What is the difference between 2 DIN and 1 DIN?

What is a car radio DIN size?

DIN is the standard radio opening size in cars. DIN stands for “Deutsche Industrie Norm” which translates to German Industry Standard [1]. There are two common DIN sizes for car radios:

1) 1 DIN – Measures 2″ x 7″
2) 2 DIN – Measures 4″ x 7″

The DIN standard allows car radios to be interchangeable between vehicles. As long as the dashboard opening matches the radio’s DIN size, it can be installed.

1 DIN Radios

1 DIN car radios refer to radios that are designed to fit into a single DIN slot in a vehicle’s dashboard. 1 DIN is the smaller of the two standard radio sizes, measuring approximately 2 inches (50mm) in height by 7 inches (178mm) in width. These radios are designed to fit into a single DIN slot opening in a vehicle’s dashboard.

1 DIN car radios typically have a simple layout and more limited features compared to larger 2 DIN models. Their compact 2-inch height restricts the size of the display and controls. 1 DIN models usually have a simple LCD display or single line of information, and a basic button or knob control layout. Given their size constraints, they offer reduced sound customization options and fewer advanced entertainment features.

However, 1 DIN radios provide an affordable and straightforward audio upgrade over factory radios. They are a popular choice for classic cars or other vehicles with a single DIN radio slot. Their classic look with modern digital media compatibility can enhance the audio experience while retaining a factory aesthetic.

2 DIN Radios

2 DIN refers to radios that are approximately 4 inches high and 7 inches wide. This is double the height compared to traditional 1 DIN radios, which allows 2 DIN units to accommodate larger displays, touchscreens, and physical buttons for more features and controls. The 2 DIN form factor became common in the 1990s as screens, GPS, multimedia playback, and other advanced functionality were integrated into car stereos. Today, 2 DIN is the most popular radio size for aftermarket car audio upgrades.

Some key features and specs associated with 2 DIN stereos include:

Around 4 inches high by 7 inches wide

Double the height of 1 DIN units
Larger LCD or touchscreen displays, typically 6.2″ or larger
More physical buttons and controls

Extra room for components leads to better sound quality
Features like Bluetooth, GPS navigation, DVD playback, etc.
Compatible with rearview camera add-ons

The spacious 2 DIN chassis provides ample room for all the hardware needed for modern multimedia and smartphone integration features. Most new aftermarket car stereos utilize the 2 DIN form factor to accommodate large touchscreens and the latest tech and connectivity options.

Key differences

The key difference between 1 DIN and 2 DIN car stereos is the height. 1 DIN units are 2 inches tall, while 2 DIN units are twice the height at 4 inches tall. This doubling in height for 2 DIN units allows for some key advantages:

Larger screens – 2 DIN stereos have room for larger, higher resolution touchscreens. This allows for easier navigation and viewing album artwork. According to Double-DIN Car Stereos, 1 DIN units are limited to small screens or minimal interfaces without a screen.

More physical buttons and controls – The extra height also provides more space for physical buttons, knobs, and other manual controls for adjusting settings and navigating menus. 1 DIN stereos have a condensed interface.

Advanced features – With more space to work with, 2 DIN units can accommodate more advanced features like integrated navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, DVD playback, and more. 1 DIN stereos have fewer options for add-on features and capabilities.

Display size

One of the main differences between 1 DIN and 2 DIN car stereos is the display size. 1 DIN stereos have a height of 2 inches, which typically only allows for a single line text display or a very small screen. The limited height makes it difficult to incorporate a large, high-resolution display (Crutchfield). On the other hand, 2 DIN stereos have double the height at 4 inches tall. This increased height can easily accommodate a large, touchscreen display. While 1 DIN units may have a display size of 1-2 inches, 2 DIN stereos often have display sizes of 6 or more inches. The bigger screen size allows 2 DIN units to show off graphical interfaces, animated menus, visualization, and even video playback. If having a large, interactive touchscreen display is a priority, a 2 DIN stereo is likely the better choice (Dual).

Controls

One of the main differences between 1 DIN and 2 DIN car stereos is the amount of physical controls and buttons they offer. 1 DIN stereos have a very compact form factor, which severely limits the number of buttons and interfaces they can accommodate.

