Rating of the best car radios in 2024

In the modern rhythm of life, people spend more and more of their time in the car. They travel the world, stand in multi-kilometer traffic jams on the way to work and home, use the car as a way to distract themselves from their thoughts. On average, a modern person spends about 3 hours of his time in a car every day. The most popular way to have fun on the road is music. In this connection, car owners began to think that the standard audio system could not cope with the level of requirements imposed on it. Moreover, audio technology has stepped far forward. Consider what a car radio should be like now, and what audio devices are preferred by buyers in 2024.

Technical characteristics of the device.

1. Device size.
   All modern car radios can be divided into 2 types: 1 DIN and 2 DIN. 1 DIN radio tape recorders are standard and are installed directly instead of the standard audio system, but for a 2 DIN device you will have to choose a special frame. At the same time, the functionality of a 2 DIN device is much wider - due to its size and large screen, it is possible to display an image from a rear view camera on it (which today is one of the most popular options that simplify the life of a motorist). Also, a similar radio tape recorder can be used as a navigator or video player.
2. The number of output channels.
   Car radios on the market today have 2 to 5 channels. It is worth noting that the number of channels directly depends on how many additional speakers can be connected to the device, including the subwoofer.
3. Equalizer.
   One of the most important functions of an audio system necessary for high-quality sound. Thanks to the presence of an equalizer in the radio, you can completely customize the sound "for yourself". It should be remembered that the more bands an equalizer has, the more convenient it will be to work with it and the more accurate the sound settings will be.
4. Radio waves.
   In order for the radio to receive, it must support the VHF, FM, RDS bands (this function allows you to display the name of the song, weather forecast and other text files on the screen).
5. Compatible with a mobile device.
   
   Thanks to compatibility, you can listen to music without connecting your phone to the radio (via Bluetooth), and also output a phone call through the speaker. When purchasing a device, you need to check the compatibility of a specific operating system with a radio tape recorder, otherwise you will have to buy adapters or use adapters, which will make it impossible to use the audio system to the maximum.
6. Noise level.
   On average, this indicator should not be lower than 90 dB. The lower the noise level, the worse the sound will be from the device, and accordingly, at higher values ​​the sound will be better.
7. Supported formats.
   Almost all radio tape recorders support all formats, you just have to highlight FLAC - an audio format that allows you to play files without removing data from the audio stream (unlike MP3, WMA).
8. Additional features.Let's consider additional functions that can be useful in a car radio:

• presence of a CD-drive, control panel;
• joystick on the steering wheel, compatibility with multi-wheel - this function allows you to switch files without taking off the steering wheel, which is very convenient especially when driving on the highway;
• the presence of backlight, touch screen, auto-adjustment of backlight, screen type (monochrome or color), screen resolution, interface - the presence of these functions does not particularly affect the functionality of the device and depends only on the client's taste preferences;
• the built-in sound processor is a useful option to improve sound quality.

Top 10 car radios in 2024

Thus, knowing the main points that you should pay attention to when choosing an audio system, we will compile a rating of the best models of 2024 that meet all of the listed requirements, but at the same time belong to a different price category.

10th place - Kenwood KMM-BT 304

Country of origin - Indonesia, average cost: from 5130 rubles.

Specifications:

Supported formats: MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC

Size - 1 DIN

Peak power - 4 × 50 W

Number of output channels - 4 (audio x3, USB, PreAmp subwoofer)

Additional features: amplifier, equalizer, backlight, display type - monochrome, joystick on the steering wheel, Bluetooth.

Dimensions: 182x53x100 mm

The radio tape recorder belongs to the class of inexpensive budget devices, but at the same time it has many useful functions: support for basic formats, backlighting, LCD display, Bluetooth.

• own application that will allow you to control the radio tape recorder directly from your phone (supported by IOS, Android operating systems);
• 13 equalizer bands;
• built-in sound processor.

