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While car owners sometimes refer to their brights as ‘fog lights,’ true fog lights are really a completely different category of headlights, installed separately from primary lights, daytime running lights, and brights. Unlike these conventional lights, which are all used during the daytime, fog lights are used to help other drivers see you in foggy and snowy conditions, while illuminating the road instead of reflecting off of the fog.

What’s the Difference Between Fog Lights and High Beams?
When shopping for auxiliary lights, it’s important to know exactly what you’re looking for. While many use the terms ‘fog lights’ and ‘brights’ interchangeably, they’re quite different. As opposed to defining every type of auxiliary light, we’ll define fog lights below:
Fog lights are a specific type of headlight mounted on the car specifically to cut through fog and illuminate the road ahead. Instead of lighting up the whole field of vision ahead, as with a standard headlight, the lights have a cutoff meant to keep the road illuminated without illuminating the fog itself. Most commonly, they plug into an existing slot (typically a factory option) on your vehicle below your headlights on the bumper.
Features to Consider in a Car Fog Light
Since car fog lights vary from small accessories to huge light bar setups, features can widely vary between models. Considering the following features below can help you get to the perfect car fog light setup for your vehicle.
Type of Bulb
Although most fog lights in the past used to be powered by halogen bulbs, since LEDs and HIDs have become more widespread and affordable, popular car fog lights are now sold with all types of bulbs.
LED Lights
LEDs, short for light-emitting diodes, are an ultra-energy-efficient and inexpensive way to provide high levels of illumination. Although there are plenty of expensive LED setups, the least expensive fog lights also tend to be LED-based. Since they’re so efficient, they don’t tax car batteries as much as other types of lights.
Halogen Lights
Incredibly powerful, halogen bulbs light up the road or trail with astonishing brightnesses of up to 12,000 lumens. These bulbs are not built for energy efficiency by any means, and although they’ve been largely phased out for residential use, halogen bulbs still remain on the market for cars due to their incredible illumination abilities.
HID Lights
Hid lights, short for high-intensity discharge lamps, are bulbs that look like a thin version of the incandescent bulbs you’re familiar with in your home. They’re less common, but relatively efficient, and above average in brightness. They work fantastically when paired with a type of headlight glass called a projector lens.
Brightness
Each fog light on the market has a different brightness level. Fog lights will start out at about 500 lumens and can get up to well over 5,000 lumens, although brightness and lumenage doesn’t tell the whole story. Bright bulbs that don’t have a well-defined light pattern can spill over, lighting up the fog in front of you more than the road ahead.
Light Format
Car fog lights can be set up in different ways depending on the intended purpose. Some small-format lights are simply for temporary emergency use while large light bars are used for heavy-duty illumination.
Bulb
Headlight standards like H8, H9, and H11 are typically relatively compatible with one another and use only a single bulb to screw into an already-existing housing. These bulbs aren’t the brightest or most advanced fog lights, but they do represent a major advantage over the stock bulbs that come with your car.
Light Matrix
While these aren’t officially car fog lights, we’ll include them in our article as they are an incredibly useful type of auxiliary light that many consider when looking to add to their existing headlights. A light matrix is what it sounds like: a large grid of small, bright bulbs (typically LEDs) that illuminate the road. While these aren’t fog lights in the traditional sense (technically, fog lights are only the lights that screw into specific slots below the bumper), they can function as fog lights when mounted downwards illuminate the road.

Top 10 Best Car Fog Lights 2021
1. Best Overall Car Fog Light: Marsauto 9006 LED Headlight Bulbs

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Why we like it: These 4,000 lumen bulbs from Marsauto are easy to install and great compared to halogen bulbs.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of Bulb: LED
Lumens: 4,000
Mounting Standard: 9006, HB4, HB4U, 9006XS
Fog light bulbs are notorious for being difficult to install: fingers don’t fit into the holes where they’re supposed to, the metal slots are fragile and easy to strip, and the threads are razor-sharp, making it easy to cut your hands open. This bulb is one of the easiest to install, with the heat sinks in a good spot to grip onto. They’re also ‘no polarity’ bulbs that will be ready to go after 5-10 minutes, as opposed to competitor bulbs that can require housing and cover modification or even wiring changes to get them to work properly.
These bulbs represent an improvement over a traditional halogen bulb of over 200%, but the brightness difference isn’t necessarily what helps with driver visibility: what most users consider to be more important is the tight spread of the bulb, which is really a beam of light more than an illuminating lamp. This is thanks not only to the pattern of the LEDs, but to the heat sink which helps direct the light and prevents the edges from diffusing outwards. Our only issue is lumenage, as you might prefer a slightly brighter bulb.

Pros
No-polarity bulbs are easy to install
Represent a 200% improvement over halogen bulbs
Heat sink prevents bulb from diffusing light

Cons
Slightly dimmer than other similar competitors

2. Best Budget Fog Lights: Sealight LED Fog Lights

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Why we like it: These 6,000-degreeKelvin bulbs blast crisp, white light for an incredibly economical price.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of Bulb: LED
Lumens: 4,800
Mounting Standard: H8, H9, H11, H16
We’re impressed with these fog lights, a set of budget bulbs that come in at only about $20 per set. While inexpensive, they’re still impressively featured in terms of stats. 4,800 lumens is double that of other economical bulbs, a 6,000°-kelvin tint produces a colorless, sharp, white light, and their LEDs are made with proprietary 6CPS technology, producing crisp light that doesn’t diffuse over longer distances.
The particular bulb works in a wide variety of mounting standards, compatible with H8, H9, H11, and H16 fittings. This makes them quite a bit more versatile than other fittings. Be aware that the H16 fitting will produce a gentler, blue light, so if you’re looking for something ultra-bright and have an H16 fitting, consider a different bulb.

Pros
Works with H8, H9, H11, and H16 fittings
4800-lumen brightness is double the brightness of other low-priced bulbs
6CPS tech produces bright light that doesn’t diffuse
6000 Kelvin tint is crisp and white

Cons
When used with H16 produces blue light
4,800-lumen bulbs are less bright than expensive models

3. Alla Lighting H11 LED Fog Light Bulbs

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Why we like it: These H11 bulbs are incredibly long-lasting with an intelligent integrated circuit in the LED and a year-long warranty.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of Bulb: LED
Lumens: 2,800
Mounting Standard: H11
These bulbs aren’t the brightest on our list at 2,800 lumens, but they have a whole host of extra features that make them a standout product in our book. The first is a year-long warranty, almost unheard of in products at this price point. The second is an ‘intelligent’ LED-integrated circuit which improves cooling of the LED lights, increasing performance, lifespan, and even durability (when hot, LED bulbs become more fragile).
Fitting into the H11 mounting standard and with a 6,000° Kelvin, ultra-bright white temperature, these are beyond the ‘pure white’ standard of 5,000° Kelvin into ‘blue light’ territory. While most drivers prefer yellow for extremely foggy conditions, plenty of drivers prefer the sharp, blue light these bulbs provide, especially in light fog or rain conditions.

Pros
Use a lighter bulb with an intelligent circuit for durability
Sharp blue light works in light fog or rain conditions
Year-long warranty covers any damage or product failures

Cons
2,800-lumen bulbs are some of the dimmest on our list
These bulbs don’t produce clear white light

4. Best HID Fog Lights: HID Warehouse Xenon Replacement Bulbs

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Why we like it: These lights are our favorite HIDs on the market. Producing a soft yet bright blue light, they’re one of the few HID fog lights that can still be purchased.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of Bulb: HID
Lumens: 2700 lm
Mounting Standard: H8, H9, H11
HID lights make a comeback in this two-bulb set that’s compatible with H8, H9, and H11 sockets. While HID bulbs have shorter lifespans than LED bulbs, they have some distinct advantages over halogen lamps. From brightness to efficiency, HID lights have performance that’s orders of magnitude better than their halogen counterparts, for prices lower than LEDs.
While HID bulbs aren’t as bright as LEDs, they’re both accessible and cheap. High-end competitors like Hikari produce bulbs with prices approaching $100, these can be purchased in the $20 price range.
Product quality is backed up by a two-year warranty and a product guaranteed to stringent ISO 9001 standards for water and shock resistance. They’ve got many of the same quality assurances as LED bulbs for a fraction of the price. Due to their intricacies and low brightness, though, they’re best paired with a projector lens.

Pros
Inexpensive bulbs far outcompete halogen competitors
Great product quality with a strong year-long warranty
Some of the cheapest bulbs on the market
Holds up to stringent ISO 9001 standards for water and shock resistance

Cons
Not as bright as LED bulbs

5. Alla Lighting LED Fog Lights

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Why we like it: These ultra-bright bulbs are efficient, easy to install, and come with a warranty.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of Bulb: LED
Lumens: 2,600
Mounting Standard: H10
The main feature to pay attention to with these bulbs? 2,600, the number of lumens packed into each of these 15-watt LEDs. That’s about 600% more than a stock bulb, yielding a noticeable improvement in both road surface illumination and visual range.
With a 6,000° Kelvin light temperature that gives an ultra-clear white light temperature, range is good, although this ultra-white light combined with 5,200 combined lumens of brightness in some cases actually worsens fog performance. As a set of backroad brights meant to illuminate the road or trail, these work fantastically, but in particularly foggy conditions, they light up the fog itself, making visibility even worse.
The bulbs use an H10 mounting standard, which is a little less universal than the H8/ H9/ H11 standard. Most trucks use this type of fitting, but check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to see if these bulbs will work for you. If they’re compatible, count on a full-year manufacturer’s warranty for any issues you have with the two-bulb set.

