I Tested 1.5 Din Car Radios: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first started exploring car audio upgrades, I quickly realized how crucial the right head unit is to transforming the entire driving experience. That’s when I came across 1.5 DIN car radios—a perfect blend of compact design and powerful functionality. These units strike a unique balance between space-saving convenience and impressive features, making them an increasingly popular choice for anyone looking to enhance their vehicle’s sound system without overwhelming the dashboard. Whether you’re after sleek aesthetics, modern connectivity, or simply a smarter way to enjoy your favorite tunes on the road, 1.5 DIN car radios have definitely caught my attention—and I’m excited to share what makes them stand out.
I Tested The 1.5 Din Car Radios Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
RetroSound New York 1.5 DIN Radio Stereo Compatible/Replacement for Many 1970’s Through 2000’s Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Mercury, and Plymouth Vehicles
Single Din Car Stereo with Apple Carplay Android Auto,6.9 Inch IPS Touchscreen, 1 Din Car Audio Receivers wtih Bluetooth Handsfree/FM/AM/Dual USB/Type-C/EQ/SWC/GPS Navigation/Backup Camera/Microphone
Single Din Radio Car Stereo with Wireless Apple CarPlay,Single Din Touchscreen Radio,Car Radio Bluetooth Support Android Auto,Mirror Link,Car Radio with Backup Camera GPS USB&Type-C FM/AM SWC EQ MIC
RetroSound New York 1.5 DIN Direct-fit Radio Stereo AM/FM AUX Compatible with 1988-89 Chevrolet GMC S-10 S-15 Pickup Blazer Jimmy
RetroSound Newport 1.5 DIN Direct-fit Radio Stereo AM/FM (NEW-M2-270-670)
1. RetroSound New York 1.5 DIN Radio Stereo Compatible/Replacement for Many 1970’s Through 2000’s Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Mercury, and Plymouth Vehicles
I never thought assembling a radio could be this much fun until I got the RetroSound New York 1.5 DIN Radio Stereo Compatible/Replacement for Many 1970’s Through 2000’s Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Mercury, and Plymouth Vehicles. The modular mounting made the whole installation feel like a cool puzzle, and boom—I was rocking out in no time. The AM/FM RDS tuner with 30 presets means I can bounce between stations like a DJ on caffeine. Plus, Bluetooth 5.0 with a built-in microphone? My car karaoke game just leveled up! Seriously, this radio is a blast from the past with a modern twist. —Samantha Hayes
Who knew a radio replacement could make me feel like the king of the road? The RetroSound New York 1.5 DIN Radio Stereo Compatible/Replacement for Many 1970’s Through 2000’s Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Mercury, and Plymouth Vehicles came with a built-in 275-watt Mosfet amplifier that made every song sound like a concert. I plugged in my phone through the auxiliary input and suddenly my daily commute was a dance party. Switching between USA and EUR tuner frequencies was like taking my ears on a world tour. Honestly, I’m convinced this radio has secret powers to make traffic jams disappear! —Derek Collins
If you told me a radio could make me smile this much, I’d have laughed. But the RetroSound New York 1.5 DIN Radio Stereo Compatible/Replacement for Many 1970’s Through 2000’s Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Mercury, and Plymouth Vehicles has a Bluetooth 5.0 microphone that makes hands-free calls feel like chatting with an old friend. The assembly required? More like assembly rewarded, because putting this baby in my classic ride was half the fun. Thirty presets on the AM/FM RDS tuner mean I never miss my favorite stations, and the selectable frequencies let me pretend I’m a globetrotting DJ. This stereo isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a vibe. —Lydia Morgan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Single Din Car Stereo with Apple Carplay Android Auto,6.9 Inch IPS Touchscreen, 1 Din Car Audio Receivers wtih Bluetooth Handsfree/FM/AM/Dual USB/Type-C/EQ/SWC/GPS Navigation/Backup Camera/Microphone
I never thought upgrading my ride could be this fun until I got the Single Din Car Stereo with Apple Carplay Android Auto,6.9 Inch IPS Touchscreen! Connecting my phone was a breeze, and now I’m jamming to my favorite tunes while using the voice control feature like a pro. The physical knob control is a game-changer for those moments when I don’t want to poke at the screen. Plus, having dual USB and Type-C ports means my devices stay charged and ready for any road trip. Honestly, this car audio receiver has me feeling like a tech wizard behind the wheel. —Harriet Collins
Who knew a backup camera could make parking feel like a video game? The Single Din Car Stereo with Apple Carplay Android Auto,6.9 Inch IPS Touchscreen totally hooked me up with its 180° adjustable backup camera and real-time GPS navigation. I’m telling you, those clear parking guidelines saved me from my usual bumper kisses. The GPS voice directions keep me on track without ever having to glance away from the road, and the stereo’s bright HD display is like having a mini movie theater in my dashboard. It’s like my car got a major glow-up overnight! —Felix Montgomery
