Car head-up displays (HUDs) might seem like a futuristic luxury, but they’re rapidly becoming an essential accessory for modern drivers. Imagine accessing crucial driving information without ever taking your eyes off the road. That’s the power of a HUD. Specifically, OBD2 HUDs leverage your car’s onboard diagnostics system to project real-time data directly into your line of sight. If you’re looking to enhance safety, convenience, and driving engagement, exploring the Best Obd2 Hud options is a smart move.
We’ve rigorously tested a range of car head-up displays to cut through the noise and bring you the top OBD2 HUDs available today. Whether you’re seeking comprehensive vehicle data, smartphone integration, or simply a safer and more informed driving experience, our guide will help you find the perfect heads-up display to meet your needs and elevate your time behind the wheel.
Top OBD2 Head-Up Displays You Can Buy Now
Image: The Hudway Drive OBD2 HUD displaying clear information on its projection screen.
1. Hudway Drive
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
Reasons to Buy:
- Integrated Projection Screen: Offers a clear and focused display, eliminating windshield reflection issues common with some HUDs.
- OBD & Smartphone Integration: Combines data from your car’s OBD2 port, GPS, and smartphone for a rich information display.
- User-Friendly Display: Information is presented clearly and is easy to read at a glance, minimizing driver distraction.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Size: The Hudway Drive is one of the larger OBD2 HUD units, which might be a concern for some dashboards.
- Price: At a higher price point, it represents a significant investment in driving technology.
The Hudway Drive stands out as a premium OBD2 HUD that delivers a comprehensive suite of features. It seamlessly blends data streams from your vehicle’s OBD2 system, GPS satellites, and your smartphone, presenting a wealth of information right in your field of vision. While it doesn’t incorporate Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, its ability to display everything from speed and RPM to turn-by-turn navigation directions makes it exceptionally useful.
The price tag of $279 positions the Hudway Drive at the higher end of the OBD2 HUD market. However, the breadth of data it offers and the clarity of its display arguably justify the cost for drivers seeking top-tier performance and features. The unit’s larger size is a trade-off for its integrated projection screen and extensive functionality, but it’s crucial to ensure it fits comfortably on your dashboard without obstructing your view.
Read our full Hudway Drive review
Image: The Pyle PHUD180BD showcasing its bright and informative display on a car dashboard.
2. Pyle PHUD180BD
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
Reasons to Buy:
- Self-Contained Screen: Similar to Hudway Drive, it offers a dedicated screen for clear projection.
- Extensive Data Readouts: Displays a wide array of vehicle parameters thanks to its OBD2 connectivity.
- Bright Display: Ensures visibility even in bright sunlight conditions, enhancing readability.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Projection Screen Placement: The screen, while beneficial, can potentially obstruct the driver’s line of sight depending on dashboard configuration.
- No Smartphone Integration: Lacks connectivity to smartphones for features like navigation or notifications.
The Pyle PHUD180BD proves that you don’t need to break the bank to get a feature-rich OBD2 HUD. Priced around $67, it packs an impressive amount of functionality into a compact unit. Its 5.5-inch screen is remarkably bright and capable of displaying a substantial amount of vehicle information gleaned from both OBD2 and GPS data.
For drivers seeking a balance of performance and affordability, the Pyle PHUD180BD is a compelling option. It delivers a comprehensive set of readouts, including vital engine metrics and speed, all projected clearly for easy viewing. While it forgoes smartphone integration, its core OBD2 HUD capabilities are robust. The screen’s positioning requires consideration to avoid any obstruction, but for its price, the Pyle PHUD180BD offers exceptional value.
Read our full Pyle PHUD180OBD review
Image: The Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS HUD demonstrating its data-rich and visually appealing display.
3. Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS
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
Reasons to Buy:
- Dedicated Projection Screen: Projects information onto its own screen for optimal clarity.
- OBD and GPS Data Integration: Combines data from both sources for a broader range of displayed information.
- Fold-Down Screen Design: Allows the screen to be tucked away when not in use, maintaining a clear view.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Lack of Smartphone Integration: Does not connect to smartphones for advanced features.
