Your first HUD experience may feel like you time-traveled to the future, but the truth is HUDs have actually been with us for a while now.
Originally meant to be used for on jet fighters, the application of Head-Up Display technology has today spread to vehicles, with the latest models incorporating them in their design.
HUDs have proven to be an essential car accessory that significantly helps to reduce the occurrence of accidents on the road. It is no wonder more motorists are beginning to install them on their vehicles.
But with so many designs and brands in the market, what is the best Heads Up Display for your car?
Keep reading to find out more!
In a Hurry? The Winner after 41 Hours of Research:
How I Picked:
18 Resources | 478 Reviews Compared |
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24 Hours Of Research | 64 Popular Products Considered |
Last Updated: June 5th, 2021
By James Ruhle:
This article has been updated to reflect the most accurate information regarding heads up displays available for those who are interested in the best HUD for their car. The best 5 available have changed, and information has been added to assist individuals in finding the best heads up display currently available on the market. The FAQ has also been updated.
Best Hedas Up Display of 2021 - Comparison Table
Product | Description | Our Rating | Current Price |
---|---|---|---|
Pyle Universal Vehicle Smart HUD Display | Best Overall | 92/100 | |
TIMPROVE T600 Universal Car HUD | Runner Up | 87/100 | |
ACECAR Car Universal Dual System HUD Display | Best Value For Money | 85/100 | |
Arpenkin HUD X5 OBD2 3" | Best Budget Pick | 84/100 | |
LeaningTech Original Digital Universal Car HUD | Best Compatibility | 80/100 |
Best Heads Up Display On The Market- Individual Reviews
1. Pyle Universal Vehicle Smart HUD Display -
Best Overall
The Pyle Smart HUD comes stacked with high-end features that enable it to be one of the best Head up display units today. It is an all-in-one solution to all your vehicle navigation information needs whenever you set out on a journey, and carries a price tag that won't dent your bank account.
This unit has a small and stable design that can be positioned right in the middle of the dashboard. It comes with a modest but effective 2.6” display screen that features a multicolor profile for enhanced visibility. The data remains easy to see while driving during the daytime, as well as in the night.
The screen displays just enough data crucial for your driving. You’ll be able to know the speed, trip/local time, distance, voltage, etc. to make for a clutter-free display that helps to keep your eyes on the road ahead.
A dual-core processor in the device allows for display of real-time driving data and a speed alarm will go off when you surpass the 150 MPH limit, which is the default setting. Of course, you are able to adjust the setting to your preference.
New functions such as speed up and braking performance testing have been included in the Pyle Universal Vehicle Smart HUD Display to enhance your performance on the road. Integrated light sensors have been included for automatic brightness balance so that the image remains clear to you in all kinds of environments.
You also get a GPS navigation system that ensures you don’t lose your way when driving in territories you’re not familiar with. The data is generally very accurate and will show exactly what’s on your speedometer.
The Pyle Universal Vehicle Smart HUD Display features easy to use “plug-n-play” installation and is powered via a USB cable. You only have to connect the USB cable to the cigarette lighter on your car, then place it on the dashboard and get started. It will automatically sync power on and off with the engine ignition.
This compact dashboard Head-Up display further includes universal vehicle mounts that are compatible with cars, trucks, trailers, and vans. If used properly, this crucial device could end up being a lifesaver for you on the road!
2. TIMPROVE T600 Universal Car HUD - Runner Up
This amazing HUD product will help to keep your eyes on the road at all times, no matter the kind of vehicle you’re driving. T600 features a GPS module which allows it to be compatible with all models and brands of cars from around the world.
It is conveniently compact and lightweight and will sit comfortably on your dashboard. To connect it, simply plug the USB data cable into the unit and connect the other end to the DLC or data link connector port on your vehicle. Place the device on top of the sticky pad positioned anywhere on the dashboard, and you’re good to go!
This HUD comes equipped with a high definition 2.2” LCD screen, which allows you to access motor information clearer than on a windshield HUD. With a 30-degree angle, it is right in your eye level and you’ll have an easy task monitoring crucial data on your journey while enjoying the whole experience.
