Driving can be interesting and exciting, but more often than not it is monotonous and boring. This is especially true for traveling alone. And when choosing a radio for a car, the driver first of all seeks to entertain himself on the road. It is not surprising that motorists want to purchase a high-quality and functional device that will ideally cope with the tasks assigned to it. However, not every driver is ready to spend a lot of time searching for the best option for their needs and financial capabilities. And if you belong to this category of consumers, then it’s okay, because we did everything for you, compiling a large review of the best car radios.
Table: Top 7 radios 2021
Model | Best Features | Power | Standard size | Important Features | Price from (RUB): | |
Pioneer DEH-S5000BT | sound quality | 4×50 W | 1 DIN | DVD, USB | 7400 | Find out prices |
JVC KD-X151 | budget | 4×50 W | 1 DIN | USB, iPod | 2600 | Find out prices |
Pioneer DEH-4800FD | powerful | 4×100 W | 1 DIN | USB, iPod, CD | 6800 | Find out prices |
Pioneer DEH-X8700BT | processor | 4×50 W | 1 DIN | DVD, USB, iPod, SD, CD | 7200 | Find out prices |
Pioneer MVH-X580BT | best pioneer | 4×50 W | 1 DIN | USB, iPod | 6800 | Find out prices |
Farcar s130 | by sound quality | 4×50 W | 2 DIN | DVD, USB, iPod, SD, GPS, Android | 16900 | Find out prices |
Pioneer FH-X730BT | according to reviews | 4×50 W | 2 DIN | USB, iPod | 8300 | Find out prices |
GT-20 1Din 7″
sound quality;
connection via Bluetooth module;
rear camera support;
affordable price.
overheating at high volume.
GT-27 2Din-1Din 9″
https://market.yandex.ru/product—avtomagnitola-gt-27-2din-1din-9-android-kamera-bluetooth-2-usb/843540243
The car radio on Android GT-27 guarantees you comfort when traveling in a car thanks to its rich sound. The device weighs 1.73 kg, the display is 7 inches, which is quite average on the market.
If we talk about sound volume, the maximum power will be 4 x 60 watts. You can listen to audio from different devices - flash drives, SD cards, smartphones. The GT-27 will allow you to watch movies, and the device also supports DVDs.
The model will be the best choice for those who want to find a navigation device. This is possible thanks to the support of Glonass and GPS. GT-27 supports 3G, 4G, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Informative display
Pioneer DEH-S5000BT – the best 1 din car radio for sound quality
Unlocks the Pioneer DEH-S5000BT rating. The appearance looks solid, there are no unnecessary details. According to customer reviews, the main feature of the device is the built-in sound processor. Operation in several modes is possible.
The car radio has a USB port, thanks to which it is capable of playing most of the modern and best audio formats. The system works with phones based on Android and Apple. Using Bluetooth they make and receive calls. In addition, you can listen to music through it.
Pros *
- good sound quality with a huge number of settings;
- cool functionality;
- the best lighting options;
- plays CDs and DVDs.
Minuses *
- small buttons that are difficult to hit;
- Without the app on your phone nothing works.
Alpine UTE-200BT
convenient volume control;
Bluetooth module;
support for popular formats,
multi-color backlight;
memory card support.
easily soiled body.
Pioneer SPH-10BT
https://market.yandex.ru/product—avtomagnitola-pioneer-sph-10bt/336506456
The SPH-10BT car radio will be an excellent option for installation in a car showroom. The device is used to play audio from external media and receive FM stations. In addition, the device works with gadgets based on Android and iOS.
SPH-10BT supports 4 sound channels, the maximum power for them is 50 W. Using the 13-band equalizer, you can adjust the sound parameters as you wish. You also have the opportunity to connect your smartphone via Bluetooth and transmit a signal from the device for playback on the radio. The SPH-10BT will be able to play audio files from USB drives. The car radio supports formats - AAC, FLAC, MP3, WAV, WMA.
