Car head-up displays (HUDs) might seem like a luxury at first glance, but for those in the know, they are game-changers. As an auto repair expert at obd-de.com, I can tell you that once you experience having crucial driving data projected right in your line of sight, there’s no going back. These devices aren’t just about looking futuristic; they significantly enhance safety by keeping your focus on the road.
The market is flooded with car head-up displays, making it challenging to discern quality from hype. Fortunately, we’ve rigorously tested numerous HUDs to bring you a curated list of the best, focusing particularly on OBD2 compatibility and performance. We’re here to cut through the noise and highlight HUDs that are genuinely worth your investment.
Whether you’re seeking a display that syncs with your smartphone, taps into your car’s onboard diagnostics (OBD2), or ideally, does both, we’ve selected top-tier OBD2 head-up displays available today.
Top OBD2 Head Up Displays on the Market
1. Hudway Drive: The Premium OBD2 HUD Experience
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
Reasons to Buy
- Integrated projection screen for clear visibility
- Combines OBD2 and smartphone data seamlessly
- User-friendly and easy-to-read display
Reasons to Avoid
- Larger footprint than some competitors
- Higher price point
The Hudway Drive stands out as a top-of-the-line OBD2 head-up display, packing in virtually every feature you could desire. It brilliantly merges data from your car’s OBD2 port, GPS, and your smartphone, providing a wealth of information directly in your field of vision. While it doesn’t offer Android Auto or Apple CarPlay integration, its comprehensive feature set more than compensates.
Priced at $279, the Hudway Drive is definitely a premium option. However, the sheer volume of data it delivers, from speed and RPM to turn-by-turn navigation and detailed engine diagnostics via OBD2, justifies the cost. Just be mindful of its size; the unit and its projection screen are substantial and might slightly impinge on your forward view for some drivers.
Read our full Hudway Drive review
2. Pyle PHUD180BD: High-Value OBD2 Data Display
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
Reasons to Buy
- Self-contained screen for crisp visuals
- Excellent array of OBD2 readouts and vehicle data
- Bright and vibrant display
Reasons to Avoid
- Projection screen can be somewhat obstructive
- No smartphone integration
The Pyle PHUD180BD is a powerhouse of information, especially considering its accessible price. This OBD2 head-up display crams an impressive amount of data onto its 5.5-inch screen, delivering exceptional value at around $67. It’s a smart choice for drivers wanting rich OBD2 data combined with GPS functionality without breaking the bank.
Featuring a bright display and capable of showcasing over a dozen vehicle parameters derived from OBD2 and GPS, the Pyle PHUD180BD is a top contender for best value OBD2 HUD. While the projection screen might occasionally be noticeable and it lacks phone integration, its robust OBD2 features and affordability make it a compelling option.
Read our full Pyle PHUD180OBD review
3. Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS: Feature-Rich and Affordable OBD2 HUD
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
Reasons to Buy
- Integrated projection screen for focused viewing
- Utilizes both OBD2 and GPS data for comprehensive info
- Fold-down screen for convenience
Reasons to Avoid
- No smartphone integration capabilities
- Lacks dedicated navigation features
The Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS head-up display is another strong performer that integrates both GPS and OBD2 data. It presents a wealth of vehicle information in an easy-to-digest format. This HUD is particularly appealing to car enthusiasts who crave more data than their standard dashboard provides, offering metrics that gearheads will appreciate, such as air-to-fuel ratio and turbo pressure readings directly from your car’s OBD2 system.
For around $56, the Wiiyii C1 offers significant value. You get a self-contained projection screen, OBD2 fault code scanning and alerts, and a vast array of driving data. While it doesn’t include phone integration or navigation, its OBD2 capabilities and data richness are hard to beat at this price.
Read our full Wiiyii C1 OBD + GPS review
4. Akabane A500: Advanced OBD2 HUD with 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
Reasons to Buy
- Combines OBD2 and GPS data for extensive coverage
- Direct view display for clarity
- Displays a vast number of parameters from OBD2
Reasons to Avoid
- Bulkier design can be visually intrusive
- May slightly obstruct driver’s view
- Interface can be initially complex to navigate
The Akabane A500 OBD2 head-up display distinguishes itself by pairing OBD2 connectivity with GPS and offering features not commonly found in other HUDs. Besides displaying a multitude of vehicle parameters, it includes performance testing capabilities, such as acceleration and braking tests, which are valuable for performance enthusiasts. Want to verify your car’s 0-60 mph time using OBD2 data? The A500 can help, though remember to perform such tests responsibly and safely.
Despite a slightly complex menu system and a 3.5-inch screen that’s not the largest, the Akabane A500 delivers a wealth of useful driving information, including OBD2-driven fault detection. Its affordability further enhances its appeal for those seeking deep OBD2 integration.