The T600 ensures that everything you may need to know about your car is right in front of you! It displays multiple pieces of information about your car, including speed, battery voltage, altitude, satellite time, driving direction, as well as driving distance in exciting colors.
You can also access the main menu, which allows you to adjust the settings to your preference. An alarm will alert you when you surpass the set speed limit or when the vehicle is running on low voltage, proving to be just the partner you need for a safe journey!
This display unit is quite multifunctional, which gives it an edge over many of its competitors in the market. Given that it is based on GPS module and satellite, you can use it to conduct speedup and brake performance tests to help you feel more in tune with your car.
The control buttons on the device are easy to navigate, and in the middle is a photocell that detects daytime and nighttime. This ensures that the light on the display is automatically adjusted so that it is bright during the day for visibility and dim at night not to hurt your eyes.
This smart device memorizes all the previous settings you made so that it displays them whenever you ignite your vehicle for the next part of your journey!
3. ACECAR Car Universal Dual System HUD Display - Best Value for Money
If you’re not looking to blow your budget on your first auto display device, this is an affordable option that will work great. The ACECAR universal dual HUD might have a basic appearance but don't let it discourage you - is endowed with features that will not only keep you safe on the road but also make your journey fulfilling!
The unit is small, measuring 35.4 by 21.3 by 4.7 inches and has a rectangular design that can conveniently sit on your dashboard behind the instrument cluster. With the help of Nanotechnology, it uses a high clearness projector to relay essential vehicle information on the windshield, while eliminating any unwanted reflections and double-image effects.
This product also features both automatic and manual brightness adjustment modes, thanks to an alarm icon light sensor that modifies the light according to the environment for different times of the day. You are able to make the display information sharper if you want to.
The ACECAR HUD allows you to access multiple pieces of information on your windshield. Anything from your vehicle’s speed, mileage, temperature, battery voltage, and engine’s RPM to the driving distance is displayed on the windshield. There is also an alarm that will conveniently warn you when the car’s engine overheats or when the battery is running below the optimal voltage, helping to keep you safe on the road.
This HUD is compatible with the OBD2/ GPS interface. OBD2 is only available for cars that were produced after 2008, which means you may need to use the GPS interface if your automobile was produced earlier than that.
The OBDii mode is also not compatible with diesel cars, hybrid electric cars, pickup trucks, computer modified cars, as well as RVs. So, the only option is to use the GPS mode if you own a model in the mentioned categories. You’d want to know that the GPS mode only displays speed!
The installation process is relatively straightforward. Just take the OBD cable and plug it into your vehicle’s OBD interface port. However, you'll have to connect it with a USB cable if the voltage is higher than 24V. Once this is done, position the HUD device on any side of the dashboard you are comfortable with.
You might also want to note that the speed shown by the HUD may vary slightly from the actual speed of the car because each receives different data. In case of any dissatisfaction, you are able to return the unit for a refund or checkup within one year after delivery.
With the Hudly Lite Head-Up display, you get to view all your incoming calls and text messages without taking your eyes and concentration off the road. All the important driving data is conveniently displayed in your line sight, ensuring that there are no distractions when you’re behind the wheel.
You get to see the speed and RPMs to keep you from flouting any speed limit rules while on the highway. The device comes with a windshield reflective film but you won’t even need this because all the stats are clearly projected for your viewing comfort.
It also features an automated sensor technology that adjusts to give you optimal visibility both during the day and at night time; you won’t have to strain your eyes. Meanwhile, a special coating has been integrated into the LED display to cancel out any excess reflection of light.
Another great feature on this device is the speed limit chime alerts that let you know when you’re driving too fast. This will go a long way to keep you from getting into trouble with the authorities. Furthermore, RPM alert chimes enable you to save on gas because you get an alarm to switch gears when your car surpasses the set RPM limit.
