best car lcd screen brands

When you need the ultimate in real estate, look no further than the Sony XAV-AX8100. Last year, its sister model, the AX8000, made this list but since then there have been even more improvements. First off, this unit has a massive 8.95” touchscreen, yet it fits a single DIN 2” opening. The clever design allows this massive monster to fit in so many more vehicles than a traditional 2 DIN opening. It is an outstanding upgrade for older vehicles once thought to be limited on touch screen stereo upgrades.

The biggest difference to highlight between the AX8100 and its predecessor, the AX8000 is that the AX8100 now comes with an HDMI input. This allows you to simply plug in ANY multimedia device that you want and play video directly on the head unit. Xbox, Playstation, Switch, or even your iPhone with an HDMI adapter – this HDMI input is a HUGE upgrade and really opens this unit up as a super powerful multimedia head unit. Additionally, it is also preloaded with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for a seamless music experience. It has one of the lowest glare screens we have ever tested as well. Simple, easily understandable icons help drivers stay focused on the road and not on searching for features they want.

The nearly 9” touch sensitive screen appears to hover above your dash when installed. The screen can be tilted to accommodate different angles and to provide a comfortable viewing angle for the driver. The simple, matte-finish look blends in nicely with many different vehicle interiors and gives a true high-end feel to any car or truck. The AX8000 is an instant upgrade for almost any car on the road today.

A touch screen car stereo is just what you need to significantly upgrade your in-car entertainment from those generic manual car stereos. It gives you so many options for listening to your favorite music, taking calls, playing videos, opening route maps, etc. Not to forget the added advantage of a touchscreen that can give you a smartphone-like experience on the go.

As there are many touch screen radios out there, not all of them are a good buy. To help you out, we have come up with a few of the best models out there. These models were picked based on the following criteria:

Form Factor: The size of your touch-screen car radio is revealed by its form factor, which is also crucial for compatibility when it comes to installing and correctly fitting a car stereo unit inside your vehicle. Except for a few bigger double DIN-sized vehicle stereos, practically all car stereos come with the smaller single DIN size to assure optimal compatibility.

Connectivity: Checking the connectivity choices given by your car audio is crucial because you’ll be using external media playback options with it rather frequently. As a result, nearly all vehicle stereos have standard connectivity choices including Bluetooth, USB, aux, and radio, with flexible versions sometimes including even more connectivity possibilities.

Power Output: Having a strong enough vehicle stereo is crucial if you want to connect your car speakers directly to your car audio without requiring an external amplifier. A greater power rating is always preferable for heavy-duty usage when it comes to using vehicle stereos, and it may be provided as up to 100 watts, up to 150 watts, or more.

There are still a lot of things you need to think about in addition to these ideas. To let you choose the best touch screen car radios, at the end of this listicle, all of the best car stereos included here have all of their crucial characteristics and factors accurately detailed along with a thorough “Buying Guide.”

If you’re looking for a new Android Auto head unit for your car and want something reasonable and cost-effective, you can also have a look at Hikity’s choices.

As one of the least expensive solutions available, Hikity’s Android Auto head unit is among the top touch screen car radio systems in this list. It comes with a 10.1-inch display that is coupled with a respectable 1024 x 600 screen resolution.

As a bonus, this Android vehicle stereo has a backup camera. Rearview camera with 170° viewing angle, HD, and night vision. When in reverse, the screen instantly shows stereo reverse views, making parking safer and easier.

Another manufacturer of Android Auto head units that provides a variety of affordable and entry-level alternatives with useful capabilities for use in your car is Podofo.

The JOY-D006 is a 100% standard size, universal IOS interface that was specially developed for the American market. You may easily control the 1024*600 responsive 7″ touchscreen display with your fingertips, and the reaction time is swift.

Sync your iOS smartphone with a large screen to easily make calls, listen to music, send and receive messages, utilize navigation, and more. You can connect your smartphone through Carplay/Bluetooth or the AUX input. It is Mirror Link compatible as well. Additionally, there is a USB port and TF card slot that supports MP3/WMA/FLAC/WAV and ID3 Tag.

This automobile radio system has a 7-inch double din and excellent quality. For optimum results, use a fingernail or tip to touch the screen. Sharing music as well as videos on your devices with ease.

Take a phone call hands-free by using the BT connection to dial and listen to a call on the radio. BT and hands-free calling, USB, FM Radio, AUX-IN, TF Card (up to 32G), video player, music player, and remote control are all supported.

The Apple CarPlay feature is supported by this radio. You may use the original mobile phone data line to connect to IOS and use the music, map, and call features. Get instructions, send and receive information, etc. also possible with SIRI. Android phones can work with this double din vehicle audio.

To satisfy your various demands for sound quality, it contains built-in DSP sound effects and 16-band EQ, Vbass, balance, volume, and filter adjustments. The most recent version 5.0, which boasts quick transmission speed and greater stability, is used by this Carplay Car Stereo System. supports interference-free, hands-free call taking and answering.

The head unit dimension for this Android car stereo is 250x145x40mm, with a double din installation. 10-inch capacitive touch large screen. It has high resolution and 1080P super clear video capability. Its screen is made of 2.5D arc anti-scratch tempered glass.

Additionally, this gadget has twin USB connections and RCA video output/input connectors. Use the Android vehicle stereo’s 10-inch radio touchscreen. Connect to WiFi and download a variety of apps for the radio, including YouTube, TikTok, Maps, email, and more.

A high-resolution, colorful, clear, bright LCD display with support for clear movies is included with this device’s 7-inch double din vehicle entertainment system. On your devices, you may watch clear pictures and movies at any time from a variety of channels.

The 7-inch LCD Touch screen on the vehicle stereo provides you with an excellent viewing experience. The majority of cell phones can use the mirror connection function with this twin vehicle radio.

This dual vehicle radio is compatible with most smartphones’ mirror connect feature. Your car audio will display the phone navigation map when you turn on the navigation app and connect through USB.

The HD 1024*600 LCD display technology used in this car stereo gives you a comfortable user experience. On the stereo display, it offers 1920 x 1080P video and music playing. Via a USB cable connection, you may project the screen of the smartphone onto this car stereo screen.