For convenience, the phone is mounted on a special holder, making it easier to control the model. The radio in question is compatible with parking indicators, so the distance to the obstacle will be displayed on the gadget’s monitor.
Convenient smartphone mount
JVC KD-X151 - the best budget 1 din car radio
Our rating of the JVC KD-X151 continues. This car radio runs Android OS. It has a radio with 24 stations. The FLAC format is supported, which does not involve audio compression. The sound is rich and lively.
The device works thanks to Mosfet transistors. This circuit provides plenty of power at different volume levels. As a result, even complex compositions are reproduced without interference.
A subwoofer or additional amplifier is connected to the radio. It can also be connected to standard control buttons on the steering wheel of the car.
Pros *
- low price;
- good touch screen;
- USB is provided.
Minuses *
- no Bluetooth;
- functionality is limited.
Salon interior element
Currently, manufacturers offer a large selection of different radios for cars. Their list is so large that many car enthusiasts are simply lost and cannot make the right choice. This device is a kind of car receiver. This is not only a means for listening to sound files or radio, but also multifunctional devices that make it possible to watch videos and connect various storage media
Choosing a high-quality car radio cannot be made without knowing some of the features that you should pay attention to when purchasing. The cost of this audio device also plays an important role for a car owner as it is something that many people look at when making a purchase.
At the same time, you should know that the criterion for the cost of a car radio directly depends on the number of functions. The highest price usually indicates that the device has a lot of auxiliary capabilities.
New cars are now being produced with music systems. Even in the basic configuration, car radios can be installed on them together with speakers. The quality of this equipment depends on the price category of the car. Car radios can be inexpensive, as well as more expensive and sophisticated.
Pioneer DEH-4800FD – powerful car radio
The model provides powerful sound. Songs can be played from Android, iPhone and iPod. The amplifier power for each channel is 100 W. The system configuration can be expanded by connecting an additional amplifier.
Thanks to Advanced Sound Retriever technology, music can be detailed if it was lost during file compression. If desired, songs are available in FLAC format. In terms of performance, it surpasses the usual mp3.
Pros *
- Apple compatible;
- supports Flac format;
- convenient and good interface.
Minuses *
- inconvenient equalizer settings;
- Bluetooth is missing.
MRM 7018
nice design;
integrated Bluetooth;
remote control;
ease of control.
poor connection when talking via Bluetooth.
Pioneer FH-X380UB
https://market.yandex.ru/product—avtomagnitola-pioneer-fh-x380ub/12911817
Stylish and more advanced, in comparison with previous radios, a two-din car radio from Pioneer. The device has a nice design (the keys are red backlit). The design provides a 4-channel MOSFET power amplifier with a maximum power of 4 to 50 W. These figures can be increased using a subwoofer connected via a 2-channel RCA output.
High-quality sound is possible thanks to an equalizer and 4 connected speakers. The presence of a disk drive in the FH-X380UB allows you to listen to audio in MP3, WMA, WAV formats. The smartphone is connected to the car radio using a USB or AUX connector. The FH-X380UB is compatible with Android devices, all you need to do is plug it in and play audio.
The stereo system has an integrated receiver with 24 channels, so you will be aware of what is happening. Users note the ease of operation and pleasant design of the FH-X380UB.
Synchronization with Android devices
Pioneer DEH-X8700BT – processor-based car radio
The fourth position in the ranking is occupied by Pioneer DEH-X8700BT. With minimal power it allows you to achieve high-quality sound. The USB port plays a variety of music formats. Control takes place using a smartphone. A special application is provided. The equipment has good lighting, so it is convenient to play music at any time of the day. The monitor can be configured independently.
The processor-based Pioneer DEH-X8700BT is equipped with modern technologies, with the help of which all kinds of mixes are made. If necessary, work with iPhone can be configured.
Pros *
- there is AUX on the rear panel;
- supports the main popular formats;
- well-developed design;
- built-in equalizer.
Minuses *
- inconvenient controls;
- there is no remote control;
- does not turn on without ignition;
- works disgustingly in the cold.
