Short answer: if you want CarPlay or Android Auto in an older car without cutting into the dashboard, a plug-in wireless CarPlay screen is the quicker, cheaper route. A new car stereo (head unit) gives the most built-in result, but it usually costs more once installation and adapters are added.
Option 1: a plug-in CarPlay / Android Auto screen
- How it works: a screen that sits on or above the dash and connects to your phone wirelessly for maps, music, calls and messages.
- Install: usually minutes, with no dashboard removal and no wiring into the car.
- Keep your car original: your factory stereo, steering-wheel controls and dash stay as they are. Handy for leased cars or cars you plan to sell.
- Audio: sound goes to your car speakers through whatever the screen supports (for example Bluetooth or an AUX cable). Check what your car accepts.
- Move it: it can go to your next car.
Option 2: replace the car stereo
- How it works: the factory head unit is removed and replaced with a CarPlay/Android Auto unit.
- Install: usually needs a dash kit, a wiring harness and often an adapter for steering-wheel controls. Many people pay a shop to install it.
- Result: the cleanest built-in look, with audio wired directly.
- Trade-offs: higher total cost, and some cars lose features tied to the factory unit.
Which should you choose?
| Plug-in screen | New head unit | |
|---|---|---|
| Install time | Minutes | Hours (often professional) |
| Changes to your car | None | Dash and wiring |
| Take it to your next car | Yes | Usually no |
| Most built-in look | No | Yes |
Our CarPlay options
To be upfront: these are our own products, and we sell them. Specs are from each product page.
- Holo Pilot One: wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, GPS turn-by-turn directions and hands-free calling, shown on a 15-inch virtual image (the image size you see, not the physical unit). It comes with a wireless remote, and you don't replace your stereo.
- Road Guardian 2: a 10.26-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that's also a 3-channel dash cam (front, cabin, rear), with split screen for navigation and cameras. It uses your phone's navigation and includes an AUX cable.
More in Car Tech. Looking for a dash cam too? Read our dash cam buyer's guide.
FAQ
Does a CarPlay screen work with Android phones?
Many do. Look for Android Auto support. Both of our options support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Do I need data for navigation?
CarPlay and Android Auto run apps from your phone, so maps and streaming use your phone's data unless you've downloaded offline maps.
Will it block my view?
Place the screen low on the dash and out of your line of sight, and check your province's rules on dash-mounted screens.
How fast is shipping and can I return it?
Shipping across Canada is free and usually takes 2–4 business days. You have 30 days to return it. See our refund policy.