To get the speaker listening, hands-free calling, and wireless music streaming without any interruptions, simply link this stereo unit with the smartphone. This Bluetooth-enabled dash car stereo unit comes with a front camera and backup camera input. The dual auto radio enables the driver to have HD quality footage of the rear view when reversing the vehicle.

It is also compatible with iOS Carplay and Android Auto. This improved double din vehicle stereo receiver has a built-in smart chip to speed up touch sensing, giving you a smoother experience.

Apple has created a system called Carplay that is specifically tailored for IOS devices. You may use the 7-inch stereo touch screen to control apps from your phone, including navigation, phone, music, and radio, after connecting your iPhone to the stereo using the original USB-Lighting cable.

A method for connecting cars and computers called Android Auto was developed especially by Google for Android smartphones. Connect your Android phone to the L1 stereo using the original USB data cable, and then use the 7-inch touch screen to control a variety of apps that have been specially designed for vehicle stereos.

The MINYE 1024*600 HD capacitive screen solution provides more sensitivity and accuracy than the conventional 800*480 resistive screen. Meanwhile, the complete touch solution takes center stage and the conventional physical buttons are eliminated.

You would like to enhance your driving experience with the best in-car audio system, whether you use your automobile for a daily commute between cities or big interstate trips. However, because a car touch screen stereo must be placed inside your vehicle in order for this to be feasible, we’ve already included some of the top car stereos in the list given above.

All these vehicle stereos have their crucial characteristics and information listed beside them to aid you in choosing the best one. And if you’re still curious, have a look at this comprehensive shopping guide when looking for the top vehicle stereos:

Installing your vehicle audio correctly is necessary before you even start utilizing it. Checking the car audio system’s form factor is crucial for ensuring the same. Single and double DIN car touch screen stereos fall under the standardized form factor for car stereos known as DIN.

Regarding the numerous vehicle stereos listed above, nearly all of them include double DIN connectors to enable high compatibility and bigger displays that are ideal for car stereos running Android.

You must connect a media playback device to your car radio to play any type of music via it. Therefore, it is crucial to examine your vehicle stereo’s connectivity choices to see if it’s compatible with the car’s audio device you want to use.

You should also verify the power output rating if you intend to use your car touch screen stereos’ internal amplifiers rather than the external one. This is mainly to make sure that your vehicle stereos can power your car speakers effectively and without any problems.

You can perform a lot of things with your car audio while using it, like switching tracks, or playing and pausing music, adjusting the level, navigating through different music sources, etc. This makes having an appropriate display and the controls for your car audio very crucial. As far as the controls are concerned, practically all vehicle stereos include touch screen buttons for all of your standard settings and choices.

However, if you select more expensive car stereos, one may even find models with sizable touch screens, perfect for Android car touch screen stereos that provide the user with a variety of smart functions and applications.

All of these head units feature screens, as you may already be aware, because they are rather large and need two dins for installing them in the car. Choosing the preferred display size you want to install in your car is the first chore, thus.

Even though the bulk of double din head units has displays that are about 7 inches wide. If you’re looking for a bigger one, there are a couple of good options that even have displays that are 10 to 11 inches wide. Therefore, you must decide if a 7-inch display would do for you or whether your car needs a larger one.

You want your present car audio to last long since you don’t constantly install new car stereos in cars. Checking the vehicle radio’s warranty might be a terrific alternative for ensuring the same. Almost all vehicle stereos have a one-year guarantee for your peace of mind. You may anticipate that any vehicle radio will provide an even higher lifespan and dependability if it has a longer guarantee period.

Sensors and other cutting-edge safety measures are visible on the touch screen display. More crucially, it can be connected to a backup camera equipped with proximity sensors. Some automakers go a step farther and provide a 360-degree overview of the vehicle.

Headphones with touch screens can also receive satellite radio and HD radio. With satellite and HD, audio is clearer and sharper. Satellite and HD radio offer fewer blind spots than an FM/AM stereo since they don’t rely on radio towers.

You must link your mobile device to the car stereo through Bluetooth in order to make hands-free phone calls utilizing the vehicle’s audio system. This turns on the car stereo’s microphone for the duration of the conversation.

You can still install a normal DIN-sized car radio even if your car doesn’t come with one. You may achieve this by utilizing a DIN adapter, which will modify the dashboard of your automobile so that it is compatible with stereos with the common DIN size. Since touch screen vehicle radios often have huge displays, double DIN is required.

If you’re looking for a new car audio system for your car, there are likely to be a lot of good alternatives available to you. We’ve previously listed some of the top vehicle stereos above since picking the proper one can be a bit challenging.

In reality, all of these top vehicle stereos come with a list of their important features and characteristics. A comprehensive shopping guide for the top vehicle stereos mentioned above is also available. We provide our top selections and suggestions for the top touch screen vehicle stereos while keeping all of these factors in mind:

The best car heads-up displays can be a fantastic addition to any car. Adding that extra screen in your peripheral vision means you can access a wealth of information much faster than you would otherwise. That means your eyes can stay where they belong: focused on the road ahead.

A growing number of premium vehicles are starting to offer a built-in heads-up display — for a price. But you don"t have to be super-wealthy to have that benefit in your own car, no matter its age of technology level. There"s a whole world of heads-up displays you can install in just a few minutes, adding all that extra information when you need it most.

The Hudway Drive has just about everything you could want from a car heads-up display. It manages to combine data from the car’s OBD port, GPS satellites and your own smartphone. The only thing it doesn’t do is add Android Auto or Apple CarPlay to your car, but that might be asking a little much.

At $279 it is one of the most expensive HUDs on the market. But the amount of information it can put in your face means it’s well worth it. Whether that’s driving speed, engine RPMs, or turn-by-turn directions. Just be aware that the unit itself is rather big, and the fold-down screen might get in the way of your view of the road at times.

The Pyle PHUD180BD is able to squeeze an impressive amount of information onto its 5.5-inch screen, but even more impressive is how much it can manage with a $67 price tag. Not the cheapest car heads-up display by any stretch, it’s still a brilliant bargain - especially since it can combine OBD and GPS data.

Another unit that combines GPS and OBD data, the Wiiyoo C1 is a car heads-up display that manages to display loads of data in a visually-appealing format. Though this HUD is designed for people who want more than their dashboard has to offer, with support for data that real gear-heads will get a kick out of. If you ever wanted to know air-to-fuel ratios or turbocharger pressures while you’re driving, this might be the HUD for you.