Digma DCR-300MC
a large number of interfaces;
excellent Bluetooth performance;
nice design;
high-quality sound;
affordable price.
insufficient equalizer variety;
build quality.
MRM Eearl Electronic USB / AUX / MicroSD / FM Radio / Bluetooth receiver, 1din
https://market.yandex.ru/product—avtomagnitola-mrm-eearl-electronic-usb-aux-microsd-fm-radio-bluetooth-resiver-1din/965474196
Convenient and high-quality radio with multifunction steering wheel and Bluetooth receiver. The model is lightweight and compact in size, which sets it apart from its competitors. It is also worth highlighting the ease of operation and build quality of the radio. Installation will not be difficult even for inexperienced users.
The device is equipped with 7 backlight colors, which diversifies the design of the radio. Among the advantages, it is worth noting the 4-channel linear RCA output. If it talks about sound quality, then you can adjust the sound. The radio tuner can pick up 18 radio stations. For ease of control, you can use the remote control.
Using the USB connector on the rear panel, you can connect flash drives to the car radio. On the front side you can find an AUX input. Users write in the comments about the wide functionality of the car radio and the original design.
Ease of management
Pioneer MVH-X580BT - the best pioneer car radio
The Pioneer MVH-X580BT combines great Bluetooth capabilities, excellent audio quality and good looks. The only speaker that does not require an additional amplifier.
The Pioneer MVH-X580BT model supports various settings. Some of them can only be understood by a specialist, but the basic ones are understandable to every motorist. The following formats are available:
- WMA;
- MP3;
- FLAC;
- WAV.
If necessary, the column is connected to a smartphone. Major operating systems other than Windows Phone are supported.
Pros *
- the ability to listen to streaming music;
- thousands of backlight color options;
- good graphic equalizer;
- There are no problems with Bluetooth connection.
Minuses *
- inconvenient placement of the USB connector;
- glossy front panel;
- The plastic coating is easily scratched.
GT-27 2Din-1Din 9″
informative display;
ergonomics;
durable body;
bright backlight;
sound quality.
cards need to be reinstalled.
[product-like]
FarCar s130 - the best 2 din car radio for sound quality
Another new product in the ranking is FarCar s130. It can only work under the Android operating system. Moreover, the version must be at least 5.1. Thanks to high-quality software, the device boots quickly and there are no freezes.
FarCar s130 boasts a built-in radio module with RDS function. Thanks to this, the reception of broadcast stations is clear and stable. A DVR and rear view camera are optionally connected.
The standard radio is installed in a Toyota Camry.
Pros *
- a powerful 4-core processor with increased performance is installed;
- the ability to listen to music and watch movies;
- good large screen;
- Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapter.
Minuses *
- high price;
- sometimes there is crude firmware;
- Cyrillic characters are read every other time;
- not sensitive microphone.
MRM Eearl Electronic bluetooth, SD, RAM 1GB, ROM 16GB, Sim 4G LTE, LCD 7″ HD IPS, 12V
there is a navigator;
connecting to the network using a SIM card;
thin body;
nice design.
little RAM.
Dolmax 7A-2D
https://market.yandex.ru/product—avtomagnitola-na-android-s-kameroi-wi-fi-bluetooth-dolmax-7a-2d/885115806
Functional Chinese radio with high-quality assembly and pleasant design. The memory capacity is 16 GB, the device weight is 700 g, thanks to which it will fit into any car dealership interior.
Dolmax 7A-2D allows you to download applications from the Play Market, which significantly expands its capabilities. The screen size is enough to view video files and enjoy watching movies. The package includes 2 USB cables, one of them can be used for a USB modem. The GPS antenna allows you to use a downloaded or built-in navigator without connecting to a network. Google Chrome is installed on the radio for easy surfing on the Internet.
At an affordable price, you get a high-quality product with excellent technical characteristics. A cheaper alternative would be the Dolmax 7W-2D model.
