Javascript required
Skip to content Skip to sidebar Skip to footer

Which Car Has the Best Head Up Display

Now I know that at first glance cars and especially car HUDs (Head-Up Displays) may not seem that interesting to the average Joe, but I promise you there is a lot more than meets the eye and I am not saying that just because I am a petrol head.

You see, for a long time, cars and car technology stagnated. While the rest of the world advanced into the information age our trusty transportation machines were stuck in the past. That is until recently when technology in the automotive world skyrocketed. Of course, the main innovation is the electric cars spearheaded by Elon Musk and Tesla.

Now I believe we are seeing a renaissance of sorts, with new technologies coming out every year. I am not talking about just electric power, there is also hydro and on a smaller scale the HUDs. Now I don't know why, but I have a feeling that cars will regain their lost popularity sooner rather than later. Especially as all these new innovations become more and more affordable.

Contents

  • What is a Car HUD & How Does it Work?
  • What are the types of HUDs?
  • Top 10 Best Heads Up Displays – Review Section
    • 1. VGEBY Universal – Best Screen
    • 2. Garmin Head-Up Display – Easiest to Use
    • 3. XYCING Car HUD – Largest Display
    • 4. DODORO 3.5" HUD A2 GPS Car – Best Design
    • 5. LEANINGTECH P10 Smart Car HUD – Most Accurate
    • 6. Sherox Car HUD – Most Minimalistic
    • 7. Anauto HUD – Most Detailed
    • 8. Pyle Universal 3.5" Car HUD Screen – Best GPS
    • 9. Yunzong Universal GPS Speedometer – Runner-Up
    • 10. ACECAR Dual System – Best Overall
  • What to Look for in a HUD (Heads-up Display) – BUYER'S GUIDE
    • Pricing
    • Size
    • Features
    • Ease of Use
  • Heads Up Displays FAQ
  • Conclusion
  • Best Selling Heads Up Displays

What is a Car HUD & How Does it Work?

So what is a heads-up display exactly? A head-up display or automotive head-up display basically presents data in such a way that the driver does not have to look away from the road. Think of it like holograms in a video game or rather just think of it as a first-person shooter. You know how there is the health bar and armor off to the side when you are playing Doom for example? Yeah, this is the same thing but it's for cars. On the HUD you can see your speed, GPS, weather, and even time — because who carries a watch anymore, just look at your car.

As this technology advances, I have a feeling that the old-school dashboard will disappear entirely and everything you need will be displayed on your windshield. Just like in sci-fi video games. So essentially, if you want to feel like you are in the future just buy a car with a HUD.

But enough about that, let's travel back to the past for a bit. Head-up displays are actually not that new – pilots have been using them for decades and so have astronauts. But just recently they have been adopted by the automotive industry right? Well not exactly. The first HUD for a car was developed by General Motors way back in 1988. At the time they looked nothing like they do today and of course, they were not as advanced but they were there if you wanted one. While the first-ever HUD was installed on the Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, General Motors offered it as an additional add-on on the Cutlass Supreme and Pontiac Grand Prix before becoming more widely available.

More recently, in 2012 to be precise, the Pioneer Corporation introduced a navigation heads-up display. This system projects a HUD in place of the driver's visor. It gives you an idea of the road ahead by displaying AR (Augmented Reality) animations and this is just the beginning. HUD displays can offer anything from a speed monitor to night vision, even. If you have ever had to struggle with driving on a seemingly empty road at night, you would know how exciting that last bit is. Whether you are a petrol head or just an average Joe the car heads up display is here to stay.

What are the types of HUDs?

So that is a HUD display. But did you know there are different types? My granddaughter says it reminds her of Pokemon, honestly I don't see it but then again the only one I know is that yellow rat. Well not really, but there are 3 different evolutions. The most common and the most comfortable is the in-car HUD display; this version simply displays the needed information on the windshield via augmented reality. Personally, this is my favorite type and the one that I think will become most popular in the future. Then we have the HUD apps; Most cars still don't come with a pre-installed HUD. Instead, you need to spend a little extra for that feature or you can get around it by simply downloading an app. Finally, we have the third-party options; these guys essentially work the same way as your HUD app.

