Best Flip Out Head Units

One of the biggest upgrades every new car is implementing these days is putting a flip-out head unit on their dashboards. It’s time to ditch the old, dimly lit stereo sets and make the big upgrade.

Not only are you going to give yourself plenty of wonderful new features, but you’re also going to bring your car into the 21st century with a new, sleek device. With flip-out head units become so popular, it’s becoming more and more difficult to choose which one will work for you.

That’s why we’ve gone out and checked out the various flip-out head units that are on the market to bring you some of our favorites. That way, you can narrow down your list without having to worry about knowing where to start or where to go. Whether your plan is to add a full sound system complete with new interior speakers, amps, and subs, or you just want to modernize the look of your current head unit, we have some great choices below.

So take a look at our list below in order to get started!

Power Acoustik PTID-8920B In-Dash Receiver

This head unit is a jack-of-all-trades that will do just about anything you want it to. Looking to have numerous devices hooked up so you can mirror your navigation app or listen to your favorite tunes? Check. Wanting to hook up your rearview camera so you can park and reverse without any problems? Check.

Plus it does a lot more than that. You can watch videos, upload photos, and set up hands-free calling with ease. We love how simple it was to set up and connect to your devices immediately without any big issues.

Of course, you’re going to want top sound from your audio system and this unit delivers fantastic quality. It has great equalizer settings and output, meaning you’ll be getting the rich and clear tunes that you desire.

It’s worth noting that while this unit will connect via Bluetooth to any phone, it does not respond to voice commands with every phone on the market. It may not get you that hands-free activity that you’re so desiring.

The touchscreen is seven inches, wide enough to display everything without forcing you to squint to try and read. It does come with a remote, but we weren’t all too impressed with it. It tended to lag a bit and often took multiple button punches to get things working right.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• SDHC card reader, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB port
• Works with backup cameras
• Fantastic sound quality
• DVD receiver included
• Touchscreen works perfectly

Cons:

• Basic music adjustment, not great for audiophiles
• Video quality is average
• Laggy remote

Pioneer AVH-3300NEX Flip Out DVD Receiver

Pioneer has been making car accessories for longer than we can remember and has always been putting out fantastic products. This model is no different and goes to great lengths to bring you fantastic quality and a durable product.

While Pioneer has long been in the speaker game, you might need to purchase a few of their speakers here as the sound quality isn’t as great as it could be. It does come with more than just the basic music adjustments though, but audiophiles are going to notice it lacks that punch and clarity.

The receiver is both CD and DVD compatible and it works flawlessly with Android Auto and Apple’s CarPlay. The motorized fold-out screen only adds onto the experience, folding and powering down when you turn your vehicle off. If you’re someone who likes to keep things on the down-low, then this is the perfect unit for you.

You can sync multiple devices, connect easily to your backup camera, and comes with plenty of hands-free options in order to heighten your experience. For those who like to make things their own, the touchscreen is also customizable.

The one big downside is the USB port is on the back of the unit, meaning it is hard to connect any devices with ease. You might have some trouble fitting your device’s cable around the back but the Pioneer does come with an extension cable that functions with most devices.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Supports both Android Autio and Apple CarPlay
• Bluetooth connectivity with multiple devices
• DVD receiver
• Motorized unit, folds away when not in use

Cons:

• Unit updates are frequent and difficult
• So-so sound quality

Jensen VX7012 Single Din Car Stereo

You might not be too familiar with Jensen, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t going to produce quality products. Our favorite things about this unit are what many similar units lack: Sirius XM radio and GPS navigation.

The sound quality surprised us and we were able to notice a difference immediately after turning on the radio. Even with the factory-issued speakers that came with your vehicle, you’re going to instantly notice a big upgrade and change in sound quality.

This Jensen unit is compatible with both Android and Apple phones, Bluetooth capabilities, a USB port, and easy connectivity to your favorite music apps like Spotify or Pandora Radio. If you’re someone who can’t even go down the road without finding music, then this is an ideal option for you.

But let’s go back to one of the two highlights: GPS navigation. We love that the unit will give you audible prompts in order to keep you on track while keeping things easy and well-lit on the 7-inch LCD touchscreen.

You can also link up your steering wheel controls easily, letting you keep both hands where they matter and adjust the volume or switch a song. Many users prefer this method as some have noticed the touchscreen lag from time to time.