Pros
6,000° Kelvin bulbs produce clear white light
600% more illumination than a stock bulb
5,200 combined lumens of power (2,600 per bulb)
Use a standard that works with most trucks

Cons
H10 mounting standard isn’t as versatile as the H8/ H9/ H11 standard
In extreme conditions they make visibility even worse

6. Torchbeam T2 LED 12,000 Lumen Bulb

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Why we like it: These fog lights offer 12,000 lumens of light, which is impressive for the low price range. Furthermore, these lights last up to 50,000 hours!
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of Bulb: LED
Lumens: 12,000
Mounting Standard: H8 / H9 / H11
At a practically-daylight 12,000 lumens with 6,500° Kelvin of crystal clear white light, it’s impressive that bulb manufacturer Torchbeam has managed to produce this level of light for a remarkably low price. This bulb, more than any other on our list, is designed to have impressive statistics: alongside the incredibly luminous, white bulbs is a 50,000-hour quoted lifespan. Considering that the average car’s lifetime is just a fraction of that, these might be the only set of bulbs you’ll buy for your car for as long as you own it.
Each of the two lights in this mid-range set utilizes just a single bulb, a relatively uncommon design for fog lights. While brightness is good in milder conditions, these bulbs have a tendency to diffuse in heavy fog, lighting up the mist just as much as the road ahead. This can be dangerous, although it’s probably not advisable to be driving in those conditions anyways. They’re almost too bright, although in low traffic conditions in milder weather, they’re perfect.

Pros
H8 / H9 / H11 mounting standard is versatile
6,500° kelvins of light produce an incredibly clear, white light
50,000-hour quoted lifespan can outlast your car
Can be used in low traffic conditions in mild weather

Cons
Light diffuses in heavy fog, causing durability to suffer
Can light up the mist instead of the road

7. SNGL H16 Type 2 Super Bright CREE LED Fog Light Bulbs

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Why we like it: Each of these fog lights has 12 LEDs, meaning the user can lose a single LED bulb and still be relatively unaffected.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of Bulb: LED
Lumens: 10,000
Mounting Standard: H16
These 6,000° Kelvin bulbs produce a clean white light via multiple light-emitting diodes on each stem, which doesn’t just improve light diffusion, but also means that you can lose a single LED without losing the entire light. While the manufacturer, SNGL, claims a powerful 10,000 lumens for these fog lights, that’s inaccurate on some level: the calculation is based on a sum total of each of the 12 LED bulbs in the product. Compare it to a single bulb design, and you end up with a brightness that’s realistically more in the range of 2,500 to 5,000 lumens.
They do have a unique feature that other fog lights in this price range don’t have: adjustability. Each bulb has a starting setting that can be doubled or tripled in brightness, maximizing utility on backroads or allowing you to tone down the light in case you want to use these lights on roads with heavier traffic.

Pros
12 bright LEDs pump out a sum total of 10,000 lumens
Three adjustable levels of brightness
Useful for drivers transitioning from high traffic to low traffic areas
Improved light diffusion

Cons
Brightness is overexaggerated due to measurement procedure

8. Best for Ultra-Foggy Conditions: Alla Lighting H10 Fog Light Bulbs

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Why we like it: These LED bulbs are slightly less bright than competitors, which is actually better in some severe-weather applications.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of Bulb: LED
Lumens: 2800
Mounting Standard: H10
While these bulbs are impressively capable for being some of the cheapest H10 bulbs on the market, there are a few sacrifices that manufacturer Alla Lighting has made to cut down on the price. Firstly: lumens. 2,800 lumens (1,400 on each bulb) are better than a daytime running light, for sure, but actually less bright than most LED headlights on the market today.
That’s not the end of the world, however, as some diehards in ultra-foggy and ultra-snowy climates swear by lower lumen lights in the worst conditions. Still, though, if you’re expecting something ultra-bright, look for something with more lumens such as the SNGL H16 Type 2 Super Bright CREE LED Fog Light Bulbs.
They’re high-quality with a longer lifespan than most competitors, but don’t reach the 50,000-hour rating of expensive bulbs. They still back up their products, though. Alla Lighting is so confident in their bulbs that they’ll cover any material issues or product failures with their one-year warranty. It’s touches like that which make this already affordable product even more attractive, especially for shoppers on a budget.

Pros
Economical bulbs are less bright but may be superior in poor-weather performance
Cover product failures or material issues with a one-year warranty
Lower lumen bulbs sometimes work better in lower conditions

Cons
Those seeking brighter bulbs should look elsewhere

9. Best Premium Fog Lights: Hikari Ultra H11/ H8/ H9 LED Bulb Fog Light Conversion Kit

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Why we like it: These bulbs from aftermarket outfitter Hikari are pricey, but one of the best options if you’re looking to splurge on your fog lights.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of Bulb: LED
Lumens: 12,000
Mounting Standard: H8 / H9 / H11
If you’re looking for some ultra-high-end lights for your tuner car or JDM vehicle, this set from manufacturer Hikari could be what you’re looking for. They’re more heavily engineered than competitor products, with plenty of thought put into all aspects. From heat retention to light pattern and even the graphics on the lights themselves, there’s a reason these are the most expensive on our list by a factor of about two. The heat sink, counterintuitively, isn’t necessarily for overheating; LEDs run pretty cold anyways. Instead, it improves the focus, yielding to a more concentrated beam that projects light in a tight spread, great for fog, rain, and snow.
12,000 lumens at 6,000° Kelvin mean these are both brighter and have a cleaner white light pattern than comparable halogens. Independent testing shows that these bulbs put out light that’s 270% more bright than competitors. Part of that is thanks to the concentrated light pattern that makes these safer than competitor products to use in traffic. The attractive styling and beam-like spread makes these great for your car’s looks as well, although it comes at a high price.

Pros
Compact lights are 270% brighter than stock competitors
Heat sink keeps the pattern and spread cohesive
Can be used in traffic safely
Good for fog, rain, and snow

Cons
Double the price of similar competitors

10. Sylvania H11 SilverStar zXe Gold High Performance Headlight

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Why we like it: These bulbs are made with a technology many consider to be outdated, but there are still plenty of people that swear by the tech.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of Bulb: Halogen
Lumens: 5,600
Mounting Standard: H11
While halogen bulbs have been largely replaced by LED fog lights, there are some drivers that are still fans enough to pay the product’s premium price. The soft, gently diffusing light is what many mountain residents prefer, especially when driving in the winter in heavy snowfall.
Unfortunately, there are reasons these lights have been phased out by automakers. Halogen bulbs begin to slowly dim after installation, with a working life of only 600-800 hours. This is just a fraction of many LEDs 50,000-hour quoted life expectancy (take the ultra-bright Torchbeam T2 LED 12,000 Lumen Bulbs) for example.
There’s another reason to buy the bulbs aside from nostalgia or personal preference, though: compatibility. Since halogen bulbs run at different wattages than LEDs, cars manufactured before the LED revolution will require a pair of halogen bulbs. This forces drivers to buy halogen bulbs, and represents a significant part of the halogen bulb market. Other fans of halogens quote personality, quality of light, and the fashion of having a retro-looking bulb.

Pros
Halogen bulbs have stayed popular with many consumers
Soft light is good for winter driving
Some vehicles require halogen bulbs
Some car fanatics prefer halogen bulbs for style purposes

Cons
Halogen bulbs have been largely phased out in recent years
600 to 800-hour quoted life expectancy
Begin dimming immediately after installation