- No Navigation Features: Limited to vehicle data and lacks turn-by-turn navigation capabilities.
The Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS HUD caters to drivers who crave detailed vehicle data. This unit excels at presenting a wealth of information in a visually appealing format. It’s particularly attractive to car enthusiasts and “gear-heads” who want access to parameters not typically displayed on a standard dashboard, such as air-to-fuel ratio and turbocharger pressure.
For around $56, the Wiiyii C1 offers a compelling package. It boasts a self-contained projection screen, OBD2 fault code scanning and alerts, and a comprehensive array of vehicle metrics. While it lacks smartphone integration and navigation, its focus on in-depth vehicle data and its affordability make it a strong contender for drivers prioritizing performance information.
Read our full Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS review
Image: The Akabane A500 OBD2 HUD showcasing its direct view display and variety of parameters.
4. Akabane A500
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
Reasons to Buy:
- OBD and GPS Data Combined: Integrates both data sources for a richer driving information display.
- Direct View Display: Projects directly onto the windshield for a streamlined appearance.
- Extensive Parameter Display: Capable of showing a vast amount of vehicle data, catering to detailed monitoring.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Bulky Design: The unit’s design is described as somewhat large and less refined in appearance.
- Potential View Obstruction: Its size and placement could potentially impede the driver’s view.
- Complex Menu System: Navigating the interface and settings might be less intuitive for some users.
The Akabane A500 OBD2 HUD is a powerhouse of information, offering a wide range of capabilities beyond basic data display. It combines OBD2 and GPS data and stands out with its performance testing features, allowing users to measure braking and acceleration times. This feature is particularly appealing to performance-oriented drivers interested in tracking their vehicle’s capabilities.
Despite a potentially less refined design and a slightly complex menu, the Akabane A500 delivers significant value. Its ability to display a wealth of data and perform performance tests, coupled with its OBD2 connectivity for fault detection, makes it a versatile and functional OBD2 HUD, especially considering its affordable price point.
Read our full Akabane A500 review
Image: The Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter OBD2 HUD displaying tilt and roll angles, designed for off-road driving.
5. Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter
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
Reasons to Buy:
- GPS Data Driven: Relies on GPS for data, ideal for vehicles where OBD2 access might be limited or for specific GPS-based metrics.
- Tilt and Roll Sensors: Provides unique data points for off-roading, displaying vehicle tilt and roll angles.
- Direct View Display: Projects directly onto the windshield, maintaining a clean dashboard aesthetic.
- USB Power Ports: Integrated USB ports on the power adapter offer convenient charging for other devices.
Reasons to Avoid:
- No OBD2 Data: Lacks OBD2 connectivity, limiting its ability to display engine and vehicle system data.
- Tall Design: The taller form factor might obstruct the view for some drivers, depending on dashboard placement.
- No Smartphone Integration: Does not offer connectivity to smartphones.
The Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter OBD2 HUD takes a different approach, focusing on GPS data and specialized metrics for off-road enthusiasts. Its standout feature is the inclusion of tilt and roll sensors, which are invaluable for off-road driving, providing real-time feedback on vehicle angles to prevent rollovers.
While it doesn’t tap into OBD2 data, making it less comprehensive for general vehicle information, the Autool X95 excels in its niche. Its compact and lightweight design, combined with unique off-roading data and a user-friendly interface, makes it a suitable choice for drivers who venture off the paved roads. The inclusion of USB power ports is a practical bonus for charging devices on the go.
Read our full Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter review
What to Consider When Choosing an OBD2 HUD
When selecting the best OBD2 HUD for your vehicle, several key factors come into play. Understanding these aspects will ensure you choose a device that meets your needs and enhances your driving experience.
Data Display and Integration:
The primary function of an OBD2 HUD is to display vehicle data. Consider what information is most important to you. Do you prioritize basic metrics like speed and RPM, or do you want access to more in-depth data such as engine temperature, voltage, fuel consumption, or even turbo boost pressure? Some advanced OBD2 HUDs also integrate GPS data for speed accuracy and features like altitude display. The best OBD2 HUDs offer a customizable display, allowing you to select the parameters you want to see.