You can also hook it up with a backup camera and fits well on just about any vehicle’s dash.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Easy connectivity with all devices
• GPS system that gives audible notices
• Works perfectly with SiriusXM
• Fantastic audio quality

Cons:

• Poor screen visibility with sunlight
• Sluggish and slow touchscreen

Pyle PLTS78DUB Single Din Touch Screen

Another name that’s not too well known in the business, the Pyle doesn’t do a lot to wow you at first glance. It looks like any other flip-out head unit you might stumble across, with a basic design and push buttons that look like they’re straight out of the mid-2000s.

But don’t let looks fool you, as this Pyle unit has one of, if not the best, touchscreen we’ve reviewed. Responsive, easy to navigate, and never showing a bit of lag, the screen has a sharp and clear display that won’t have you punching the screen multiple times in frustration.

Couple this with the fact that installation was a breeze and you have one of the most ideal units for beginner users out there. If you’ve always wanted to add a flip-out unit to your vehicle without having to spend a fortune, then this is a nice one to start with. Or, if you’re just not sure you want one quite yet then this is a good starter unit.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and a mic, meaning you can enjoy hands-free driving while you’re on the road. The call quality, however, can be a bit spotty. Asking around, those talking in the vehicle often sound like they’re very distant from the mic.

It’s a moderate price that also comes with a USB and Aux input. Thankfully, these inputs are on the front and quite easy to access.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Bluetooth, USB, and Aux connectivity
• Easy to install and use
• Great value for the price
• Responsive touchscreen

Cons:

• Lots of glare on sunny days
• May not fit in all cars

Soundstream VIR-7830B Flip Out Head Unit

One of our favorite things about this Soundstream model is its easy installation and setup. If you’re someone who fancies yourself to be a DIYer, then you should definitely try and give this one a go before taking it to a professional.

This device comes loaded with connectivity options, such as Bluetooth, a USB input, and an Aux input. On top of that, it comes with a remote that responds quickly. We didn’t notice any lag on it (even after we dropped it between the seats a few times).

The screen is quite clear and responded quickly as well. Plus, you can enjoy going completely handsfree as the voice recognition and control works with just about every smartphone out on the market.

The flip-out unit is quite sturdy and durable, meaning it’s perfect for those on long road trips or who have kids that like to get their hands on everything. It’s also a solid bargain, meaning you can keep the Benjamins in your pockets while making the purchase.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Fantastic value for your money
• Plenty of connection options
• Clear touchscreen that doesn’t lag
• Easy, hands-free use

Cons:

• It comes without a warranty
• Doesn’t go well with sunlight or direct light
• Occasional freezing when connecting to a phone

Pyle Car Stereo Receiver System & Backup Camera Kit

Another Pyle makes the list and for good reason. We side with the users on this one who rave about its easy to use touchscreen that never showed any signs of lag or slowdown.

While this model isn’t going to blow you away with a sleek design or a super cool layout, you don’t really need it if you’re looking for a unit that’s simply going to get the job done. Plus, it comes fit with GPS navigation and Bluetooth connectivity.

It comes with a DVD drive and two USB slots for easy hookup. If you’re someone who doesn’t really like to show off your latest purchases or items, then you can easily fold down the unit and hide it away. The stereo still works and it produces great sound.

Installation on this model is pretty tricky, so it’s best to take this to a professional to get it set up and ready to go. If you are going to try it, be warned that the manual is light on details and isn’t going to tell you a lot of information.

The picture is clear, as long as you’re not expecting TV quality, and can be hooked up with your backup camera in a flash.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Great viewing from any angle with the touchscreen
• Top-quality sound and display
• More advanced audio options for those who want to fine-tune music
• Easy GPS setup and use

Cons:

• You have to press a bit harder on the touchscreen than you would on a phone
• Confusing installation and setup

Pioneer AVH-X7800 BT Receiver

We were bound to run into another Pioneer somewhere on this list. This model outperforms its brethren in terms of sound quality, offering up more clear, deep music throughout the entire vehicle.

Sounds quality isn’t the only part about this receiver that’s making waves, but the picture quality as well. We know that you don’t need your receiver to be as clear as your living room TV, but you do want it to look nice, right?

Plus, this unit offers you the ability to customize nearly all features of the system from the visual setup to the audio playback. Some users reported compatibility issues, stating that they were having difficult times to set up their devices.

What is nice though is that you can connect two devices at the same time as this unit offers dual Bluetooth options. The only thing you’ll really have to think about is who gets to choose the music.