Guide to Buying the Best Car Fog Lights for 2021
Fog lights are a product that you either need or don’t—and if you frequently drive in an area with inclement weather, well, you’ll need a pair. They’re not particularly expensive, either, as you can get a solid set of bulbs for around $20.
But not all cars take fog lights, and not all drivers need them. First of all, you need to have a port for fog bulbs: only cars with the proper fittings can accept fog lights. Secondly, you need inclement weather. If you’re not driving in fog, snowy, or rainy conditions, it’s not worth it to buy an expensive car fog bulb. If you’ve got the required features and you need to navigate difficult driving conditions, then it’s worth it to spend some money on an upgraded pair.
Should I Purchase Fog Lights as a Factory Option?
It’s next to impossible to purchase replacement, aftermarket fog lights unless you already have an existing spot to place them. This typically comes as a factory option, although some dedicated vehicle owners set up their own fog lights using a combination of aftermarket parts and some MacGyver-like ingenuity.
The decision to purchase factory fog lights is similar to the decision to purchase aftermarket ones. Examine your driving habits, the potential benefits, and the potential costs (these will be higher when selecting a factory option than with an aftermarket one). All things equal, they’re worth it, but when fog lights on high-end luxury vehicles can be a $1,000-plus option, the question gets a bit more complicated.
Mounting Standard
Different fog lights use different attachment methods to mount bulbs, meaning most cars will have different threads, different sized fittings, and different formats of bulbs. Those that are cross-compatible (H8, H9, and H11) all have different voltages, meaning they’ll all fit the same threading, but might have brightness variations based on the level of current.
H8 / H9 / H11
These bulb standards are generally compatible with each other save some exceptions. Check your owner’s manual to see exactly which standards your fog light slots are compatible with. Many manufacturers make lights that are universally compatible with these three standards, although you’ll want to double-check the wattage in most cases. If the wattage isn’t compatible with that of your car, you run the risk of burning out a bulb.
H10
H10 bulbs run at similar voltages to H8, H9, and H10 bulbs, although the threading is not cross-compatible. They’re often found in slightly older cars, although some manufacturers continue to use them today. They can sometimes be difficult to find in auto parts stores, meaning they’re a great candidate to be purchased online.
H16
H16 has the same standard fittings and threads as H11, although it operates at a different wattage. H16 bulbs produce a lighter blue hue due to the wattage they run at, which is considerably lower than that of traditional halogen bulbs.
HB
HB standards, sometimes labeled 9006 and 9006XS bulbs are less bright than competitors and produce a more diffused, softer light. They’re often preferred by those who frequently travel in inclement weather, especially in foggy conditions. While high-clarity, bright-white 6000° kelvin bulbs are great for snow and rain, they illuminate fog and sometimes make visibility even worse.
Other Standards
H8, H9, H10, H11, and H16 are easily the most common bulbs in American consumer cars, but occasionally rare, antique, or foreign cars might use another bulb standard. You’ll probably have to purchase these online as they’re not usually kept in stock at auto parts stores.
Cornering Fog Lights
The latest advancement in fog light technology is cornering fog lights, lights that rotate in their sockets in advance of cornering to illuminate the road ahead even before you begin turning. It’s really slick to see in action, and while in a perfect world, it marginally improves safety, manufacturers have had trouble with motor actuation and it often ends up being not only costly to install, but costly to fix as well.
Our advice? Stay far away if you can, and if you happen to have cornering fog lights on your car, make sure they get serviced at the dealer: often warranties can be voided or nullified when car owners decide to take repairs into their own hands.
Do I Need Car Fog Lights?
While the average urban driver might not need auxiliary lights, there are plenty of great reasons for a typical driver to buy some fog lights. Drivers who drive in the following conditions should think about a set of fog light bulbs.
Rural Driving
The countryside is sometimes downright pitch black and there’s a good reason a lot of rural dwellers need to replace their brights more than city slickers. Fog lights light up the road itself at distances of up to 200 meters, and they’re often positioned in a spot on the car that doesn’t harm the field of view of other drivers.
Off-Road Driving
Not only do off-road trails not have the great lighting so many urban drivers are accustomed to having well-lit roads, but their trajectories are typically narrow and curving as well. Off-road trails are obviously dark, less wide and driveable, and can have overhanging debris, rocks, and branches. A nice set of lights can keep off-roaders fully aware of the scenery both on and slightly off the trail.
Adverse-Weather Driving
In poor weather, an extra few feet of visibility can be the difference between getting in an accident and getting home safe. Even when not in life-or-death weather, having the best lights available to you can be worth it just for the peace of mind. Get home safe.
Tuners and Enthusiasts
Some nice lights go a long way with the automotive enthusiast community. Along with adding an additional spot to include some anodized metal, fog lights can provide some cool photo opportunities. A pro tip? Check out super high temperature (white and blue hues) bulbs for the coolest night time pics.
Car Fog Light Usage
As many cars, especially less expensive models, don’t have fog lights, it’s not always well known when and how fog lights should be used. After all, most drivers get away with just having standard lights, daytime running lights, and brights. So when should fog lights be used to maximize utility?
Fog lights have a different purpose than standard headlights (light up shared roads) and high beams (illuminate low-traffic roads when it’s very dark). With fog lights, there’s a simple rule: when your visibility is reduced to 100 meters due to weather conditions like snow, rain, or fog, or heavy darkness, use your fog lights.
Watch out for other drivers as fog lights can negatively affect other road users. You can be more liberal with fog light usage in low traffic areas: mountains, backcountry, and rural areas, for example. At the end of the day, though, use your own best judgement. You know what’s safest for you, so use your gut.
Are HID Lights Still Worth It?
Inexpensive and bright LEDs have saturated the market in recent years, now available in all bulb standards and representing most of the lights available. They continue to drop in price as manufacturing gets cheaper and distribution becomes ever more common, all that as they continue to get brighter and longer-lasting.
So if they’re bright, inexpensive, and long-lasting, how can ‘prehistoric’ lights stay competitive? Old bulb standards? Authenticity? Or is it preference that’s playing a role here? The answer: HID bulbs are really only competitive now against LEDs when paired with a specific type of headlight lens called a projector lens to help brighten and intensify the beam. Otherwise, no, they’re not usually worth it.
Colored Fog Lights
Different models of car fog lights sometimes use different color bulbs or tints to create colored light, performing better than white light under foggy conditions. The variation in this color is called light temperature and it’s measured in a unit called Kelvin. While standard fluorescent household bulbs are about 2,500 Kelvin, most car fog lights sit in the range between 3,000 and 6,000 Kelvin. This ‘warmer’ light is claimed by some to help pierce further in foggy conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions on Car Fog Lights
The important features of car fog lights, as with any aftermarket car part for enthusiasts, are sometimes obscured by marketing jargon and famous brand names. We clear up some of the most common questions below:
Will Fog Lights fit on My Car?
Fog lights come in different form factors, from bulbs that fit into your existing headlight sockets to separately attached brackets that require some serious vehicle modification. So how do you tell if a specific fog light will fit on your car? You’ll have to check for yourself. In our descriptions, we’ve described attachment methods, most product descriptions will tell you which standards, housings, or brackets a specific light will use.
Are Car Fog Lights Legal?
While completely lighting up the road ahead of you makes for incredible safety advantages, bright lights shining in the path of oncoming traffic can have dangerous safety repercussions in the form of reducing visibility. So while off-road and rural drivers in adverse, wintry conditions can improve safety when driving, there are laws in place to prevent people from using fog lights when they could potentially harm other drivers.
While laws vary on a state-by-state basis, most states require fog lights to not be above a certain height, lighting up the road and not the fog itself. They also must be turned off in urban areas and when not necessary. For the most part, as long as you use fog lights with common sense and are aware of other road users, fog light use is totally legal.
How do You Turn Fog Lights On?
Vehicles with slots or threading for fog lights will have a switch somewhere on the dashboard (it could be an independent switch, it could be on the same stalk as your brights and standard headlights). If you have wired your own fog lights, or if you plan to wire your own fog lights, you’ll probably have to come up with your own solution as auxiliary switches are difficult to adapt for aftermarket purposes.
What’s the Difference Between Fog Lights and Brights?
Fog lights and brights are often mistaken for each other when used in popular vocabulary, but they’re actually very different pieces of equipment. Brights come standard on every modern car, an additional setting for vehicles to use in low light conditions. But while they’re effective and increase the range and visibility of your vehicle, they’re a completely different animal than fog lights.
Fog lights are mounted below both headlights and brights, typically offered as an upgrade option when purchasing a car. They’re not available on all cars, and if they’re not installed as a factory option, it’s typically quite difficult to install them in the first place.
Wrapping Up
Fog lights, once you have a pair installed, are very easy to take for granted. But those who go from using their own auxiliary fog light system to a car without one can quickly realize how much they relied on the system in the first place! Fog lights will help you stay safe in dark, snowy, foggy, or rainy conditions, making sure you get home safe and sound every time. More

Music can be the difference between an infuriating commute to work and a pleasant experience. The problem is that most older factory car stereos lack the modern amenities that we are all used to. Those older car head units are also built to be cheap, so they leave a lot to be desired in the audio quality department.
Fortunately, it’s relatively simple to upgrade your factory stereo, and people have been building custom sound systems since the first radio was installed in a vehicle. In this guide, we are going to look at single DIN head units. We’ll cover the basics and then look at 10 of the best head units on the market. After, we’ll take a closer look at head units in general and dispel some myths in an FAQ.

