Upgrading your truck’s radio can transform your driving experience, but with so many options, it’s tough to know which one truly delivers. We researched and compared the latest models using manufacturer specifications, industry safety standards, and aggregated owner feedback from thousands of reviews. Our evaluation focuses on performance, durability, ease of use, value, and safety to help you make an informed choice. Here are our top picks for the best new radios for trucks.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX Best Overall 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, HD Radio |
9.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Kenwood DMX907S Best Value 6.95-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, camera inputs |
8.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Sony XAV-AX8000 Best Display 8.95-inch floating touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth |
8.6 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Alpine iLX-W650 Best Compact 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, shallow mount |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Jensen CAR710W Best Budget 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Boss Audio BVCP9700A Best with Backup Camera 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, includes backup camera |
7.6 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Dual Electronics XVM279BT Basic Option 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, USB, SD card input, no CarPlay |
7.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX: Best Overall
The Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX stands out as our top pick for truck owners who want a premium, feature-rich experience. We compared its performance against competitors and found its wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to be among the most reliable and quick to connect. The 7-inch capacitive touchscreen is bright and responsive, even with gloves, making it easy to use on bumpy roads. Based on owner feedback, the sound quality is crisp, and the built-in HD Radio provides clear reception in most areas.
However, this model is not the most budget-friendly option, and some owners reported occasional Bluetooth hiccups with certain phones. If you are looking for a more affordable unit or do not need wireless smartphone mirroring, you may want to consider other picks. The AVH-W4500NEX is best for those who prioritize cutting-edge connectivity and are willing to invest in a top-tier radio.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration
- High-resolution 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with customizable interface
- Built-in HD Radio and Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming
Pros: Excellent smartphone integration; Responsive touchscreen
Cons: Higher price point
2. Kenwood DMX907S: Best Value
The Kenwood DMX907S offers a compelling balance of features and affordability, making it our best value pick. We researched its specifications against similarly priced units and found its 6.95-inch display to be one of the largest in its class, with an anti-glare coating that reduces reflections during sunny drives. Based on owner feedback, the wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are stable and fast, though some users wished for wireless functionality. The dual camera inputs are a safety plus for trucks with trailers or large blind spots.
One limitation is that the interface can feel a bit less polished than higher-end models, and the lack of wireless connectivity may be a dealbreaker for some. This radio is ideal for truck owners who want a large screen and modern features without breaking the bank, but if you absolutely need wireless mirroring, look at the Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX instead.
- Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for stable smartphone connectivity
- Large 6.95-inch display with anti-glare coating for improved visibility
- Dual camera inputs supporting front and rear cameras for safety
Pros: Great value for features; Excellent display clarity
Cons: No wireless smartphone mirroring
3. Sony XAV-AX8000: Best Display
The Sony XAV-AX8000 impresses with its massive 8.95-inch floating touchscreen, which we evaluated as one of the best displays for truck dashboards. The screen is bright and crisp, making navigation and media easy to see even in direct sunlight. Based on owner feedback, the interface is smooth and feels like using a modern smartphone. Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work seamlessly, though the lack of wireless may disappoint some users.
However, the floating design can obstruct some dashboard vents or controls depending on your truck’s layout, so careful installation planning is needed. Additionally, while the display is large, the unit itself is relatively shallow, which helps with fitment. This radio is best for those who prioritize screen size and clarity above all else, but if you have limited dash space or prefer a flush mount, consider the Kenwood DMX907S.
- Large 8.95-inch floating display with high resolution and wide viewing angle
- Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with fast response
- Smartphone-like interface with customizable home screen
Pros: Massive, bright display; Intuitive interface
Cons: Floating design may block vents; No wireless connectivity
4. Alpine iLX-W650: Best Compact
The Alpine iLX-W650 is our top compact pick, designed for trucks with limited dash depth. We researched its dimensions and found it to be one of the shallowest double-DIN units available, making it a great choice for older trucks or custom installations. Based on owner feedback, the audio processing is superb, with a powerful EQ that lets you fine-tune sound. Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are reliable, though the screen brightness could be better in bright conditions.
One downside is the lack of a CD/DVD player, but that is common in modern radios. Some users also reported that the touchscreen can be less responsive with gloves. This radio is ideal for truck owners who need a shallow mount and value sound quality, but if you often drive in sunny conditions, you might prefer the Kenwood DMX907S with its anti-glare display.
- Ultra-shallow chassis (less than 2.5 inches deep) for easy installation in tight dashboards
- Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with USB connection
- High-quality audio processing with 9-band parametric EQ
Pros: Fits in shallow dash spaces; Excellent sound tuning options
Cons: No CD player; Screen can be hard to read in direct sunlight
5. Jensen CAR710W: Best Budget
The Jensen CAR710W is a budget-friendly option that still offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it accessible for truck owners on a tight budget. We compared its features to its price and found it delivers the essential smartphone integration without the high cost. Based on owner feedback, the resistive touchscreen requires a firm press, which can be a bit frustrating compared to capacitive screens, but it works reliably. Bluetooth call quality is acceptable for the price.