Wide functionality
Pioneer FH-X730BT – the best 2 din car radio according to reviews
This device ends our rating. The front panel is made of black glossy plastic. It looks fashionable, but it needs to be wiped regularly to keep it from getting dirty. The Pioneer FH-X730BT is not difficult to install. To do this, you only need a simple frame and special adapters.
The rear panel has connectors for power and antennas. In addition, there are 6 built-in outputs for connecting to external amplifiers.
The menu is made in Russian, Cyrillic characters are reproduced without problems. There is a Mixtrax function that works with recordings from iPod and USB.
Pros *
- audio settings;
- good appearance;
- Apple compatible;
- 13-band graphic equalizer.
Minuses *
- the screen gets scratched quickly and gets dirty instantly;
- musical compositions are switched with a delay;
- The screen is not visible in the sun.
Control Panel
The external design of car radios differs in ease of operation and design, that is, the panel. To purchase, you need to pay attention to the following factors:
- Removable panels in car radios are the safest. In expensive models, the radio panel can be turned from the outside inward and hidden.
- The brightness, color and backlight of the screen can blind the driver in the dark. Therefore, it is better if there is a brightness adjustment function.
- If the control buttons are too small, it is inconvenient to use, so when purchasing it is better to test the button presses.
What is important to know when choosing a radio
When choosing the best radio for a car, in addition to aesthetic preferences, it is important to look at other characteristics. Below you will find out which ones specifically.
Technical characteristics of a modern radio
It is important to take a closer look at the following technical characteristics:
- Noise level. This indicator reflects the ratio of the output signals to noise. The value should be on average at least 90 decibels. The higher this indicator, the cleaner the sound will be.
- Dimensions of the car radio housing. Most devices are conventionally divided into several standard sizes. The most common are 1 Din (classic) and 2 Din (enlarged). The second type has a much larger screen. In addition, the functionality of 2 Din is richer. Due to their size, it is possible to install a rear view camera, navigator, etc. in such cases.
- Tuner sensitivity. 1 μV - this is exactly what this parameter should be. A smaller value will be completely useless. This indicator is often needed outside the city, when radio signals are weak.
- Number of channels. In modern radio tape recorders there are from two to four of them. Accordingly, a similar number of speakers is installed. When you have a five-channel system, it is recommended to install a subwoofer.
- Availability of equalizer. With its help, the timbre is adjusted and the level balance of the rear and front sound is adjusted. The more equalizer bands the car radio supports, the more convenient it is to adjust the sound.
- Supports communication with a smartphone. For modern systems this is an important parameter. Thanks to him, you will not be distracted from the road while having a conversation. The sounds will be heard from the car speakers.
- Backlight color. This parameter is also given importance. It is important to choose a shade that will harmoniously combine with the backlight color of the main console. Otherwise, color disharmony will occur. From a purely external perspective it is not attractive.
- Availability of radio. Modern car radios are equipped with a radio receiver. The best reception occurs only in two bands - VHF and FM. In addition, the radio must support RDS. In this case, you will be able to read the names of songs, weather information, etc. on the screen.
Power and sound quality
Many car radio manufacturers use the same components. Under different names, which are produced in different countries, but with fairly similar characteristics. For this reason, all radios without additional amplifiers will sound the same. And the price factor will not be decisive here. Also because of this, they have absolutely identical power of 40-50 watts.
This high power output is a simple marketing ploy and an enticing message on an attractive box. In real life, most car radios produce the classic 20 watts. Manufacturers prescribe the peak power that the device produces for a couple of minutes.
The power of the car radio must be less than the power of the speakers. For example, you have speakers in your car. In this case, their power must be taken into account.
Now let's talk about sound. Most devices produce simple sound. This is enough for ordinary car enthusiasts. But there is a category of those who only need high-quality, good sound.
When a person buys a budget version of a standard or double-din radio for 10,000 rubles with dozens of options, then it makes no sense to talk about excellent sound quality. These multimedia devices focus specifically on quantity rather than quality.