You’ll have an easy time installing the Hudly Lite Head-Up display; it only requires three simple steps! Just insert it into your car’s ODB2 to power it. The device powers on/off automatically with your car, keeping the battery from getting drained unnecessarily.
Secondly, secure it on the dashboard using a rubber mat after positioning it to match with your line of sight. Finally, drive and view all the data on your windshield with the provision to utilize the reflection film if you see necessary.
The display measures 6.6 by 5.3 by 1.9 inches and only weighs 7.2 ounces, which makes for a compact and lightweight build that you can easily install wherever you want on the dashboard. The screen brightness adjusts automatically depending on the time of the day but you can do this manually on a scale of 1-5 to fit your preferences.
Finally, the device shuts down automatically after 10 seconds when you turn off your car’s engine for efficient utilization of battery power.
5. LeaningTech Original Digital Universal Car HUD
- Best Compatibility
Our Rating: 83/100
LeanighTech produced a simple yet effective HUD with this unit. It has a small and portable design that can be set up on almost any vehicle. It has a pocket-friendly price tag, which increases the value you’re getting for your money.
This HUD unit projects easy-to-read auto data directly on the windshield. The display is projected in a green color, which is much friendlier to your eyes at any moment of the day. You get instant access to valuable information regarding your vehicle, such as vehicle speed, mileage, driving distance and time; and this is made possible with the help of GPS technology.
You can also choose from three different display modes when using the LeaningTech HUD. There’s the normal display, reflecting on the screen, as well as upside-down mode, to conveniently fit the specific position that you’re placing the unit in your car.
The vehicle speed is displayed in either MPH or KM/h depending on what you prefer. A light sensor has been included to make for automatic brightness adjustment at different times of the day so that you remain comfortable reading the information at all times.
You can set different alarms using an easy-to-use button set up for your driving safety and convenience. An over speed alarm will beep three times to alert you when you go beyond the set speed limit whereas a fatigue alarm will go off every hour while displaying the period you have been driving.
This helps to eliminate any drowsy-driving and could be the difference between life and death while on a distant journey. The setup process is relatively easy; the device features a plug-n-play operation that only requires you to plug the cable into your car’s cigarette lighter.
The universal design of the unit is compatible with all trucks and cars, saving you the trouble of wiring to the VSS. You’ll be done with setting it up in a matter of seconds and ready to go.
Overall, this is an easy to use and feature-rich Head up display that any motorist would be glad to have on their vehicle. Its wide compatibility ensures that you can use it on all the different cars you have at home.
Pros
Cons
The SHEROX Head Up Display offers you a simple, elegant, and accurate car information display solution that will save you all the clutter of data that may end up distracting you. It is well lit and ensures that you have an easy time accessing the vehicle data you need.
This unit measures 3.1 by 1.8 by 0.5 inches, to make for a compact and portable device that can comfortably be placed on your dashboard. It features a 3.5” HD display that utilizes Nano-technology to cancel double reflection, ensuring that you have clear and easy-to-read information projected onto your windshield. The device comes with one reflective film, which you’ll decide whether or not to use.
You can also make use of the manual and automatic brightness modes to make sure that the display remains clear and readable throughout the day and that you’re driving without glare. The SHEROX Head Up Display is quite precise in its display of information.
It has a four-display function that allows you to view the speed (MPH OR KM/h), Voltage, water temperature, and mileage so that you’re not distracted with a clutter of unnecessary data on your windshield.
Its three-alarm functions will also prove to be useful while on the road. You get an over speed alarm, low voltage alarm, and high-temperature alarm that helps you to make the necessary adjustments for driving in the optimal environment and conditions.
This HUD comes with a plug-n-play installation format that will be ready in a matter of seconds. It is compatible with 95% cars with an OBD2 OR EUOBD interface and has undergone rigorous electrical testing to acquire FCC certification.
The device automatically syncs to your car's power so that it automatically goes on or off when the car is ignited and shut down, which helps to protect the battery. The controls are generally easy to navigate and you can refer to the user manual for further guidance.
