As a car repair expert at obd-de.com, I’ve seen firsthand how technology can transform the driving experience. One gadget that’s quickly gaining popularity among car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike is the heads-up display (HUD). While factory-installed HUDs are becoming more common in newer vehicles, the aftermarket offers a fantastic range of options, especially when it comes to OBD2 connectivity. If you’re looking to enhance your car with real-time data projected directly into your line of sight, an OBD2 HUD is the way to go.
Forget about glancing down at your dashboard – the Best Obd2 Heads Up Displays bring vital vehicle information right where you need it most: in front of you. This not only adds a cool, futuristic touch to your car but, more importantly, significantly improves driving safety by keeping your eyes on the road. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? We’ve put in the hours, testing and reviewing various models to bring you a curated list of the best OBD2 HUDs on the market today, focusing on performance, features, and value.
Top OBD2 Heads Up Displays You Can Buy Now
When evaluating OBD2 HUDs, we focus on several key factors: ease of installation, display clarity, the range of data provided, and overall user experience. OBD2 connectivity is paramount, as it unlocks a wealth of real-time vehicle diagnostics and performance metrics. Let’s dive into our top picks, keeping in mind that these devices primarily leverage your car’s On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) port to deliver information.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide) – Hudway Drive displaying navigation and vehicle speed on its projection screen, showcasing its dual functionality and clear visibility.
1. Hudway Drive: The Premium OBD2 HUD with Comprehensive Data
Our Expert Review:
The Hudway Drive stands out as a top-tier OBD2 heads up display, offering a rich feature set and seamless integration. It’s designed for drivers who want it all – OBD2 data, GPS navigation, and smartphone connectivity.
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
- Number of parameters displayed: 11
- Alarms: Yes
Why Choose the Hudway Drive?
- Integrated Projection Screen: The Hudway Drive includes its own projection screen, ensuring optimal visibility in various lighting conditions. This is a significant advantage over HUDs that project directly onto the windshield, which can suffer from washout in bright sunlight.
- OBD2 and Smartphone Data Integration: This HUD excels at combining data from your car’s OBD2 port and your smartphone. Access real-time engine data alongside navigation prompts and call alerts.
- User-Friendly Display: The display is clear, colorful, and easy to read at a glance, presenting up to 11 parameters simultaneously.
Considerations:
- Size: The Hudway Drive is one of the larger units on our list, which might be a concern for smaller dashboards or drivers who prefer a more discreet setup.
- Price: As a premium device, it comes with a higher price tag. However, the comprehensive features and performance justify the investment for those seeking the best OBD2 HUD experience.
The Hudway Drive delivers a wealth of information, from speed and RPM to turn-by-turn directions and engine diagnostics, making it a truly versatile OBD2 heads up display. Its ability to integrate OBD2 and phone data sets it apart, providing a holistic driving information solution.
Read our full Hudway Drive review
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide) – Pyle PHUD180BD showcasing a vibrant and informative display on a car dashboard, emphasizing its data richness and screen brightness.
2. Pyle PHUD180BD: Feature-Packed OBD2 HUD on a Budget
Our Expert Review:
If you’re looking for an OBD2 heads up display that offers excellent value without compromising on features, the Pyle PHUD180BD is a strong contender. It packs a surprising amount of functionality into an affordable package.
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
- Number of parameters displayed: 14
- Alarms: Yes
Why Choose the Pyle PHUD180BD?
- Exceptional Value: The Pyle PHUD180BD offers a remarkable balance of features and affordability, making it one of the best budget-friendly OBD2 HUDs available.
- Extensive OBD2 Data: Despite its price, this HUD displays a wide array of OBD2 data, including speed, RPM, coolant temperature, voltage, fuel consumption, and more – up to 14 parameters.
- Bright and Clear Display: The 5.5-inch color display is bright and easy to read, ensuring information is readily visible even in daylight.
Considerations:
- Projection Screen Design: Like some other models, the projection screen can potentially obstruct the view for some drivers, depending on dashboard placement and driver height.
- No Phone Integration: The Pyle PHUD180BD focuses primarily on OBD2 and GPS data, lacking smartphone integration for calls or navigation.
The Pyle PHUD180BD proves that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a capable OBD2 heads up display. Its comprehensive OBD2 data display and bright screen make it a fantastic option for budget-conscious drivers seeking enhanced vehicle information.
Read our full Pyle PHUD180OBD review
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide) – Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS HUD displaying a range of vehicle parameters on its screen, emphasizing its data-rich interface and compact design.
3. Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS: The Gearhead’s OBD2 Data Powerhouse
Our Expert Review:
For drivers who crave in-depth vehicle performance data, the Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS is an excellent choice. This OBD2 HUD is designed to deliver a wealth of engine metrics, appealing to car enthusiasts and those who want to monitor their vehicle’s health closely.
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
- Number of parameters displayed: 15
- Alarms: Yes
Why Choose the Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS?
- Extensive OBD2 Parameter Support: The Wiiyii C1 excels in displaying a wide range of OBD2 data, including more specialized metrics like air-to-fuel ratio and turbocharger pressure. This makes it ideal for performance monitoring and diagnostics.
- OBD2 Fault Code Scanning: This HUD can scan for and alert you to OBD2 fault codes, providing early warnings of potential vehicle issues.
- Visually Appealing Display: The Wiiyii C1 presents data in a clear and visually engaging format, making it easy to digest a large amount of information at a glance.
Considerations:
- No Phone Integration or Navigation: Similar to the Pyle, the Wiiyii C1 prioritizes OBD2 and GPS data over smartphone features like navigation or calls.
- Smaller Display Size: The 1.8-inch display is smaller compared to some competitors, though it effectively presents a lot of data within that space.
If you’re a “gearhead” or simply someone who wants to deeply understand your car’s performance and health, the Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS is a powerful OBD2 heads up display that provides the data you need.
Read our full Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS review
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide) – Akabane A500 OBD2 HUD directly displaying data on its screen, emphasizing its direct view technology and comprehensive information display.
4. Akabane A500: Direct View OBD2 HUD with Performance Testing
Our Expert Review:
The Akabane A500 offers a different approach to heads-up displays with its direct view screen. Combining OBD2 and GPS data, it also includes unique performance testing features, making it a versatile option for drivers interested in both daily driving data and vehicle performance metrics.
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
- Number of parameters displayed: 60
- Alarms: Yes
Why Choose the Akabane A500?
- Direct View Display: The Akabane A500 uses a direct view screen, meaning the data is displayed directly on the unit itself rather than projected onto a screen or windshield. Some drivers prefer this type of display for its potentially sharper and more consistent visibility.
- OBD2 and GPS Data with Performance Testing: Beyond standard OBD2 and GPS data, the Akabane A500 offers performance testing features like braking and acceleration timers.
- Extensive Parameter Display: This HUD boasts the ability to display a large number of parameters – up to 60, although practically displaying all simultaneously might be overwhelming.
Considerations:
- Design: The design is described as “big and clunky,” and some users may find it less aesthetically pleasing or more obstructive than other sleeker models.
- Interface Complexity: The menu settings can be somewhat confusing, according to reviews, which might require a learning curve for some users.
The Akabane A500 is a feature-rich OBD2 heads up display that stands out with its direct view screen and unique performance testing capabilities. It’s a solid choice for drivers who prioritize data and functionality and are less concerned about sleek design.
Read our full Akabane A500 review
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide) – Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter showing tilt and roll angles on its display, emphasizing its off-road driving focused features and unique data points.
5. Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter: OBD2 Alternative for Off-Road Enthusiasts
Our Expert Review:
While the Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter doesn’t utilize OBD2 data, it deserves a mention for off-road drivers. It focuses on GPS data and internal sensors to provide unique information relevant to off-road driving, such as tilt and roll angles.
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
- Number of parameters displayed: 6
- Alarms: No
Why Choose the Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter?
- Off-Road Focused Features: The Autool X95 is specifically designed for off-road driving, providing tilt and roll angle readings to help drivers navigate challenging terrain safely.
- GPS Data and Sensors: It uses GPS and internal sensors to deliver data, making it functional even in vehicles where OBD2 access might be limited or for drivers who prefer a simpler setup.
- Compact Design: The Autool X95 is small and lightweight, minimizing dashboard clutter.
Considerations:
- No OBD2 Data: This unit does not connect to the OBD2 port and therefore lacks access to engine data and diagnostics.
- Limited Parameter Display: It displays fewer parameters compared to OBD2-centric HUDs, focusing on off-road specific metrics.
For off-road adventurers, the Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter offers valuable information not found in typical OBD2 heads up displays. While it lacks OBD2 connectivity, its specialized features and GPS-based data make it a unique tool for off-road driving.
Read our full Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter review
Key Features to Look For in the Best OBD2 Heads Up Display
Choosing the right OBD2 heads up display depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here are the crucial factors to consider:
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OBD2 Data Parameters: The primary advantage of an OBD2 HUD is access to your car’s computer. Look for models that display the OBD2 parameters that are most important to you. Common parameters include speed, RPM, coolant temperature, voltage, fuel economy, and engine load. More advanced HUDs offer metrics like air-to-fuel ratio, turbo boost, and intake air temperature.
