6 Best Alpine Head Units in 2023 – Reviews and Buying Guide

Alpine is a trusted brand in the car stereo industry, and it’s no surprise the many quality car stereos produced by this manufacturer.

Since 1978, Alpine has continued to rise to the challenge, using premium materials for manufacturing head units that are sleek, sophisticated, durable, and reliable.

You can’t deny this manufacturer sits at the top of the food chain for car stereos and vehicle components.

The Electronics giant has been in the business for more than four decades producing high-quality aftermarket products that put stock products to shame. It’s no shame, however, to feel overwhelmed by the many Alpine Head unit choices on the market.

This article takes a deep dive into all head units that Alpine offer. And lest we forget, there’s a buyers guide at the end of this article if you require more information.

The Best Alpine Head Units in 2023

From Bluetooth connectivity to smartphone compatibility, we take an extensive look into the Alpine head unit features below to meet your car stereo needs.

Here’s the list of best of the best Alpine head units in 2022:

1. Alpine ILX-W650 – Best Overall

Just like Zeus sitting at the summit of Mount Olympus, the Alpine ILX-W650 sits at the top of what’s an incredibly stacked list of premium Alpine head units.

Feature	Specification
Dimensions	10 x 8 x 7 inches
Display	7″ Touchscreen
Output Wattage	18 watts
Number of Channels	6
Inputs	USB and AUX

Alpine ILX-W650 is an exquisite 7″ touchscreen unit for starters. And unlike many flagship competitors, it sports a capacitive display which is way more responsive than the resistive products around.

Alpine ILX-W650’s two-finger swipe motion almost makes you feel as though you were swiping through your smartphone. Alpine continues to out-develop its rivals, which is clear to see with the ease of navigating the controls through two-finger swipe movements. Whether changing the volume or skipping a song, this feature has you covered.

But that’s not all. With Alpine ILX-W650, you enjoy the best of both worlds with the seamless integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that puts the power of your smartphone on your car stereo. It doesn’t matter if you’re an iOS or Android user. Your in-car life just became more convenient with the ability to play music, make phone calls, GPS navigation, or receive texts on the go.

Apple users can enjoy CarPlay by swiping the touchscreen to activate Siri’s voice control or pressing the microphone button if they use an Android. The Alpine ILX-W650 supports audio streaming of third-party apps, including Spotify, Pandora, and Sirius XM for Satellite Radio.

Alpine ILX-W650 also supports an AUX/IN to expand your entertainment choices with external mp3 and CD players. Audiophiles will love the 9-band EQ to regulate the audio output, and there’s also a subwoofer level regulator built-in. However, Alpine ILX-W650’s sound quality is average at best and lacks a bit of bass in the delivery.

There’s still a chink in the armor as impressive as this Alpine ILX-W650 head unit is. You’ll need to check out other head units if you enjoy fiddling with the customization and playing with the screen animations. You won’t find flashy button colors and changeable graphics on Alpine ILX-W650 big boy.

---

2. Alpine CDE-172BT – Best Single DIN

If you miss the Alpine CDE-143BT, worry not because the Alpine CDE-172BT is the same Alpine head unit, only better. This Alpine CDE-172BT is the best in its class because of the number of features you get for the price.

Feature	Specification
Dimensions	11 x 8 x 4 inches
Connectivity	Bluetooth
Output Wattage	45 watts
Number of Channels	6
Inputs	USB, Auxiliary

Let’s start with Alpine CDE-172BT’s Bluetooth feature – the connection is quick and seamless, sensing your phone before taking it out of your pocket. Your music continues uninterrupted from your smartphone to the stereo without missing a beat.

Say goodbye to tangled AUX cables because you can now charge your smartphone and play your music simultaneously with Alpine CDE-172BT. You also get a USB port for thumb drives to import your music library into the stereo. And if that’s not your thing, you can turn it into a charging port for your smartphone.

And guess what? The Alpine CDE-172BT stereo back is dotted with outputs and inputs if you prefer expanding your Alpine head unit with subwoofers and amps. And unlike the iLX-W650, you can play with the customization and fiddle with the display color and text.

The Alpine CDE-172BT’s blackout feature is a big-brain idea that allows you to dim the stereo lighting, so it doesn’t blind you in low light conditions. While the call clarity is decent, it will heavily depend on your traveling speed and your vehicle’s road noise.

You’d be happy this Alpine CDE-172BT installs quickly, and you can watch a YouTube video or two to get things fixed up in no time. The 172-BT doesn’t disappoint except for some minor gripes.

The latest flagship phones have slight difficulty connecting with a USB cable. Alpine CDE-172BT will also help if the display shows the track name when changing songs on Show Clock Mode. Bluetooth also cuts for a brief second before playing without issues.

Nonetheless, the Alpine CDE-172BT’s audio quality is crisp and clear without noticeable distortion, courtesy of the 45-watt outage that gives you decent power.

The Alpine CDE-172BT also supports SiriusXM and is compatible with Pandora. You’ll need to buy the SiriusXM kit separately, including a subscription to enjoy satellite radio.

