Car head-up displays (HUDs) might seem like a luxury, but once you experience the convenience and safety they offer, you’ll wonder how you drove without one. Imagine getting crucial driving information right in your line of sight, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road. For car enthusiasts and safety-conscious drivers alike, a HUD is an invaluable addition.
Among the various types of HUDs available, OBD2 HUDs stand out for their ability to tap directly into your car’s computer system. This connection unlocks a wealth of real-time data, from speed and RPM to engine temperature and even diagnostic trouble codes. But with so many options on the market, finding the Best Hud For Car Obd2 can be a challenge.
Fortunately, we’ve put in the hours of testing and research to bring you a curated list of the top car head-up displays that utilize OBD2 connectivity. We’ll break down the best models, explore what features to look for, and help you make an informed decision to enhance your driving experience.
Top OBD2 Car Head-Up Displays You Can Buy Today
Why Trust CarpartEU Experts? Our team at CarpartEU consists of seasoned automotive experts who rigorously test and evaluate car accessories to provide you with trustworthy recommendations. We delve into specifications, real-world performance, and user experience to ensure our reviews are comprehensive and helpful.
A detailed view of the Hudway Drive head-up display projecting driving information onto its screen, showcasing its integration on a car dashboard.
1. Hudway Drive: The Premium OBD2 HUD with Comprehensive Features
Expert Review Link
Specifications:
- Size: 7.3 x 6.3 x 4.0 inches
- Weight: 9.0 ounces
- Power: 12-volt accessory outlet
- Display Size: 1.8-inches
- Color/Monochrome: Color
- Parameters Displayed: 11
- Alarms: Yes
Pros:
- Integrated Projection Screen: Offers a clear and consistent display without relying on the windshield.
- OBD2 and Smartphone Integration: Combines data from your car’s OBD2 port and your smartphone for a rich information display.
- User-Friendly Display: Easy to read at a glance, ensuring minimal distraction.
Cons:
- Bulky Design: Its larger size might not be ideal for all dashboards.
- Higher Price Point: One of the more expensive OBD2 HUDs on the market.
The Hudway Drive stands out as a top-tier OBD2 HUD, offering a comprehensive suite of features. It seamlessly blends data from your car’s OBD2 system, GPS, and smartphone to deliver a wealth of information directly into your field of vision. From essential driving speed and engine RPMs to turn-by-turn navigation, the Hudway Drive keeps you informed without taking your eyes off the road. While it doesn’t offer full Android Auto or Apple CarPlay integration, its ability to merge OBD2 data with phone-based information is a significant advantage.
Although the Hudway Drive comes with a steeper price tag, its extensive feature set and reliable performance justify the investment for drivers seeking the best OBD2 HUD experience. The unit’s size is a factor to consider, as its physical footprint and fold-down screen may impact the driver’s line of sight in some vehicles.
The Pyle PHUD180BD OBD2 head-up display shown mounted on a car dashboard, highlighting its compact design and vibrant screen.
2. Pyle PHUD180BD: Best Value OBD2 HUD with Impressive Features
Expert Review Link
Specifications:
- Size: 5.3 x 3.0 x 0.5 inches
- Weight: 4.4 ounces
- Power: OBD2 port
- Display Size: 5.5-inches
- Color/Monochrome: Color
- Parameters Displayed: 14
- Alarms: Yes
Pros:
- Self-Contained Screen: Ensures consistent visibility and eliminates windshield reflection issues.
- Extensive Data Readouts: Displays a wide range of vehicle parameters from the OBD2 port and GPS.
- Bright and Clear Display: Offers excellent visibility even in varying lighting conditions.
Cons:
- Projection Screen Positioning: The screen’s placement might be obstructive for some drivers.
- No Smartphone Integration: Lacks connectivity with smartphones for navigation or other features.