One of the major complaints about this product is that the over-speed alarm goes off when you hit 80mph, which seems like a "normal" speed when you’re on the freeway. The loud alarm beep may prove to be annoying cause it will be going almost every other time.
Our Rating: 75/100
The ACBungii has a unique design that stands out among all the other HUDs we have reviewed on today's list. It is a compact device with dimensions of 7.2 x 5.3 x 2 inches and a weight of 12 ounces, making it portable enough to be placed anywhere on the dashboard.
This Head up display product comes with a projection board where all the auto data will be visible to the driver. The displayed data is clear and readable with no cases of double reflection.
You’ll be able to access information about car speed, fuel consumption, engine speed, water temperature, mileage, voltage, travel time, as well as the fault code. All this helps you to stay on top of every requirement your car may have to remain in optimal shape.
An alarm alert is included and goes off when you exceed any default settings like speed while driving the car. This should keep you safe on the streets and reduce the risk of over speeding and possible accidents.
The ACBungi HUD features a dual compatibility mode. You can either connect it via a GPS or OBD interface. OBD mode would be suitable if you own an American car that was produced after 2003 or vehicles from other regions designed after 2007.
Meanwhile, the GPS mode works for all DC 12V vehicles, which should be the alternative you opt for if your car is not OBD compatible. You can also set a parameter so that the speed unit, function settings, as well as information errors are adjusted relevantly.
The device is synced to the motor power so it systematically goes off when the car is stopped and goes on when the car is ignited, helping to conserve power and keep the battery in good shape.
This HUD has a working voltage of DC 11V TO 18V. This means if you’re using a car with an electrical system higher than 24V, you should connect it to your car’s cigarette lighter via USB cable.
Pros
Cons
This HUD falls in the pricier category but offers you a very comprehensive display. You get everything you were missing from the LeaningTech HUD as far as feedback is concerned.
The device projects important car information on the windshield with easy to see and readable resolution. There are two display modes on this device; aside from the windshield projection, you can also position the device vertically on the dashboard so that you view the data directly on its screen.
You’ll be able to monitor data such as battery voltage, drive time, fuel consumption, and engine RPMs. This will come in handy when you’re on a distant journey and enables you to confirm that everything is running smoothly.
In case of any malfunctions or mishaps, the XYCING head up display will provide relevant alerts.
An alarm will go off when you happen to speed beyond the set limit or when the engine RPM count goes too high so that you make the appropriate adjustments to avoid any problem.
There is also a low battery voltage alarm, high-temperature alarm, engine fault alarm, shift reminder, as well as fatigue driving reminder. This goes to show how safe you’ll be whenever you’re driving with this in your car.
Apart from the comprehensive data that it provides, this Head-Up Display device is quite intuitive. The display features a light sensor that scans the environment and makes relevant adjustments to the display brightness level so that you get a comfortable view.
The HUD connects to your car via an OBD2 interface with a simple plug-n-play connection. This is to say that if you have an older car that is not OBD compatible, it may not work for you. This is also the situation if you have a truck; the Head-Up Display doesn’t work with trucks.
On the downside, the calibration is a little bit off when you’re driving at higher speeds. For instance, if the actual car speed is 75mph, the reading on the display might be 72 or 78, which can spell trouble if you’re counting on the speed alarm to keep you from getting a ticket.
Other than that, this is a high-performance Heads Up display that you’ll love having in your car!
The last but not least product on our list is the VJOYCAR C80 HUD. It is a universal GPS display device that you can use on a wide variety of vehicles, making it a very practical car accessory.
It comes with a modern-designed 4.5” screen that displays data quite clearly. The green light display will protect your eyes when you’re driving for long distances while the big fonts make it easier for you to pick up the reading as you focus is on the road.
The GPS module enables you to view crucial data such as driving speed and time, driving mileage, as well as total mileage. The speed is displayed in MPH or KMlh depending on how you set it. You can also customize the data being displayed so that it is only a simple page with one parameter, or a multi-detailed page by simply pressing a button.
