There’s no question that Apple CarPlay is one of the best ways to control your iPhone while driving.
But what if you want to use CarPlay wirelessly?
Unfortunately, there are only a handful of stereos on the market that offer wireless Apple CarPlay. And of those, even fewer are worth your hard-earned money.
But never fear!
We’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best wireless Apple CarPlay stereos on the market. Whether you’re looking for the best bang for your buck or the absolute best of the best, we’ve got you covered.
So without further ado, here are the best wireless Apple CarPlay stereos money can buy!
Top 5 Best Wireless Apple CarPlay Stereo (In-depth Reviews)
#1. Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX – Best Double DIN Wireless Apple Carplay
Dude, ditch your old head unit and snag the Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX! It’s like the best smartphone upgrade for your car. Wireless Apple CarPlay keeps you connected, the 6.8″ screen is gorgeous, and Amazon Alexa is your new road trip DJ. Plus, sound quality is killer. Trust me, it’s the #1 CarPlay head unit for a reason. Seriously, check it out – your drives will thank you!
Key Features
- Great Display Quality – The Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX features a 6.8″ capacitive touchscreen display, which is one of the largest on our list. And, thanks to its high resolution, you can expect sharp and vibrant colors. Plus, the touchscreen is responsive and easy to use, so you won’t have any trouble navigating your way around the unit.
- Premium Sound Quality – The Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX offers a built-in amplifier which provides 50 watts of MOSFET power enough to drive up to 4 speakers (pre-amp outputs let you add amps for even more punch). The DMH-W4660NEX boasts advanced audio processing to fine-tune your listening experience. Built-in EQs and time alignment let you tailor the sound to your car’s acoustics and your preferences. Want to lose yourself in high-resolution audio? No problem – this head unit plays FLAC and WAV files at up to 192kHz/24-bit, letting you hear every detail the artist intended.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay – One of the best features of the Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX is its wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility. So, if you have an iPhone, you can connect it to the unit without having to worry about any messy cords or cables. Plus, you’ll be able to access all of your favorite apps, including navigation, music, and more.
- Expandability – The Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX is expandable, so you can add on additional features like SiriusXM satellite radio or a backup camera. Plus, with the built-in HDMI input, you can even connect a smartphone or tablet and use it as a second screen.
- Ease of Use – The Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX is easy to use, thanks to its intuitive and user-friendly controls. Even if you’re not familiar with car stereos, you’ll be able to figure out how to use the unit in no time. Plus, the large and bright display makes it easy to see what’s playing, even in direct sunlight.
- Connectivity – This unit includes both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, so you can easily stream music or make hands-free calls. Plus, with the built-in Amazon Alexa, you can control your stereo using just your voice. And, if you have an iPhone, you can take advantage of Siri Eyes Free control.
- Installation – The Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX is a bit of a challenge to install. However, if you’re feeling confident, then you can certainly try to install it yourself. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to connect the unit to your car’s parking brake in order to access all of its features.
Specifications
| Display | 6.8″ high-resolution capacitive touchscreen |
| Amplifier | 14 watts RMS per channel built-in amplifier |
| Speaker/Subwoofer Expansion | Expandable for additional speakers or subwoofer |
| HD Radio Tuner | Built-in HD Radio tuner for clear radio reception |
| Apple CarPlay Compatibility | Wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay |
| App Access | Access to favorite apps, including navigation and music |
| SiriusXM Satellite Radio Expansion | Expandable for SiriusXM satellite radio |
| Backup Camera Expansion | Expandable for backup camera for added safety |
| HDMI Input | Built-in HDMI input for smartphone or tablet connection |
| User-friendly Controls | Intuitive and user-friendly controls |
| Unit Size | Double-DIN unit with Shallow Chassis for most dashboards |
| Parking Brake Connection | Connects to car’s parking brake for safety |
| Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Connectivity | Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for streaming music and hands-free calls |
| Amazon Alexa Voice Control | Built-in Amazon Alexa voice control |
| Siri Eyes Free Control | Siri Eyes Free control for iPhone users |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Touchscreen is responsive and easy to use
- Large and bright display is easy to see, even in direct sunlight
- Intuitive and user-friendly controls
- Wireless CarPlay Compatible with all iPhones and takes few seconds to connect
- The sound quality is quite good compared to its previous model which is DMH 1500NEX.
Cons
- No Built-in Navigation system, you need to connect your phone with receiver wirelessly in order to use navigation system via CarPlay or Android Auto.