While we certainly could have done without the faux leather finish, the Dagood A8 is still a car heads-up display with a lot of promise. Not only is it inexpensive, it also offers a large 5.5-inch display, bright graphics, and a light sensor to automatically adjust brightness based on the surroundings. It also combines GPS and OBD data to give you a more comprehensive view of everything going on in your car at any given time.

Another car heads-up display that pairs the OBD port with GPS satellites, the Akabane A500 can actually do a lot of things other HUDs can not. Not only is it able to show off a bunch of different pieces of information on its screen, performance enthusiasts will be happy to know it has the ability to test braking and acceleration as well. Can that Tesla of yours really hit 0-60 in the advertised times? The Akabane A500 can help you find out, though we don’t recommend testing this on a public road.

If you’re more of an off-roading type, the Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter is a car heads-up display to take into consideration. Using a combination of GPS and its own internal sensors, it can show a lot of the usual information alongside a few specialist data points. Tilt and roll sensors can alert you if your car is getting too close to the point of no return.

The best heads-up displays present the driver’s choice of the car’s operational parameters in a format that’s easy to see, read and digest at a glance. The advantage to a standalone model is they can often out-perform many of the built-in HUDs available on modern cars with the range of data they can show. On the downside, they can’t integrate into the car’s entertainment or navigation systems.

Not all car heads-up displays are built equally, however. Not only do they come in all shapes and sizes, there can be a huge range in what information is actually displayed. Some HUDs only repeat what the dashboard shows with items like speed and time, but others go a big step further to offer things like a tachometer and fuel economy.

The rarest options can connect to your smartphone, displaying turn-by-turn navigation, contact information or even text messages. At the very top-end of this spectrum are HUDs that offer Android Auto or Apple CarPlay support, should your car’s not have a compatible infotainment system.

While designs and capabilities vary, the most important part remains its ability to show the data you want to see without taking your eyes off the road. In this regard, size can be a double-edged sword: a big screen can help with large numerals and graphic elements but also can get in the way. For smaller devices, the effect is minimal but it might be harder to read the screen.

Different HUDs offer different screen-types too, either directly showing the data or projecting it onto a reflective screen. The former are generally bigger, but since projections grow over distance the latter can offer a virtual image that can be as large as 10-inches. However projections can be hard to see in bright conditions.

The best projector-based HUDs show that information on a fold-down screen, which offers a clearer picture that beaming it onto your windshield. This also allows the screen to be pushed down when not in use, and clear up your view of the road ahead.

Finally you need to figure out where the HUD is going to get its data and power. Some HUDs utilize your car’s OBD port, which gives them a window into the inner workings of your car — albeit not as much as a dedicated OBD-II scanner might. Meanwhile GPS offers tidbits like drive distance and altitude. However GPS-only devices will need to plug into an alternate power source like your car’s cigarette lighter.

There are heads-up displays that start at under $20 but these are generally second best. They either have monochrome screens or only display one item, like the car’s speed.

Evaluating heads-up displays involves a two-pronged approach: garage work and over-the-road field testing. It all starts with opening the box and checking out what the device includes. Although most HUDs come with everything you need to get set up. Some also include wire guides, while others lack key elements like the 12-volt car accessory adapter.

After firing up the car, we timed how long it took to start up and show data, followed by timing how long it takes to shut down after I switched off the car’s engine. To evaluate the screen, we looked at the data presented for both sharpness and the design of the gauges.

This is followed by checking out the interface and controls. We ran through the unit’s different screen choices, along the way taking notes as to the interface’s efficiency and ease of use. Finally, we go through each of the choices, counting the number of major parameters on display as well as its alarms and alerts.

With everything set, we hit the open road and give each HUD a test drive. Here we’re looking for how intuitive the display format is, whether sunlight washes out the screen and how well the display copes in the dark.The drive also involves a series of speed-up and slow down maneuvers to see if the HUD is able to keep up.

Once you"ve picked a heads-up display for your car, make sure to check out some other important automotive essentials. Both thebest automotive emergency kitsand thebest dash camswill be there in case of emergencies, albeit for very different reasons. Meanwhile thebest OBD-II scannerswill help you diagnose any problems your car faces, and whether you can fix them without a costly trip to a mechanic.Round up of today"s best deals

To select the best touchscreen car stereos, I reviewed pricing, functionality, customer reviews, and quality ratings. I selected head units with the best reviews possible, but I also looked at ease of installation and longevity. Paying someone to install a stereo can add up to big bucks, so it’s good to have the option to install it yourself. I also selected screens that fit in the largest number of vehicles, as a big screen can be a big pain in older cars.

I also kept entertainment in mind, because that’s the primary purpose of a car stereo. I selected head units that offer the broadest possible feature set, including things like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and SiriusXM tuner compatibility. You can be confident that these touchscreen car stereos are packed with the most desirable features.

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.Learn more

The Pioneer DMH-WT7600NEX is one of the most complete and feature-rich touchscreen car stereo systems on the market today. It’s not cheap, but its nine-inch HD display, single-DIN fit, and wired or wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities make it a great choice for a wide variety of vehicles. The WT7600NEX features an 8.0-inch screen, but if you’re looking for a larger display, Pioneer sells the same unit with a 10.1-inch display.

Installing an aftermarket head unit can be annoying in older vehicles with factory tape players and other basic stereos due to the size of newer products. Pioneer addresses that issue with a single-DIN installation that easily slides into an existing stereo slot. The only downside here is that the large screen “floats” in front of the dash, and can obscure buttons or air vents if they are too close to the display.

Boss is a strong brand in the aftermarket audio space, and it offers touchscreen car stereos with great value and plenty of features. The BE950WCPA offers wired OR wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, voice controls, Bluetooth, auxiliary inputs, inputs for a backup camera, and more. With 20 watts RMS or 80 watts peak by four channels, the Boss system also has enough power to fill almost any vehicle with clean sound.

Buyers report that the Boss unit is reasonably easy to install, but many complain of poor documentation and unclear directions. Unlike some touchscreens on our list, the Boss is a full double-DIN unit, meaning you can’t install it in a smaller single-DIN space. Even though the body is larger, the screen measures just 6.75 inches, so in this case, the tradeoff for a lower price is a smaller screen and annoying directions.