There’s an alarm that you can set to alert you whenever you go beyond the speed limit. This should come in handy on the freeway when you’re trying to avoid a speeding ticket. Furthermore, it's great that you are able to customize it, so it won't irritate you on the freeway when you set it up.
The advantage of using a GPS Head-Up Display is that it is universally compatible. You can connect it to your car, pickup truck, SUV, motorcycle, scooter, bike, boat which helps to maximize its application across the board. You’ll have an easy time setting it up; all you need is to connect the USB cable to the cigarette lighter of your car.
No wiring to the vehicle speed signal is required. You could even use a power bank. Something you’d want to note is that the speed reading will be slightly off the car engine speed. It may vary by 2-5 mph/km/h, but you can adjust it manually to coincide with what your car is showing.
What are the Different Types of HUDs?
There are three major types of Head-Up Displays that you can find:
Built-in HUD
Some of the latest high-end car models come with Head-Up Displays that have been built into the vehicle’s design. These may not be visible to the driver but still project the relevant information onto the windshield at the driver's eye level with the help of a series of mirrors.
On-board HUD
These are the most common HUDs you’ll find being used today. They are usually mounted on the dashboard and may either display the auto data on their dedicated screens or project it onto the windshield of the car.
Some of them have Bluetooth compatibility and are able to be connected to your smartphone so that you are able to access navigation apps and receive calls hand-free.
Smartphone Apps
These are a good way for you to test the technology before deciding to invest in it. The HUD app is downloaded on your phone and projects all the information on your windshield when you mount the phone on the dashboard, just like a real HUD device.
This will also require you to get a mount that will secure your smartphone in place through the course of the journey!
Best Heads-Up Display - Buying Guide
HUD devices not only make sure that motorists don’t take their eyes off the road ahead but also make the driving experience more exciting. But before you decide to buy a potential device to install on your car, the following are important features you might need to consider:
Display
The main purpose of HUDs is to make important stats about your vehicle easy to read, and this they do in different ways. Generally, there are two types of HUD devices; those that project information onto the windshield and those that display the data on their screen.
Most motorists tend to prefer HUDs that display the information on the screen to avoid the undesirable “double image” effect which results in a blurred projection. However, some motorists choose to go with projected displays because it feels more exciting.
In this case, you’ll need to choose a device with the brightest LED display possible to make sure that the displayed data remains visible even in direct light without forcing you to squint.
Whichever device you opt for, make sure that it works for you!
Power
A HUD device may source its power via USB interface, auxiliary power outlet (cigarette lighter), or ODDII port. Before you purchase the device, you might need to check its power requirements to be sure that your car has the appropriate power supply.
Some of the latest vehicle models don’t come with an auxiliary power outlet, which means you’ll have to get a HUD device that’s is powered through the relevant interface.
Installation
Normally, HUDs are set up by either connecting to the car’s auxiliary power outlet or plugging into the on-board computer. Devices that are connected to the auxiliary power outlet are relatively user-friendly but rely on GPS to collect information since they are not directly linked to the vehicle’s internal system.
Meanwhile, HUDs that are plugged into the on-board computer may take a little longer to install but will eventually give you access to a broader scope of information. These are usually connected to a port located under the steering wheel.
Remember that both of these HUD types have to be firmly secured to your vehicle’s dashboard to function without interruption!
Compatibility
Some HUD device models are able to be connected to your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone to access the navigation information, as well as third-party apps while still in use. If you want to utilize this function, you’ll have to search for specific devices that come with Bluetooth connectivity as one of their features.
Data
The display of data is the primary reason for installing a HUD device on your car. As such, you need to be very mindful of the type of information that is projected onto your windshield or shown on the screen.
Do you want multiple pieces of information about your car engine to be displayed or you’ll be okay with just the basic data such as speed, fuel consumption, and temperature? If you feel that too much data on the screen may end up confusing you or cluttering the windshield, then it's better to opt for a device that minimal basic data that you find crucial.