- Installation is a bit challenging
- Expensive compared to other models models in the market like Sony XAV-AX4000 or JVC KW-M865BW
#2. Sony XAV-AX4000 – Best Single DIN Wireless CarPlay Radio
This head unit is best for those whose car has a single DIN dash opening. This stereo offers 7-inch touchscreen display, wireless carplay/Android Auto, built-in high power (200 watts) amplifier, Graphic EQ , backup camera support and many more features listed below.
Released in 2022, the XAV-AX4000 is one of the latest additions to Sony’s high-end car stereo lineup. And you can tell it from a first glance.
It has a 6.95-inch anti-glare WVGA resistive touchscreen. Unlike in car stereos from previous years, the screen in AX4000 has narrow bezels at the top and a row of popped-out physical buttons at the bottom.
The overall design is shallow-depth, which helps in cable management during the installation.
You get standard music input sources, such as satellite radio, Bluetooth (for music streaming and hands-free calling), USB, etc.
While the Bluetooth in XAV-AX4000 uses LDAC codec to stream higher bitrate music files, I still recommend the USB input as it gives the freedom to choose between several audio file formats, such as MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, ALAC, WAV, DSF, and DSDIFF.
To further enhance the sound experience, there’s a 14-band EQ, balance/fader, subwoofer output adjustment, presets for different music genres (Rock, R&B, Pop, etc.), etc.
My favorite is the listening position setting, which is time alignment that allows you to sync the speaker sounds so that they all come to you simultaneously.
If we talk about the crossover settings, you can adjust the frequencies for high-pass and low-pass filters – and their respective slopes.
With all said, the main feature of AX4000 is the wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto have eclipsed their wired versions as most car owners found WiFi and Bluetooth more convenient.
But their main problem is that the built-in Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto comes in very few vehicles and only Flagship aftermarket car stereos.
Therefore, it’s good to see well-known brands like Sony pushing these high-end features into their midrange products.
Rear connections include a USB Type-C input, rear camera input, SiriusXM input, mic input, steering wheel adapter input, etc.
Lastly, the AX4000 is compatible with the iDataLink maestro interface, which helps you installing the head unit in cars where the stock radio is integrated with other vehicle systems (such as climate control system).
Specification
| Display | 6.95-inch anti-glare WVGA resistive touchscreen |
| Custom Wallpaper | Customize user interface with wallpaper settings |
| Input Sources | Satellite radio, Bluetooth for music streaming and hands-free calling, USB input (supports various audio file formats) |
| Bluetooth | Utilizes LDAC codec for high-quality music streaming |
| Sound Enhancement Features | Built-in internal amp (55 peak/22 watts RMS x 4 channels), 14-band EQ, Subwoofer output adjustment, Time alignment, Crossover settings |
| Outputs | 5-channel preamp outputs (2-volt front, rear, mono sub) |
| Inputs | Rear USB-C input, rear-view camera input |
| Wireless Connectivity | Supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
| Compatibility | Compatible with iDataLink Maestro interface |
| LDAC Technology | Exceptional sound quality with LDAC technology |
| Button Controls | Improved button design with large keys for easy operation |
| Quick Wake-up | Quick Wake-up feature for rapid start-up |
| Time Alignment | Built-in DSP offers precise sound processing |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Anti-glare will help you under bright sunlight.
- Minimalist UI feels clean and easy on the eyes.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Works Flawlessly
- The Quick wake-up feature allows you to have blazing-fast loading times.
- High-res FLAC music files (up to 24-bit/384KHz) are supported through USB input.
Cons
- 2V RCA pre-out signal will put more load on the amplifier to produce high-quality audio signals.
- Resistive touchscreen.
- Wireless Android Auto might have some connectivity issues in a few vehicles.
#3. JVC KW-M865BW – Also Great
The sound quality is clear and loud, and there are tons of features like a built-in equalizer that will let you customize your audio track of choice. The touchscreen is also highly responsive and easy to use. Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto connections are quick and work great, while the 5-volt pre-outs offer plenty of power.
Key Features
- 6.8” Touch Screen Display – With its 6.8″ Clear Resistive touchscreen, you can customize the background to your liking with the “live wallpaper” feature. The digital angle adjustment ensures that you have a great view of the display regardless of where you’re sitting in the car. And if that’s not enough, finger movements also control volume level and forward/back movement. Plus, it fits double-DIN dash openings so it’s perfect for any car. The home screen is customizable with various information including time, photos and album art images. You can also use two fingers to split or change what’s being displayed on your monitor without having to change windows modes!