A single-din radio for a couple of thousand rubles is also unlikely to please the car owner with minimal tolerable sound. As mentioned earlier, not everyone needs good sound. Therefore, those car enthusiasts who like to delve into the settings of various functions are unlikely to focus on the sound characteristics of the car radio.
Some people who change their radio sometimes say: “I don’t need a luxurious, better sound.” In other words, a simple sound is enough for them. At the same time, they set a budget of 20-30 thousand rubles. Sometimes you get a more expensive option. Such a device should not have a disgusting sound. But this is only in theory. In practice, the sound is not good.
The best car radio manufacturers
Should you pay attention to the development company? Some believe that it is better to buy radios from well-known companies, others assure that there is no difference and buy cheap analogues.
Experts say that people in the first category are right. Large corporations rarely have defective products. Their sound quality is much better than that of inexpensive devices. Let's see which manufacturers are recommended to choose.
Kenwood
This brand produces only high-quality car radios. The company usually combines several important advantages in one model.
Sony
Almost everyone knows this brand. Systems differ from it by increased functionality. Each product is a modern technological device. You have to pay for this fact, because such radios are more expensive than their competitors in the market.
Pioneer
Another Japanese company that firmly holds a leading position in the market. The corporation annually releases various new models, so you can get confused in their diversity. Moreover, Pioneer car radios are inexpensive and accessible to most motorists.
JVC
This manufacturer mainly produces car radios in the mid-price segment. The company focuses not on design, but on high sound quality. It turns out to be an inexpensive option due to its simple appearance.
GT-23 2Din 7″
build quality;
convenient menu;
sound quality;
affordable price.
You cannot add third-party software to the monitor.
MRM Eearl Electronic bluetooth, SD, RAM 1GB, ROM 16GB, Sim 4G LTE, LCD 7″ HD IPS, 12V
https://market.yandex.ru/product—avtomagnitola-2-din-na-androide-s-ekranom-dvukhdinovaia-android-bluetooth-sd-ram-1gb-rom-16gb-sim-4g-lte-lcd- 7-hd-ips-12v-mrm-earl-electronic/929407859
Universal car radio, suitable for any car with a 2 Din connector. This is one of the thinnest models available. The device is equipped with a large 9-inch diagonal color touch screen.
The radio is equipped with an integrated navigator, for which you just need to connect the device to the network. The case contains a slot for a SIM card, but it is also possible to connect to a smartphone via Wi-Fi. There is also a connection to the steering wheel, which is also not found on every model. It will not be possible to update the car radio; there is not much RAM here.
The functionality of MRM is virtually unlimited, since the radio tape recorder runs on the Android OS. You will be able to download and use Google Play applications. With it you can talk on the phone, use navigation, watch videos and listen to audio.
There is a navigator
Intro AHR-9380
A model with one of the best hardware - an 8-core RockChip PX5 processor and 4 GB of RAM. The drive holds 16 GB of photo, video or audio files. A 15-band equalizer is used to control the sound, and a built-in Dolby filter and digital DSP processor are used for enhancement. The picture is displayed on a bright 7-inch TFT screen with a resolution of 1024x600 pixels.
Car radio Intro AHR-9380 in the rating of 2 din car radios
It is possible to access the Internet to use social networks, surf, view email or play videos from YouTube. The screen is protected with a special AntiGlare anti-glare coating, and the GPS module allows the multimedia system to work as a navigator. Such capabilities can be called quite decent for a model costing about 24 thousand rubles, especially since you can control the Intro AHR-9380 even from a car steering wheel.
The main advantages of a car radio:
- large and bright TFT screen;
- built-in sound processor providing high sound quality and progressive sound detail;
- special Anti-Glare coating, thanks to which there is almost no glare on the screen;
- support for memory media up to 64 GB;
- powerful hardware providing high speed.
Disadvantages of the model:
- lack of an AUX connector on the front panel;
- not very convenient audio player - including the lack of sorting by name;
- reduction in operating speed due to overheating, which occurs during prolonged use.