Car radios have evolved significantly, with modern vehicles featuring sophisticated digital infotainment systems. For older models, CarPlay displays provide a way to integrate smartphone functionality, offering features like navigation, music management, and hands-free calling. These user-friendly devices are easy to install and operate. The guide reviews three top models: the budget-friendly Geekmaxi SD7293A, the versatile ESSGOO with screen size options, and the feature-rich Lamto, which includes a built-in dashcam.
Over the years, car radios have undergone a remarkable transformation. Gone are the days of basic antennas and analog receivers; today’s vehicles come equipped with advanced digital infotainment systems featuring Bluetooth connectivity and much more. However, if you drive an older model, you need not feel left out of the technological advancements. You can enhance your driving experience with specialized CarPlay displays. In this guide, we’ll explore the top devices worth considering and highlight three standout models.
Understanding CarPlay Displays and Their Installation Process
CarPlay displays are innovative screens designed with the necessary software and connectivity options to sync with your smartphone, allowing you to utilize Android Auto or Apple CarPlay in your vehicle. Similar to conventional car navigation systems, these displays attach to your dashboard using a suction cup and connect to your car’s audio system via an AUX cable or FM transmitter. They typically draw power through a USB connection.
Using these displays is a breeze: simply power them on, link them with the appropriate cables, and connect your smartphone via Bluetooth. The corresponding car software will launch automatically, granting you access to a multitude of features such as voice control with Google Assistant (for Android Auto) or Siri (for Apple CarPlay), music management, notification viewing, hands-free calling, navigation assistance, and more. The specific functions available may vary based on your smartphone model.
Most car models can easily accommodate CarPlay displays, provided they have an AUX audio input and a power supply source. If your car lacks a USB port, you can power the device using the cigarette lighter with a compatible charging cable, which is usually included. These devices do not require TÜV approval or any similar certifications since they don’t alter the vehicle’s structure, making them comparable to standard car navigation or hands-free systems.
Top Picks for CarPlay Displays
As demonstrated, CarPlay displays are user-friendly gadgets that can be found for under 100 euros. Below, we’ve compiled a list of three highly recommended models, complete with their advantages and disadvantages.
CarPlay Display SD7293A
With the promo code UPYDJN8U, you can snag this display for less than 30 euros.
This budget-friendly option from Geekmaxi features a seven-inch HD screen that covers all essential functions. You can connect it to your car’s speakers using either an AUX cable or its built-in FM transmitter.
If you prefer listening to music without using CarPlay, the SD card slot and USB port are available for your convenience. Priced around 55 euros, this model is an excellent choice for drivers seeking straightforward functionality.
ESSGOO CarPlay Display
The ESSGOO display features a seven-inch screen in one of its three variants; larger options include nine-inch and 10.3-inch displays. A notable highlight is the integrated brightness sensor that automatically adjusts the screen brightness to suit the environment.
Moreover, the device is equipped with an HDMI port, allowing it to output both audio and video. The smallest version starts at 99 euros, while the larger models are priced at an additional 10 or 20 euros, respectively.
Lamto CarPlay Display
The Lamto CarPlay display boasts a 9.3-inch screen with a resolution of 1,600 x 600 pixels. It includes all the standard features of the other models but adds the benefit of a built-in dashcam. The package also comes with a FullHD rearview camera (which requires wired installation) and a 64 GB memory card for recording purposes.
When utilizing the dashcam, it’s important to adhere to local legal regulations. This comprehensive package is available for around 120 euros, offering an excellent value for the features included.