AndroidAuto/Carplay Options Pros & Cons? Lexion, Hamilton, BeatSonic, Grom, Carputech

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Feb 11, 2026 | 04:13 PM

hks619

Thread Starter

6th Gear

Joined: Feb 2014

Posts: 6

Likes: 2

From: CA

AndroidAuto/Carplay Options Pros & Cons? Lexion, Hamilton, BeatSonic, Grom, Carputech

Recently got a 2020 GS350 with ML and was looking at upgrading to wireless Android Auto. I did do some research, but there are so many options and it's 2026 - maybe there's better tech/options now?

(beating a dead horse I'm sure)

What are the pros and cons to each? From what I've gathered:

- Lexion fast and seems to be a favorite
- Hamilton another favoritebut slow boot up time
- Beat Sonic "old tech"
- Grom not much reviews
- Carputech not much reviews
- Any others??

Any thoughts and input would be appreciated.

Feb 20, 2026 | 02:42 PM

repugnante

Instructor

Joined: May 2011

Posts: 1,013

Likes: 35

From: CA

I have the Hamilton unit. I don't know where you got the slow boot up comments from but I don't have that issue. It's a good unit. No regrets. Backed by an awesome warranty guarantee and they're ALWAYS available. Heard great things about the others as well. Beat Sonic and Grom are both legendary but I highly advise you to do your research and trust your gut on this one.

Feb 23, 2026 | 11:17 AM

fisker55

Driver

Joined: Aug 2021

Posts: 54

Likes: 1

From: MI

I'm considering Android Auto to my 2018 GS. What's a ball park cost for purchase and installation? Do you still have the ability to use the dual screen option after adding it?

Feb 27, 2026 | 03:27 AM

Carputech

Sponsor

Joined: Jan 2024

Posts: 369

Likes: 35

From: SantaClara, California,US

Quote:

Originally Posted by hks619

Recently got a 2020 GS350 with ML and was looking at upgrading to wireless Android Auto. I did do some research, but there are so many options and it's 2026 - maybe there's better tech/options now?

Hi, our carplay module and Carplay Linux screen boots up in 5 seconds.
You can learn more about our Linux carplay system here:

__________________
Carputech is a manufacturer dedicated to providing OEM factory-integrated navigation systems(Carplay Upgrade Modules), and Tesla-Style Android Screens for various vehicle brands.
Web : www.carputech.com E-mail : support@Carputech.com
Welcome any inquires. Thank you.

Feb 27, 2026 | 03:32 AM

Carputech

Sponsor

Joined: Jan 2024

Posts: 369

Likes: 35

From: SantaClara, California,US

For the 2020 GS350 with ML, we recommend our OEM Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Upgrade Module for Lexus GS 2012-2020. This provides a full-screen display on the 2020 GS, using the original car's sound quality, perfectly retaining and being compatible with the original car system.

Apr 2, 2026 | 01:13 PM

Velizar

2nd gear

Joined: Apr 2023

Posts: 2

Likes: 1

From: Glattbrugg

Lexion LX10s

This is the second time I have used Lexion products.First time it was android system for my lexus es,and it was great.Now i am using linux system for my lexus gs450h.And i can say linux is even better than android...Installation is quick and easy, the system is very quick.Bluetooth stereo work great with Mark Levinson.Rear camera,Android auto,everything work really fine...The support is great.I can only recommend it...

Apr 3, 2026 | 08:22 AM

titaniumwombat

Driver School Candidate

Joined: Mar 2025

Posts: 21

Likes: 7

I researched the options for months and went with Hamilton for my 2013. Wasn't cheap, but I'm very satisfied with my purchase.

- Includes an entirely new high resolution screen as well as the brain.
- Install was straightforward and well documented.
- Support is US-based and has been super quick and responsive for every bump I hit.

TRD Off-Road Premium: Best 2026 4Runner, Except This One Thing

Michael S. Palmer

Top 10 Lexus & Toyotas to Drive Before You Die!

Joe Kucinski

Top 10 Lexus/Toyotas With The LEAST 5-Year Depreciation

Joe Kucinski

Lexus LC500 Convertible Auction: A Preview of Rising Values?