Of course, all of them have advantages and disadvantages but I would like to start with my least favorite. The heads-up display apps are not that great, they don't work well, and at times it's hard to see the details, not to mention that there is the risk of your phone sliding off the dashboard. But you can download the apps for free and if you already have a car, you probably have a phone as well. The third-party GPS heads-up displays are essentaly a better version of the apps. They are small boxes that attach to your dashboard. They have a transparent shield attached to them and that's where the AR information is displayed. However, for me, the whole point of a HUD is to keep your eyes on the road. With these third-party options, you still have to look away to check your stats. Finally, there is the windshield one. The best option by far and the most expensive one, but at least it's the most comfortable to use and you won't have to take your eyes off the road. But that's just my opinion. I would like to hear what you think.

Top 10 Best Heads Up Displays – Review Section

1. VGEBY Universal – Best Screen

Connection: OBDII or EUOBD | Display Mode: normal, high- speed, automatic | Measurement: Kmph, Mph | Display Size: 5.5 inches | Display Type: Projection | Mounting Type: Dashboard

VGEBY Universal Head Up Display 5.5'' Screen Car HUD OBDII Interface Fuel Overspeed Warning

VGEBY Universal Head Up Display 5.5'' Screen Car HUD OBDII Interface Fuel Overspeed Warning

  • Plug and play. HUD can auto adapt to vehicle type which in line with OBDII or EUOBD(On-Board Diagnostic System)
  • Comprehensive display. HUD can display many parameters at the same time as follows, vehicle speed, engine speed, water temperature(voltage,...
  • Diversiform display mode. Driver can chose normal display mode, high- speed display mode and automatic display mode.

Last update on 2021-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The VGEBY HUD is a simple display that can adapt to any car with either an OBDII or EUOBD (On-Board Diagnostic System). The display itself is 5.5 inches long and can display a wide variety of parameters. You have your speedometer, your fuel consumption, and even water temperature among others.

What's more, you can freely switch between km and miles as you see fit. Not only that but the device has an automatic option, so it will power on when you start the car and of course stop when it's time to leave the road. Oh, you think we are done with the features? Well, you would be wrong. This particular car HUD also has an engine alarm that will let you know when you are speeding. You can switch it off whenever you would like, though.

All amazing features, however, the heads up display is a bit lacking. Although there is a feature for adjusting the brightness, it does not do such a good job. There have been complaints where people were unable to make out what was shown due to the sun. Another really big con is that the VGEBY heads up display lacks a GPS.

Honestly, it's not the best HUD for a car out there. But I still think its best feature is its screen. You have everything you need there and so much more. Well, apart from navigation.

Pros

  • Great Screen
  • Great Features

Cons

  • Lacks GPS
  • Brightness Issues

2. Garmin Head-Up Display – Easiest to Use

Connection: Wireless | Display Mode: N/A | Measurement: Mph | Display Size: 4.3 Inches | Display Type: Projection | Mounting Type: Dashboard, Windshield

Next up we have quite possibly one of the most unique aftermarket heads up display speedometers. The HUD by Garmin is one of a kind as it requires Bluetooth to function. You connect the heads up display to your phone, download the app, and voilร ! Of course, all of this makes it one of the easiest HUDs to use – just press a button on your phone and you are done. However, I would like to talk about the elephant in the room. You see, the app is paid, which is not ideal at all.

But other than that this particular heads up display at least has a GPS. It also provides an estimated time of arrival and has a Lane Assist. You can also pair the HUD with your wireless headphones through the paid app. However, the best part has to be the easy installation. Simply place the heads-up display wherever you want on the dashboard and pair it with your phone. From there you can access all the features. The protective screen, which comes with the device, is also optimized to show you a clear picture no matter how bright the sun is.

All in all, I will definitely recommend this one, especially if it's your first car HUD. Well as long as you don't mind the paid app.