Sony has decades of experience building audio equipment, and its expertise shows in the XAV-AX8100. The touchscreen car stereo system offers an 8.95-inch display that mounts on a single-DIN chassis. The display is three-way adjustable, so you can get the positioning just right, and Sony included physical buttons for fast access to functions like volume and track adjustments. The unit also comes with a 10-band EQ system to dial in your desired sound.

Although it features a large screen, some buyers state that the Sony unit is not bright enough for easy viewing in direct sunlight. Most rave about the responsiveness and value represented by the Sony unit. The physical controls make it easy to change the volume level or track, making the device less distracting to use when driving.

Many newer vehicles come with giant infotainment displays from the factory, but if you want that functionality in an older model, you can’t go wrong with the Alpine Halo11 iLX-F411. The 11-inch touchscreen car stereo system features a single-DIN chassis with the ability to install in larger spaces using an adapter. The floating screen design is adjustable and offers multiple viewing angles.

The Alpine head unit comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with Pandora and Spotify controls with a connected smartphone. The unit offers inputs for a rearview camera and a switcher to accommodate a two-camera system. SiriusXM requires a separate tuner, but once installed, the head unit supports traffic, weather, and sports info from the satellite radio company.

Stereo manufacturers do their best to build head units with the ability to install in a wide variety of vehicles, but sometimes the fit just isn’t there. If you have an oddball car with a dash that seems like it will never fit a new touchscreen car stereo system, the DMH-WC5700NEX could be your ticket. Pioneer designed the unit to accommodate modular installation, meaning the screen and chassis can be installed together or separately. If your dash is giving you hassle, you can mount the display and hide the chassis in the glove box or other out-of-the-way location.

The Pioneer’s 6.78-inch display isn’t the biggest on our list, but it’s bright, responsive, and easily viewable from almost any angle. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility come in wired or wireless, and Amazon Alexa capability is built in. A 13-band EQ allows fine-tuning of sound and SiriusXM is available with a separate tuner.

When you desperately want a touchscreen but don’t want to spend much cash, Kenwood’s got you covered. The DDX276BT doesn’t offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but it does have smartphone connectivity for streaming music, and you can still use it to take phone calls hands-free in the car. The 6.2-inch is bright and responsive, and the head unit includes USB inputs and can be installed to work with factory steering wheel controls.

I picked the Pioneer DMH-WT7600NEX as the best overall touchscreen car stereo system because it offers an excellent mix of screen size, features, ease of installation, and quality. I chose the Boss BE950WCPA for value because it gives up very little in the pursuit of a good price.

The most important thing to consider before buying a stereo is the size. The best touchscreen car stereo system in the world won’t do you any good if it doesn’t fit your car. It’s also good to check for overall fit, meaning the space the screen takes up on your dash. Air vents and physical buttons can be obstructed by a giant screen, which will be annoying even if you love the display. That said, it’s possible to buy adapters and brackets that allow you to install single-DIN head units in larger spaces, but that’s an added cost you’ll have to pay on top of the purchase and installation price.

You have a couple of options when it comes to choosing a touchscreen head unit. The lower-cost option is to prioritize the touchscreen and price over all other functionality. On average, expect to pay $300 or less for a budget touchscreen stereo.The second option is to prioritize features and functionality. Most touchscreen car stereo systems with robust feature sets start for around $500, but it’s possible to spend more than $1,500.

A: While it’s common to find touchscreen car stereo systems without a CD player, we’re not yet in a place where they can be phased out completely. Many people have older cars with old stereos that play CDs and many companies still make them, so we’re likely to have them around for some time to come.

A: “Best” depends on your needs and wants when it comes to car audio. If you prioritize a display and want the graphical component that they bring, a touchscreen may be best, but if you want a simpler experience, there are dozens of straightforward head units on the market.

A: The stereos in many newer cars are integrated with several vehicle functions, like climate and safety systems. Even if a replacement fits, which in many cases it won’t, you’ll lose all of the functionality benefits that a tightly wound in-vehicle ecosystem brings.

A: You can install a backup camera with a standalone display, so you’re not required to buy a new stereo to get a camera. If you want an all-in-one solution, many touchscreen car stereos offer connections for backup cameras, but it’s an extra cost.

Car stereos have come a long way from staticky, monaural AM radio to the automobile communications and infotainment hubs they are today. Owning much to how we communicate and entertain ourselves, the once disregarded car stereo has evolved to become one of the more important options to consider when purchasing a car or upgrading the existing music setup in your car. Many modern drivers have a dash cam as an extra layer of protection, a phone mount to stay safe and organized, and other additions that really make all the difference on the road, so why neglect the stereo?

No longer just a music box, car stereos must play and stream music in different formats, connect to our smartphones, navigate for us, and even play videos (while the car is parked). Some new cars have stereos that are up to the needs of today’s drivers, but what about those situations where you are looking to replace a broken or upgrade an outdated car stereo? The choices are many and varied just as they are with our other on-the-go infotainment needs. Read on to learn about car stereos and how to choose the best one for you.

Let’s face it, tech advancement doesn’t stop. As such, in order to add the latest bell or whistle, particularly with car stereos, you’re going to have to have the space to add on to it. The Alpine iLX-W650 is the type of car stereo that has room enough to grow.

The iLX-W650 is double-DIN and features a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen. Control is easy and intuitive using the straightforward touchscreen. This “mech-less” head unit is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Connectivity is via Bluetooth, two camera inputs, and USB. Other features include an external microphone for voice commands and hands-free phone use, steering wheel control compatibility, SiriusXM ready, etc. The sound quality is superb with 50W x 4 power and a built-in amplifier. An outstanding feature is the size of the unit. The iLX-W650 has a shallow mount design at only 2-13/16 inches deep leaving plenty of room for future expandability with other aftermarket accessories. The shallow footprint also makes installation a breeze.

What makes the Alpine iLX-W650 one of the best car stereos is not only its features and performance but also its size which is accommodating for expansion. It’s one of those “no-worry” head units that you won’t regret.

DIN this, DIN that. It can be a pain trying to figure out what DIN-type will fit in your car, especially if you want a touchscreen. Even if the available space looks like it should fit a double-DIN head unit, actual installation may prove otherwise. The Pioneer DMH-WC5700NEX has an innovative design that allows it to be installed in spaces others can’t.