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Display Type and Clarity: Consider the display type – projection onto the windshield, projection onto a dedicated screen, or direct view. Projection screens often offer better visibility, especially in bright conditions. Clarity, brightness, and color display are essential for easy readability at a glance.
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Screen Size and Placement: Screen size impacts readability, but also consider the physical size of the unit and how it will fit on your dashboard without obstructing your view. Think about where you’ll place it and whether the cable will be easily concealed.
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Smartphone Integration: Some OBD2 HUDs offer smartphone integration for navigation, calls, and message alerts. If you want a more connected driving experience, look for models with this feature. Note that some higher-end HUDs even offer Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, mirroring your phone’s interface directly onto the display.
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Ease of Installation and Setup: Most OBD2 HUDs are designed for easy DIY installation. They typically plug into your car’s OBD2 port and require minimal setup. Look for units with clear instructions and user-friendly interfaces.
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Alarms and Warnings: Many OBD2 HUDs offer alarms for parameters like over-speeding, high coolant temperature, or low voltage. These alerts can enhance safety and help you monitor your vehicle’s condition proactively.
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GPS Functionality: Even if you primarily want OBD2 data, built-in GPS can be a valuable addition, providing speed readings (as a backup or for vehicles where OBD2 speed data is inaccurate), altitude, and sometimes even navigation features.
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User Interface and Controls: A user-friendly interface and intuitive controls are important for navigating menus, customizing display settings, and accessing different features. Consider whether the button layout and menu structure are easy to use while driving.
OBD2 Heads Up Display Costs: What to Expect
The price of OBD2 heads up displays varies depending on features and quality.
- Budget Options (Under $30): Entry-level HUDs are available for under $30, but these often have limited features, monochrome displays, or basic functionality, mainly displaying speed.
- Mid-Range (Between $30 and $70): In the $30 to $70 range, you’ll find a wide selection of OBD2 HUDs offering color displays, a broader range of OBD2 parameters, and potentially GPS functionality. The Pyle PHUD180BD and Wiiyii C1 fall into this category, offering excellent value.
- Premium Options (Over $70): Higher-end OBD2 HUDs, like the Hudway Drive, can cost over $70 and offer premium features like smartphone integration, advanced display technology, more comprehensive data, and refined designs.
Investing in a mid-range to premium OBD2 heads up display is generally recommended to ensure a good balance of features, performance, and reliability.
How We Test OBD2 Heads Up Displays
Our testing process for OBD2 heads up displays involves both objective measurements and real-world driving evaluations. As experts at obd-de.com, we understand the importance of accurate OBD2 data and reliable performance. Here’s a glimpse into our testing methodology:
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Installation and Setup: We assess the ease of installation and setup, noting how straightforward it is to connect the HUD to the OBD2 port and configure initial settings. We evaluate the clarity of instructions and the user-friendliness of the interface.
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Data Accuracy and Range: We verify the accuracy of OBD2 data displayed by comparing it to readings from professional OBD2 scanners. We also evaluate the range of OBD2 parameters supported and how reliably the HUD retrieves and displays this data.
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Display Performance: We test display clarity, brightness, and visibility in various lighting conditions, including bright sunlight and nighttime driving. We assess the sharpness of the display, color accuracy, and how easily information can be read at a glance.
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User Experience and Interface: We evaluate the user interface, menu navigation, and control layout. We assess how intuitive and easy it is to customize settings, switch between display modes, and access different features while driving safely.
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Real-World Driving Tests: The core of our testing is conducted on the road. We perform extensive test drives in diverse conditions, evaluating how the HUD performs during daily driving, highway cruising, and city traffic. We assess the stability of the display, how well it keeps up with changing driving conditions, and whether any issues arise during real-world use.
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Special Feature Testing: If a HUD offers special features like smartphone integration, navigation, or performance testing, we thoroughly test these functionalities to assess their effectiveness and reliability.
By combining lab-based assessments with rigorous real-world driving evaluations, we aim to provide comprehensive and trustworthy reviews to help you choose the best OBD2 heads up display for your needs.
Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Drive with an OBD2 Heads Up Display
An OBD2 heads up display is more than just a cool gadget; it’s a practical upgrade that enhances driving safety and provides valuable vehicle information in a convenient format. By keeping crucial data in your line of sight, OBD2 HUDs minimize distractions and allow you to stay informed without taking your eyes off the road.
Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a performance-minded driver, or simply someone looking to improve driving safety and convenience, the best OBD2 heads up display can significantly elevate your driving experience. Explore the options, consider your needs, and choose a model that brings the information you value most right into your field of vision.
