9 best on-board computers

An onboard computer becomes an integral part of a modern car. The task of this device is to monitor the state of the most important units and assemblies of the vehicle, to inform the driver about the distance traveled, etc. The integration of the device is carried out in the on-board car network, using a special bus, it is connected to various sensors. The removed information can be displayed on the LCD display or on the screen of the smartphone. Many automakers these days pack cars on the factory conveyor with these useful devices. And owners of cars without a computer have to independently search for and connect diagnostic devices. Experts advise to pay attention to a few points when choosing.

How to choose an on-board computer

1. Device design. Today in the market of automobile accessories it is possible to meet several options of on-board computers.
2. Embedded models embedded in the instrument panel, turning into a regular diagnostic device. But this requires a suitable niche. In addition, there should be a diagnostic connector.
3. Instruments with own body and mount designed for installation on the dashboard or windshield. When choosing such a device, it is important to pay attention to its dimensions, so that the overview of the road situation does not deteriorate.
4. Unnoticed by the others, BC has its own display. It transmits information about the status of the vehicle’s systems to a smartphone, which is especially convenient for the younger generation.
5. Monitored Parameters. On-board computers have a lot in common, showing the most important parameters of the car and movement data.
6. Travel information can be very useful. BC shows travel time, speed, distance, fuel consumption, condition of the roadway, temperature overboard, etc.
7. Computers all know about the work of the main systems of the machine. For example, they show the temperature of the coolant, the load on the engine, the rotational speed of the crankshaft, the pressure in the pipelines, etc.
8. The device promptly signals a malfunction. Some models have options such as storing and resetting errors.
9. Ability to connect external devices. A useful BC option is integration with other external devices. A typical example is the connection to the sensors of parking sensors. Thanks to the joint operation of devices, it is easier for the driver to park in cramped conditions.

We selected 9 best on-board computers for review. All of them are sold in stores in our country. In compiling the rating, the opinion of experts and reviews of motorists were taken into account.

Top onboard computer rating

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
The best embedded on-board computer	1	Multitronics C-900	10 020 ₽
	2	Multitronics TC-750	6 890 ₽
	3	Multitronics CL-590	4 520 ₽
	4	ORION BK-135	6 250 ₽
	5	State GRANTA X-1 (State X1-G)	1 350 ₽
The best onboard computers for installation on the dashboard or windshield	1	Multitronics VC730	5 110 ₽
	2	Prestige V-55-CAN (RGB)	6 340 ₽
	3	Orion BK-130	5 550 ₽
The best on-board computer without its own display	1	Multitronics MPC-800	4 950 ₽

The best embedded on-board computer

Onboard computers built-in type look organically on the dashboard of the car.Some devices are exactly in place of the radio, other models are mounted in the ventilation holes. Optimally buy specialized BC for a specific model of car. Experts have chosen some interesting devices.

Multitronics C-900

Rating: 4.9

The universal on-board computer that can be gently embedded in the dashboard is the Multitronics C-900 model. Domestic development differs overall dimensions, because of what it is better suited for large machines. Experts mark large buttons, it is convenient to use them for motorists with different sizes of fingers. All information is clearly visible on the color display. In addition to a set of standard options, the computer allows you to connect parking sensors, read errors and temperature in the automatic transmission or variator. The device can work with vehicles running on gas, showing the exact consumption of blue fuel.

The model takes the first place in our rating for multi-functionality and reliability. The only disadvantage of the onboard computer is the high price.

Multitronics TC-750

Rating: 4.8

The onboard computer Multitronics TC-750 boasts a wide range of applications. It is suitable for cars with diesel or injection engines, for all domestic cars and many foreign cars. The device is able to show the main operating parameters of the engine, fuel consumption, battery voltage, movement speed, etc. through the display. The device is programmable, you can set a reminder to change the oil, set the fan to turn on at a certain engine temperature. The on-board computer accurately monitors the condition of the road, promptly notifying the driver of the icy conditions.

Experts gave the device the second place rating for ease of connection, reliability and durability. Motorists didn’t like the power buttons.

Multitronics CL-590

Rating: 4.7

An unusual view has an onboard computer Multitronics CL-590. It can be installed in place of a round vent (interior airflow) or embedded in the overhead console. The manufacturer has provided the ability to program the device by making a reminder about the maintenance or extension of the insurance policy. Unlike the C family, the CL modification does not have a voice guidance function. The device determines in some models the auto oil temperature in the automatic transmission. The onboard computer firmware is updated when connected to a stationary device via a USB connector. The model takes the third place in our rating.

