through the USB port to get a better listening experience.

However, the highlight of this Pioneer car stereo is its propriety Smart Sync App. It is a next-generation app designed by Pioneer, particularly for its stereo systems so that you can seamlessly connect your smartphones to your car’s sound system.

Besides giving you full control of the receiver, the Smart Sync also lets you use Amazon’s Alexa. Whether it’s news, songs, or weather forecast, you can “ask” Alexa, and your demand will be fulfilled through Pioneer MVH-S320BT without needing you to use a single button.

Pioneer boasts a rich history of making top-drawer DJ equipment. You can find a glimpse of Pioneer’s brilliance in that area with the MIXTRAX feature present in the MVH-S320BT car stereo.

It won’t be wrong to call this feature a “virtual DJ,” When MIXTRAX mode is on, the stereo automatically adds suitable jumps, effects, and transitions to your playlists to provide you an ambiance of a club inside your car cabin. The stereo also starts blaring dynamic, pulsating lights in MIXTRAX mode to make your experience more wholesome.

With all these propriety features, we would like to clarify that Pioneer MVH-S320BT might not be the best Pioneer sound device on the block. Some audiophiles may find its sound quality a bit underwhelming. Nonetheless, with its reasonable price tag and all those attractive features, it’s a good deal overall.

Sony DSXA415BT

The Sony DSXA415BT is a nicely molded single DIN unit with nothing but the world to offer.

Other Sony options:

• Sony MEX-N5300BT
• Sony CDX-G1200U
• even more…

Packed with an array of impressive features, few others can match this unit’s level of competence. And let’s not forget it falls within the under $100 mark making it pleasantly affordable.

As you would expect, the Sony DSXA415BT is a pretty versatile head unit. Starting off with the most impressive of its features, let’s talk about its voice control faculty. This unit allows you to change your playlist, send messages and make phone calls hands-free.

Voice control is a tremendous lifesaver, especially for those who prefer to keep their eyes on the road at all times.

NFC technology makes Bluetooth connectivity snappy and hassle-free. The unit is also iOS and Android compatible. In other words, your smartphone will undoubtedly link up with the unit when the need arises.

With an FM/AM tuner with 30 preset channels, you get the chance to shuffle through your favorite radio stations. A 10-bands graphic equalizer lets you customize the sound to your preferred timbre.

Its detachable faceplate makes it easy to keep off prying hands. Synchronized illumination gives it an aesthetic appeal that’s impossible to miss. Unfortunately, the LED lights are limited to black and white; you don’t get much funk off this one in terms of looks.

Kenwood KMM-BT728HD

This is the last best budget single Din digital media receiver under/around $100 on our list, and yet other Japanese make. Kenwood KMM-BT728HD also has all the features you would like to see in your stock stereo system replacement.

Other Kenwood options:

• Kenwood KDC-BT278U
• Kenwood KMM-BT328
• even more…

Like other contemporary car stereos, this one is also a digital media receiver. This stereo can also simultaneously pair five phones for music streaming and two for hands-free calling like the JVC one we have discussed above.

Like Pioneer stereo, Kenwood KMM-BT728HD also supports Alexa. However, here you don’t even need to install any app. If you have Alexa on your phone, the stereo will automatically sync with it when connecting your phone to the system.

Besides Bluetooth control for Android, KMM-BT728HD has USB connectivity for Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, iPod, etc.). It also boasts iAP2 support for Apple Music.

Then, Spotify and Pandora control for Android and iPhones are also available. In short, you won’t fall short of options for streaming music from your phone when your car sports Kenwood KMM-BT728HD.

If there is no phone and internet in the car, you can explore and enjoy new music— thanks to the HD radio tuner of the KMM-BT728HD. Unlike other stereos, the audio quality of this Kenwood receiver’s radio streaming is pretty amazing.

If you drive in the signal coverage of a particular radio station, you can listen to its stream without distortions. You can also use KMM-BT728HD to listen to SiriusXM, which is satellite radio.

The audio features of Kenwood KMM-BT728HD are also at par with any top-of-the-line stereo. It supports all audio formats, even the FLAC music files that many stereo systems are not compatible with.

Moreover, you get the 13-band equalizer to manually adjust every component of the audio blaring from the speakers. You can also set the equalizer in Kenwood KMM-BT728HD on the Drive mode to cancel out the exterior noise.

Pyle PLML51DB

What are you looking for in a cheap car stereo? Maybe your answer is something compact, powerful, and equipped with multiple connectivity options.

If so this 300-watt unit should be right up your alley! This receiver can accommodate a variety of sound system setups as it includes RCA outputs and two subwoofer outputs alongside Bluetooth compatibility.