- High Resolution Sound Quality – The sound quality of the KW-M865BW is excellent, thanks to the 13-band equalizer and time alignment features. The pre-outs are also very powerful, making it easy to add an amplifier and aftermarket speakers to your system. With high-resolution audio playback and LDAC Bluetooth streaming, the JVC KW-M865BW stereo is able to reproduce sound that’s closer to the original master recording than ever before. Whether you’re listening to CDs or High-Resolution Audio files, this stereo will give you an immersive listening experience that you won’t forget.
- Time Alignment – With features like Time Alignment and Sound Response, you’ll enjoy enhanced sound quality that will take your listening experience to the next level. And with Space Enhancement, you’ll be able to enjoy virtual surround sound with just two speakers.
- 4 Backup Camera Support – With four camera inputs, you can easily add a reverse (rear facing) camera, front camera, and two additional blind spot cameras. This makes driving safer and more convenient for everyone. Plus, with compatible vehicles and the addition of a select iDatalink Maestro module, you can even retain your existing blind spot cameras! If you need an extra monitor for the backseat passengers, no problem – this stereo has an A/V input that lets you connect one.
- Wireless CarPlay & Auto Works Flawlessly – The JVC KW-M865BW Stereo is the perfect head unit to integrate your Android or iPhone into your driving experience. With both wireless and wired options, this stereo lets you access your music, navigation, and other apps with ease. With its simple design, it’s easy to stay focused on the road while using this stereo. Plus, its superior sound quality ensures that you’ll enjoy your music or podcast to the fullest. Whether you’re looking for a way to stay connected on your daily commute or want to make road trips more enjoyable, the JVC KW-M865BW Stereo is the perfect solution.
- iDataLink Maestro Support – This receiver comes with iDatalink Maestro support, so you can retain all your factory steering wheel audio controls and even display vehicle information on compatible vehicles. Plus, the built-in amplifier delivers powerful sound that will fill any room or space.
- Ease of Use: The JVC KW-M865BW is easy to use, thanks to its intuitive controls and menus.The physical buttons and knobs are also large and clearly labeled, making it easy to make adjustments on the go.
Specifications
| Display | 6.8″ Clear Resistive touchscreen |
| Digital Angle Adjustment | Digital angle adjustment |
| Amplifier | Built-in amplifier delivers powerful sound |
| Power Wattage | Power Wattage: 200 watts |
| RMS | RMS: 22 Watts x 4 Channels |
| FLAC File Support | Support FLAC files up to 192k/24bit via USB |
| Equalizer | 13-band equalizer |
| HD Radio Support | Built-in HD Radio Support |
| Time Alignment Features | Time alignment features |
| Wireless Connectivity | Built-in Wi-Fi for wireless CarPlay & Auto |
| Screen Mirroring | Support Screen mirroring for both iPhone and Android devices |
| SiriusXM Compatibility | Compatible with SiriusXM satellite Radio |
| High Resolution Audio Playback | High Resolution Audio playback |
| LDAC Bluetooth Streaming | LDAC Bluetooth streaming |
| Preamp Outputs | Outputs: 6 Channels Preamp having 5 volt (front, rear and subs) |
| Video Output | Support Video output via RCA, for connecting headrest monitors |
| Camera Inputs | 4 camera inputs: Reverse (rear facing) camera, Front camera, and 2 additional blindspot cameras |
| Input Ports | A/V input, Aux input, USB Port |
| Supported Audio Formats | Supported Audio formats: MP3, WMA, and AAC, high-res WAV and FLAC, MPEG 1-2-4, AVI/MKV |
| Steering Wheel Control Compatibility | Retain all your factory steering wheel audio controls |
| Warranty | 24 Months Warranty for US and (12 Months for Canada) |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- The sound quality is clear and loud. Also there are tons of features like built-in eq which will help you to customize the audio track of your choice.
- The touchscreen is responsive, you can also customize the home screen
- Both Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto connects quickly with the receiver and works great
- 5 volt Pre-outs are very powerful
Cons
- Wireless Android Mirroring is compatible with only selected phone
- The color accuracy on the screen is also not great.
Note: In our testing, we found that there is sound delay when using Bluetooth or wireless Android auto. The other downside is that wireless Android mirroring is only compatible with select phones, and the color accuracy on the screen could be better. Overall its a great option for those looking for a wireless Apple CarPlay stereo Under $500.
