When are portable Apple CarPlay screens actually worth it?
Owners of older cars without built-in CarPlay support can turn to cheaper portable screens as an alternative. Here's what to look for when choosing one.
CarPlay has become a near-essential feature for many drivers, making it easier to access iPhone apps like navigation, music and messages directly from the dashboard. While more than 800 vehicle models now support built-in CarPlay, not everyone drives one of them. Portable CarPlay screens offer a similar experience for a fraction of the cost of buying a new car.
Some automakers, including GM, have started phasing out CarPlay and Android Auto support in their electric vehicles in favor of their own proprietary systems, making portable alternatives even more relevant for drivers who want to keep the feature.
What to consider before buying
Most portable CarPlay screens cost under $50, while pricier models with larger displays can run up to around $150 — still far cheaper than a new vehicle. Screen sizes typically range from 6 to 11 inches; smaller screens are less distracting and easier to fit in a car.
Resolution matters too — buyers should look for at least 1280x720 pixels, since lower-resolution screens make text and icons hard to read. Built-in speakers on these devices tend to be poor, so it's worth choosing one that supports AUX, Bluetooth or FM audio output. It's also important to confirm the screen supports wireless CarPlay rather than requiring a cable.
Some models come with extra features, such as a built-in dash camera with loop recording to a microSD card, a rear camera for parking assistance, or even a built-in Android system that allows apps to run without an iPhone connected. Buyers should also check how sturdy the mounting hardware is, since some units attach unreliably to the dashboard.