Display Type and Clarity:
OBD2 HUDs typically employ two display methods:
- Projector-based with Fold-Down Screen: These HUDs project data onto a dedicated fold-down screen. This method generally offers clearer and brighter images, especially in daylight, and minimizes windshield reflection.
- Windshield Projection (Direct View): These HUDs project directly onto your windshield. While more compact, they can sometimes suffer from washout in bright sunlight and may exhibit reflections.
Consider the typical lighting conditions you drive in and your preference for display clarity when choosing between these types. Color displays are generally preferable as they can present more information effectively and are easier to interpret at a glance.
Installation and Setup:
Fortunately, most OBD2 HUDs are designed for easy installation. They typically plug directly into your car’s OBD2 port, which is usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side. Power is drawn from either the OBD2 port itself or a 12V accessory outlet. Setup usually involves minimal configuration, and many OBD2 HUDs are plug-and-play. Look for units with well-designed cable management to keep your dashboard tidy.
Size and Placement:
The size of the OBD2 HUD unit and its projection screen is a crucial factor. A larger screen can be easier to read, but it can also obstruct your view if poorly positioned. Consider your dashboard layout and the size of the HUD to ensure it sits securely and doesn’t impede your line of sight. Fold-down screens offer the advantage of being stowed away when not needed, preserving a clear view.
Smartphone Integration and Advanced Features:
Some higher-end OBD2 HUDs offer smartphone integration via Bluetooth. This can unlock features like turn-by-turn navigation displayed directly on the HUD, call and message notifications, and even Android Auto or Apple CarPlay mirroring in some cases. If these features are important to you, look for OBD2 HUDs with smartphone connectivity.
Price and Value:
OBD2 HUDs are available across a range of price points. Basic models that display essential data like speed can be found for under $30. Mid-range units offering more features and better display quality typically range from $50 to $100. Premium OBD2 HUDs with advanced features, smartphone integration, and superior display technology can cost upwards of $200. Determine your budget and prioritize the features that are most valuable to you to find the best OBD2 HUD for your money.
OBD2 HUD Testing Methodology
Our recommendations for the best OBD2 HUDs are based on rigorous testing and evaluation. We assess each unit across several key criteria:
Initial Setup and Installation: We evaluate the ease of installation, cable management, and initial setup process. Plug-and-play functionality and clear instructions are highly valued.
Data Accuracy and Display Quality: We verify the accuracy of the displayed data by comparing it to the car’s instrument cluster and, where applicable, GPS data. We assess the brightness, clarity, and readability of the display in various lighting conditions, including bright sunlight and nighttime driving.
User Interface and Controls: We evaluate the intuitiveness of the menu system and the ease of navigating settings. User-friendly controls and logical menu layouts are essential for safe and convenient operation while driving.
Features and Functionality: We test all advertised features, including OBD2 data display, GPS integration, alarms, smartphone connectivity, and any special features like performance testing or off-road data. We assess the effectiveness and reliability of each feature.
Real-World Driving Performance: We conduct extensive road tests in diverse driving conditions to evaluate the HUD’s performance in real-world use. This includes assessing display stability, data refresh rates, and overall usability while driving. We also note any potential distractions or obstructions caused by the HUD unit.
Value for Money: Finally, we consider the price of each OBD2 HUD in relation to its features, performance, and overall quality to determine its value proposition.
OBD2 HUD Cost Considerations
As mentioned earlier, the price of OBD2 HUDs varies significantly. While budget-friendly options under $30 are available, they often compromise on display quality, features, and data accuracy. Investing in a mid-range OBD2 HUD in the $50 to $100 range generally provides a good balance of features and performance for most drivers. For those seeking the most comprehensive features, smartphone integration, and premium display quality, high-end OBD2 HUDs in the $200+ range offer top-tier performance.
Ultimately, the best OBD2 HUD for you will depend on your individual needs, priorities, and budget. By considering the factors outlined in this guide and exploring the top-rated models we’ve reviewed, you can make an informed decision and enhance your driving experience with the benefits of heads-up display technology.