Brett Foote

GX 550 vs TX 550: Best 3-Row Luxury Lexus Family Hauler

Michael S. Palmer

9 Best Lexus Models You Can Buy for Half Price (And 1 You Shouldn't!)

Joe Kucinski

2026 Lexus NX Buyer's Guide: Models, Features, Prices & More!

Brett Foote

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a Lexus TX 550h+ (& 3 Reasons to AVOID!)

Michael S. Palmer

Top 10 Lexus & Toyota Models of the 1990s RANKED!

Joe Kucinski

10 Great Toyotas That Could Have Been Lexus Models

Joe Kucinski

Apr 8, 2026 | 07:39 AM

puyashad

3rd Gear

Joined: Apr 2026

Posts: 3

Likes: 1

@titaniumwombat Would you please provide an update after some time and let us know if you’re still satisfied?

Last edited by puyashad; Apr 8, 2026 at 07:41 AM.

Apr 10, 2026 | 07:54 AM

#10

mryeh17

Pit Crew

Joined: Sep 2014

Posts: 105

Likes: 21

From: TX

I installed the Carputech module back in August, fairly straightforward using youtube videos. The module means I still have the split screen which I like so I can keep the climate controls on the smaller window. The order confirmation email got caught in my junk mail filter but contacting Carputech via Whatsapp got the issue resolved within 12 hours which I consider responsive.

Overall I love the functionality, Carplay comes up before I'm done backing out of the garage, well integrated with the mouse. There's about a half-second delay when clicking music controls (pause, skip, etc) but that's easy to get used to.

The one issue I've encountered is that about every 6 months Carplay won't connect. I'm not sure whether it has to do with my iPhone 12 or with the Carputech unit, once I forget and reconnect the Carputech unit it works just fine. I should probably check if there's a software update and to be fair I haven't raised the issue to Carputech

Apr 10, 2026 | 09:47 AM

#11

Lxsdrvr

Rookie

Joined: Mar 2022

Posts: 49

Likes: 22

From: NC

I have had the Hamilton unit installed in my 2016 for a little over a year and it's been great most of the time. My one complaint is the boot up time is a bit slow. Generally it's not an issue and Carplay will be running before I leave the driveway, but it's a little annoying waiting for it to boot up after shutting the car off for a few minutes to get gas. I had one issue during installation with the supplied documentation, but updated information was available on the website. I also had an issue with outdated firmware causing the unit not to work properly with the car's light sensor, but that was resolved by customer service. I would buy again.

Apr 11, 2026 | 06:35 PM

#12

locke

1st Gear

Joined: Mar 2026

Posts: 1

Likes: 0

When you did the hamilton upgrade did you go with the full conversion kit or just the upgrade. If you went the full conversion how happy are you with where the screen ends up being placed. Thats my one real hang up with doing the hamilton kit is where the screen is located. If its not moved closer its going to be out easy reach and thats a no go for me.

Apr 12, 2026 | 04:27 AM

#13

Lxsdrvr

Rookie

Joined: Mar 2022

Posts: 49

Likes: 22

From: NC

Quote:

Originally Posted by locke

I did the full screen replacement. Even though the factory location of the screen was obviously not designed for a touchscreen, I find it handy to have for adjusting settings while not driving. I use Carplay exclusively while driving and find the streering wheel controls and joystick good enough even though I'd prefer to use the touchscreen.

Apr 12, 2026 | 04:04 PM

#14

colefl2000

1st Gear

Joined: Apr 2022

Posts: 1

Likes: 0

From: IL

I Tried This

I have the Hamilton set up. it does boot up slow but works great. Figuerd this is better than buying new RX. I have 2021 RX. I have a 2021 RX FSPORT Besides I'm not giving up my V6 for a turbo 4 !!!!
t

Quote:

Originally Posted by hks619

Recently got a 2020 GS350 with ML and was looking at upgrading to wireless Android Auto. I did do some research, but there are so many options and it's 2026 - maybe there's better tech/options now?