Pros

  • Easy to Use & Install
  • Great Features

3. XYCING Car HUD – Largest Display

Connection: OBDII or EUOBD | Display Mode: Up to 4 modes | Measurement: Kmph, Mph | Display Size: 5.8 Inches | Display Type: Projection, Vertical | Mounting Type: Dashboard

XYCING Car HUD Heads Up Display 5.8 inch OBD Digital Speedometer Windshield Projector OBD2 Vehicle Speed Dashboard Display MPH, RPM, Fuel Consumption, Speed Alarm, Water Temperature, Voltage, Mileage

XYCING Car HUD Heads Up Display 5.8 inch OBD Digital Speedometer Windshield Projector OBD2 Vehicle Speed Dashboard Display MPH, RPM, Fuel Consumption, Speed Alarm, Water Temperature, Voltage, Mileage

  • ▶【Compatible with OBD II Standard Car】This S600 Car HUD compatible with OBD II and EUOBD protocol cars. Before purchase please open your...
  • ▶【DUAL HUD DISPLAY WAY】1. Reflection Mode: projection of the car driving data onto the windscreen in front of the car; 2. HUD Direct...
  • ▶【LED DISPLAY Contents】It displays driving datas while driving, such as Driving speed, Engine RPM, Water temperature, Battery voltage,...

Last update on 2021-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

And here we have quite possibly the biggest boy in the market. The XYCING Car HUD has a 5.8-inch screen, but not just any ol' screen. This particular HUD has 4 modes, each with its own unique features.

There is the Reflection Mode which projects the information onto the windshield. Or in layman's terms, this is what every HUD has – the standard. The next one is where it gets interesting. There is a HUD Direct Display Mode that allows you to place the device vertically so you won't have to read the data on the windshield. Instead, you will see it directly from the HUD. Essentially another dashboard. Finally, we have what I like to call the two fuels. There is an idle mode that displays Instantaneous fuel consumption per hour (L/H) as well as a driving mode that displays Instantaneous fuel consumption of 100KM or 62 miles.

Other than that the car HUD displays most of what you would need. There is a speedometer as well as information about the engine RPM, water temperature, battery voltage and so much more. However, despite all of this the XYCING head-up display lacks a GPS, which quite frankly is one of the most important features of a HUD — at least in my opinion.

Pros

  • Massive Display
  • Multiple Modes

4. DODORO 3.5" HUD A2 GPS Car – Best Design

Connection: DC8-24V cigarette lighter | Display Mode: N/A | Measurement: Kmph, Mph | Display Size: 3.5-inch | Display Type: Projection | Mounting Type: Dashboard

DODORO 3.5 Inch Head-Up Display,LED Speedometer, Color Projection, Speed Warning, A2 ECU, Powered By USB Port Or Cigarette Lighter,No OBD/OBD2 Restriction, Compatible With All Cars and Trucks

Last update on 2021-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Now we have the DODORO 3.5 Inch Head-Up Display. This one is interesting in many ways. For starters, it has a unique design. Simple yet elegant, this HUD will only display the information you need, nothing more, nothing less. Now that's what I call minimizing distractions.

It also doesn't work like any other car head up display. Instead of connecting through an OBDII port or wirelessly it is powered by the cigarette lighter which can be found in all cars and trucks. So if you don't smoke, now at least you will be able to use the darn thing. There is also a built-in GPS, however, you cannot use it for navigation. Instead, the HUD uses the GPS to calculate your speed for more accurate data. There is also an auto or manual brightness adjustment, depending on your preference. But I doubt you will need it as the screen uses nanotechnology to eliminate any excess light, making it an easy read. Oh, did I also mention that there is a compass? Although not the best car compass around, it does a pretty decent job. In fact, that compass and the speedometer are the only things that the HUD projects.

Although I love minimalism, I don't like that this device is lacking some important features. Even so, if you want to keep things simple I will most definitely recommend you the Dodoro and not only because the name is funny.

