50-Euro Autodisplay Test: Android Auto CarPlay

BREDO

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Post on Nov 24, 2024

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50-Euro Autodisplay Test: Android Auto & CarPlay – Was it Worth It?

Okay, folks, let's talk about my recent foray into the world of cheap car displays. I'm a total sucker for gadgets, always tinkering with my car, and I really wanted a decent screen for Android Auto and CarPlay. My old ride, a trusty (but ancient) hatchback, was seriously lacking in the infotainment department. So, I bit the bullet and ordered a 50-euro autodisplay off Amazon. Big mistake? Maybe. Let's dive in.

The Setup – Easier Than Expected (Mostly)

The first thing I gotta say is the installation wasn't nearly as hard as I'd feared. Now, I’m not exactly a mechanic – I'm more of a "watch YouTube tutorials until I think I can do it" kinda guy – but the instructions were actually pretty clear. The included connectors were…well, let’s just say they weren’t top-of-the-line. It was a bit of a fiddle getting everything to fit snugly, but I managed it. I did have to consult a few online videos and even had to adjust the connector a few times. I felt like a brain surgeon performing a delicate operation, but I ultimately won.

There was some serious head-scratching involved, though. The wiring diagram could have been clearer, and let me tell you, incorrect wiring is a total nightmare. You really need to double, triple-check everything. Luckily, I didn't fry anything. It took a couple of hours; a cup of coffee, and some head-scratching. But I got there. You'll need some basic tools – screwdrivers, possibly pliers, and patience.

Android Auto & CarPlay Performance

So, the moment of truth: how did the Android Auto and CarPlay actually work? Honestly, it was a mixed bag. Android Auto worked pretty flawlessly, it looked good, and navigation was a breeze. My phone connected quickly most times and it felt snappy. There were a few minor glitches – occasionally the screen would freeze for a second or two, but nothing major.

CarPlay? That's where things got a little weird. It was more sluggish and occasionally lost connection. I'd have to disconnect and reconnect my iPhone several times. It also didn't always show album art, which is a deal-breaker for me. So it was not quite as seamless as the Android Auto experience.

Build Quality & Features

Let's be realistic: this isn't a high-end, premium car display. The plastics are definitely on the cheaper side, and it doesn't have the same sleek look as the factory units. However, for 50 euros, I wasn't expecting a luxury item. It gets the job done.

The touchscreen is responsive enough, but it's not the most sensitive. It's a 7-inch, and the resolution is not the sharpest, but I can live with that. It has standard features like Bluetooth, USB ports. That's all I need. Overall, the build quality is adequate for the price.

The Verdict: Worth It?

If you're on a tight budget and just want a basic Android Auto and CarPlay setup, this 50-euro autodisplay is probably worth considering. Just understand that you get what you pay for. I probably should have saved more and purchased a high-quality system. It would have been worth the price difference if I had known what to expect. My goal was to test the system in action. I knew what to expect. You're paying for convenience and not luxury. The lack of CarPlay performance frustrated me.

Ultimately: If you're handy and don't mind a few minor quirks, you can definitely get away with a cheap aftermarket system. Just manage your expectations. Don’t expect a seamless experience, but if you just want something basic to get you going, then it could work. It's a bit of a gamble, but for 50 euros, it was an interesting experiment, at least. Now, I'm already researching upgrades. Maybe I'll save up for something a little more…premium this time around.