Android Head Unit or CarPlay Head Unit? How to Choose

An Android head unit is a small Android computer built into a car stereo. It runs its own apps, such as maps and music, without a phone, and many also run Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A CarPlay head unit is simpler: the apps come from your phone. Android units give more features for the money, but quality, speed and software updates vary a lot between brands.

How they differ

• Apps: an Android unit can install apps directly. A CarPlay unit shows the apps on your phone.
• Phone connection: on an Android unit, CarPlay and Android Auto are often provided by a built-in app. On a CarPlay unit they are the main feature.
• Start-up and speed: some Android units take longer to start and can feel slow, depending on the processor and memory.
• Updates: phone-based systems improve when your phone updates. Some Android units rarely or never get updates.
• Settings: some Android units hide settings behind factory passwords, which can make setup and fixes harder.

Which suits you?

• Choose a CarPlay or Android Auto focused unit if you mainly want your phone on the screen, fast start-up and the fewest surprises.
• Choose an Android unit if you want apps that run without a phone, a big screen for the money, and you are happy to check the brand and support carefully.

What to check before you buy either

• That it fits your dash: try the stereo fit checker.
• Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto that start reliably.
• Steering control support: see steering wheel control interfaces.
• A camera input, a warranty, and a supplier in NZ who will stand behind it.

Our guide to choosing a car head unit in NZ has the full checklist, and we fit head units at your home or work: see head unit installation.

Frequently asked questions

Do Android head units have Apple CarPlay?

Many do, usually through a built-in app. Check that it supports wireless CarPlay if you want it, and that it starts reliably.

Are Android head units any good?

Some are very good and some are not. The processor, memory, software support and warranty make the difference, so check the brand.

Can an Android head unit work without a phone?

Yes. It can run maps and music apps on its own, using Wi-Fi or a phone hotspot for internet.