A Quick Guide to Single DIN Head Units
A head unit is the “face” of your sound system; it’s the part you interact with and the part that sends the signal to the speakers. A DIN is a specific unit of measurement invented by the Germans to standardize radio equipment in the early 1900s. Many cars, especially those manufactured before the 2000s, only have space for a single DIN head unit.
If you own an older vehicle and want to upgrade your sound system, a new single DIN head is the perfect first step. The following is a quick guide to get you set up with a new one fast.
Features
The biggest way head units differ is the type and number of features they offer. You will generally want to know what features are important to you and choose a head based on that alone. It doesn’t do much good to know that a stereo has a good bass response if it won’t play your cherished collection of Abba CDs.
Major Features to Look For
The following features are the ones that most people look for in a stereo. Very few head units will have all of them unless you want to pay a great deal of money, so it’s best to just keep in mind the ones that are most important to you.
CD/DVD Player: Many people don’t keep music on physical media anymore, which has led to many companies removing the CD drive from their head units. If you have a collection and still want that capability, it will limit your options.
Touchscreen: Touchscreens are somewhat rare on single DIN head units. Usually, they are limited to either the “floating” style or the “flip-out” style. We’ll talk more about screens below.
Apple Carplay and Android Auto: These apps, like touchscreens, are rare in the single DIN space. You can expect to pay a premium for them.
Preamp Outputs: Most amplifiers require low-level, or RCA, outputs for easy connection. Most head units will have at least a subwoofer output for a monoblock, but higher-end head units usually have more.
Other Inputs: HD/Satellite radio, AUX, USB, Video, and SD card inputs are other common inputs that people may want.
Features Found on All Modern Head Units
If you haven’t bought a stereo in a while or are used to older head units, you may not be familiar with some of the new standard features you’ll find on all head units. The following features are ones you will find on almost all head units on the market.
Bluetooth: It was once a luxury upgrade for a car stereo, but now Bluetooth connectivity is standard.
In-Car Calling: Like Bluetooth, this once hard to find feature is now standard. We’ll talk more about audio quality and call quality below here, but basically, every modern head will provide adequate call quality when properly installed.
AM/FM Radio: Even the cheapest heads still have an antenna hookup. Only some have digital receivers, though, so if HD radio is important to you, make sure to look for it.
USB Chargers: Most head units will have a USB port on the front for charging devices. Some will have the charger on the back with a cable you have to install.
Make Sure It Fits
When you install a new head unit, you will probably need an adapter kit for your specific make and model of car. The adapters can be found at any auto parts store or online store. The easiest way is to jump on Amazon and use the garage tool to quickly find a stereo install kit like this one for a 99 Firebird. Most cars, except much older ones, can be adapted for a single DIN stereo.
Just be aware that some head units extend above or below the installation space. Some cars have very cramped interiors, and a big touchscreen might interfere with things like AC controls or vents.
As we get into the reviews, keep in mind that these are the best single DIN units. If you have space for a double DIN unit, you should consider looking for double units instead. While you can adapt a double slot into a single, double DIN stereos are often a better value and offer a great variety of features. You can see our recommendations for touchscreen heads here that are mostly double DIN.
Single DIN Head Units Reviewed
Everything at a glance:
You want a high-quality play-anything head unit from a trusted brand: Alpine CDE-172BT
You want an inexpensive head unit that’s easy to use: Jensen MPR210
You want a flip-out screen with Android Auto/Apple Car Play: Pioneer AVH-3400NEX
You just want a cheap and simple head unit: Sound Storm ML41B
You want something that will look right in your classic car: FyPlay Vintage Classic
You want a huge screen and great audio: Sony XAV-AX800
You want an inexpensive flip-out screen: Regetek 7”
You just want to stream high bitrate music from your phone: Pioneer MVH-S522BS
You want a screen but are pressed for space: Power Acoustik PD-710B
You want a fun, inexpensive, do-everything knock-off gadget: Camecho 4.1” TFT

Top 10 Single DIN Head Units 2021
1. Best Overall: Alpine CDE-172BT

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Why we like it: Alpine is an industry leader in car audio, and this head unit is a great example of why. It does everything you could want, sounds amazing, and will fit in nearly any vehicle on earth.
Editor’s Rating:

Features
6ch Low-Level Out
CD Player
Bluetooth
HD Radio
USB
AUX
What Sets It Apart?
There are a few things that make the Alpine a great choice. It’s one of the few modern head units that are both high-quality and come equipped with a CD drive, for starters. It also has six channels of RCA output, so you can use it as the face of a much larger audio system. The most important feature, though, may simply be the word “Alpine” on the case.
The Japanese audio companies tend to be the largest players in the car audio world. Alpine, Pioneer, and JVC are well known around the world for making high-quality components. Their head units are the best at replicating the true audio recording, they have the best bass response, and they will probably outlast your car.
This Alpine tops the list simply because it’s one of the most versatile single DIN head units you can get, in addition to being of excellent quality.
Our Take
The only reason to look elsewhere for a head unit is because you want something very specific. If you are on a budget, consider this Jensen instead. If you don’t need a CD player but still want excellent sound quality, this Pioneer will suit you just fine, or get this Pioneer if you really want a touchscreen as well.
For most people, though, this Alpine is the perfect upgrade. It can play music from almost any source, the quality is amazing, and people will nod with understanding and congratulate you if you say you installed an Alpine head.

Pros
Alpine is a trusted industry leader
Very good audio quality
6 RCA outputs

Cons
CD players aren’t used much anymore
No touchscreen

2. Best Value: Jensen MPR210

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Why we like it: It’s easy to use, inexpensive, and works great. Enough said.
Editor’s Rating:

Features
Bluetooth
USB
AUX
Subwoofer Out
What Sets It Apart?
The value you get from the Jensen MPR210 is unparalleled. It’s very inexpensive, but it has a better build quality and usability than something truly cheap like the Sound Storm Labs head unit.
That makes the Jensen the perfect first step for someone that is just starting their car audio journey. It has an RCA output for a subwoofer, meaning you can start the upgrade process by buying a monoblock. It also has Bluetooth, so you can stream audio from your phone. It’s a basic, inexpensive upgrade for most older factory sound systems. Often, that’s all anyone really needs.
Our Take
One of the great things about our modern era is that electronics are cheap, varied, and compact. You can pretty much get a gadget to do any task on any budget and know that, with a few exceptions, it’ll work fine.
That does sometimes lead to a problem for reviewers like us since there are many very similar units that are all around the same price and the same functionality. We mention two: the Sound Storm Labs and the FyPlay units. There’s also the wildly popular Boss head unit here. We don’t review it, but Boss is very similar to Jensen as a company. They both are industry leaders in the budget audio world.
The Jensen MPR210 is just a bit better than its competitors in the single DIN space. It doesn’t have the audio quality that a Pioneer or Alpine head will have, but it will accurately play music streamed from your phone. It only has basic inputs and outputs, but it isn’t missing anything unlike some of the others at this price. The build quality isn’t amazing, but it doesn’t feel as cheap and ill-fitting as the Sound Storm. In short, it does what it advertises, and sometimes that’s more than you can ask for.

Pros
Inexpensive
Decent build quality for the price
Easy to use

Cons
Sound quality could be better
Doesn’t have any advanced features

3. Best Premium: Pioneer AVH-3400NEX

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Why we like it: Pioneer makes great quality audio equipment, and this flip-out is no exception. If you want it all, but only have space for a single din receiver, the AV-3400NEX is what you buy.
Editor’s Rating:

Features
6ch Low-Level Out
CD/DVD Player
Bluetooth
HD Radio
USB
AUX
7” Touchscreen
Video In and Out
Apple Carplay
Android Auto
What Sets It Apart?
This Pioneer, along with the Sony we recommend here, is on a different level than the rest of the head units on our list. They both have features like Apple Carplay and Android Auto. They also both have great touchscreens, although the Sony screen is a bit larger.
What pushes the Pioneer into the premium slot is that the screen hides away when it’s not in use. We actually write at length about flip out heads here. The gist of it is that having a retractable screen offers a lot of the benefits that a larger head unit can offer and a lot of the benefits that a smaller single DIN head unit offers.
Our Take
The Pioneer AVH-3400NEX does everything you could want. It plays DVDs, it can send signals to an entire bank of amplifiers, and it has Pioneer’s legendary audio controls. The screen isn’t as large as the Sony we recommend, but it has a higher pixel count per inch and is easier to see in bright light. In short, if you don’t have room for a modern double DIN head unit but want one, you can get it all with this Pioneer.
You will need to pay for it, though. It’s an expensive unit, and it has a lot of features that you may not use. It has a CD/DVD player, for instance. It also has video outputs, just in case you want to wire in extra screens. There is just a lot of complication that the average person won’t use, and it can make the Regetek flip out a more appealing option.
This is one of the only units where you can use Apple Carplay and Android Auto, though, so if that’s really important to you, this is a great deal.

Pros
Apple Carplay and Android Auto
Very high-quality
Has a lot of inputs and outputs

Cons
Expensive
Somewhat complicated to utilize

4. Best Budget: Sound Storm ML41B

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Why we like it: You don’t want to spend a lot on a commuter or old beater car. You do want to be able to listen to Spotify from your phone. This Sound Storm head unit is the solution.
Editor’s Rating:

Features
Bluetooth
USB
AUX
Subwoofer Out
Remote Control
What Sets It Apart?
There is no sense in trying to point out anything other than the fact that this thing is very inexpensive. It plays music over Bluetooth and can play your favorite radio stations. It really doesn’t do anything else that’s worth noting; it is simply the most affordable way to get those features.
That makes it the perfect choice for anyone that just wants to add a way to play music from their phone to their beater or older daily driver.
Our Take
The Sound Storm Labs ML41B is very easy to criticize. It’s not high-quality. The sound quality is ok at best, and chances are good that you will get frustrated with the controls. That being said, it’s so cheap that it seems almost unfair to hold it to the same standards that we would hold an Alpine head unit to. If you want something that’s high-quality and will improve your music listening experience, then get the Alpine.
There are a lot of reasons to buy a cheap head unit, though. First of all, it is an upgrade if you don’t have an AUX port or Bluetooth, or a subwoofer output. Modern music collections are online or stored in media players, not on physical media. In order to listen to modern music collections, you need something like Bluetooth connectivity.
Second, sometimes things break. If you have an old car and the factory head breaks, you probably don’t want to spend a ton of money on a new factory head. Something like this SSL head is absolutely fine.