Pros

  • Great Design
  • Universal Compatibility

5. LEANINGTECH P10 Smart Car HUD – Most Accurate

Connection: OBDII | Display Mode: Multi-Color | Measurement: Kmph, Mph | Display Size: N/A | Display Type: Vertical | Mounting Type: Dashboard

LEANINGTECH P10 Car HUD Head Up Display Smart Digital Speedometer with OBD2/EUOBD Port LCD Display OBD 2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool Speed Alarm

Last update on 2021-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Next up, we have the LEANINGTECH P10 Smart Car HUD, and let me tell you – it's kinda smart, indeed. The head-up display will power on and off with your car. It also uses the OBDII port, so there are some cars that are not compatible. But it does have nice features including some customization options.

You can pick the color of the display as well as choose from a variety of UIs. Each UI will show you a different amount of information in a different way, you can look through them and choose the perfect one for you. But other than that it has, of course, a speedometer and can measure the distance you have driven. The car HUD also has a brake test and it will show you the speed and brake distance, as well as the time it took you to stop. Honestly, I am surprised that more car head-up displays don't have this feature, as it seems really useful. All of this and more make it one of the most accurate head up displays out there

But the P10 HUD can also show you your mileage as well as do some diagnostics on itself if you find it glitching, for whatever reason. All great features and all things I would love to have in my car, but this particular head-up display is lacking a GPS and by now you should know that I love my GPSes.

Pros

  • Great Customization & Features
  • Extremely Accurate

6. Sherox Car HUD – Most Minimalistic

Connection: OBDII, EUOBD | Display Mode: N/A | Measurement: Kmph, Mph | Display Size: 3.5 inch | Display Type: Projection | Mounting Type: Dashboard

Sale

SHEROX 3.5' Car HUD Head Up Display with OBD2/EUOBD Interface Plug & Play Vehicle Speed KM/h MPH, OverSpeed Warning, Water Temperature, Battery Voltage, Mileage Measurement

SHEROX 3.5" Car HUD Head Up Display with OBD2/EUOBD Interface Plug & Play Vehicle Speed KM/h MPH, OverSpeed Warning, Water Temperature, Battery Voltage, Mileage Measurement

  • SHEROX CAR HUDA simple, elegant, accurate, and brightly lit solution, without all of the unnecessary info that would create distractions.
  • NOT compatible with All-Electric vehicle/ Diesel vehicle/ Truck/ Van, Compatible with most fuel car and Hybrid car with an OBD2/ EUOBD interface,...
  • 3.5 inch SCREEN HD DISPLAYClear and easier to read. Automatic and manual brightness adjustment mode,driving without glare. Because the front...

Last update on 2021-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you are a fan of minimalism you will definitely love this next entry. The SHEROX 3.5″ Car HUD is simplistic and has no unnecessary distractions. The heads up display uses both an OBDII port and a EUOBD, so you know whichever you prefer.

The smoothly designed display itself is HD and for the most part, it's very easy to read. There is also an automated brightness adjustment function, so the sun won't be a problem. Other than that, the head-up display can show you four different pieces of information: there is the speedometer, water temperature, voltage, and travel mileage — you can also freely switch between km and miles. But here is where the minimalist design is more of a disadvantage. Due to its simplicity, there are a limited number of functions, so yeah that's not great. Don't get me wrong I like minimalism as much as the next guy, but when it comes to my car, I prefer to have all the information easily available. But other than the heads up display speedometer and those other functions there are three alarms. Those being the Overspeed alarm, high-temperature alarm, and low voltage alarm. I think they are pretty self-explanatory.

In the end, I will definitely recommend this to anyone who wants a minimalistic HUD. I may not agree with your choice, but I do respect it.

Pros

  • Smooth Design
  • Good Alarm System

7. Anauto HUD – Most Detailed

Connection: OBDII, EUOBD | Display Mode: Default, High-speed, Automatic | Measurement: Kmph, Mph | Display Size: 5.5 inch | Display Type: Projection, Vertical | Mounting Type: Dashboard

Last update on 2021-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Jumping from one end of the spectrum to the next we have the Anauto car HUD. This has to be the most detailed head-up display and the one that has the most information available. And yet, there is no GPS. My disappointment is immeasurable and my day is ruined, well not really but I would have still liked to see one.