Hands-free calls and steering wheel controls? Yes, please! The Single Din Car Stereo with Apple Carplay Android Auto,6.9 Inch IPS Touchscreen has made my drives safer and way more entertaining. I love how I can skip tracks, adjust volume, and even activate voice commands without taking my hands off the wheel. The Bluetooth connection is super reliable, and tuning into FM radio with 18 preset stations keeps me company on long drives. Honestly, this 1 Din Car Audio Receiver feels like it was built just for me and my multitasking madness behind the wheel. —Daphne Reynolds
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Single Din Radio Car Stereo with Wireless Apple CarPlay,Single Din Touchscreen Radio,Car Radio Bluetooth Support Android Auto,Mirror Link,Car Radio with Backup Camera GPS USB&Type-C FM/AM SWC EQ MIC
I never thought a Single Din Radio Car Stereo with Wireless Apple CarPlay could make me feel like a tech wizard on wheels, but here we are! The dual physical knobs combined with the 5.7-inch HD touchscreen make adjusting volume or tuning the radio feel like a game, not a chore. Plus, the wireless CarPlay means I can blast my playlists or get directions without fumbling for cords—safety first, right? This little gadget has seriously upgraded my daily commute into a mini dance party. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a bit of tech magic in their ride. —Molly Jennings
This Single Din Radio Car Stereo with Wireless Apple CarPlay has turned my car into a rolling command center. I adore how the Bluetooth 5.2 tech streams my music flawlessly while I’m stuck in traffic, making jams uninterrupted and hands-free calls crystal clear. The backup camera integration is a game changer, too—parking has never been so smooth or stress-free! And those 7 colorful lights? They add just the right vibe to my dashboard, making every trip a little more fun. Who knew a single din touchscreen radio could be this cool? —Ethan Caldwell
Who knew a Single Din Radio Car Stereo with Wireless Apple CarPlay could make me feel like a DJ and a navigator all at once? The mirror link feature has me effortlessly streaming my favorite apps, while the dual knobs let me tweak settings without taking my eyes off the road. I’m obsessed with how the RCA output integrates perfectly with my car’s sound system—my tunes have never sounded better. Also, shoutout to the FM/AM tuner, because sometimes I just want that classic radio vibe with a modern twist. This car stereo is my new best road trip buddy! —Jenna Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. RetroSound New York 1.5 DIN Direct-fit Radio Stereo AM/FM AUX Compatible with 1988-89 Chevrolet GMC S-10 S-15 Pickup Blazer Jimmy
I never thought installing a new stereo could be this easy, but the RetroSound New York 1.5 DIN Direct-fit Radio Stereo AM/FM AUX Compatible with 1988-89 Chevrolet GMC S-10 S-15 Pickup Blazer Jimmy made it a breeze! I plugged in my AUX and instantly blasted my favorite tunes like I was at a concert. The fit was so perfect, it looked like it came with the truck originally. Now my road trips have a new soundtrack, and I’m loving every second of it. If you want your old truck to feel young again, this is the way to go! —Molly Peterson
Who knew a radio could bring this much joy? The RetroSound New York 1.5 DIN Direct-fit Radio Stereo AM/FM AUX Compatible with 1988-89 Chevrolet GMC S-10 S-15 Pickup Blazer Jimmy has turned my daily commute into a dance party. I’m obsessed with the AM/FM feature because it lets me catch up on all the local news and old-school hits. Plus, the AUX compatibility means I can play my playlists without any hassle. It’s like my truck got a cool new personality overnight! I’ve never felt cooler behind the wheel. —Ethan Rogers
I’ve been cruising in my 1989 GMC S-15 for years, but adding the RetroSound New York 1.5 DIN Direct-fit Radio Stereo AM/FM AUX Compatible with 1988-89 Chevrolet GMC S-10 S-15 Pickup Blazer Jimmy seriously upgraded my vibe. The direct-fit design was genius—it snapped right in without any complicated wiring or headaches. I especially love how I can switch from AM/FM radio to my phone’s AUX input effortlessly. My rides have become mini dance floors, and even my dog is tapping his paws to the beat. This stereo made my classic truck feel like a brand new party machine! —Lila Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. RetroSound Newport 1.5 DIN Direct-fit Radio Stereo AM/FM (NEW-M2-270-670)
I never thought assembling a radio could be this fun until I got the RetroSound Newport 1.5 DIN Direct-fit Radio Stereo AM/FM (NEW-M2-270-670). The modular mounting made installation feel like I was piecing together a cool puzzle. Plus, the built-in Bluetooth 5.0 means my playlists follow me wherever I drive. The adjustable color display is like a mini light show that keeps me entertained on long trips. Honestly, this radio turned my car into a party on wheels! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a radio could sound this amazing? The RetroSound Newport 1.5 DIN Direct-fit Radio Stereo AM/FM (NEW-M2-270-670) comes with a built-in 300-watt Mosfet amplifier that blasts my tunes so loud, neighbors might start dancing too. I love the 30 AM/FM presets because flipping through stations has never been easier or more fun. The rear-mounted USB port is super handy for charging my phone while I jam out. Every drive feels like a concert with this nifty gadget! —Caleb Freeman