Typically, 1 DIN stereos will just have basic controls for volume, tuning, play/pause, and maybe a few preset buttons. The small size makes it hard to fit knobs, screens, or advanced interfaces.

In contrast, 2 DIN stereos have a larger double-height body, which provides ample space for more robust physical controls. It’s common for 2 DIN units to incorporate large rotary knobs, touch screens, and a wider array of buttons for accessing various features and menus. The bigger chassis allows for a more full-featured interface with greater usability and flexibility.

For example, the Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX 2 DIN receiver packs a large LCD touchscreen and multiple knobs and buttons for playback controls, while still leaving room for climate and other special function keys. Such extensive controls would not be possible on a 1 DIN chassis.

So for those wanting advanced controls and interfaces like touchscreens, 2 DIN is the way to go. But 1 DIN units can still deliver basic stereo functionality in a compact form factor.

Sound quality

Overall, 2 DIN radios often have the capability for better sound quality compared to 1 DIN radios. With their larger size, 2 DIN units frequently offer more advanced audio processing capabilities, potentially resulting in enhanced sound quality compared to smaller 1 DIN stereos.

For example, many 2 DIN radios allow finer tuning of equalization settings across various frequency ranges. They may also include multi-band equalizers or digital signal processing for richer, more precisely controlled audio. Additionally, 2 DIN units can accommodate larger amplifiers and circuitry, supporting louder volumes with less distortion.

However, 1 DIN stereos can still produce decent sound quality if chosen carefully. Models from high-end brands often pack impressive audio performance into the smaller chassis. While 1 DIN units won’t have the expansive tuning options of 2 DIN, they can provide clear, robust sound for an enjoyable listening experience.

Overall, 2 DIN tends to provide an edge in potential sound quality due to more advanced audio capabilities. But discerning buyers can find 1 DIN radios that offer very satisfying audio performance despite the smaller size.

Features

2 DIN car stereos have space for advanced features that 1 DIN models lack, due to their larger size. A 2 DIN head unit can accommodate a large touchscreen, navigation, DVD player, Bluetooth connectivity, and more multimedia options (Crutchfield). The extra space allows for additional physical buttons and dials compared to a 1 DIN unit. This gives greater control and access to features while driving.

In contrast, 1 DIN stereos have a smaller footprint, which restricts the features they can offer. They usually provide basic radio and media playback functions. While 1 DIN units may include Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, they lack the space for most other bells and whistles you get with 2 DIN. If advanced technology features are a priority in your new car stereo, 2 DIN models are the way to go.

Cost

2 DIN radios tend to be significantly more expensive than 1 DIN models. This is because 2 DIN units have larger displays and more advanced features that cost more to manufacture. Many entry-level 1 DIN stereos can be purchased for under $100, while most 2 DIN units start around $200 and can go up past $1000 for high-end models. For example, a basic 1 DIN stereo from Pioneer or Kenwood can be found for around $50-75, while their 2 DIN counterparts with touchscreens and smartphone connectivity start around $300

If you’re on a tight budget but want a new car stereo, a 1 DIN model is likely the better choice. There are quality head units available at very affordable prices. However, if you want a large touchscreen, navigation, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay capabilities, or more audio power and features, the extra cost of a 2 DIN stereo may be worthwhile.

Choosing what’s right for you

When deciding between 1 DIN and 2 DIN car stereos, it’s important to consider your features and budget needs. 1 DIN radios tend to be more affordable, while 2 DIN models offer more features like touchscreens and navigation^[1]. However, 1 DIN stereos still provide the essential functions like AM/FM radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration.

You’ll also want to think about size constraints and aesthetics^[2]. Double-DIN stereos take up twice the vertical space of single-DIN. So double-DIN may not fit well in vehicles with limited dash space. Some vehicles come equipped with 1 DIN radios, so installing a double-DIN requires extra modification. Visually, a large 2 DIN screen could disrupt the aesthetics and clean lines of certain vehicle interiors.

Overall, if you want advanced multimedia features and don’t mind sacrificing space, 2 DIN is a great option. But for simple functions in a compact size, 1 DIN gets the job done. Consider your needs and preferences to choose what’s right for your vehicle.

^[1] https://www.crutchfield.com/learn/single-din-vs-double-din.html
^[2] https://knowhow.napaonline.com/single-din-vs-double-din-which-car-stereo-is-right-for-you/