So yeah other than that, the display is pretty neat. There are three modes: default, high-speed and automatic. There is also automatic and manual brightness adjustment so you don't have to worry about unnecessary glares. Not to mention that the car HUD automatically starts and stops with your vehicle, which is always nice to see.

As for the features, there are a lot of them and all of them are projected simultaneously. There is, of course, the heads up speedometer display, which is most prevalent. But also an engine RPM, water temperature, voltage, fuel consumption, and an engine fault code. Not to mention the alarms such as the speeding one that also includes a four-stage alarm, the engine RPM one that can help with fuel-efficient and is good for novice drivers.

All in all this head up display has everything you need apart from navigation, of course. In fact, it has so much information I might have confused it for a laptop if it wasn't so small. But no, laptops need special mounts for the car. Anyways if you don't want a computer in your second home, this is the next best thing.

Pros

  • Comprehensive Features
  • Multiple Modes

8. Pyle Universal 3.5" Car HUD Screen – Best GPS

Connection: N/A | Display Mode: Multi-Color | Measurement: Kmph, Mph | Display Size: 3.5 inch | Display Type: Projection | Mounting Type: Dashboard, Windshield

Last update on 2021-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Finally, my heart sings to the heavens with this entry to the heads up display reviews. One might think that with how much I have been complaining about the lack of navigation this would be my favorite HUD, but nay. There are two more. However, when it comes to the Pyle Universal 3.5" Car HUD Screen I am not disappointed.

This head-up display has a minimalistic-like design and is powered by the cigarette lighter. Not only that but it also has nanotechnology that eliminates any unnecessary light. Oh yeah, the display is also multi-colored. This means that it will adapt to the lighting for a way better visual representation. It is also powered on automatically once you start your car and can easily switch between km and miles.

When it comes to features, there is the ever-familiar speedometer. There is also a compass, but where it truly shines is with its navigation system. This GPS heads up display has a dual-core processing chip, that helps it gather better data and is used to tell you which direction to take. And honestly, that's about it. While I am glad that we finally have a comprehensive navigation heads up display, I cannot overlook the fact that it's lacking some features. But that doesn't mean I won't recommend it.

If you have no sense of direction, like myself. Then the Pyle Universal might be just the right fit for you, as long as you don't mind the missing features.

Pros

  • Comprehensive GPS
  • Good Design

9. Yunzong Universal GPS Speedometer – Runner-Up

Connection: Cigarette lighter | Display Mode: Normal, HUD | Measurement: Kmph, Mph | Display Size: 3.5 inch | Display Type: Projection, Vertical | Mounting Type: Dashboard, Windshield

Heads up Display Cars Universal GPS Speedometer 3.5 inch HUD Digital Car Compass with Cigarette Lighter Port, Speed, Compass, Over Speed Alarm, KMH/MPH, Windshield Projector with Film for 12V All Cars

Heads up Display Cars Universal GPS Speedometer 3.5 inch HUD Digital Car Compass with Cigarette Lighter Port, Speed, Compass, Over Speed Alarm, KMH/MPH, Windshield Projector with Film for 12V All Cars

  • 【Drive Safer in All Weather】Showing the most important information: Speed and Compass, keep drivers more easier in rainy, showy, rainstorm...
  • 【Head up Display GPS Fit for All 12V Cars】A5 Speedometer HUD for car fits with all 12v vehicles, drived by GPS Satellite, powered by...
  • 【Over Speed Alarm & Smart Design】Freely switch speed between KM/H and MPH(miles), Overs peed Alarm System, Normal Auto power on and off with...

Last update on 2021-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Next up we have the second best heads up display. The Yunzong Universal GPS Speedometer may appear to be another minimalistic-like entry on the surface, but below it is hiding a few secrets. It is powered by a cigarette lighter and works with most cars.

The HUD display is equipped with nanotechnology and has automated brightness adjustments, however, it is not the best and at times it might be difficult to see without the reflective film — especially if you are wearing polarized sunglasses. But other than that I would say that this car HUD does a pretty good job. It, of course, has a speedometer as well as a GPS and a compass. You can also freely switch between km and miles. Not to mention that there is a speeding alarm if you happen to get too excited.