Pros
Very inexpensive
Has Bluetooth and AUX inputs
Has a subwoofer output

Cons
Audio quality isn’t great
Build quality isn’t great either

5. Best Looking: FyPlay Vintage Classic

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Why we like it: If you crave old school style as much as we do, it’s hard not to love this simple head unit.
Editor’s Rating:

Features
Bluetooth
USB
AUX
SD Card
Remote Control
Subwoofer Out
What Sets It Apart?
You are free to call us vain, but what really sets this head unit apart is that it’s a modern Bluetooth receiver that looks like it belongs in a car straight from the 70s. It has this chrome grill faceplate and two knobs, and it’s very reminiscent of the early AM/FM units that had the tune and volume dials separated.
The only thing that gives it away is the LEDs that light up the buttons and screen. If you are building a restomod on a budget and want to stream music from your phone as you drive, it’s a really great addition to your interior.
Our Take
If you take away the style, you are left with a simple head unit that’s on par with the Jensen or the Sound Storm units we recommend. It isn’t feature packed, and if you get up close to it, you can tell that there were corners cut to save on manufacturing cost. It does have some features that similarly inexpensive units don’t have, though, like a relatively high RMS rating.
That does mean it occupies a bit of an unusual space, though. Most restomods are very high-dollar builds simply because it costs a lot just to buy and own a classic car. So people who already have a lot of money into a custom interior will probably want something that is higher quality than this FyPlay unit, and the average budget-minded consumer probably doesn’t care much about the looks.
Still, there are people who build or upkeep older cars and like to keep things inexpensive and simple. People with old VWs come to mind instantly; this unit is perfect for dropping into a ‘68 Beetle.

Pros
Inexpensive
Looks very classic
Relatively high wattage rating

Cons
Made of cheap materials
May look out of place on most modern vehicles

6. Best Touchscreen: Sony XAV-AX800

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Why we like it: There’s a lot to love about this head, including Android Auto, Apple Carplay, and the largest screen on our list.
Editor’s Rating:

Features
6ch Low-Level Out
Bluetooth
HD Radio
USB
AUX
9” Touchscreen
Video In and Out
Apple Carplay
Android Auto
What Sets It Apart?
Big screens are usually limited to the land of the double DIN stereos. Sony, though, decided to bring the giant floating screen to the single DIN community. At 9 inches, the screen on this Sony is the largest on our list. In fact, it’s bigger than a lot of modern infotainment systems, so you can comfortably watch in-flight movies streamed from your phone. Please do so when safe and not while driving down the highway, though.
The other features you aren’t likely to find with single DIN stereos are Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Sony brings those to single DIN cars as well. All of that combined makes this the perfect way to modernize an older vehicle, as long as it has enough room. That big screen does take up a lot of space.
Our Take
Sony is one of the most well-known electronics companies on earth, so it’s really no surprise that they’d also be dabbling in the car audio world. The XAV-AX800 demonstrates what a tech giant like Sony can do, similar to how the Pioneer AVH-3400NEX demonstrates what a giant like Pioneer can do. Both offer a lot of features that are nearly unheard of in the single DIN scene.
The big difference is that the Pioneer has to unfold itself before you can use it. In contrast, the Sony is just there waiting to be used even before you turn the car on. They both have amazing audio quality and can both power any combination of amps or speakers you could want. You just have to decide if you like the fold-out screen more or if you would rather have more surface area displaying your GPS route.
Unfortunately, the Pioneer and the Sony share something else: their high price. That’s the biggest disadvantage of needing single DIN-sized equipment. You can find units, like this Sony, that can do everything. They just cost a lot more than their double DIN counterparts.

Pros
Large touchscreen
Apple Carplay and Android Auto
Excellent quality

Cons
Expensive
Takes up a lot of space

7. Best Inexpensive Flip-Out: Regetek 7 Inch

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Why we like it: This is simply the best flip-out you can get for the price. If you really want a big screen and are on a tight budget, it’s perfect.
Editor’s Rating:

Features
Bluetooth
USB
AUX
SD Card
7” Touchscreen
Subwoofer Out
Remote Control
Video In and Out
What Sets It Apart?
It has a touchscreen, and the touchscreen retracts so that it keeps your dash clutter-free. That’s not really what sets it apart, though; after all, the Pioneer here also has a flip-out screen. This Regetek unit, though, is a really incredible value. It’s very inexpensive when compared to other single DINs that have a screen.
Regetek also has avoided the biggest issue that plagues cheap head units. Most cheap gadgets are more difficult to use than their name-brand competitors. They have quicks like hard to read menus or difficult to decipher manuals; take a look at the Camecho on our list if you want to see what that’s like. The Regetek head unit here manages to be easy to use, and even though it’s not perfect, it’s a lot better quality than many of the brandless knock-offs that are available.
Our Take
We said above that it avoids one of the most significant issues with cheap gadgets because it’s easy to use and understand. Unfortunately, you will definitely know it’s cheap when you use it. The plastic is a little flimsy, the screen resolution is low, and there is a learning curve to making calls. Pressing the button to start a call is easy enough, but finding out what volume you need to speak at and where to set the audio levels to hear the other end can be a bit of a challenge.
The rest of the stereo is on par with other inexpensive heads like the Jenson MPR210. Don’t expect it to blow the doors off or play the highest quality audio files, but if you are just streaming music over Bluetooth, you will be happy with it.
You can get better audio quality for about the same price, but that’s not why you would spend the money on the Regetek. You would buy this because it’s impossible to get a better deal if you want a functional touchscreen in your car that’s bigger than your cell phone.

Pros
Flip-out screen
Easy to use
Inexpensive

Cons
Screen resolution isn’t great
Feels cheap to the touch

8. Best Audio-Quality: Pioneer MVH-S522BS

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Why we like it: Pioneer’s simple and elegant single din receiver here is the perfect head unit for people who just want to stream high-quality music and don’t need a bunch of flashy features.
Editor’s Rating:

Features
Bluetooth
USB
AUX
HD Radio
6CH Low-Level Out
What Sets It Apart?
Pioneer is well known for being able to produce clear and accurate sound. If that’s all you want, then this thing is perfect because it doesn’t really do anything else. There’s no screen, there’s no CD player, there is no special remote control to let it light up like a rave. It plays music from Bluetooth, USB, and AUX, the end.
We are by no means saying that’s a bad thing. Simple can be really desirable, especially if you are trading complexity for quality and reliability. Most people won’t watch movies in their car on a tiny screen when they have their cellphones with them, and most people nowadays don’t use CDs for music. People who love audio, though, probably do have an extensive collection of high-quality sound files they want to listen to, and this Pioneer is perfect for that.
Our Take
Everything about this Pioneer is built for sound quality. It has a full complement of preamp outputs, making it easy to wire up a series of amps. It’s equipped with satellite radio and FLAC, and it has its own equalizer. If you are the type of person that has a collection of 320k MP3s because you can’t stand low-quality audio streaming, then this is for you.
The screen and controls honestly aren’t that great. We wish it had a few more dedicated buttons so that the menus were easier to navigate. As it is, you will do a lot of turning the volume dial to scroll through the settings. It’s not a huge issue; it’s just hard to find other things to criticize.
Chances are you are trying to decide between this Pioneer and the Alpine we recommend. They both are amp-ready, about the same price, and are made from high-quality components. We think the Pioneer looks better, but it doesn’t have as many features. You can’t go wrong with either.

Pros
Elegant design
High-quality
Has 6CH RCA

Cons
Interface is a little hard to navigate
Limited input options

9. Best Flip-Out Alternative: Power Acoustik PD-710B

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Why we like it: Unlike a lot of flip-out screens or stand-off screens that extend up, the Power Acoustic here has a screen that extends down. For some cars, it’s the perfect solution to fitment issues.
Editor’s Rating:

Features
Bluetooth
CD/DVD Player
USB
AUX
SD Card
7” Touchscreen
Subwoofer Out
Video In and Out
What Sets It Apart?
No two manufacturers seem to want to put the radio in the same spot, and that can lead to a lot of fitment issues. Most flip-out screens, like the Regetek we recommend, extend up from the head. If your car has controls above the stereo slot or has a recessed stereo, then that flip-up screen won’t work for you.
That’s where this Power Acoustik unit comes in to save the day. The screen extends down instead. It’s not the best screen out there. In fact, other than the very cheap Camecho, all the screens on our list overshadow it. But if you really want a larger touchscreen, but don’t have room for a flip-out or floating screen, it’s a really great option.
Our Take
The Power Acoustik PD-710B is a really niche device, and it costs more as a result. A flip-out screen is the space-saving choice for most people. Anyone that doesn’t need to save space will probably gravitate towards a larger floating screen or will likely have room for a double DIN unit. Since the quality of the Power Acoustik isn’t particularly high, that means the unusual format is the only big selling point.
There are other advantages to the format beyond just fitment, though, and they are worth considering. Unlike a flip-out screen, there are no mechanisms that can break and leave you without an interface. It’s also faster than a flip-out; when you start the car, the system is instantly up and running without having to wait for the screen to extend.
In short, it’s a great option if you want a screen but don’t want a flip-out. Just don’t expect anything to be particularly amazing.