#4. Kenwood DMX907: Best Aftermarket wireless apple Carplay Radio (High Power)
The Kenwood DMX907S is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a powerful and feature-rich wireless CarPlay stereo with great sound quality. It offers plenty of features such as high-resolution audio playback, support for various lossless audio formats, built-in amplifier and iData-Link Maestro compatibility. The receiver also comes with a 24-month warranty.
Key Features
- Display – This unit features a 6.95″ touchscreen display with swipe functionality for easy control. This digital media touchscreen receiver can play back FULL HD video files from your USB devices, so you can enjoy your favorite movies and shows on the go. The clear glass display provides superior picture quality.
- Sound Quality – The Kenwood DMX907S features high-resolution audio playback as well as support for various lossless audio formats such as FLAC, WAV, and Apple Lossless. The receiver also offers a 13-band graphic equalizer with 8 selectable tone curves to allow you to tailor the sound quality to your liking. In addition, the DMX907S is equipped with a time alignment tool, allowing you to adjust the soundstage to better suit your listening preference. The head unit also provides selectable crossover points and slopes for a more customized sound. And, if that wasn’t enough, it also has 5volt preamps, making it one of the most powerful head units on the market.
- Backup Cameras Support – The Kenwood DMX907S receiver is compatible with a rearview camera that allows you to connect an optional backup camera. By connecting a rear view camera, you can see what’s behind you on the receiver’s touchscreen LCD while backing up.
- Built-in High Power Amplifier The Kenwood DMX907S is equipped with a built-in amplifier capable of producing 22 watts RMS per channel. The amplifier is used to power the speakers in your car audio system.
- iDataLink Maestro Support – The Kenwood DMX907S is also compatible with the iDataLink Maestro module which allows you to retain many of the factory features in your vehicle such as steering wheel controls, climate control, and more. The iDatalink Maestro also gives you the ability to display engine performance data on the receiver’s touchscreen.
- Compatibility – The Kenwood DMX907S is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. For iOS devices, the receiver supports Apple CarPlay as well as Siri Eyes Free. Android users can take advantage of the receiver’s built-in Android Auto functionality.
Specifications
| Display | 6.95″ WVGA Capacitive Touchscreen |
| Maximum Power Output | 200 watts |
| RMS | 22 watts RMS x 4 channels |
| Wireless Connectivity | Built-in Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay functionality |
| Siri Eyes Free Support | Siri Eyes Free support |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 95 dB |
| Video Inputs | 4 (front, rear, side, backup) |
| Audio Inputs | 1 (front USB) |
| Audio Outputs | 2 (rear/subwoofer pre-out) |
| Graphic Equalizer | Thirteen band graphic Equalizer |
| Time Alignment | Time alignment |
| High-Resolution Audio Playback | High-Resolution Audio playback |
| Lossless Audio Format Support | Support for various lossless audio formats such as FLAC, WAV, and Apple Lossless |
| Crossover Points and Slopes | Selectable crossover points and slopes |
| Device Compatibility | Compatible with both iOS and Android devices |
| Warranty | 24 Months |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- The receiver offers excellent sound quality, support for high-resolution audio files, and a variety of ways to connect your smartphone.
- The amplifier is powerful enough to drive most aftermarket speakers.
- The built-in time alignment tool, allowing you to adjust the soundstage to better suit your listening preference.
- The head unit also provides selectable crossover points and slopes for a more customized sound.
Cons
- Difficult to watch the display in sunlight, the display Could be a little brighter.
- Quite Expensive
Note: In our testing, we found that the brightness of the display is low and also has an glaring issues. The display is almost impossible to see under sunlight, in order to fix this issue, we recommend you to buy this ANTI-GLARE Screen protector.
#5. JVC KW-Z1000W 10.1-inch Touchscreen Stereo
The JVC KW-Z1000W is a 10.1″ floating screen wireless CarPlay head unit that is packed with features. It has a sleek and modern design that will give your car’s dash a luxurious look and feel. The large touchscreen display is easy to use and navigate, making it a great choice for those who want to use CarPlay without having to deal with fiddly controls.
Key Features
The unit also includes a built-in amplifier, making it a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their car’s sound system. The JVC KW-Z1000W is a bit on the pricey side, but it’s worth every penny if you’re looking for the best possible CarPlay experience.
- Large Floating Display – The 10.1″ floating capacitive touchscreen display on the JVC KW-Z1000W is one of its standout features. Not only does it look great, but it’s also adjustable to provide the perfect viewing angle, no matter where you’re sitting in your car. And, if you’re looking to add even more personality to your stereo, the KW-Z1000W also offers customizable display backgrounds and live wallpapers.