The Pyle PHUD180BD punches above its weight, offering a remarkable amount of functionality at a budget-friendly price. This OBD2 HUD manages to pack a vibrant 5.5-inch display and a comprehensive set of features into a surprisingly affordable package. For drivers seeking the best value in an OBD2 HUD, the Pyle PHUD180BD is a compelling option. It effectively combines OBD2 and GPS data to present a wealth of driving information, making it significantly more capable than basic speed-only HUDs.
Despite its affordability, the Pyle PHUD180BD doesn’t skimp on features. It boasts a bright display capable of showing over a dozen different vehicle parameters. While the projection screen might intrude slightly into the driver’s view for some, and it lacks smartphone integration, the sheer value and OBD2 data capabilities make these minor drawbacks easily forgivable for budget-conscious buyers.
A close-up of the Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS head-up display in operation on a car dashboard, showcasing its vibrant color display and data presentation.
3. Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS: Feature-Rich and Affordable OBD2 HUD
Expert Review Link
Specifications:
- Size: 4.3 x 5.0 x 3.5 inches
- Weight: 4.4 ounces
- Power: 12-volt accessory outlet
- Display Size: 1.8-inches
- Color/Monochrome: Color
- Parameters Displayed: 15
- Alarms: Yes
Pros:
- Self-Contained Projection: Ensures display clarity and avoids windshield glare.
- Dual OBD2 and GPS Data: Integrates both OBD2 and GPS data for a comprehensive driving overview.
- Fold-Down Screen Design: Offers flexibility and minimizes obstruction when not in use.
Cons:
- No Smartphone Integration: Lacks connectivity to smartphones for advanced features.
- Navigation Limitations: Does not offer turn-by-turn navigation capabilities.
The Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS HUD is another strong contender in the OBD2 HUD market, offering a blend of features and affordability. It’s designed for drivers who want more than just basic speed displayed, particularly appealing to those who appreciate detailed vehicle data. If you’re interested in monitoring parameters like air-to-fuel ratio or turbocharger pressure, the Wiiyii C1 provides access to this kind of information through its OBD2 connection.
The Wiiyii C1 effectively combines GPS and OBD2 data, presenting it in a visually appealing and easily digestible format. It features a self-contained projection screen, ensuring consistent display quality, and includes OBD2 fault code scanning with alerts. While it doesn’t offer smartphone integration or navigation, its comprehensive data display and affordability make it a solid choice for drivers focused on vehicle performance monitoring via OBD2.
The Akabane A500 OBD2 head-up display mounted on a car dashboard, demonstrating its direct view display and parameter-rich interface.
4. Akabane A500: Performance-Oriented OBD2 HUD with Advanced Features
Expert Review Link
Specifications:
- Size: 4.3 x 3.3 x 2.9 inches
- Weight: 5.1 ounces
- Power: OBD-II port
- Display Size: 3.5-inches
- Color/Monochrome: Color
- Parameters Displayed: 60
- Alarms: Yes
Pros:
- OBD2 and GPS Integration: Combines OBD2 data with GPS for enhanced functionality.
- Direct View Display: Offers a clear and direct view of the displayed information.
- Extensive Parameter Display: Shows a wide array of vehicle data points, catering to performance enthusiasts.
Cons:
- Larger, Less Sleek Design: Its bulkier design might not appeal to all users.
- Potential View Obstruction: Placement could potentially obstruct the driver’s view for some.
- Complex Interface: Menu settings and interface might be less intuitive for some users.
The Akabane A500 is designed for drivers who want in-depth vehicle performance data displayed via OBD2. This OBD2 HUD goes beyond basic information, offering features that appeal to car enthusiasts and those interested in tracking vehicle performance metrics. In addition to standard OBD2 data and GPS integration, the Akabane A500 includes performance testing capabilities, such as braking and acceleration timers.
For drivers interested in monitoring a vast range of vehicle parameters, the Akabane A500 is a powerful OBD2 HUD option. It provides a direct view display and a wealth of data, including OBD2 fault detection. While its design is less streamlined and the interface can be a bit complex, the extensive features and OBD2 capabilities, especially at its price point, make it a worthwhile consideration for performance-focused drivers.
The Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter head-up display positioned on a car dashboard, highlighting its unique tilt and roll angle sensors for off-road driving.
5. Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter: Unique OBD2 Alternative for Off-Roading
Expert Review Link
Specifications:
- Size: 3.3 x 3.2 x 2.2 inches
- Weight: 2.9 ounces
- Power: 12-volt accessory outlet
- Display Size: 2.1-inches
- Color/Monochrome: Color
- Parameters Displayed: 6
- Alarms: No
Pros:
- GPS-Based Data: Utilizes GPS for speed, altitude, and other data points.
- Integrated Tilt and Roll Sensors: Provides unique data for off-road driving, alerting to potential rollovers.
- Direct View Display: Offers a clear and direct view of the displayed information.
- USB Power Ports: Accessory adapter includes two USB ports for charging devices.
Cons:
- Lacks OBD2 Connectivity: Does not connect to the OBD2 port, limiting access to engine and vehicle system data.
- Taller Design: Height might obstruct the view for some drivers.
- No Smartphone Integration: Lacks smartphone connectivity for advanced features.
While the Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter doesn’t utilize OBD2 connectivity, it’s included here as a unique alternative for specific driving needs, particularly off-roading. This HUD focuses on GPS data and incorporates internal sensors to provide tilt and roll angle information, crucial for off-road driving safety. It alerts drivers if the vehicle approaches dangerous tilt angles, a feature not found in standard OBD2 HUDs.
For drivers who prioritize off-road adventures over engine performance data from OBD2, the Autool X95 offers valuable and specialized information. Its compact design and straightforward interface make it user-friendly, and the inclusion of USB power ports is a practical bonus. However, its lack of OBD2 data and taller design may not suit drivers primarily focused on on-road driving and engine monitoring.
Choosing the Best OBD2 HUD: Key Considerations
When selecting the best OBD2 HUD for your car, several factors come into play. Understanding these aspects will help you narrow down your choices and find a HUD that perfectly matches your needs and driving style.
Data Display and Features:
- OBD2 Data Points: Consider which OBD2 data points are most important to you. Basic HUDs might only show speed, while advanced models can display RPM, engine temperature, voltage, fuel consumption, turbo boost, and more.
- GPS Integration: Many OBD2 HUDs also incorporate GPS for speed, altitude, and compass direction. Some combine GPS with OBD2 data for enhanced accuracy and features.
- Alarms and Warnings: Look for HUDs that offer customizable alarms for over-speeding, high engine temperature, low voltage, and other critical parameters.
- Display Brightness and Clarity: Ensure the HUD has adjustable brightness to be clearly visible in both bright daylight and nighttime driving conditions. Consider the display type – projection onto the windshield or a self-contained screen – and choose based on your preference for clarity and ease of viewing.
- Smartphone Integration: Some higher-end HUDs offer smartphone integration for navigation, calls, and message notifications. If these features are important to you, look for models with smartphone connectivity.
Display Type and Size:
- Projection vs. Direct View: Projection HUDs project information onto your windshield, creating a larger, seemingly floating display. Direct view HUDs use a transparent screen that sits in your line of sight. Projection types can be larger but may suffer from washout in bright sunlight. Direct view types are often more compact and consistently visible.
- Screen Size: Consider the size of the display and how it will fit into your field of vision without being distracting or obstructive. Larger screens are generally easier to read but can also take up more dashboard space.
- Color vs. Monochrome: Color displays can present more information effectively and are generally easier to interpret at a glance. Most modern OBD2 HUDs offer color displays.
Installation and Setup:
- Ease of Installation: OBD2 HUDs are generally easy to install, typically plugging directly into your car’s OBD2 port. Consider models with straightforward setup processes and clear instructions.
- Cable Management: Think about how the power cable will be routed and concealed for a clean and uncluttered look. Some HUDs come with flat cables that are easier to hide.