Now, if for some reason you don't find the projection comfortable to look at, you have the option of turning the device on its side and looking directly at the HUD screen. To me, however, that defeats the whole purpose of the display. I can understand why it is more comfortable and easy to use for some people, though. Speaking of easy to use, the head-up display is exactly that. You won't have any issues navigating or installing it.

I would honestly recommend it to just about anyone and if for some reason you don't like the entry coming up, this is a good alternative.

Pros

  • Good Design
  • Comprehensive GPS
  • Decent Features

10. ACECAR Dual System – Best Overall

Connection: OBDll, GPS | Display Mode: Automatic, Manual | Measurement: Kmph, Mph | Display Size: 3.5 inch | Display Type: Projection | Mounting Type: Dashboard, Windshield

ACECAR Head Up Display Car Universal Dual System 3.5 Inches HUD, Speedometer OBD2 GPS Interface, Speed, Engine RPM, OverSpeed Warning, Mileage Measurement, Water Temperature, for All Vehicle

ACECAR Head Up Display Car Universal Dual System 3.5 Inches HUD, Speedometer OBD2 GPS Interface, Speed, Engine RPM, OverSpeed Warning, Mileage Measurement, Water Temperature, for All Vehicle

  • ๐Ÿš™【What is HUD?】 Short for Head Up Display. It displays driving data on the front windshield such as speed,RPM,water temperature,voltage...
  • ๐Ÿš™【Simple Display】Vehicle Speed + Engine RPM, HD Display, practical function, let you drive more comfortable for a long time. (plug and...
  • ๐Ÿš™【Multiple functions】: Ambient decorative lighting Engine RPM Fault code alarm Fatigue driving alarm .The Alarm icon Light sensor: HUD can...

Last update on 2021-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

We have finally arrived at the best heads up display currently on the market. The ACECAR Dual System has a great design as well as some pretty comprehensive features.

The HUD display can automatically adjust the brightness to the time of day and it actually does it well. What's more important is that this particular device has ambient lighting, so if you want to get your funk on you know where to look. Other than that the display itself is actually pretty simple. There is a high clearness projector which makes the images on your car windshield much sharper, but that's about it.

As far as features go, there is a speedometer and an engine RPM. Not to mention water temperature, battery voltage, and driving distance. You can also easily switch between km and miles. So the HUD is pretty simple to use, well with an asterisk. While you won't have any difficulties navigating the thing, the installation process is another matter. That's honestly the biggest problem with this specific navigation heads up display.

While the vehicle HUD connects to your car with an OBD cable, there are a few extra steps you need to consider. Although it won't take much of your time and honestly it's not that hard to do, considering how easy it is for some of the other entries to connect I thought I should mention this little flaw.

But even with that, I would still consider ACECAR the best overall vehicle heads up display out there. I am gifting one to my petrol head sister and I already have one for myself. It definitely has my seal of approval.

Pros

  • Great Design
  • Great Features
  • Good Brightness Adjustment
  • GPS Available

Cons

  • Slightly Difficult Installation Process.

What to Look for in a HUD (Heads-up Display) – BUYER'S GUIDE

Now, this being a relatively new technology and all, there are still a lot of things that people don't know. But that's why I am here, right? To research and write about what makes the best heads up display. So I hope I can help you at least a bit with your decision, or if you were someone who is not into this sort of thing I hope I at least convinced you to try it out with my heads up display reviews.

Pricing

At our current point in the timeline, heads-up displays are more of a luxury than a necessity or a common feature. The price can range anywhere from 30 dollars to 1000 and of course, you can download an app for free — but I don't really count those. Of course the more expensive the HUD, the better it will be, with the windshield option being the most pricey one. However, if you really want a car heads up display be it for navigation or just because it looks cool, a 30 dollar one will do the job for you. In the future, I expect that as technology advances, the prices will also decrease and HUDs will become more available. You can wait until then but no one knows when that would be. Plus don't you want to be a part of history or be an early adopter?