Pros
Screen extends down instead of flipping up
More durable than a flip-out
Interface loads quickly

Cons
Not as high-quality as similarly priced units
Screen isn’t particularly good

10. Cheap and Compact Touchscreen: Camecho 4.1” TFT

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Why we like it: You’ll need a good helping of patience to get it to do what you want, but the amount of stuff that this cheap gadget can do is incredible.
Editor’s Rating:

Features
Bluetooth
USB
AUX
SD Card
1” Touchscreen
Video In and Out
Subwoofer Out
Remote Control
Included Backup Camera
What Sets It Apart?
It’s a tiny screen that can display a backup camera and fits completely within a single DIN space. That’s really unique; almost all single DIN units with a screen either have a big screen tacked onto the face or a screen that flips out of the device. It means that even the incredibly crowded dashboard of an older JDM car can have a modern touchscreen.
It also does a lot of neat things, especially for the price. It doesn’t cost much more than something like the Jensen MPR, but it supports FLAC and comes with a backup camera. It’s not an amazing backup camera or anything, but it does include one in the box.
Our Take
Unfortunately, as cool as it is, there are some serious issues with the Comecho here. It starts with their documentation. You will need to read the included documentation because the interface is confusing and difficult to navigate. All we can say is, “good luck.” With gems like “U dick Plug and see smooth and clear” you may be better off just mashing the buttons until you get the desired result.
At the end of the day, this head unit is just a tech toy. It’s something for people who like taking risks and can’t pass up knowing whether or not that knock-off watch is as good as the real thing. There’s always a chance that you get a bricked unit from the factory with these kinds of products or that you won’t be able to decipher the menus. It’s never going to be as high-quality as a cheap unit from a more reputable brand.
However, if you are willing to take the risk or love these kinds of cheap, too good to be true gadgets, you’ll have a lot of fun with the Camecho.

Pros
Has a tiny touchscreen
Comes with a backup camera
Very inexpensive for what it does

Cons
The documentation will drive you mad
The quality is suspect at best
It’s not easy to use

A Closer Look at Head Units
In this section, we will take a better look at some of the more complicated parts of car head units. To start, there are a lot of misconceptions surrounding audio quality that we want to clear up.
The Truth About Audio Quality
When people talk about audio quality, they are usually referring to the device’s ability to accurately play the recording. If you hear a lot of distortion or are missing bass depth, then the quality is considered poor. The problem is that there are a lot of variables, and the head unit is actually a fairly small part of the equation. There are a few main things to keep in mind if you are looking for the best audio quality possible.
The Head Unit is Only Part of the System
Even if the head is capable of producing a perfect audio signal, you won’t get a perfect sound. That’s because everything from the speaker size and type to the wire size directly influences audio quality.
One of the absolute best ways to improve your listening experience is to add a subwoofer. Most of the time, bass is what a factory system lacks, and it’s the reason almost all aftermarket head units have at least a single low-level output. You can check our list of inexpensive subwoofer options here.
The Source is Important
If you just stream music from the internet over Spotify, chances are good that you won’t notice an improvement in quality between different aftermarket heads. That’s because the quality is actually coded into the digital files. To make music streamable, the quality is cut down to save on file size. That’s one area where CDs offer an advantage; the .wav format is uncompressed and therefore higher quality than an mp3.
You can stream at a higher bitrate if your internet connection is good, but if you really need the best audio quality available, it’s better to have a library of FLAC or 320k MP3s saved to your device. You can read more about source files here; it’s a very deep rabbit hole of information.
Power
In the audio world, there are two main power ratings. Maximum wattage, which is the maximum amount of power a system can produce, and RMS wattage. RMS wattage is a much more useful rating because it represents how much power you can reasonably expect day to day. There are no components that can run at max power for more than a few moments, so even though manufacturers will print it on the box because it’s a big number, it’s actually not a good metric.
Most factory head units are around 20w RMS, while most aftermarket head units are 40-60w RMS. That increase alone will give you a huge boost in tone. Basically, you will get distortion in the form of clipping when you approach the upper volume range. At 20w, that upper range is closer to normal listening volume than it would be on a more powerful system.
Build Quality Directly Translates to Audio Quality
The final thing to really understand when talking about audio quality is that, to an extent, you do get what you pay for. Cheaper components have room to move around or may overheat, and that leads to distortion. It’s why we recommend sticking to trusted brands like Alpine or Pioneer. They cost more, but the build quality is higher. Therefore the audio quality is also higher.
The thing you have to keep in mind, though, is that if you don’t have good wiring, power, or sources, then the audio quality of the head really doesn’t matter. That’s what makes inexpensive head units like the Jensen such a good value. The average person will not notice the difference between a cheap head and an expensive head if the only thing they replace is the head.
A Primer on Touchscreens
Touchscreens are just a part of modern life. They can be found on everything from cellphones to refrigerators, so naturally, they are very commonly found in cars. Modern cars often have them pre-installed in the form of an infotainment center, and they make a great upgrade to an older dashboard. There are just a few things to keep in mind if you are looking to make that upgrade.
Resolution
We are spoiled by modern cell phones that have absurdly high-definition screens, so it seems shocking that a high definition stereo screen might only have a resolution of 800×480. That’s all you really need for a crisp, accurate image, though, because of the pixel density. In fact, the pixel density on something like the Pioneer flip-out here is actually higher than a 31” 1080p TV.
Type
There are two main types of touchscreens on the market. Capacitive touchscreens work by sensing your finger. They are found on more expensive gadgets because they cost more to produce, but they are faster and cleaner than resistive touchscreens. Resistive touchscreens use pressure to register touch, and they are much slower and less accurate than capacitive.
Android Auto and Apple Carplay
These two apps are both very common in modern cars and require a touchscreen for use. Unfortunately, if you value the convenience of these apps, you will be paying more. This is especially true in the single DIN world.
FAQ

What’s the Best Single DIN Head Unit?
That depends on what you want from your head unit. We think the best general-purpose single DIN head unit is the Alpine CDE-172BT, but if you want a touchscreen, the Pioneer AVH-3400NEX is a better fit. If you love retro style and don’t need a CD player, check out the FyPlay Vintage Classic. The truth is you can’t really go wrong with anything we review.
Which Is Better, Single DIN or Double DIN?
It depends on how you define better. There are a lot more options, especially if you want a touchscreen, that are double DIN sized. However, many cars do not have space for a double DIN unit. It doesn’t matter if a double DIN is “better” if it won’t fit in your car.
Does a Head Unit Affect Sound Quality?
Yes, but they are not the most important thing that shapes the quality of sound. Your input source, amplification power, and speakers are just as or more important. In fact, installing a subwoofer like one of these we recommend would do far more to improve your audio quality than buying a new head unit.
Can I Put a Single DIN in a Double DIN Slot?
Some stereo install kits can convert a double DIN space into a single DIN space. There are also pockets like this one that take up a single DIN space and can be used to convert a double space into a single. However, there are a lot more options for double DIN sized head units, so the benefit of converting a double to a single is marginal.
Wrapping it Up
Whether you choose to embrace the retro style or go all-in on a beautiful screen, you will be happy ditching your factory sound system and installing a modern head unit. They have gotten so cheap and have tons of features compared to the head units even ten years ago. Just grab one from our guide that meets your feature wishlist and rock out. More

When bad weather hits, slick conditions make driving dangerous enough as it is. However, when you add decreased visibility from rain and snow to the mix, you end up with a recipe for disaster.
While wipers do a good job of keeping your windshield clear, they aren’t perfect. This is where a good windshield treatment can come in handy.