---

3. Alpine UTE-73BT – Most Affordable

Buyer beware. If you want a media receiver that plays CDs, we recommend looking elsewhere. But if a mech-less unit is what you need, you’d struggle to do better than the Alpine UTE-73BT.

Feature	Specification
Special Features	Auxiliary Input
Connectivity	Bluetooth
Output Wattage	72 wattss
Number of Channels	4
Other Display Feature	Wireless

The Alpine UTE-73BT’s audio features may not be as impressive as many, but the sound quality is where this unit shines best. For starters, installation won’t cost you an arm and a leg. You can install this Alpine UTE-73BT yourself with the right tools.

Besides, Alpine UTE-73BT ships with harness accessories ensuring you don’t spend extra funds. The unmistakable sound emanating from this stereo is excellent. The bass functions have a fantastic output even with underpowered factory speakers. You’ll also love the 3-band EQ to adjust the audio, including the high and low-pass crossover to optimize your subwoofer. And unlike other models and brands, this Alpine UTE-73BT has two USB ports for charging your smart device and playing your tunes on the road!

Another ergonomic feature is the large knob on the Alpine UTE-73BT. Alpine understands that it’s easy to hit this jutting knob by mistake and ensures the knob doesn’t respond until you press another button to navigate the menu.

Alpine UTE-73BT’s feature alone provides a world of convenience, especially when trying to multitask in your vehicle. The RGB color controller helps you customize the color and improve your vehicle lighting.

Alpine UTE-73BT’s Bluetooth connectivity allows you to control your smartphone audio. You can listen to music or receive calls without installing extra components. On top of that, your music gets muted whenever you have an incoming call. And courtesy of the Waiting Mode feature, you can put your first call on hold while receiving a second phone call.

Pandora lovers will enjoy the stereo’s support, including SiriusXM compatibility when buying a separate tuner kit.

While the Alpine UTE-73BT is as close to perfection, it does have minor issues. The screen can be challenging to see for people with poor eyesight. Some units also have Bluetooth issues which reduce the functionality of this Alpine head unit.

---

4. Alpine CDE-HD149BT – Most Secure

Single DIN units may not pack as many features as their double-DIN cousins, but the Alpine CDE-HD149BT is an exception. The standout feature is the detachable front plate that makes this head unit secure and prevents theft.

Feature	Specification
Dimensions	9.06 x 3.94 x 10.63 inches
Connectivity	RCA, Bluetooth, USB
Wattage	200 watts
Number of Channels	4
Display Type	LCD, Text Display

As far as connectivity goes, the Alpine CDE-HD149BT’s Bluetooth syncs without any issues. The Alpine CDE-HD149BT can’t work without the frontal plate, reducing its value to potential burglars.

This Alpine CDE-HD149BT stereo is suitable for users who prefer easy-to-find features, unlike many brands that hide commands in multiple menus making navigation a nightmare. The 200-watt output will blow your stock unit out of the water, and you get preamp outputs to connect with a subwoofer. Moreover, the 9-band parametric EQ provides additional audio customization. The volume knob allows you to make adjustments while driving, and it controls everything, including your subwoofer volume.

The Alpine CDE-HD149BT also comes with the TuneIn App, and we recommend setting it up before you pair it with your smart device. The app gives you many audio customization options elevating your audio quality further.

Although this Alpine CDE-HD149BT car stereo supports Pandora, the app is compatible only with Android smartphones. You can enjoy Pandora on iPhone through Bluetooth connectivity, but all the navigation controls will only work through your phone. However, Android users get the added convenience of controlling Pandora from the unit. This flaw is a minor annoyance for what the Alpine CDE-HD149BT offers, and it’s easy to see in any light condition.

Another flaw is the overly bright screen that tends to blind at night. Otherwise, Alpine CDE-HD149BT is an exceptional head unit.

---

5. Alpine CDE-175BT – Best Value

If you’re a single DIN car owner and need a capable head unit that gives you more bang for your buck, you need to put the Alpine CDE-175BT at the top of your list. This Alpine head unit has the core features you’d want in a premium car stereo.

Feature	Specification
Dimensions	11 x 11 x 5 inches
Connectivity	Bluetooth
Output Wattage	45 watts
Number of Channels	6
Inputs	Auxiliary, USB

Firstly, the highest voltage preamp output you can ever find on a head unit is 5V, and this Alpine CDE-175BT checks that box. This feature is crucial if you want to expand and upgrade the functionality of any Alpine head unit you buy.

Because you might throw a lot of cash on the best amps and speakers, but all you’ll get is the sloppiness sound if your Alpine CDE-175BT head unit isn’t feeding your hardware the cleanest signal. CD players are fast becoming an endangered species, so it’s nice to see it on this car stereo.

Moreover, Alpine CDE-175BT’s Bluetooth connectivity is flawless when you hook it up with your smartphone’s NFC. You’ll still need to stream at the highest bit rate to get the best sound on Bluetooth. Bluetooth connectivity also gives you access to voice dialing and hands-free calling.