The DMH-WC5700NEX is a modular car stereo featuring a 6.8-inch capacitive touchscreen and a single-DIN installation chassis. The tablet-like display features icon controls and is connected to the chassis via cable allowing for versatile installation even in tight compartments. The DMH-WC5700NEX is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible and supports a wide range of digital music formats. Connectivity includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HDMI, and camera inputs. The built-in 50W x 4 amplifier provides plenty of power for the 13-band graphic equalizer to produce exceptional sound quality.

The Pioneer DMH-WC5700NEX takes the complications of installation away by featuring a modular design. If you want a double-DIN touchscreen, but only have space for a single-DIN head unit, this is the head unit for you. Performance and installation versatility make the DMH-WC5700NEX a strong entrant on the list of best car stereos.

Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t upgrade your sound system to digital music. The Boss 616UAB is a great, cost-effective option to bring an older car’s sound system up to date. Add in a great performance, and the 616UAB is one of the best car stereos on a budget.

The 616UAB is a single-DIN car stereo with dimmable LED lights and an LCD display. It has AM/FM radio, but this car stereo is primarily for streaming digital music. An added bonus is a remote control which is great for setup and overall interaction with the 616UAB. Connectivity comes in the form of Bluetooth, USB, and AUX audio in. Smartphone integration via Bluetooth allows streaming from applications like Pandora and Spotify. It supports MP3 and WMA digital music formats. There is no built-in amplifier, but the 50 watts x 4 provides ample sound power. The included mic allows for hands-free calling.

The Boss Audio Systems 616UAB is an excellent option if you’re on the lookout for a way to upgrade an older car with a digital music experience. It comes with a good foundation of features that make it easy to use and a good performer.

Having a bunch of CDs in your car is so last-Millenium. With the advent of digital formats for music and streaming, you really don’t need to clutter up your car anymore with discs. The Atoto A6 PF understands the relevance of CD-downsizing and presents a car stereo that does it all, except play CDs.

The A6 PF is a double-DIN head unit with a bright, though easy on the eyes, 7-inch floating touchscreen display (1024 x 600 resolution). Along with gesture controls, there are physical buttons (volume, power, menu) on the bottom of the unit. It is an Android (Android 10.0) car stereo with support for CarPlay and Android Auto. Connectivity includes dual Bluetooth, dual-band Wi-Fi, and four USB ports. Sound quality is great with 4 x 45 watts of power and a 36-band graphic equalizer. Additional features include built-in GPS navigation, compatibility with steering wheel controls, video outputs, and LRV (live rear view) camera ready.

The Atoto A6 PF is one of the best car stereos because of its features, compatibility, and performance. It may not play CDs, but the A6 PF will quickly make you forget why you ever needed them in your car.

We all have different tastes so when it comes to car stereos, no head unit should be considered “one size fits all.” Just like anything else, a car stereo should be customizable to suit the needs and tastes of its user because we are all different. That sort of customization is exactly what the Pioneer DMH-1500NEX provides as one of the best car stereos.

The DMH-1500NEX is a double-DIN unit featuring a 7-inch resistive touchscreen display. There are also physical controls below the display. It connects easily to both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Additional connectivity comes in the form of Bluetooth, A/V inputs, and AUX input. Supported audio formats include AAC, FLAC, Mpeg-3, MP3 playback, WAV, and WMA. High-quality audio is produced from the built-in amp and 13-band graphic equalizer. Where the DMH-1500NEX particularly excels is in how customizable it is. Much like a smartphone, the display can be customized with moveable icons and widgets. Whatever your personal aesthetic needs, the DMH-1500NEX can be customized to suit them.

The Pioneer DMH-1500NEX is the type of car stereo that you can easily make your own thanks to excellent features and customization. Add in a great performance and the DMH-1500NEX is a car stereo not to be missed when searching for the best.

Most new car stereos will be compatible with the latest and greatest music formats and connections, but what about backward compatibility? Not all of us have the latest and greatest and any tech product that takes our slow ways into consideration is a winner in my book. The Pioneer AVH-X490BS is a great car stereo for the hip and antiquated alike.

The AVH-X490BS is a double-DIN with a motorized 7-inch, 16:9 aspect ratio touchscreen (800 x 600-pixel resolution). The AVH-X490BS is compatible with a wide range of digital formats and also plays CDs and DVDs. Connectivity includes Bluetooth for smartphone integration that spans Apple and Android phones including support for the major music services and apps. Direct connectivity via cable also includes compatibility for older iPhones or iPods so no worries that your older smartphone won"t work with this unit. The AVH-X490BS has the power to spare with a 50W x 4 built-in amplifier. Sound quality is exceptional with a 13-band graphic equalizer.

It can take a while for most of us to catch up with the latest and greatest in tech, thankfully the Pioneer AVH-X490BS has backward compatibility, so you don’t have to go out and buy a new phone just to use it. Great performance and features are what make the AVH-X490BS one of the best car stereos on this list.

I like it when tech manufacturers add something to their products that I didn’t know I needed. That tells me that manufacturers pay attention to detail and what makes sense for the consumer. The Sony XAV-AV5600 has features that may not seem obvious but add to its status as one of the best car stereos you can get.

The XAV-AV5600 is a double-DIN car stereo with a 6.9-inch touchscreen display. The screen is bezel-free giving it a clean, bright look and capacitive as opposed to resistive. Being capacitive, the screen is clearer and has a familiarity to it akin to using a smartphone’s screen. Physical controls are below the screen. The XAV-AV5600 is “mech-less”, meaning it does not play CDs. It does have built-in Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Connectivity includes Bluetooth, input for a rear camera, dual USB, steering wheel control, HDMI, and SiriusXM. Sound performance is great with a 10-band graphic equalizer powered by 4 x 55 watts of power.

The Sony XAV-AV5600 has features that just make sense like the capacitive, bezel-free screen. That screen familiarity makes using the XAV-AV5600 easy and intuitive to use with no worries about having to learn a whole new skill set with another piece of tech. That attention to detail makes the XAV-AV5600 one of the best car stereos to get.