- Compatibility – One of the great things about the JVC KW-Z1000W is that it’s compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. So, no matter what type of smartphone you have, you’ll be able to take advantage of all that these two platforms have to offer. Additionally, the KW-Z1000W offers wired as well as wireless mirroring for Android devices, and wired mirroring for iPhone.
- Sound Quality – The JVC KW-Z1000W offers high-res FLAC and WAV playback, as well as DSD file support on USB drives. And, if you’re looking to improve the sound quality even further, the KW-Z1000W is also equipped with K2 technology, which enhances the digital sound for all music sources. Additionally, this stereo offers subwoofer level, phase, and low-pass crossover controls to help you tailor the sound to your preferences.
- Multi-band equalizer – The JVC KW-Z1000W offers a 13-band equalizer to help you tailor the sound to your preferences. Additionally, the unit’s DTA (Digital Time Alignment) feature allows you to adjust the soundstage for a perfect listening experience.
- Expandability – If you’re looking to expand the capabilities of your JVC KW-Z1000W, there are a few different options. First, the KW-Z1000W is compatible with SiriusXM satellite radio tuners. Additionally, the KW-Z1000W has inputs for rear USB, rear A/V, rear HDMI, and four cameras. And, if you’re looking to add even more speakers to your system, the KW-Z1000W also has outputs for rear A/V and 6-channel preamp.
- Ease of Use – This head unit is extremely easy to use, thanks to its compatibility with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Additionally, the unit’s Bluetooth connectivity allows you to make hands-free calls and stream audio wirelessly.
Specifications
| Display | 10.1″ floating capacitive touchscreen display |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | Wi-Fi connectivity |
| Customizable Display | Customizable display backgrounds and live wallpapers |
| Android Auto and Apple CarPlay Compatibility | Compatibility with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay |
| Wireless and Wired Mirroring (Android) | Wireless and wired mirroring for Android devices |
| Wired Mirroring (iPhone) | Wired mirroring for iPhone |
| High-Res Audio Playback | High-res FLAC and WAV playback |
| DSD File Support | DSD file support on USB drives |
| K2 Technology | K2 technology for enhanced digital sound |
| 13-Band Equalizer | 13-band equalizer |
| DTA (Digital Time Alignment) | DTA (Digital Time Alignment) for adjusting soundstage |
| SiriusXM Compatibility | SiriusXM satellite radio tuner compatibility |
| Inputs | Inputs for rear USB, rear A/V, rear HDMI, and four cameras |
| Preamp Output | 5Volt Preamp (6 Channels) |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls and wireless audio streaming |
| Parking Brake Connection | Wired connection to the parking brake |
| Warranty | 24 Months warranty |
| User Interface | Easy to use and extremely user-friendly interface |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- The 10.1″ floating capacitive touchscreen display looks great, works responsively
- Customizable display backgrounds and live wallpapers add personality to your stereo
- Both Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, works flawlessly
- Wireless and wired mirroring for Android devices, and wired mirroring for iPhone, make it easy to use your phone while driving
- High-res FLAC and WAV playback, as well as DSD file support on USB drives, mean that you can enjoy high quality audio
Cons
- It support only 720p, might be better if come with 1080p resolution, however the display quality is still better than most of the premium head units in the market
- No HD Backup Camera input available at this higher price range
- Wired connection to the parking brake can be an inconvenience if you don’t have a spot to park close to an outlet
FAQs Related to CarPlay Head Units
Which Pioneer head units have wireless Apple CarPlay?
The Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX, DMH-WC6600NEX, DMH-W4600NEX, and AVIC-W8400NEX are all Pioneer head units that offer wireless Apple CarPlay. These head units provide seamless integration of your iPhone with the audio system in your car. The wireless Apple CarPlay connection allows you to access your music, podcasts, and navigation apps without having to plug in a cable.
Which car stereo works best with iPhone?
The Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX works best with iPhone. It comes with a Bluetooth connection and supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay wirelessly, so it’s perfect for users of either system.
What is the key difference between CarPlay and wireless CarPlay?
The most noticeable difference between Apple CarPlay and wireless Apple CarPlay is that the latter does not require cables or cords to connect your iPhone to the car’s infotainment system. With wireless Apple CarPlay, you can enjoy all of the features and functions of Apple CarPlay without having to plug in a cable.
This makes it much easier and more convenient to use the Apple CarPlay system while you’re on the go. In addition, wireless Apple CarPlay also offers a more secure and reliable connection compared to cable connections. You can enjoy uninterrupted access to your Apple CarPlay functions while driving.