And unlike other Alpine models that locate the USB at the back, the thumb drive port is at the front for more convenience in Alpine CDE-175BT. You should know at its price range the Alpine CDE-175BT ought to ship with remote control, but this model doesn’t. Also, it’s a slight challenge to see the display in the daytime and with shades on. But that’s clutching at straws to find a flaw.

Alpine CDE-175BT’s installation manual provides all the necessary steps for a DIY install, saving you additional expenses. The textured buttons are easy to press and don’t feel clunky.

You also get to enjoy FLAC files via the USB, and you can secure your Alpine CDE-175BT head unit by detaching the frontal plate. There’s software support for Android and iOS, and you can enjoy expandable web services like Pandora and SiriusXM.

---

6. Alpine CDE-W265BT – Best Without Screen

The Alpine CDE-W265BT is suitable for car owners who need a double-DIN unit without a screen display. This unit has a front-facing USB port that makes it more convenient to plug in your thumb drive.

Feature	Specification
Dimensions	11 x 11 x 5 inches
Connectivity	Bluetooth
Output Wattage	45 watts
Number of Channels	6
Inputs	Auxiliary, USB

You’ll love the 4V preamp outputs to expand this Alpine CDE-W265BT with a subwoofer. We also recommend downloading the TuneIn app to give you audio customization options. You’d notice the unpretentiousness of this Alpine head unit: no bells and whistles or excess frills.

Alpine CDE-W265BT’s 9-band EQ is one of the highest you can find, and you can adjust the audio output on the fly with your iPhone or Android smartphone. The subwoofer control is a thoughtful touch and the only thing you might need to change once you set the EQ.

The eye-catching feature of this Alpine CDE-W265BT head unit is the phone/mic audio. The experience is like talking right into your phone, which is hard to see on many Alpine head units in this price range. The sound output is underrated on this Alpine CDE-W265BT, making your FM radio sound like you’re playing a CD.

However, there are some obvious limitations with Alpine CDE-W265BT. The shine on the deck reflects a lot of light which can distract or blind in the daytime. We recommend a brushed aluminum finish to reduce the glare and make it easier to see. Another thing is the USB, which tends to select thumb drives. On top of that, Mix Mode doesn’t let you play back a track and will skip forward.

Alpine CDE-W265BT’s installation isn’t as easy as many on this list, and it won’t be a bad idea to call a professional. Pandora works amazingly well, or trouble is getting it to connect in the first place.

---

Before You Buy: The Buyer’s Guide to Choosing The Right Alpine Head Unit

It’s unsurprising how popular Alpine head units are globally among car stereo enthusiasts. These head units come with a range of features designed to satisfy every car owner type.

If you intend to replace your current vehicle receiver with an Alpine head unit, below are some things to keep in mind:

Price

Alpine head units are on the more premium side of the car stereo market. Subsequently, these units may cost more than other brands for similar features.

However, Alpine car stereos tend to have a higher quality build and last longer than most competition. Once you figure out your budget, research to make sure the Alpine head unit you can afford has the features you need.

Size

It makes little sense to buy a double-DIN Alpine head unit when your vehicle has a single DIN dash and vice versa. If you buy the wrong Alpine head unit for your car, you might pay more than two times the cost of the car stereo as installation costs.

Head units come in single and double-DIN measurements, and it’s essential to know your vehicle dash size before purchasing an Alpine car stereo.

Features

It’s wrong to assume all Alpine head units ship with the same features. Alpine has different models of head units with various features to meet the needs of every car owner under the sun.

Some units work best for Satellite radio, while others are designed for specific smartphone devices. If you need a feature, make sure the Alpine head unit you buy can meet your expectations.

Installation

We always recommend buying a car stereo you can install yourself. However, some Alpine head units require professional installation to ensure you get the best out of your equipment.

Warranty

Car stereos can break down without warning, which is valid for premium brands like Alpine. However, Alpine head units often ship with a standard three-year warranty which speaks volumes for the quality of head units they produce.

If your Alpine head unit fails within that period, you can expect a refund or replacement, depending on your situation.

Sound Quality

A significant benefit to buying an aftermarket car stereo is to obtain more power. Premium aftermarket head units like pine produce a higher overall volume and better bass from your factory speakers.

The head unit often has preamp outputs to expand your sound system with a subwoofer or amplifier. Alpine has dedicated models for audiophiles. These head units feature comprehensive EQ settings and crossover adjusters to fine-tune your audio output.

Wrapping Up…

Alpine head units offer superior in-vehicle experience factory options cannot hope to match. Interestingly, many luxury car manufacturers like Dodge, Jeep, BMW, Audi, Mercedes, and Jaguar have partnered with Alpine to equip flagship head units on their vehicles.

In addition, Alpine digital receivers aren’t only designed for cars. You can install these Alpine head units on your truck, minivan, boat, and any other type of vehicle.

The Alpine head units on this list are at the top of their respective classes and some of the best units Alpine offers.

---

Recommended Reading:

• 10 Best Car Stereos Reviews and Buying Guide
• 7 Best Android Car Stereos Reviews and Buying Guide
• 8 Best Budget-Friendly Car Stereos Reviews and Buying Guide
• 8 Best Touch Screen Car Stereos Reviews