You can plug in any device to play music through either the USB or AUX ports, or use a Wireless Music Streaming capability and say goodbye to wires! As if that’s not enough, it also has AM/FM radio stations with 30 memory stations which you’ll have complete control over using iOS or Android devices; all thanks to the IOS/ANDROID COMPATIBLE feature.

Furthermore, it features a stylish front panel where buttons allow for adjustment of color mode, saturation level, spectrum type, or even brightness level. All adjustments are easily made without having access to it making it simple yet appealing.

Jensen MPR2121

Pros:

• A compact shallow-mount design can fit in any dash
• Affordable
• Plays MP3 and FLAC files
• Offers USB and aux input
• J-link P2 smart app allows for easy control.

Cons:

• Does not play discs
• No anti-theft security features
• No wireless remote
• It is not compatible with steering wheel controls
• Cheaply made

While single Din units do not offer many features, and modern units offer too many, the Jensen MPR2121 sits comfortably between simplicity and innovation. With a compact design, affordable cost, and upgraded features, Jensen MPR2121 is the perfect stereo on a budget.

The Bluetooth digital multimedia receiver has a peak power of 50 watts and an RMS of 16 watts for each channel, giving 200 watts of peak power. Moreover, Bluetooth is compatible with iPhone and android mobile phones and allows for hands-free calling using touchscreen icons.

On the innovative side, the Jensen MPR2121 offers a j-link smart remote app that allows you to control the receiver from your mobile and change the station, song, volume, and mode directly from your phone. The stereo also offers a push-to-talk button that allows you to work with your smartphone assistant to carry out tasks without taking your eyes off the road.

The tuner features 30 preset stations, and you can also play MP3 or FLAC files, either through an aux input or a USB input. Moreover, the system offers five preset EQ curves to allow tweaking the audio to your liking, the Classic, Rock, Pop, Flat, and user. The user mode allows you to adjust the bass and treble between -7 to +7dB.

For display, the Jensen MPR2121 offers a 12-character LCD to make it easier to read and offers 32000 custom hues.

Boss 560BRGB

Pros:

• Easy to install
• Various inputs include Bluetooth, aux, USB, and disc player.
• High durability

Cons:

• Some users face problems with Bluetooth connectivity
• The display light does not dim, causing distraction at night

Another affordable and durable car stereo is the Boss 560BRGB, which offers many outstanding features for its price range. The stereo features a CD receiver with an AM/FM tuner and offers an RMS of 20 watts and peak power of 60 watts per channel, totaling 240 watts. Unlike the Jensen, the Boss 560BRGB plays CDs and disks.

The built-in Bluetooth allows for hands-free call receiving and audio streaming. The stereo equips an integrated microphone to allow you to carry on with the call while driving. Moreover, the wireless remote allows for easy control.

In addition to the remote, the stereo also has faceplate controls that allow you to control the audio and the display, choosing between red, green, blue, yellow, magenta, cyan, and white.

One of the main features of the affordable car stereo is the detachable faceplate that deters theft. The faceplate can be removed and placed in a hard plastic face case.

The built-in EQ allows you to control the audio between four curves; balance, fader, treble, bass, and preset. The ID# Tag stores and displays data on the audio file, including the title, artist, album, and more.

The Boss 560BRGB is an excellent choice if you want a highly durable and affordable stereo that allows you various choices to play audio.

Cheap Car Stereo – Under $50 – SINGLE DIN

Boss Audio Systems 611UAB

If you are looking for a no-frill cheap stereo replacement for your car, then this Boss device is definitely an option worth considering. It offers all the basic features that you need in any single din digital media receiver.

You can stream your music via phone through Bluetooth or aux input. The auxiliary slot also lets you use simple MP3 players with a stereo. You can also tune the stereo on FM and AM frequencies to enjoy the radio transmission in the area of your commute.

A USB port has become the most in-demand option in modern stereo systems. It allows people to play thousands of tracks from a single source (a flash drive) and charge their devices on the go.

Boss has taken care of this demand in 611UAB and fitted it with a USB port with a built-in 1A charger. Another noteworthy feature of Boss 611UAB is its pre-amp outputs. They let you expand your car’s sound system by two amps or signal processors.

Despite being a low-priced stereo system, Boss 611UAB also features the ID3 Tag. This tag ensures that you don’t have to look into the phone to find out the song details. The stereo displays the additional details besides the song name as the artist, album, genre, track number, etc., of the audio file being played.

There are some shortcomings of Boss 611UAB you should be aware of. First of all, it only supports only two file formats: MP3 and WMA. If your soundtracks are in AAC or FLAC format, a 611UAB stereo will render useless.

If you like to play original master files with no cuts and condensations, Boss  611UAB Single Din Multimedia Car Stereo might not be the option you are looking for.

Jensen MPR210 7

This is another cheap single Din option you can find under $50. In fact, it is the most budget-friendly car stereo option on our list.