• some users mark the sound quality as average.

9th place - Pioneer FH-X730BT

Country of origin - Indonesia, average cost: from 7890 rubles.

Specifications:

Supported formats: MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC

Size - 1 DIN

Maximum power - 4 × 50 W

Number of output channels - 4 (audio, USB, preamp, subwoofer)

Additional features: amplifier, equalizer, backlight, display type - color, joystick on the steering wheel, Bluetooth.

Dimensions: 182x53x100 mm

The advantage of this model is its easy installation, while the technical characteristics of the device are at the level, and the sound thanks to the built-in sound processor is excellent.

• 13 equalizer bands;
• built-in sound processor.

• according to user reviews, scratches quickly appear on the screen;
• price.

8th place - Alpine UTE-72BT

Country of origin - Japan, average cost: from 6800 rubles.

Specifications:

Supported formats: MP3, WMA, AAC

Size - 1 DIN

Maximum power - 4 × 50 W

Number of output channels - 4 (PreAmp - front, rear, subwoofer)

Additional features: removable panel, display - monochrome, Bluetooth

Dimensions: 180x50x160 mm

The radio tape recorder is ideal for fans of "apple" technology, as it was developed in collaboration with Apple. Design, functionality, compatibility - everything is top notch.

• fifteen band equalizer;
• 100% compatibility with Apple devices;
• specially developed function MediaExpander, which allows you to reproduce "clear" sound even with strong noise.

• to work with devices with Android operating systems, Google will have to use adapters.

7th place - Pioneer DEH-80PRS

Country of origin - Thailand, average cost: from 20,500 rubles.

Specifications:

Supported formats: MP3, WMA, AAC

Size - 1 DIN

Maximum power - 4 × 50 W

Number of output channels - 4 (PreAmp - front, rear, subwoofer)

Additional features: slot for SD-disks, amplifier, equalizer, memory card support, backlight, contrast OLED display, remote control, joystick on the steering wheel, removable panel, Bluetooth.

Dimensions: 180x50x160 mm

The radio tape recorder has an intuitive interface and wide functionality, compatible with all operating systems and almost all multifunction wheels.

• a large number of additional features;
• the presence of a control panel;
• according to users - perfect sound reproduction;
• 16 equalizer bands;
• automatic noise sensor for better sound quality.

• the price is above average.

6th place - JVC KD-R794BT

Country of origin - Thailand, average cost: from 5580 rubles.

Specifications:

Supported formats: CD-Audio, MP3, WMA, FLAC

Size - 1 DIN

Maximum power - 4 × 50 W

Number of output channels - 2 (PreAmp, subwoofer)

Additional features: SD-disc slot, amplifier, equalizer, monochrome display, removable panel, Bluetooth, own application - JVC Remote App, which allows you to control the device.

Dimensions: 182x53x158 mm

A radio tape recorder belonging to the segment of inexpensive, but at the same time having all the necessary functions. Sound processor and 13-band equalizer ensure high-quality sound.

• built-in sound processor;
• own management application;
• energy saving function - when parked, the radio tape recorder works in a mode that allows you to consume less energy.

• the presence of only 2 output channels.

5th place - Pioneer MVH-X580BT

Country of origin - Thailand, average cost: from 7090 rubles.

Specifications:

Supported formats: MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC

Size - 1 DIN

Maximum power - 4 × 50 W

Number of Output Channels - 4 (PreAmp Front, PreAmp Rear, PreAmp Subwoofer)

Additional features: amplifier, equalizer, multi-color display, backlight, steering wheel joystick, Bluetooth, control using its own application - Spotify.

Dimensions: 178x50x160 mm

The radio tape recorder has a large number of additional features, including an enlarged color screen, and a 13-band equalizer, which allow you to customize the sound for any, even the most demanding user.

• color display in 16 * 9 format;
• equalizer;
• control using a mobile application.

• inconvenient placement of the USB connector.