The displays that come with car stereos are great, particularly if they display information in such a way that a quick, non-distracted-driving glance is all that is needed to use them. Unfortunately, a lot of head units have displays that aren’t quite safely visible. The JVC KWR930BT in this regard is different in a very good way.

The KWR930BT is a double-DIN head unit with a host of features. Though the display is not touchscreen, it does feature VA (Vertical Alignment) LCD panels that offer a broader angle of view and better visibility. Being 2-lines means the display provides much more information. An added bonus is the ability to customize the colors of the display to match your car’s interior lighting. The KWR930BT supports most digital media formats and is SiriusXM-ready. Physical controls are large and easy to reach. Connectivity includes Bluetooth, an AUX input jack, and USB. Sound is clear and vibrant from 50 watts x 4 power and a 13-band graphic equalizer. JVC’s proprietary K2 sound technology further enhances digital sound quality.

The JVC KWR930BT is one of the best car stereos because it puts its focus on music performance. Having a large, readable display makes it also a head unit that is easy and safe to use is a bonus no other units can boast.

Car stereos are really extensions of our smartphones, providing a way to access that mobile goodness while driving. Therefore, for any car stereo these days to be worthwhile, it has to operate seamlessly with our smartphones. The BOSS BE950WCPA is one of the best car stereos with excellent smartphone integration.

The BE950WCPA is a mech-less double-DIN head unit featuring a 6.75-inch capacitive touchscreen. The user interface has a colorful and clean layout with responsive touch controls. Smartphone compatibility includes both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Pairing is easy and quick via Bluetooth. It is compatible with a wide variety of video and music formats for your entertainment pleasure. A nice safety feature is that the parking brake must be connected and set to access video playback. Additional connectivity includes USB, two camera inputs, AUX, and, steering wheel compatibility. The BE950WCPA has 320 watts of power to liven up even stock speakers with vibrant sound. A variety of EQ presets also allow you to customize the sound to your tastes.

The BOSS BE950WCPA is a great in-the-car extension for your smartphone. With additional features like intuitive controls and great sound performance, the BE950WCPA is a worthy choice as a car stereo.

Some of us aren’t going to give up CDs without protest. So, a car stereo shouldn’t make us have to choose to do so by not only playing digital media but also the beloved CDs. The Kenwood DDX26BT is an all-around car stereo that caters to however you like to listen to your music in the car.

The DDX26BT is a double-DIN head unit with a 6.2-inch resistive touchscreen. The display is clear and responsive. Physical controls are along the right side of the panel. The DDX26BT is a DVD receiver meaning it can play those physical discs we’ve all been holding onto. And with regard to music, it supports a wide range of digital video and music formats. Connectivity includes USB and Bluetooth that supports dual phone connections and is capable of supporting five streaming devices simultaneously. It is SiriusXM and rear camera-ready. A 13-band graphic equalizer is great for enhancing music output.

Whether you want to upgrade your old stock car stereo or want to be able to continue to enjoy your CDs, the Kenwood DDX26BT is an excellent choice on the list of the best car stereos. It is like having the best of both the physical and digital worlds of car stereos.

The car stereo has many roles to perform from entertainment to getting you from point a to point b. While we can get that same functionality from our smartphones, we all know the dangers of using a smartphone while driving. The car stereo has therefore become an important extension of, if not an important accessory of our smartphones while driving. It is hard to believe being able to comfortably drive anymore without having at least some form of car stereo today. Whether upgrading an older unit or replacing a broken one, there are many things to consider when selecting a car stereo. A basic understanding of what they are and what they do is a good place to start.

A car stereo is also called a head unit because it is the command and control center of your car’s audio system. That head unit has become ever more technological and important as car stereo systems have evolved to become infotainment systems providing not only entertainment but also communications and navigation. And that increased role means there are many options available to choose from.

The most important aspect to consider when upgrading or replacing a car stereo is whether the new unit will fit into your car. There are primarily two form factors when it comes to car stereos, single and double-DIN. DIN stands for Deutsche Industrie Norm which is the standardized car stereo opening size for cars. This standard has two sizes, single-DIN (roughly two inches tall and 7 inches wide), and double-DIN (roughly four inches wide and seven inches tall). There are advantages to both DIN sizes, but one of the main differences is that a double-DIN car stereo will usually have a large graphical display or touchscreen while a single-DIN unit will most likely not. What your car is compatible with will determine whether you can go with single or double-DIN.

Other aspects to consider include connectivity (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB), what type of music or even videos the car stereo can play (digital formats, streaming, or CDs), does it come with navigation, among others. Considering how connected we are with our smartphones, your choice of car stereo can in many ways come down to the type of phone you have.

With so many things to consider, it can be difficult to find the right car stereo that works for you. To help, here’s a listing of the best car stereos to upgrade your car stereo infotainment experience.

For your car stereo, a touch screen isn’t just a luxury. Fiddling with knobs, dials, and buttons while you’re driving is dangerous – it’s a distraction that you can’t afford. Touch screens are intuitive and functional and they help you focus on what’s coming up on the road.

As of 2022, a whopping 98.8% of cars sold in the United States will have a touch screen. But we can’t all afford to buy a new vehicle every time technology changes! (1)

Fortunately, you can get your hands (and your fingertips) on a touch screen car stereo without splashing out on a new motor. We’ve rounded up the best aftermarket touch screen car stereos around.

It’s a 6.2-inch capacitive touch screen at 800 x 400 pixel resolution. The product comes with a dedicated Spotify app you can control with your iPhone or Android.

The touch screen supports Bluetooth connectivity allowing you to make hands-free calling or play media content from your smartphone. Pioneer is a renowned brand in all things electronics, and it’s not a surprise the many audio and video playback formats this beast can handle.

It comes with complete accessories and wiring for a quick and easy DIY install. It isn’t the largest touch screen car radio on the market, but the 6.2-inch display is large enough to see without squinting your eyes.

Interestingly, you can control specific apps on your phone with the PIONEER touchscreen. The product lets you enjoy Siri Eyes Free with specific iOS devices and voice recognition if you’re using an Android 5.0 Lollipop or a higher operating system.

The touchscreen car stereo isn’t only suitable for sedans, and it also works excellent for SUVs. However, the software is slightly buggy, and the display can be a little challenging to navigate while driving.