Let’s start with the most distinctive feature of JENSEN MPR210: its Google/SIRI assist button. When connected to your smartphone, you can summon the respective virtual voice assistants with the touch of a button. In other words, you can play your favorite music, and podcasts and get navigation without using your hands at all.

We also like the display of this budget car stereo. Unlike other low-priced single Din receivers with long but narrow displays, this one features a compact and wide 7-character LCD on one side. The screen width and few characters even make it easy for people sitting in the backseat to reading the display.

Jensen also offers some audio customization features in its budget car stereo system. You get a 2-band tone control from where you can adjust the bass and treble of your soundtracks. Moreover, you can choose from four EQ curves Rock, Jazz, Flat, and Pop to configure your stereo in line with the genre of music being played.

You can also control the B08464VRML stereo with Jensen’s J-link Smart Remote app. The app is free and lets you control volume, EQ curve, tone control, etc., directly from your smartphone.

Being a budget car stereo, Jensen B08464VRML might not be the best option to make/receive calls. Many consumers have complained about its poor Bluetooth connectivity for incoming calls.

Moreover, like any other low-priced option, it doesn’t support every music file format. You can only enjoy your MP3 and WMA tracks on this unit.

Dual XRM59BT

Sometimes, it seems like you can’t buy a new car stereo that is simple and not crammed with too many features. The majority of brand-new car stereos come with all the bells and whistles and sport hefty price tags.

Dual has introduced its XRM59BT for all those car owners looking for a pristine yet no-frill head unit. It is a classic single-din and in-dash head unit that boasts easy installation with its shallow mount.

It features the classic 7-character 1-line display with white characters and black background. This minimalistic display is enough for seeing what track is being played at the moment. We also like its overall soft blue illumination that is easy on the eyes. XRM59BT’s classic look matches well with some of its contemporary features.

For instance, it features USB, AUX, and Bluetooth inputs so that you can connect your smartphone to the car sound system the way you want. It also lets you control a 2-band tone for bass and treble.

Then, a preset of 4 EQ curves is given, allowing the user to switch between rock, pop, flat, and classic presets. This simple single-din head unit also features a push-to-talk button to activate the voice assistant on your phone via Bluetooth.

More options in the Budget department

Leadfan 7″ Touch Screen Car Audio Receiver

If you are looking for a nice display and touch control within the budget, consider getting this 7-inch double-din stereo system by Leadfan. The stereo boasts 1080p resolution with a capacitive touchscreen that you can use either with a fingertip or a touch pen. This budget stereo system comes with four playback modes: Bluetooth, TF card, aux cable, and USB input.

Like any modern stereo system, it offers hands-free calling with its BT 5.0 connectivity. We also like this feature more in this head unit because it has a built-in microphone that is designed with noise reduction technology. Apart from its front panel, your phone, and a standalone remote, you can also control the functions of the Leadfan stereo from the steering buttons.

This budget car stereo is also a great head unit for its navigation capability. It supports MirrorLink features, allowing you to use both Android and Apple phones to run your GPS navigation on your infotainment system.

Despite being a budget option, this stereo system comes with a free remote and rearview camera along with connection accessories. You won’t find these add-ons even in most high-end car stereos.

Sound Storm DDC28B

As its name suggests, this head unit model has stirred quite a storm in the market. I know Sound Storm to impress on more than occasions; it is, therefore, no shock that the DDML28B is as belligerent as it is.

Trust me when I tell you that nothing else sounds this good within this price class. It also presents its users with a well-thought-through feature list that only kicks up its game. It is a great pick for anyone working on a tight budget but still wants something that startles.

There may not be much going on for the DDML28B; however, the little it does has set it miles apart from other models. Its maximum power rating, for instance, is 800 Watts x 4. Paired with a couple of powerful speakers, this head unit might just blow your cabin roof right off.

Its Bluetooth is efficient and is hardly a bother when in operation. Once connected, it allows for both hands-free calling and audio streaming. With that, you get access to an endless list of audio files. Its preset EQ helps adjust the sound ambiance to one that suits you the most.

Fitted with USB and AUX inputs ports, you can access your phone’s audio as well as charge it when the need arises. A detachable faceplate makes this head unit a theft deterrent; an aspect that offers incredible owners relief whenever they leave their vehicle parked out in the open.

The DDML28B plays Bluetooth, CDs, USB, MP3, WMA, and AM/FM radio. This makes it extremely pliant in terms of what you can play. It also includes an MP3 ID3 tag display and a wireless remote for hassle-free navigation.

Last update on 2024-11-20 / Affiliate links / *Image Disclaimer: We use images/data from Amazon Product Advertising API solely on products that link to Amazon. On products with the "Price at Crutchfield" button, we use images/data from Crutchfield.com as per the partnership deal.