- Mounting Options: Most HUDs use adhesive pads or non-slip mats to sit on the dashboard. Ensure the mounting solution is stable and secure for your car’s dashboard surface.
Budget:
- Price Range: OBD2 HUDs range in price from under $30 to over $250. Determine your budget and consider the features and performance you can expect at different price points. Entry-level HUDs may offer basic speed and OBD2 data, while higher-priced models provide more features, better display quality, and smartphone integration.
OBD2 HUD Costs: What to Expect
The cost of an OBD2 HUD varies significantly based on features, display quality, and brand.
- Budget-Friendly Options (Under $70): In the $30 to $70 range, you can find capable OBD2 HUDs like the Pyle PHUD180BD and Wiiyii C1. These offer a good balance of features, including OBD2 data, GPS integration, and color displays, making them excellent value choices.
- Mid-Range HUDs ($70 – $150): This price range typically offers improved display quality, more features, and potentially smartphone connectivity. You might find models with larger screens, brighter displays, and more advanced data parameters.
- Premium HUDs (Over $150): High-end OBD2 HUDs like the Hudway Drive fall into this category. These devices offer top-of-the-line features, including comprehensive OBD2 and smartphone integration, advanced display technology, and potentially additional functionalities like navigation and driver assistance features.
While cheaper HUDs are available for under $30, these often have limited features, monochrome displays, or reduced data accuracy. Investing a bit more in the $30-$70 range generally provides a much better user experience and a more feature-rich OBD2 HUD.
How We Test OBD2 Car Head-Up Displays
Our testing process for OBD2 car head-up displays is designed to evaluate real-world performance and usability. We follow a rigorous methodology that includes both bench testing and extensive on-road driving assessments.
Initial Setup and Installation:
- Ease of Setup: We evaluate how easy each HUD is to set up and install in a vehicle. This includes assessing the clarity of instructions, the simplicity of connecting to the OBD2 port, and the intuitiveness of initial configuration.
- Cable Management: We consider the practicality of cable routing and concealment, noting whether the cable is easily hidden and if the HUD design facilitates clean installation.
- Positioning and Mounting: We assess how securely and effectively each HUD mounts on the dashboard and whether its positioning is optimal for viewing without obstructing the driver’s line of sight.
Performance and Functionality Testing:
- Startup and Shutdown Times: We measure how quickly each HUD boots up and begins displaying data after the car is started, and how promptly it shuts down after the engine is turned off.
- Data Accuracy and Reliability: We compare the data displayed by the OBD2 HUD with the car’s instrument cluster and, when possible, with professional diagnostic tools to verify accuracy and consistency.
- Display Quality and Visibility: We assess the sharpness, brightness, and clarity of the display in various lighting conditions, including bright sunlight, overcast days, and nighttime driving. We evaluate how well the display remains visible and readable under different ambient light levels.
- User Interface and Controls: We thoroughly test the user interface, menu navigation, and control buttons. We evaluate ease of use, intuitiveness, and responsiveness of the controls when adjusting settings and accessing different features.
- On-Road Testing: The core of our testing involves extensive real-world driving. We use each HUD during typical driving scenarios, including city streets, highways, and varying traffic conditions. We assess:
- Data Readability While Driving: How easily and quickly can the driver read and interpret the displayed information at a glance while driving?
- Distraction Level: Does the HUD distract the driver or contribute to a safer and more informed driving experience?
- Performance in Different Driving Conditions: How well does the HUD perform during acceleration, deceleration, and steady-state driving?
- Special Features Testing: We test any unique or advanced features, such as smartphone integration, navigation prompts, performance timers, and alarms, evaluating their functionality and practicality in real-world use.
By combining detailed bench testing with thorough on-road evaluations, we aim to provide a comprehensive and reliable assessment of each OBD2 car head-up display, helping you choose the best option to enhance your driving experience and safety.