The Android Auto support is also suspect and only works for certain vehicles. That said, the varied functionality and reasonable price point make it an excellent addition to your car infotainment system.

The Alpine ILX-W650 is a great way to extend all the functionality of your smartphone device into your car stereo. The touchscreen device works great with smartphones, speakers, and tablets, and it’s a reasonable size at 7″ with intuitive touchscreen swipe controls.

Unlike other touchscreen car stereos that claim compatibility with Android Auto and Apple Carplay, this product talks the talk and walks it too! Both systems work effectively without the common niggles and glitches found in lesser car stereos.

Moreover, the touchscreen has one of the cleanest displays out there, with an understated appearance that belies its value. The audio quality is crystal clear, and you can play almost all kinds of video formats through the USB.

You’ll also love the built-in iPhone and iPad controls, including Spotify and Pandora. This compact receiver is for users who need an inexpensive touch screen radio with specific functionalities.

The shallow design is excellent for cars without plenty of installation room, making it exceptionally easy to install in all vehicles. And there will be additional room for you to install other after-market hardware to enhance this touchscreen car stereo.

The ATOTO A6 is a double-DIN unit that provides insane customization features. Receive seamless Internet connectivity via WiFi, USB, or Bluetooth tethering. Pro tip: the easiest way to use the Internet is by connecting the screen through WiFi.

You’ll love the mirroring feature that allows the A6 to mirror video content on your Android or iPhone – but it’s worth mentioning that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto don’t support specific apps like YouTube, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and Netflix, which don’t work with MirrorLink. You can’t cast your movies directly from your smartphone in simple terms.

The display is a 5-touch capacitive touchscreen with one of the widest viewing angles at 178 degrees. This feature ensures you can enjoy the view no matter your sitting position. It’s a good HD user interface with a 1024 x 600 pixel resolution.

In truth, the touchscreen quality feels like a smartphone built into a car stereo. It’s intuitive and responsive, there’s almost non-existent lag, and the display is super sharp. The video quality is impressive, and you can watch your favorite video formats in the highest quality.

ATOTO also continues to provide firmware updates to enhance user experience. The sound quality is not the best in its class, but this flaw is forgivable if you use Spotify and set the EQ to Flat or Natural.

It’s rather annoying that the screen protector isn’t practical and not worth installing. You can also experience some lag when installing apps, but the ATOTO A6 is still a more than capable device for your needs.

Not to be mistaken for BOSE, the BOSS BV9364B is a budget-friendly touch screen car stereo that provides simplistic functionality at the most affordable price.

Additionally, there’s Bluetooth connectivity for wireless support, and the entire package is built into a 6.2-inch color screen that’s intuitive even if it’s not the most responsive.

It’s shocking how affordable this product is because it has features you’d find in a more expensive touchscreen. Consequently, this BOSS infotainment screen is an excellent choice for the gadget enthusiast needing an upgrade without burning a hole through their pocket.

If you want something sleek and feels like an iPhone flagship, you’d be better served looking elsewhere. The touch screen also has a steering wheel accessory to control the touch screen function as you drive.

In sum, this product is suitable for old cars that are too modern to use a cassette player and too old for the more sophisticated touch screen head units.

The PLZ AN-500 is an ambitious touch screen car stereo that elevates your vehicle’s infotainment system without leaving you bankrupt. It’s a double DIN head unit with a whopping 10.1″ screen.

Even with the large screen, the IPS (In-Plane Switching) display is neat and sharp compared to other head units. The inbuilt receiver provides the latest highway information allowing you to enjoy Waze or Google Maps.

Interestingly, this head unit is a standard fit for most dual DIN vehicles. You can make hands-free calls through Bluetooth, and the touchscreen also has 12 equalizers tailored to genre and style, including rock, pop, jazz, loud, and classic, to give you an exceptional audio experience.

As a result, this touch screen car stereo doesn’t feel cheap, with a decent FM tuner. It pairs seamlessly with iOS and Android, and the PHONE LINK feature can function for your GPS.

Despite this, it’s a robust unit with some impressive features. The build quality is decent with premium materials, and the touchscreen is as responsive as any top-notch head unit on the market.

This double DIN head unit is reliably built and impressively robust making it one of the most durable out there. If you’re looking for a touch screen car stereo that will outlive touch screen technology, then the Kenwood DDX25BT could be for you.

With a tuner that gives you as many AM and FM stations as you want and the option of SiriusXM satellite radio, you’ll find a multitude of ways to enjoy music through this head unit. And through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you can enjoy hands-free phone calls or listen to third-party services like Spotify and Pandora.

This multimedia receiver has a responsive touchscreen and superior audio quality, including voice control, making it the ideal choice for when you’re on the go.

The GPS mapping feature supports Google Maps and Waze, and you can screencast the content on your Android phone to display on the car touchscreen. This feature allows you to get the best out of your phone apps on a larger screen and with a far more impressive audio quality.

Double DIN head units make up most of this list, and the JVC KWV140BT isn’t an exception. It has a reasonable size of 6.2″ with a user interface you can customize to your taste. The touchscreen car stereo also includes an inbuilt DVD player that’s CD compatible.

The only major drawback with this product is the omission of satellite radio in the form of SiriusXM, and audiophiles will find the EQ (equalizer) to be lacking. There are also reports about the screen freezing up, but this is only true for a few faulty units. That said, it’s still an excellent head unit for the price.

The AVH-X390BS is the second Pioneer touchscreen car stereo on this list and a testament to the brand’s quality. The standout feature of this product is the intuitive and sharply defined interface that makes it comfortable on the eyes, even on the sunniest day!

Of course, it comes with a wiring harness for seamless integration with your car, and the installation is straightforward. It has a built-in microphone and Bluetooth connectivity that works great for hands-free calling.

This double-DIN Pioneer head unit has a Best Station Memory which saves your best radio channels for whenever you’re on the road, it’s a smart feature that saves you from the fiddly programming of old.

If you want a touch screen car stereo, you can personalize, this is for you. That said, the standout feature is the satellite radio that is SiriusXM ready . The audio quality is superb even with the stock speakers in your car.

Touch screen technology can be capacitive or resistive and this affects what can functionally operate your screen. Capacitive touch screens use the human body’s natural conductivity to function, while resistive touch screens rely simply on pressure, so you can use a pen or stylus to operate them.