Car owners flatteringly speak about such qualities of the device as rich functionality and the possibility of programming. Difficulties arise only with the connection.

ORION BK-135

Rating: 4.6

Experts included the device ORION BK-135 in our rating not by chance. The on-board computer stands out from the competition with its slim case, thanks to which there will be a place for installation in any car. The graphic display also looks cool, so the device will fit into the most sophisticated interior. The manufacturer has worked well on the functionality of its product. Up to 6 parameters can be immediately displayed on the screen, the owner of the car can also choose the color of the backlight to his liking. To upgrade the software has a USB connector.

Motorists praise the device for information content, the thinnest body, intuitive menu and easy maintenance. As for the drawbacks, users most often complain about problematic connection and high energy consumption.

State GRANTA X-1 (State X1-G)

Rating: 4.5

It looks modestly enough in comparison with the leaders of the rating in terms of functionality of the device State GRANTA X-1. It is designed to work in cars of domestic production (Chevrolet NIVA and VAZ). The on-board computer monitors such an important indicator as the engine temperature. Mount it into the instrument panel can be within 5-10 minutes, while the device does not spoil the interior of the cabin. A useful option is the ability to adjust the fan on temperature. Forgetful drivers will need a warning about burning dimensions when the ignition is turned off.

Motorists have appreciated the affordable price and ease of installation of the device. The disadvantages include non-informative monitor and the need to decrypt error codes.

The best onboard computers for installation on the dashboard or windshield

It is very easy to install and remove on-board computers with a mount. They can be mounted to the instrument panel or the windshield, the application is not limited to automobiles (mototechnics, watercrafts). Experts liked the work of the following devices.

Multitronics VC730

Rating: 4.9

Trip Computer Multitronics VC730 is equipped with a mount to the windshield. This modern device is equipped with a 2.4-inch color display. Experts noted the 32-bit processor, as well as improved software. The manufacturer completed the product with a mini USB port for software updates. The device supports many protocols, which makes it possible to connect to different brands of cars. Of the useful features should be noted econometric, dimensions, countdown. It is allowed to connect 2 parking radars to the onboard computer.

The model becomes the winner of our rating for multi-functionality, the choice of color backlight, easy connection. The disadvantages of motorists include the lack of voice accompaniment.

Prestige V-55-CAN (RGB)

Rating: 4.8

A continuation of the on-board computer Prestige V-55-CAN was a modification with an RGB display. The device is additionally equipped with voice guidance, with its help the driver learns about the dangers on the road or malfunctions in the car. The device is intended for installation on trucks and passenger cars. First of all, experts advise the car computer owners UAZ and VAZ. It can be attached to the front panel or to the windshield. It is allowed to connect external devices to the device, which expands the functionality. A motorist can independently program a computer and update software.

The model takes the second place in the rating for the flexibility of settings, user-friendly interface and speech synthesizer. Among the shortcomings, users call unreliable fastening.

Orion BK-130

Rating: 4.7

To conduct operational control of the main units of the vehicle allows the onboard computer BK-130. The device is suitable for any brand of car, it supports most modern protocols, provides the ability to connect the device to the sensors. You can install the computer in any suitable place in the cabin, the model is easy to install and connect to the onboard network. The manufacturer has taken care of comfortable information display, for this there is a color selection setting. It is also allowed to change the orientation of the display so that the control buttons are convenient for the driver.

The experts gave the product the third place in the rating due to frequent failures in software.Periodically, the device turns off spontaneously, it can also turn on itself when the car is parked.

The best on-board computer without its own display

Many car owners always have a smartphone with them. In this case, it makes sense to purchase an onboard computer without its own display. All information from the device will be transmitted to a mobile phone. Of particular interest among professionals caused one device.

Multitronics MPC-800

Rating: 4.8

Owners of smartphones based on Android do not have to purchase expensive on-board computers with a display. The Multitronics MPC-800 model supports the SSP profile that is used by the mobile application. The device communicates with the phone via Bluetooth, transmitting all information about the condition of the car. The device is equipped with a voice module, which is convenient for the driver during heavy traffic in the city. The device is versatile, it can be integrated into the onboard network of most cars. You can connect external devices to the onboard computer.

For multi-functionality and affordable price, Multitronics MPC-800 becomes the winner of our rating. Of the inconvenience drivers say the need to install a stand for a smartphone.

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Attention! This rating is subjective, is not advertising and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you should consult with a specialist.