Size

Well, here is something that will vary quite a bit. Now obviously if you only have a HUD app, the size of the screen will be roughly the size of your phone. But if you have a third-party HUD display, the size can range anywhere from 3-inches (which has only the most basic information) to 5.5-inches which will show everything from speed to directions, and even battery voltage. Pretty cool right? Yeah, there is only one problem with the bigger third-party screen. Since they don't blend in seamlessly with your windshield, they can get pretty distracting, which as you can imagine is not the best thing when you are driving. If your HUD is installed directly in your car's windshield the whole thing becomes your display. So if you really want a big heads up display car windshield then I recommend going with that last option. Otherwise, a 3-inch third-party HUD will do you a decent enough job.

Features

Now, the features available in your chosen HUD display will greatly depend on its size. If you have one of the bigger versions then there will be more to do and see. If, however, you go with a HUD app, the features will be limited. Naturally, getting the latest heads-up display will get you more and better features. So depending on your choice, your windshield can show you the RPM, fuel consumption, and even engine codes. Then there are some that come with their own car compasses if that's more your thing.

However, if those features don't particularly appeal to you, then you can go for something more streamlined such as a GPS heads up display or a heads up display speedometer (even though literally every HUD has that nowadays). There are different versions of those features, however. Some offer a more streamlined version, while others go the extra mile with animations. Of course, the more fancy a device is, the higher the price. So, in the end it all depends on what you are looking for, but you make sure that the navigation heads up display you choose has at least all the basics covered.

Ease of Use

Using a HUD display is not difficult. The difficulty, however, comes with installation. There are some products that have made it as easy as cutting a pie, while others are more difficult to conquer. Now in this section, I will mainly focus on third-party HUD because everyone knows how to download an app, while installing a heads up display car windshield is a difficult task that may require professional help.

A good HUD should be easy to install (ideally). Simply mount it to your dashboard where you think it's best to be placed and run sum wires down to the OBDII port. Alternatively, you can connect it to another power source such as the cigarette lighter. Once you're done and have picked a good place for it on the dashboard you can apply the sticky pad so it won't move — most HUD displays come with a sticky pad. There is also a reflective sheet that you can use to make the images brighter, but personally, I find it a bit distracting.

Another thing to look out for is a sun sensor. Some units come with that additional feature and it will make your life a lot easier. How does it work? Well, depending on the time of day the sensor will make the images brighter or darker for easier readability.

Then there is the issue of programming, but don't worry you won't have to learn how to code. Most heads up displays can switch between miles and kilometers but that's not always an easy task. Luckily there are tons of YouTube videos that explain how it's done.

At the end of the day, where you are in the world and, of course, your personal preferences and expectations, your choice of a HUD will vary. I do hope that my buyer's guide provided you with a good starting point and you find what you're looking for.

Heads Up Displays FAQ

Q: What can you use the HUD for?

A: You know how you have all that information on your car's dashboard? Or for Tesla owners on the touch screen pad? A HUD will essentially display all that information on your windshield. However, depending on the type of head-up display, that information may vary. Essentially you can use it to check the speed, fuel, GPS, and so much more.

Q: Are HUDs safe?

A: HUDs are most definitely safe. In fact, they are designed to minimize distractions for the driver as they will no longer need to look down at the dashboard for information. But wait there's more! Head-up displays are getting more advanced and in the newer models, they can alert drivers to obstacles or objects on the road. Your HUD will highlight the object's location on the windshield, thus helping you avoid a collision. In fact, I have this feeling that they will get more and more advanced and soon they will become a standard in every car.

Q: Should You Buy A Car With A Head-Up Display?

A: The short answer is yes. The long answer is a bit more complicated. You see, car HUDs are a rather new innovation and as such are not anywhere near as good as they could be. With that being said I still think it's well worth the purchase. Not only will it increase your awareness but it will also give you easier access to any information that you might need. Ultimately, consider the available options and decide for yourselves if it's worth it now or you would rather wait for better tech.

Q: How much does a HUD cost?