Touchscreen car stereos mostly come in two fittings: Single DIN and Double DIN. DIN is the acronym for Deutsches Institut für Normung which is the common standard for touch screen car stereos.

Single DIN is two inches in height, while Double DIN is four inches. Double DIN is the most suitable for the latest touchscreen head units because it has a larger screen size.

If you’d like to watch movies and follow your favorite series, it makes sense to get a touchscreen car stereo with the largest screen display on the market. A head unit that plays movies is the best solution for occupying kids on a long trip.

The music player feature is essential for any head unit, and the type of touch screen car stereo you buy heavily depends on how you listen to music in transit. Many products incorporate most of these features below:

USB: Today’s touch screen car stereos have single or multiple USB ports to play your curated music selection. You can also find products with SD card support.

Satellite Radio: A satellite radio is a must-have today, allowing you to listen to your favorite shows anywhere you are without running out of signal. If you enjoy iHeartRadio and other satellite channels, look out for head units that support satellite radio. If you own a satellite radio or listen through your smartphone, all you need is Bluetooth connectivity or AUX-IN to play on your screen.

The best touch screen car stereos have parametric equalization and crossover features to work with a subwoofer. However, even the budget-friendly options typically have better sound quality and control compared to the stock head unit in your vehicle.

GPS is pretty standard for many head units, but it’s not unheard of to find a touch screen car stereo without one! That said, you can always use the GPS on your smartphone to get to your destination.

Touch screen car stereos are simply smartphones on steroids. It’s no surprise many head units support Apple CarPlay and Google’s Android Auto. These apps integrate your favorite smartphone features into your vehicle.

Additionally, multi-line displays provide more information without fiddling with the display. You can buy touch screen car stereos with floating screens to give your infotainment that extra oomph.

Even the most premium head units fall short of certain expectations. The best products may not have it all, but they can be expanded to support other features. For instance, some head units have preamp outputs that allow you to connect to a powered subwoofer or external amplifiers.

If you intend to add a subwoofer, get a head unit that supports subwoofer output. Better still, you should be able to adjust the subwoofer volume separately without using the touch screen volume control.

Touchscreen car stereos, particularly the aftermarket options, can elevate your driving experience and make moving from Point A to B less boring. Almost all devices use a touchscreen these days, so it’s essential to get one for your car.

It improves your car’s aesthetic and makes your dashboard look like the interior of a spaceship! And if you add a rearview camera, you’ll have a better view of the car’s rear than a side mirror can ever offer.

Additionally, installing a premium touchscreen car stereo will increase your vehicle value whenever you consider a sale in the future – it’s a guaranteed good investment.

Modern cars are packed with high-tech convenience and safety features, and infotainment systems lie at the center. However, these modern multimedia interfaces can be difficult to use. That’s why we examined every major automaker’s infotainment system to find the best around. Every system listed below is attractive and intuitive.

To stand out against nearly every other automaker in the industry, Audi’s latest version of its Multi Media Interface (MMI) includes two large touchscreens, replacing the need for any physical buttons. On most vehicles, the top screen handles the regular infotainment system, while the lower touchscreen is used for climate controls and other convenience features.

Audi’s infotainment system is straightforward, reacts quickly to inputs, and is handsomely designed. To make the screens easier to use, the screens are slightly canted toward the driver. They’re also angled slightly to decrease glare. To make sure users don’t hit the wrong button, the touchscreens have haptic feedback, meaning there’s a vibration when the screen is touched.

One of Audi’s best infotainment features is its Virtual Cockpit system. The system displays information from the infotainment screen in the instrument cluster. It’s highly customizable and puts important information in front of the driver.

Audi’s MMI and Virtual Cockpit systems have been available for a few years, so you should be able to find a used Audi with both systems. Screen sizes for MMI range from 7 inches up to 10.1 inches. Vehicles with Audi’s dual-screen system come with a 10.1-inch touchscreen and an 8.6-inch touchscreen. Virtual Cockpit, for the most part, includes a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.

BMW was one of the first automakers to come out with an all-encompassing infotainment system like the ones found in modern cars. While the first few iterations of iDrive were difficult to use, BMW has come a long way in making its iDrive system more intuitive. BMW’s infotainment system also offers some customization to get specific information.

One of the highlights of iDrive is wireless Apple CarPlay, which first came out in 2016. Android users have had to wait quite a few years to get the same feature, but the latest iDrive 7 system brings wireless compatibility for Android Auto.

You’ll also find crisp graphics, well-laid-out menus, and the seamless integration of iDrive in the vehicle’s digital gauge cluster and head-up display. Just like a few other automakers, BMW offers users a few ways to interact with iDrive. Most vehicles come with large touchscreens, but users can also use a rotary controller, voice commands, and even hand gestures.

BMW’s iDrive 7 is a relatively new system found on the majority of the automaker’s vehicles. Screen sizes for iDrive 7 measure 8.8-inches up to 12.3 inches and can also be paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

The latest and greatest infotainment system can be found on the Ford Mustang Mach-E, F-150, Bronco, and F-150 Lightning. SYNC 4 is offered with both 8-inch and 15.5-inch touchscreens, with the latter being oriented vertically. Beyond featuring a massive touchscreen, SYNC 4 brings cloud-based connectivity, natural voice recognition, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air updates.

Unlike other systems on the market, the ones found in Genesis, Hyundai, and Kia’s vehicles are straightforward and have clear menus. While the graphics aren’t very impressive, the available 10.25-inch touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster provide clear information. Additionally, the South Korean automakers continue to be trailblazers, being some of the first to offer new tech features like wireless smartphone compatibility and Amazon Alexa integration.

Kia saves its 12.3-inch touchscreen for larger vehicles like the Carnival. When it comes to Hyundai, the largest touchscreen the brand offers is a 10.25-inch unit on vehicles like the Sonata, Santa Fe, Tucson, and Palisade. A few vehicles can also be equipped with a 12.3-inch or a 10.25-inch digital instrument display.

Unlike the systems found in cars from most other automakers, Mazda’s infotainment system can’t be controlled by touch. Instead, users control the system using a rotary knob. It’s not as intuitive as a touchscreen, but it’s one of the better rotary knob systems on the market. The dial operates smoothly and is in an easy-to-access locat