Installation is a bit difficult, especially for beginners so it’s almost a guarantee that you’re going to have to take this into the shop.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Dual Bluetooth is a unique feature that works great

USB and aux inputs for your devices

Top-notch audio quality

Fantastic video quality, one of the clearest we’ve seen

Cons:

Difficult installation, may not fit in all vehicles

Only one USB input

Users have reported compatibility issues with their devices

Boss Audio BV00821 Touchscreen Player Receiver

We’ve got to start out with the biggest complaint we have about this unit: it doesn’t have Bluetooth. Yes, yes, how can we possibly put a unit on this list (in the year 2019, no doubt) that doesn’t have Bluetooth capabilities?

This unit is ideal for those who are on a budget and looking at putting a receiver in their vehicle. The lack of Bluetooth drives the price down and you won’t find such a bargain anywhere else.

Since we started off with the negative aspects, it’s time to return to the positive. We love the audio and video quality that Boss puts out with this unit. Your screen is incredibly clear, displaying DVDs and your backup camera feed in crystal clear imagery.

What it lacks in Bluetooth, it makes up in other connectivity options like the aux cord, USB, and an SD card slot, meaning you can hook up just about anything you want to play or watch.

While the audio quality is fantastic, it doesn’t offer many audio options besides the basics which might put off some of the more loyal audiophiles out there.

Overall, it’s a great unit for a great price.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Bargain deal for those on a budget
• DCD receiver
• Aux, USB, and SD inputs
• 2 USB inputs
• Works with your steering wheel

Cons:

• No GPS navigation
• No Bluetooth
• Doesn’t play MP4s

Planet Audio P9759B Single Din Touch Screen

While we admit that Planet Audio isn’t the best sounding name out there, it does offer a solid and simple flip-out head unit that will get you all your basics. There aren’t really any extra frills nor will it wow you with its design, but this unit is simple and straightforward that will cover all your needs.

In fact, Pioneer has thought that this unit would be so easy, they didn’t even include instructions. For all those former LEGO enthusiasts that like to build their own things, your skills are being called upon once again.

This unit connects to your backup camera and offers regular connectivity options: Bluetooth, Aux, and USB. It hooks up to your steering wheel in order to give you a hands-free experience.

Audio quality has been getting plenty of thumbs up and it even works well with your stock speakers. If you’re looking for a basic upgrade to your vehicle, then this will do enough for the job.

Installation, however, is pretty difficult even made further by the fact that there are no instructions. You might be left winging it as you try to set it up. Don’t worry though, there are plenty of YouTube videos out there to help guide you down the right path.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Connectivity options for all your devices
• Screen is clear and bright
• Fantastic value for its price

Cons:

• No instructions means there’s a steep learning curve
• Difficult installation
• Users have reported the connection drops in and out

YODY Single Din Car Stereo Flip-Out Touch Screen

Another name that casual audio fans may not recognize, this YODY model works very similar to an Android tablet, but for your car. It has WiFi access and GPS to make sure you stay connected while you’re out on the road.

Working like a tablet, you can download plenty of apps in order to customize and play around with your unit. If you’re worried about storage, this unit also comes with an SD card slot meaning you can load even more apps, photos, or videos on there. You can even download apps like Netflix and Hulu if you want.

One of the biggest letdowns with this model is the fact that it doesn’t come with a CD or DVD reader, something that has been pretty consistent with every other model we’ve looked at. Plus, it only works with Android devices so if you’ve got an Apple device, just go ahead and forget about this one.

Another downer is the fact this unit performs horribly when any sunlight hits the screen. If it’s a sunny day and you’re not fortunate to have a tree or something else blocking sunlight, you’re going to be experiencing plenty of glare while driving around.

It’s a bit steep on the price as well, but with the amount of customization and other options, the YODY is a great pickup for anyone looking to make an upgrade.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Great for apps and those who like to stream music

Plenty of customization options

Clear sound

Easy setup and installation

Cons:

No CD/DVD reader

No remote control

Tons of glare with sunlight

GPS system takes a long time to connect

Closing Thoughts

We’ve gone over a whole range of different flip-out units and we can’t say which one is the best for you. That depends on many different things like your budget, type of car, and what features are important to you.

If you need GPS, then know that GPS isn’t the most common thing on these flip-out units. For those looking for a complete hands-free model, then you should be sure to check out which ones can hook up to your steering wheel or respond best to voice commands.

Be sure and do your research and read plenty of other reviews before you make your decision. Good luck!