Why Treat Your Windshield?
Perhaps the most important consideration you should make regarding windshield treatments is determining why you should treat your windshield. There are actually a few good reasons for using windshield treatments.
To Provide Better Visibility
In slick conditions, it’s imperative that you’re able to see. Whether you’re driving in the rain or snow, a good windshield treatment will help you see better by allowing water to bead up and fly off the windshield, rather than sitting on the windshield obstructing your view.
Can Prevent Your Windshield From Damage
Don’t expect any miracles here, but having a treated windshield can increase its lifespan by preventing damage to it. Over time, your windshield will suffer from pitting, a natural form of wear resulting from dirt, sand and other small particles scratching the glass.
Pitting, in turn, can cause water to pool up in your windshield during rainy and snowy conditions. When pitting spots get bad enough, they can also cause blinding glares from sunlight and headlights at night.
Because windshield treatments provide a barrier between the particles and your windshield, it can slow down or prevent this wear from occurring.
Prolong the Life of Your Windshield Wipers
When you use your windshield wipers less, they won’t wear out as quickly. By using a windshield treatment on your car, you won’t need to use the wipers as often, thereby extending the life of your wipers.
Things to Consider in Windshield Treatments
Once you’ve decided that a windshield treatment is the right choice for your car, there are some things you should consider before purchasing one.
Type of Windshield Treatments
There are different types of windshield treatments, so you should consider what type would work best for your situation.
Silicone-Based
Silicone-based windshield treatments are the cheapest and most common option available. You can find also them in different forms, from traditional full treatments to washer fluid additives for treatment upkeep.
These treatments don’t bind with the glass, making them the simplest to apply and remove. But because they merely sit on top of your windshield to repel water, they won’t last as long as other types of treatments. This means you’ll have to reapply treatments more often.
Overall, silicone-based treatments are best for beginners and thrifty consumers.
Fluorinated Compound-Based
Some windshield treatments – like Aquapel – are made of fluorinated compounds called fluoroalkylsilanes, which actually bind to the silica in your windshield.
These treatments are typically regarded as mid-tier options in almost every aspect. They’re more expensive and harder to put on than silicone treatments, but last longer. Conversely, they won’t last as long as nanotechnology-based treatments, but are less costly and are a bit easier to apply.
You should also keep in mind, these types of treatments are much harder to take off than silicone treatments. If you’re worried about messing up the application, it’s a much safer bet to use a silicone-based treatment.
Nanotechnology-Based
Nanotechnology-based windshield treatments, also known as ceramic coatings, also bind to the windshield to provide a durable and long-lasting coating for up to a few years. Hendlex’s Nano Glass Pro is a good example of an effective nano-coating treatment.
In addition to the increased longevity of these treatments, they can also provide additional benefits, such as offering scratch and abrasion resistance. Of course, these come at a much higher cost than other types of treatments.
They’re also more advanced, and require more work and care to properly apply. Like fluorinated compound treatments, they are very hard to remove, meaning you should only use one of these treatments if you know what you’re doing.
Longevity of the Treatment
While the type of treatment you choose will play a large part in how long it lasts, you also have to remember that not all treatments are made equally. You should keep in mind how long a treatment lasts.
Amount of Treatment
In addition to the longevity of the treatment, you’ll want to pay attention to the amount of treatment you’re buying. Just remember that sometimes less is more. That’s certainly the case with Hendlex’s Nano Glass Pro, where a small 50ml bottle can provide multiple long-lasting treatments.
Now that you know what to look for, we’re going to take you through the best windshield treatments around.

Top 9 Best Windshield Treatments 2021
1. Best Overall Windshield Treatment: Rain-X 800002243 Glass Treatment

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Why we like it: It’s user-friendly, cost-efficient, and works great at keeping your windshield clean and clear.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Silicone-based
Longevity: 30-45 days
Amount: 7 oz
Rain-X is a trusted name in the automotive industry, providing consumer-friendly glass treatments at a modest price. Rain-X’s 800002243 Glass Treatment is no exception, offering an effective and cost-efficient means of protecting your windshield.
It offers an easy way to keep your windshield protected, making it great for anyone to use. Simply apply some to a microfiber cloth or paper towel and wipe it on. If you notice a haze on your windshield after applying this stuff, don’t worry! You can buff it away with a clean cloth.
One of the best things about this stuff is that it’s versatile. It’s great for all of your windows, as well as your headlights and mirrors, so you can really increase your visibility on the road. It also works well for keeping your home’s windows and glass shower doors clear and streak-free.
The only real drawback we can see with this windshield treatment is that it doesn’t last longer. Since it’s a silicone-based treatment, you’ll need to reapply it more often than other types of windshield treatments. Still, given its low cost and overall effectiveness, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a great, easy-to-use windshield treatment.

Pros
Easy to use
Cost-efficient
Versatile

Cons
Doesn’t work as long as other types of treatments

2. Best Premium Windshield Treatment: Rain-X Glass Treatment & Anti-Fog Combo

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Why we like it: An effective combo pack that allows you to keep your windshield clear, inside and out.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Silicone-based
Longevity: 30-45 days
Amount: 2 7-oz bottles
The Rain-X Glass Treatment and Anti-Fog Combo works wonders on your windshield, inside and out. Since they work in all weather, they’re a great choice if you live in climates where rain and foggy windows are common.
The glass treatment is for the exterior of your windshield and windows. This will keep your windows clear of rain and frost, and should last 2 to 4 months per application, depending on the weather. On the other hand, the anti-fog is for the interior of your windshield, and should last for 2 months.
Not only do they keep your windshield clean and clear, but they can also work with other things like mirrors and home windows. They’re both also easy to use. Just be sure to exercise caution when putting them on, or you could make it harder to see.
The anti-fog seems to be the most problematic of the two. If improperly applied, it could cause streaking on your windshield and windows that could be difficult to get rid of. You’ll also want to make sure not to tip the bottles over, as they don’t seem to seal properly, even when closed tight.
Nonetheless, if you’re looking for a great way to keep your windshield and windows clear inside and out, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better combo.

Pros
Keeps your windows clear inside and out
Also works great for windows and mirrors
Easy to use

Cons
The anti-fog may cause streaks
Caps don’t seal properly

3. Best Budget Windshield Treatment: Rain-X 5071268 Glass Cleaner + Rain Repellent

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Why we like it: Coming at a low cost, it cleans and treats your windshield at the same time, saving you time and money.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Silicone-based
Longevity: 30-45 days
Amount: 23 oz
Another great product from Rain-X, the 5071268 Glass Cleaner + Rain Repellent is a powerful 2-in-1 that will clean and treat your windshield at the same time. This makes it great if you want to quickly treat your windshield without hassle.
In addition to its cleaning and treating properties, it’s the most economical option we’ve found. Coming in a relatively large 23-ounce bottle, each treatment only requires a few sprays. That means this stuff could easily last years, depending on how often you use it.
Like other Rain-X products, it’s also versatile. On top of being a great windshield treatment, you can also use it on your home’s windows and glass shower doors.
One thing that’s different about this stuff compared to normal glass cleaners is that you’ll want to dry it after applying it. If you don’t, then you could run into issues with spots or hazing on the glass that can make it hard to see. However, if you use it properly, then this stuff will make your windshield shine and keep them clean through rain, sleet, or snow.
Given its low cost and effectiveness, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to treat their windshield.

Pros
Inexpensive
Cleans and treats your windshield
Versatile

Cons
Can cause visibility issues if used improperly

4. Best Windshield Treatment Washer Fluid Additive: Rain-X White RX11806D Washer Fluid Additive

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Why we like it: This stuff makes treating your windshield easy, and works great as a supplemental treatment.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Silicone-based
Longevity: 30-45 days
Amount: 16.9 oz
Most windshield treatments are products you apply to your car by hand and require a clean windshield. However, if you want the benefits of a treated windshield without the hassle, then you might consider the Rain-X RX11806D White Washer Fluid Additive.
This stuff mixes with your regular windshield wiper fluid to deliver a quick windshield treatment every time you use your car’s washer nozzles. And speaking of the nozzles, you shouldn’t have to worry about this stuff clogging your nozzles.
Since this additive is meant to be mixed in with your regular washer fluid, you’ll have to mix it properly for it to work correctly. Mixing it isn’t hard, but if you don’t want to risk mixing it improperly, you might want to opt for a pre-mixed concoction.
This product works well as a stand-alone product, but it’s not as effective as manual treatments like the Rain-X 800002243 Glass Treatment. However, manual treatments don’t offer the same convenience as this washer fluid additive. This stuff also plays nicely with manual treatments, making it a great supplemental purchase.
As with other Rain-X windshield treatments, it’s economical. That means you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank buying this stuff, and if you don’t like it, you’re not out a lot of money.

Pros
Quicker and easier to use than other windshield treatments.
Works great as a stand-alone or supplemental purchase
Inexpensive

Cons
Requires you to mix it
Doesn’t work as effectively as manual treatments

5. Best Streak-Free Windshield Treatment: Invisible Glass 92184 22-Ounce Premium Glass Cleaner with Rain Repellent

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Why we like it: It cleans and treats your windshield, and it won’t leave streaks behind.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: N/A
Longevity: 30-45 days
Amount: 22 oz
Stoner’s Invisible Glass Premium Glass Cleaner with Rain Repellent is a great alternative to Rain-X products. This 2-in-1 glass cleaner and rain repellent works to clean and coat your windshield with an effective water repellent to keep your windshield clear of rain and frost.
Made in the USA, the Stoner offers a money-back guarantee to show that the company stands behind its product. And just like Rain-X, this product is great for not only your car, but around your home as well.
One of the main draws to this stuff is its streak-free formula. Commonly known as being better than Windex for providing a streak-free clean, Invisible Glass does wonders at leaving a clean windshield behind. Combined with its ability to repel mud and water after the clean, this is a superior product.
As far as performance compared to Rain-X products, it’s pretty similar. They both last roughly 30-45 days per application, and do a great job at keeping your windshield clear. The only real knock against this stuff is that it’s more expensive than Rain-X’s 2-in-1 spray. However, given the money-back guarantee and it’s stellar streak-free clean, it’s worth spending a few extra bucks.