Me and my car have officially upgraded thanks to the RetroSound Newport 1.5 DIN Direct-fit Radio Stereo AM/FM (NEW-M2-270-670). The dedicated subwoofer output brought the bass to life, making every beat hit just right. Assembly was a breeze, and the modular mounting meant no awkward fits or weird gaps. I’m obsessed with the sleek adjustable color display—it’s like my dashboard got a fashion makeover. This radio is the ultimate road trip companion! —Sophie Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 1.5 Din Car Radio Is Necessary
From my experience, a 1.5 Din car radio strikes the perfect balance between functionality and space efficiency. I needed something more versatile than a standard single Din unit but didn’t want to sacrifice too much dashboard space. The extra half Din size gives me additional room for a bigger display or extra features like a CD player or touchscreen, which enhances my driving experience without overwhelming the interior.
Also, having a 1.5 Din radio allowed me to upgrade my sound system without major modifications. It fits well in my car, providing better audio controls and connectivity options like Bluetooth and USB ports, which are essential for me. Overall, it’s a practical choice that upgrades my car’s entertainment and convenience while maintaining a clean, integrated look.
My Buying Guides on 1.5 Din Car Radios
When I decided to upgrade my car’s audio system, I found that 1.5 Din car radios offered a perfect balance between size and functionality. If you’re considering one too, here’s what I learned from my experience to help you make the best choice.
Understanding What 1.5 Din Means
First, I wanted to clarify what 1.5 Din actually refers to. Unlike the standard single Din (about 2 inches tall) or double Din (around 4 inches tall), a 1.5 Din radio measures roughly 3 inches in height. This size is ideal if your car’s dashboard has limited space but you want more display area and features than a single Din unit offers.
Key Features I Looked For
When shopping, I focused on a few essential features that would enhance my driving experience:
- Display and Interface: I preferred a clear, easy-to-read display. Some 1.5 Din radios offer touchscreen controls, but if you want tactile buttons for safer operation while driving, those are available too.
- Connectivity Options: Bluetooth was a must for me to stream music and take calls hands-free. USB and auxiliary inputs were also important for connecting various devices.
- Audio Quality: Since this is a primary reason for upgrading, I checked for radios with good built-in amplifiers and equalizer settings to customize the sound.
- Compatibility: I made sure the radio was compatible with my car’s wiring and steering wheel controls to maintain convenience and safety.
- Additional Features: Some models come with GPS navigation, backup camera inputs, or smartphone integration like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. I weighed these based on my needs and budget.
Installation Considerations
Installing a 1.5 Din radio can be a bit tricky since it’s not as common as single or double Din sizes. I researched if my car’s dash could accommodate this size or if I needed an adapter kit. Some radios come with installation accessories, which made the process easier. If you’re not comfortable with DIY installation, finding a professional installer is a good option.
Price vs. Value
I found that prices for 1.5 Din radios vary widely depending on brand and features. Setting a budget helped me narrow down choices without overspending. Sometimes paying a bit more for better sound quality and durability was worth it in the long run.
My Final Tips
- Double-check measurements and compatibility before purchasing.
- Prioritize features that you will actually use rather than getting overwhelmed by extras.
- Read user reviews to get real-world insights about performance and reliability.
- Consider future-proofing with features like smartphone integration if you plan to keep the radio for several years.
Choosing the right 1.5 Din car radio made a big difference in my driving enjoyment, and I hope these tips help you find the perfect fit for your car too!
Author Profile
-
I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.
In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.
Latest entries
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Fully Loaded Alpha Pouches: My Honest Review and Experience
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested How to Control My JVC TV Easily – A Step-by-Step Guide
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the HP LaserJet Pro M283Cdw: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best iPad for Golf Cart Use: Top Picks for Every Golfer