However, the build quality is noticeably less robust than higher-end models, and the screen can be difficult to see in bright sunlight. Durability concerns were noted in some reviews, with occasional glitches. This radio is best for those who need basic smartphone mirroring and are willing to accept some compromises in screen quality and longevity. If you can stretch your budget, the Kenwood DMX907S offers a much better experience.
- Affordable price for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality
- 7-inch resistive touchscreen with simple interface
- Built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming
Pros: Very budget-friendly; Includes CarPlay and Android Auto
Cons: Resistive screen less responsive; Build quality feels less premium
6. Boss Audio BVCP9700A: Best with Backup Camera
The Boss Audio BVCP9700A is a solid choice if you want a radio that includes a backup camera, saving you the hassle of buying one separately. We evaluated the camera’s image quality and found it adequate for parking assistance, though it is not as sharp as aftermarket cameras. Based on owner feedback, the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work as expected, but the interface can be a bit slow when switching apps. The screen is decent for the price.
One limitation is that the radio’s performance can lag with heavy use, and some users reported occasional freezes. The build quality is not as durable as more expensive units. This radio is best for truck owners who want an all-in-one solution with a camera and are on a tight budget. If you prioritize a smooth interface or better camera quality, consider the Kenwood DMX907S and add a separate camera.
- Includes a rearview backup camera for added safety
- Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with USB input
- Built-in Bluetooth and multiple audio inputs
Pros: Comes with backup camera; Good value for the bundle
Cons: Camera quality is average; Interface can be sluggish
7. Dual Electronics XVM279BT: Basic Option
The Dual Electronics XVM279BT is a no-frills radio for truck owners who just want Bluetooth and a touchscreen without smartphone mirroring. We researched its specifications and found it to be one of the most basic units available, which may be sufficient for those who primarily listen to the radio or stream music via Bluetooth. Based on owner feedback, the interface is simple and straightforward, though the screen can be dim and slow to respond.
However, the lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a significant drawback for modern users, and the sound quality is average at best. Some owners reported issues with Bluetooth connectivity dropping. This radio is best for someone on a very tight budget who only needs basic functions. If you want any form of smartphone integration, we strongly recommend spending a little more on the Jensen CAR710W or Boss Audio BVCP9700A.
- Simple touchscreen interface with Bluetooth connectivity
- Compatible with backup cameras (sold separately)
- Multiple media sources: USB, SD, and auxiliary input
Pros: Very affordable; Easy to use basic functions
Cons: No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto; Limited smartphone integration
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a new radio fit in my truck's dashboard?
Most modern trucks accept a standard double-DIN (4 inches tall) or single-DIN (2 inches tall) radio. However, some trucks may require a dash kit or wiring harness adapter. We recommend checking your truck’s model year and using Crutchfield or similar sites to verify fitment before purchasing. Our researched picks include shallow-mount options like the Alpine iLX-W650 for tight spaces.
Do I need a backup camera with my new radio?
While not required, a backup camera is a safety feature that many truck owners find valuable, especially for larger vehicles with blind spots. Some radios like the Boss Audio BVCP9700A include a camera, while others have camera inputs that allow you to add one later. Based on safety standards, we recommend using a camera if your truck does not already have one.
Can I keep my steering wheel controls with a new radio?
Yes, but you may need an additional adapter (such as a Maestro or iDatalink module) to retain steering wheel controls. Many of our recommended radios, including the Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX and Kenwood DMX907S, are compatible with these adapters. Check compatibility with your specific truck model before purchase.
What is the difference between wired and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto?
Wired requires a USB cable connection to your phone, while wireless uses Bluetooth/Wi-Fi. Wireless is more convenient but can be slightly slower to connect and may drain your phone battery faster. Our top pick, the Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX, offers wireless; the Kenwood DMX907S and Sony XAV-AX8000 are wired only. Choose based on your preference for convenience versus simplicity.
How important is screen quality for a truck radio?
Screen quality matters, especially in bright sunlight or when wearing polarized sunglasses. Capacitive screens (like those on the Sony XAV-AX8000 and Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX) are generally more responsive and brighter than resistive screens. Anti-glare coatings, as found on the Kenwood DMX907S, also help. Based on owner feedback, a good screen improves usability significantly.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the latest new radios for trucks, we recommend the Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX as the best overall for its wireless smartphone integration, excellent display, and reliable performance. For those seeking great value, the Kenwood DMX907S offers a large screen and solid features at a more accessible price point. Consider your priorities: screen size, wireless connectivity, budget, or installation constraints to choose the right radio for your truck.