A: The price can range anywhere from free to 1000 dollars. Depending on the HUD you want. There are phone applications that you can download either from the Play Store or App Store. These applications essentially do the same thing as your standard HUD. However, they are not as good and in all honesty, you are much better off buying a third-party head-up display. Those come in various shapes and sizes, and they can cost as little as 30 bucks or as much as 100. Then there are the windshield ones which are sold only by the car manufacturers and not every car can be equipped with one. They also require a specialist to install and can cost as much as 1000 dollars. They are by far the most advanced, though.

Q: Are They Compatible With Any Car?

Technically yes, but also no. If you download an app for your phone it doesn't matter what kind of car you have – the information will simply be projected onto your windshield. For a third-party HUD, your car needs to have an OBDII port. Luckily, every car manufactured from 1996 till now and is also sold in the USA has that port. Then there is the windshield version which can only be installed on specific cars. If you want to find out if your vehicle supports it, you need to check with the manufacturer.

Q: Which car manufacturers offer HUD?

General Motors, Honda, Toyota, and Lexus offer a full one head-up display. Check if your car model is compatible and if it is, you can get the new heads up display car windshield installed. But if it isn't, you can also get some form of a HUD display and I am not talking about third-party boxes here. You see, although not a full-on head-up display, some manufacturers such as Audi, BMW, Citroรซn, Nissan, Mazda, Kia, Mercedes, and Volvo offer a version of the HUD that also does the job.

Q: Are HUDs legal?

A: Currently there is no law saying that a HUD is illegal to use. However, some aftermarket heads-up displays could be considered a Visual Display Unit for which there are a few rules. What's more, if the police thought that a particular HUD was distracting they might give you a fine. We all know how people can be with new technologies, especially ones that are not so widely distributed yet.

Q: What does the future hold?

A: Well as I have mentioned in this article, I believe that HUDs are the future and soon your entire windshield might become a display. While this may sound scary at first, it will be way safer than the current dashboard, because your eyes will be constantly on the road and you won't have to look away for whatever reason. That being said, some people believe there are dangers. You see, once your windshield becomes a screen, some manufacturers might decide to put advertisements on it. Although I don't think that will happen because it's just asking for an accident. And even if it does, it won't be long until the government issues a legislation that stops this kind of practice. Those are my thoughts at least, but hey I consider myself an optimist so I might be wrong. Who knows? Only time will tell.

Conclusion

I believe that car heads-up displays are the future. They minimize distractions while maximizing the information available to the driver. Although there are many types available right now, the most comprehensive is the windshield one. They are also the most expensive ones but for a reason. In the near future, I predict that they will become more widely available. But for now, the third-party HUD will help you just fine. So what are you waiting for, you know the best heads up displays on the market and you know how to spot a good one as well; go out and be part of history by becoming an early adopter!

Best Selling Heads Up Displays

Sale Bestseller No. 1

SHEROX 3.5' Car HUD Head Up Display with OBD2/EUOBD Interface Plug & Play Vehicle Speed KM/h MPH, OverSpeed Warning, Water Temperature, Battery Voltage, Mileage Measurement

Bestseller No. 2

Head-up Display, Dagood A8 5.5 inches Multi Color Car HUD Windshield Screen Display Head up Display for Car to Display a Huge Range of Car Statistics with OBDII or EUOBD Interface Plug (A8)

Bestseller No. 3

ACECAR Head Up Display Car Universal Dual System 3.5 Inches HUD, Speedometer OBD2 GPS Interface, Speed, Engine RPM, OverSpeed Warning, Mileage Measurement, Water Temperature, for All Vehicle

Sale Bestseller No. 4

Head-up Display, ACECAR Upgrade Head Up Display Dual Mode OBD2/GPS Windshield Projector with Speed, Overspeed Warning, Mileage Measurement, Water Temperature, Direction,for All Vehicles (M12)

Bestseller No. 5

Arestech 5.5 inches A8 OBD2 Windshield HUD Head Up Display with Display RPM MPH Speeding Warning Fuel Consumption Temperature

Last update on 2021-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Which Car Has the Best Head Up Display

Source: https://www.carwindshields.info/best-heads-up-display