4th place - Kenwood DPX-3000U

Country of origin - Indonesia, average cost: from 5190 rubles.

Specifications:

Supported formats: CD-Audio, MP3, WMA, FLAC

Size - 2 DIN

Maximum power - 4 × 50 W

Number of output channels - 2 (audio, USB)

Additional features: amplifier, equalizer, SD-disc slot, monochrome display, Bluetooth.

Dimensions: 182x111x158mm

The cheapest car radio, type 2 DIN, "reading" almost all formats and compatible with all operating systems.

• the presence of a control panel;
• price;
• built-in subwoofer filter.

• 2 output channels.

3rd place - JVC KW-R520

Country of origin - China, average cost: from 4390 rubles.

Specifications:

Supported formats: CD-Audio, MP3, WMA, FLAC

2 DIN size

Maximum and working power 4 × 20 W / 4 × 50 W

Number of Output Channels - 4 (PreAmp Front, PreAmp Rear, PreAmp Subwoofer)

Additional features: amplifier, equalizer, display - monochrome, colored backlight.

Dimensions: 178x112x158 mm

A radio tape recorder that provides maximum functions at a minimum price. Supports all formats, has high sound quality.

• high quality sound;
• price;
• CD-player.

• Bluetooth is not supported;
• no video support.

2nd place - Mystery MDD-6220S

Country of origin - Indonesia, average cost: from 6430 rubles.

Specifications:

Supported formats: CD-Audio, DVD-Video, MP3, MPEG4, DivX, WMA, JPEG

Size - 2 DIN

Maximum power - 4 × 50 W

Number of output channels - 5 (4 audio channels plus a separate input for the camera)

Additional features: amplifier, equalizer, TV tuner, touch screen.

Dimensions: 178x100x160mm

The car radio supports TV tuner, display resolution 800x480. You can connect a rear view camera to the device, and also use it as a DVR.

• 4-channel audio output, separate video input for rear view camera;
• touch screen;
• video support.

• according to customer reviews, the sound quality is average.

1st place - Pioneer FH-X730BT

Country of origin - Thailand, average cost: from 7890 rubles.

Specifications:

Supported formats: MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC

Size - 2 DIN

Maximum and working power - 4 × 22 W / 4 × 50 W

Number of Output Channels - 4 (PreAmp Front, PreAmp Rear, PreAmp Subwoofer)

Additional features: amplifier, equalizer, display - color, backlight, joystick on the steering wheel.

Dimensions: 178x100x165mm

The advantage of this radio is high-quality sound and ways of playing music - the device supports all major systems - Bluetooth, USB, Aux. Also a 13-band equalizer, which will allow even the most demanding music lover to customize the device for themselves. It has two RCA outputs, thanks to which it becomes possible to connect additional acoustic devices.

• price;
• sound quality;
• 13-band equalizer
• Support for major music playback systems - Bluetooth, USB or AUX.

• lack of a CD-player.

Let's compile a summary table of the best audio systems in 2024 with a description of their features.