Mounting
Once you buy a HUD device, a mount will come in handy when you want to safely secure it on the dashboard or the windshield. This will ensure that the device does not topple over on a bumpy ride.
Some devices come with complicated installation instructions that will require specific mounts that they are compatible with. This is something you’ll need to look into!
Best Heads Up Display – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Best Android Heads Up Display App?
Given that HUD devices are all the rage in the latest car models, this has led to numerous apps flooding the market to give motorists a test of the Head-Up Display experience.
The following are the best HUD apps for Android phones:
- GPS Speedometer and Odometer
- Ulysse Speedometer
- DigiHUD Speedometer
- SpeedView: Legacy Edition
- GPS LED Speedometer
However, always have in mind that this list is a general recommendation, and that you cannot pick a head-up display without proper research and due diligence. Stick with our reviews to learn more about high-quality products.
What is the Best Heads Up GPS HUD for a Car?
HUD devices that use the GPS module have a wide application and can be used in practically any vehicle. They also act as a good alternative in cars that are not OBD compatible.
Some of the highest-selling GPS car displays include:
- ACECAR Car Universal Dual System HUD Head Up Display
- Car HUD Display, iKiKin HUD Head Up Display
- YUGUANG 6" HUD OBD2 Suspended Virtual Display,
- ACECAR Upgrade T800 Universal Car HUD
- TIMPROVE T600 Universal Car HUD Head Up
Note: Every product on the list is reviewed - make sure to inspect the reviews deeply before making a decision. The one product that will suit you is surely there!
What Vehicles have Heads Up Display?
HUDs are useful devices that project important auto information like fuel consumption and speed on the lower side of the windshield so that it is at the driver’s line of vision to keep him from taking his eyes off the road. The latest models of various car brands are beginning to feature built-in Head-Up displays in the design.
Naturally, premium marquee brands like Audi and BMW are offering built-in Head-Up Display devices - you can't find a recent model without a head-up display built-in. However, the trend is slowly trickling down to more mainstream models. While it should be noted that this technology has been available for some time now, advancements have made it more affordable and feasible for motorists to install them in their vehicles.
It’s become more functional to include elements such as a navigation system, as well as sensors in the car that can read different road markings. These devices can also play a crucial role in situations where you’re driving in low visibility such as fog.
This is because they are normally connected to systems that use radar and infrared sensors, enabling the driver to recognize the road markings easier.
Some of the vehicles that come with high-quality built-in HUDs include:
Do you need a Special Windshield for Heads Up Display?
A HUD device can project car information on any regular windshield. The only problem is that double reflection will manifest there, resulting in two sets of images. The windshield features a double-glass design that causes this and tends to mess up the resolution of the image being projected.
On the other hand, dedicated Head-Up Display windshields feature a coating layer on them that acts like a movie screen to produce a single image. The virtual image seems like it is floating near the front of the car and remains in the driver’s line of sight, helping you to avoid taking your eyes off the road.
What is the best HUD App?
HUD apps provide motorists with a taste of the HUD experience while offering benefits like saving the cost of additional hardware and the luxury of switching from a particular HUD app to another. You get a wider experience with HUD apps.
On the downside, there are some features you’ll miss out on that can only be offered by HUD devices. These include things like voice and gesture control, navigation alerts, as well as zero-distraction driving (no taking your eyes off the road).
Some of the best HUD apps in the market include the following:
- Waze (Night Mode Setting)
- Hudly
- Google Maps (Night Mode Setting)
- OBD Fusion (iPhone) and Torque (Android)
- Sygic
After It's All Said and Done, I Recommend:
Conclusion
Installing a HUD device on your vehicle can go a long way to reduce the minor accidents that you keep on getting into or the speeding tickets that are piling on your dashboard. In fact, a HUD product installed in your car might just be a life savior!
As such, you want to find a unit that works best for you, as far as compatibility, features, and overall performance is concerned. With so many models to choose from, the products mentioned in our review offer you the best Heads-Up Display options in the market.
It would be a nice place to start from if you’re thinking of getting one fitted in your car!