Pros
Made in the USA
Money-back guarantee
Streak-free cleaning formula

Cons
More expensive than similar products

6. Best Haze-Free Windshield Treatment: Rust-Oleum 287337 NeverWet Rain Repellent

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Why we like it: It’s a great alternative to silicone-based treatments and won’t cause hazing that’s common with cheaper treatments.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Other
Longevity: 30-45 days
Amount: 11 oz
The biggest problem with most windshield treatments is the haze they can create from improper application. Rust-Oleum’s NeverWet Rain Repellent is a good alternative if you don’t want to risk hazing your windshield.
Like other windshield treatments we’ve covered, this stuff works great for both your car and home. It also has the same longevity and works as effectively as silicone-based treatments like Rain-X. However, it comes at a cost other treatments don’t have.
Unlike silicone-based treatments, this stuff has a very strong chemical smell, meaning you’ll want ventilation when using it indoors. It’s also rather expensive, costing more per fluid ounce than other treatments like the Rain-X Glass Treatment.
If you don’t mind paying a premium for an effective stress-free windshield treatment, then you can’t go wrong with the NeverWet Rain Repellent.

Pros
Won’t haze
Works as well as silicone-based treatments
Stress-free application

Cons
Strong smell
Expensive

7. Best Fluorinated Windshield Treatments: Aquapel Glass Treatment

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Why we like it: A single Aquapel treatment works for longer than cheaper types of treatments and comes in an easy-to-use applicator.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Fluorinated compound-based
Longevity: 6 months
Amount: 6 single-use applicators
If you’re looking for something that will last longer than silicone-based treatments, you might want to consider Aquapel’s Glass Treatment. This pack of 6 single-use applicators contains a small amount of treatment liquid meant to cover your entire windshield.
What’s nice about this stuff is that it’s easy to gauge how much you’ll need. Also, because it’s a fluorinated compound-based treatment, it will easily outlast silicone-based treatments like the Rain-X.
However, you will want to take care when using this treatment. The applicators have warnings and emergency phone numbers on them because this stuff is highly dangerous. Not only should you wear gloves and have proper ventilation, but you should also avoid getting it on your car’s body, as it can damage paint. It’s also significantly more expensive than silicone-based treatments.
Given its long-term effectiveness, it’s a good intermediate option that lasts longer than entry-level silicone-based treatments without the difficulty and lofty costs of nanotechnology-based windshield treatments.

Pros
Single-use applicators make it easy to dose treatments
Lasts longer than silicone-based treatments
Not as difficult as nanotechnology-based treatments

Cons
Dangerous
Can damage your paint
Expensive

8. Best Windshield Treatment Wipes: Rain-X 630021 Original Glass Treatment Wipes

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Why we like it: These are great for quick treatments as a supplement between full treatments, and work great if you frequently travel.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Silicone-based
Longevity: 30-45 days
Amount: 10 wipes
If you want to treat your windshield without the hassle of dosing the treatment, then you might want to consider the Rain-X Original Glass Treatment Wipes. They make it even easier to treat your windshield than the traditional Rain-X solution, saving you a little time and hassle.
Of course, they don’t exactly work as well as a full-on treatment. They’re also not as cost-effective as other Rain-X treatments. Rather, these are great to have for when you’re in a pinch and need to quickly apply a treatment, such as if you’re traveling or renting a car. They also work great as a supplemental purchase with other Rain-X products, such as the Rain-X White Washer Fluid Additive.
If you want something to touch up your regular treatments or just need a quick treatment, these wipes can certainly come in handy.

Pros
Quick and easy to use
Good for travel and other non-regular use
Works well as a supplemental purchase

Cons
Doesn’t work as well as a regular treatment
Not as cost-effective as other Rain-X products

9. Best Nano Windshield Treatment: Hendlex Car Windshield Coating Nano Glass Pro and Glass Prepare Cleaner

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Why we like it: Being a nanotechnology-based treatment, a single treatment should last longer than other types of treatments.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Nanotechnology-based
Longevity: N/A
Amount: 2 50ml bottles
If you’re looking to avoid constant reapplications or just want a high-quality window treatment, the Hendlex Nano Glass Pro is the way to go.
This nano glass treatment will last longer than most other windshield treatments, thanks to the way ceramic coat treatments work. Not only does it more effectively bond to the glass, but it’s also more resistant to the elements than other types of treatments.
This tiny little combo pack features two small bottles of solution: a preparation cleaner and the nano coating. This stuff is the definition of “less is more,” with these 2 small bottles providing enough solution for 8 to 10 treatments.
For each treatment, you’ll only need a few drops. However, good luck trying to dose the treatment at just a few drops. For some reason, this treatment doesn’t have a dropper cap. Because of this, you might want to pick up a glass eye dropper to help with application.
You should also keep in mind this isn’t the most budget-friendly treatment option available. However, given its long-term effectiveness, it’s certainly worth considering if you want a high-quality treatment that will last.

Pros
Lasts longer than other types of treatments
More resistant to the elements than other treatments
Provides enough solution for multiple treatments

Cons
Doesn’t have a dropper cap
More expensive than most other treatments

Everything You Need to Know About Windshield Treatments

Now that we’ve covered the best windshield treatments we could find, let’s get a little more in-depth with them.
Factors That Determine a Windshield Treatment’s Longevity
Aside from the type of treatment you choose, there are a number of other things that can impact the longevity of a windshield treatment. Let’s take a look at some of the most important ones.
How Often You use Your Windshield Wipers
The more you use your windshield wipers, the quicker your treatment will fade. That’s because the friction with the wipers can rub the treatment off of your windshield.
Weather
You probably won’t use your wipers unless the weather calls for it. However, aside from increased wiper usage, rain and snow can slowly chip away your windshield’s treatment.
Condition of Your Windshield
The better the condition of your windshield is, the longer the windshield treatment will last. Generally, that means that applying a treatment to a newer car will almost always yield better results with any type of treatment.
That’s because the normal wear that occurs over time, called pitting, slowly makes the glass’s surface uneven. An uneven surface makes for an uneven treatment application, thus making it prone to wearing out quicker. Typically, the older the windshield, the more likely it is to have pitting spots of varying degrees.
Where You Park Your Car
Believe it or not, where you park your car can even impact the longevity of your windshield treatment. Direct sunlight, precipitation, and extreme temperatures can all take a toll on your windshield treatment.
For instance, if you leave your car parked outside all winter, a treatment won’t last as long as a car parked in a garage when it’s not being driven. The longer your car stays out of the elements, the longer your windshield treatment will last.
Tips for Improving Visibility
Thoroughly Clean Your Windshield Before Treatment
This seems obvious enough, but it’s also the most important step in properly applying a windshield treatment. Cleaning your windshield before treating them will result in less wasted treatment, a cleaner windshield, and increased longevity. If you want your windshield treatment to work as well as possible, you can “clay bar” your windshield.
While a spritz of glass cleaner and a paper towel will clean your windshield, using a clay bar  will change your definition of clean glass. The idea of clay barring your windshield is to remove anything and everything from the glass.
After cleaning with a glass cleaner, clay bar your windshield, and hit it with another clean with the glass cleaner. After all of that, your windshield is perfectly primed for any treatment.
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Clean Your Windshield Wipers
While a good windshield treatment should reduce your need for wipers, you still need to keep them in mind. Treatments typically only work well for keeping your windows clear when you’re traveling fast enough for the beaded water to fly off (somewhere around 35mph). Not only will clean wipers make for a more effective wipe, but it will keep your treatment intact for longer with wiper usage.
To clean your wipers, just use hot soapy water or a little wiper fluid on a rag and wipe the wipers. Follow it up with a little rubbing alcohol on the rubber to soften them up and remove any soap or other remaining residue.
Add Water to Your Buff
After you’ve applied your treatment, you may notice a haze in your windshield. If you can’t remove the haze, even after buffing with a dry cloth, then you might try adding a little water to your buff. This will help the cloth pick up the excess treatment that’s causing the haze.
Treat Your Side and Rear Windows
If you want better total visibility on the road, then you should consider treating your side and rear windows as well. Of course, it will take more time than simply treating your windshield, but it’s well worth the increased visibility.
How Do I Remove a Windshield Treatment?
So you’ve applied a windshield treatment to your car and you don’t like how it looks. Whether you messed up or you just don’t like the way it looks on your car, removing a windshield treatment depends on the type of treatment.
For silicone-based windshield treatments, removing it is simple with a little white vinegar, warm water, and a microfiber cloth. For removing treatments like Aquapel or a nano-coatings, you’re going to have to resort to breaking out some nasty chemicals or abrasive polish that could end up causing damage to your car if used improperly.
Of course, this isn’t ideal if you aren’t experienced with this sort of thing. If you’re not experienced in using windshield treatments, you might want to stick with something like the Rain-X Glass Treatment to avoid any potential mishaps.
Wrapping Up
You’ll find that treating your windshield can have some great benefits. Not only will it keep you and your car safe, but it’ll keep your windshield looking great. Once you’ve found the right windshield treatment for your car, make sure you take proper care in applying. Then get ready to watch the magic keep your windshield clear and clean. More