Rating	Radio model	Country of origin, price	Specifications	Additional features
10	Kenwood KMM-BT 304	Country of origin - Indonesia, average cost from 5130 rubles	Supported formats: MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC Size - 1 DIN Peak power 4x50 W Number of output channels - 4 (audio x3, USB, PreAmp subwoofer) Dimensions: 182x53x100 mm	sound amplifier, equalizer (13 bands), backlight, display type - monochrome, joystick on the steering wheel, Bluetooth, own application for controlling the radio
9	Pioneer FH-X730BT	Country of origin - Indonesia, average cost from 7890 rubles	Supported formats: MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC Size 1 DIN Maximum power 4x50 W Number of output channels - 4 (audio, USB, PreAmp, subwoofer) Dimensions: 182x53x100 mm	sound amplifier, equalizer (13 bands), backlight, display type - color, joystick on the steering wheel, Bluetooth
8	Alpine UTE-72BT	Country of origin - Japan, average cost from 6800 rubles	Supported formats: MP3, WMA, AAC Size 1 DIN Maximum power 4x50 W Number of Output Channels - 4 (PreAmp Front, PreAmp Rear, PreAmp Subwoofer) Dimensions: 180x50x160 mm	removable panel, display - monochrome, Bluetooth, 10% compatibility with Apple products, equalizer (15 bands), MediaExpander function, which allows you to reproduce "clear" sound even with strong noise
7	Pioneer DEH-80PRS	Country of origin - Thailand, average cost from 20500 rubles	Supported formats: MP3, WMA, AAC size 1 DIN Maximum power 4x50 W Number of Output Channels - 4 (PreAmp Front, PreAmp Rear, PreAmp Subwoofer) Dimensions: 180x50x160 mm	slot for SD-disks, amplifier, equalizer (16 bands), support for memory cards, backlight, contrast OLED display, remote control, joystick on the steering wheel, removable panel, Bluetooth
6	JVC KD-R794BT	Country of origin - Thailand, average cost from 5580 rubles	Supported formats: CD-Audio, MP3, WMA, FLAC Size 1 DIN Maximum power 4x50 W The number of output channels is 2 (PreAmp, subwoofer). Dimensions: 182x53x158 mm	SD-disc slot, amplifier, equalizer, display - monochrome, removable panel, Bluetooth, own application - JVC Remote App, which allows you to control the device
5	Pioneer MVH-X580BT	Country of origin - Thailand, average cost from 7090 rubles	Supported formats: MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC Size 1 DIN Maximum power 4x50 W Number of Output Channels - 4 (PreAmp Front, PreAmp Rear, PreAmp Subwoofer) Dimensions: 178x50x160 mm	amplifier, equalizer (13 bands), multi-color display, backlight, steering wheel joystick, Bluetooth, control using its own application - Spotify.
4	Kenwood DPX-3000U	Country of origin - Indonesia, average cost from 5190 rubles.	Supported formats: CD-Audio, MP3, WMA, FLAC 2 DIN size Maximum power 4x50 W Number of output channels - 2 (audio, USB) Dimensions: 182x111x158mm	amplifier, equalizer, SD slot, monochrome display, Bluetooth, remote control, built-in subwoofer filter
3	JVC KW-R520	Country of origin - China, average cost from 4390 rubles.	Supported formats: CD-Audio, MP3, WMA, FLAC 2 DIN size Maximum and working power 4x20 W / 4x50 W Number of Output Channels - 4 (PreAmp Front, PreAmp Rear, PreAmp Subwoofer) Dimensions: 178x112x158 mm	amplifier, equalizer, display - monochrome, color backlight
2	Mystery MDD-6220S	Country of origin - Indonesia, average cost from 6430 rubles	Supported formats: CD-Audio, DVD-Video, MP3, MPEG4, DivX, WMA, JPEG 2 DIN size Maximum power 4x50 W Number of output channels - 5 (4 audio channels plus a separate input for the camera) Dimensions: 178x100x160mm	amplifier, equalizer, TV tuner, touch screen
1	Pioneer FH-X730BT	Country of origin - Thailand, average cost from 7890 rubles.	Supported formats: MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC 2 DIN size Maximum and working power 4x22 W / 4x50 W Number of Output Channels - 4 (PreAmp Front, PreAmp Rear, PreAmp Subwoofer) Dimensions: 178x100x165mm	amplifier, equalizer (13 bands), display - color, backlight, joystick on the steering wheel, Bluetooth, USB, Aux, 2 RCA outputs, thanks to which it becomes possible to connect additional acoustic devices.

Thus, today on the market you can choose an audio system for every taste and different price categories, ranging from budget models to premium class. At the same time, the functional features of inexpensive models are in no way inferior to their prestigious "brothers".