Read our full Akabane A500 review
5. Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter: Specialized OBD2 Alternative for Off-Roading
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
Reasons to Buy
- GPS data for reliable positioning
- Integrated sensors for tilt and roll angle display
- Direct view display is always ready
- Accessory adapter includes dual USB power ports
Reasons to Avoid
- Does not access OBD2 data, limiting engine diagnostics
- Taller design may obstruct view for some
- No smartphone integration features
The Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter caters to a different niche: off-road driving. While it doesn’t tap into OBD2 data, it uses GPS and internal sensors to provide crucial information for off-roaders. It displays standard driving data alongside specialized metrics like tilt and roll angles, alerting drivers to potential rollover risks.
For those primarily driving on paved roads and seeking OBD2 engine data, the Autool X95 might not be the first choice due to its lack of OBD2 connectivity. However, for off-road enthusiasts, its tilt and roll sensors, combined with a compact design and user-friendly interface, make it a valuable tool.
Read our full Autool X95 GPS Slope Meter review
Key Features to Consider in an OBD2 Head Up Display
As highlighted by Tom’s Guide experts who rigorously test car accessories, the best head-up displays present essential vehicle data clearly and concisely, allowing drivers to absorb information at a glance without diverting attention from the road. Standalone OBD2 HUDs often surpass built-in systems in data range, though they typically don’t integrate with in-car entertainment or navigation in the same way.
When selecting an OBD2 head-up display, not all models are created equal. The range of displayed information varies significantly. While some HUDs merely mirror basic dashboard data like speed, superior OBD2 models delve deeper, offering insights into RPM, fuel economy, engine temperature, and even diagnostic trouble codes pulled directly from the OBD2 port.
Many OBD2 HUDs extend beyond basic driving data to include parameters of interest to car enthusiasts. These can range from turbo boost pressure and intake air temperature to battery voltage, all accessible via the OBD2 connection. For off-roaders, some specialized OBD2-compatible HUDs (or those working alongside OBD2 for basic data and GPS/sensors for advanced readings like the Autool X95 as an exception to OBD2 data) can even provide tilt and roll warnings.
The most advanced OBD2 HUDs might also offer smartphone connectivity, displaying turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, and message notifications, enhancing functionality without compromising safety. While true Android Auto or Apple CarPlay integration within aftermarket HUDs is less common, the trend is moving towards greater connectivity.
Display size and type also play crucial roles. Larger screens improve readability but can obstruct vision. Projection-based HUDs, especially those with fold-down screens, offer a balance, projecting a larger virtual image while maintaining clarity and minimizing dashboard clutter. Color displays are highly beneficial, allowing for more information to be presented effectively.
Ease of use is paramount. Intuitive button layouts and menu structures are essential for quickly accessing and customizing displayed data. A single-button interface can become cumbersome for navigating layered menus.
Power and data source are also key considerations. OBD2-connected HUDs draw power and data directly from the OBD2 port, providing rich engine diagnostics and vehicle performance data. GPS-equipped models supplement this with speed, location, and altitude data, and may require a separate power source like a 12V outlet.
Installation of modern OBD2 HUDs is generally straightforward, often taking just minutes. Cable management is usually the most intricate part, but thoughtful designs, like flat cables, simplify hiding wires within dashboard crevices. Most units mount securely on the dashboard using adhesive pads, making them user-friendly for DIY installation.
Cost Considerations for OBD2 Head Up Displays
Entry-level head-up displays start under $20, but these often have limitations like monochrome displays or single-parameter readouts (e.g., speed only). For a more functional OBD2 HUD experience with color displays and multiple data parameters, expect to spend between $30 and $70.
High-end OBD2 head-up displays can exceed $250. These premium units offer advanced features, superior display quality, extensive OBD2 data integration, and connectivity options, justifying the higher price for users seeking top-tier performance and features.
Our Testing Methodology for OBD2 Head Up Displays
Our rigorous testing of OBD2 head-up displays combines garage assessments with real-world driving evaluations. Initial setup and positioning are critical. We ensure each HUD is placed optimally for visibility without obstructing the driver’s view. Cable management, often perceived as daunting, is carefully addressed to ensure clean and secure wiring.
Startup and shutdown times are precisely measured to assess responsiveness. Display quality, sharpness, and interface design are thoroughly evaluated, alongside ease of navigation and customization of settings. We meticulously explore each device’s menu options and settings.
On-road testing is crucial. We assess display performance under varying lighting conditions and during different driving maneuvers to evaluate data refresh rates and real-world usability. We also test specialized features like text message display, inclinometers, and navigation prompts where available.
By combining comprehensive OBD2 data analysis with practical driving tests, we aim to provide you with informed recommendations for selecting the best OBD2 head-up display to enhance your driving experience and safety.
