Finding the Best Portable DVD Player for You
It's never too early to think about the holidays, or yourself. And as the price of electronics continues to drop, the scope of your gift giving widens. To many, portable DVD players seem extraneous, an unnecessary cost but consider the following:- Do you travel frequently by air but are tired of the same old movie rotations?
- Do you require backseat entertainment for kids on road trips?
- Do you have a laptop but would prefer not to waste your battery on a movie?
If any of these questions ring a bell, then a portable DVD player might be just what you were looking for! Small, efficient and now affordable, portable DVD players come in different shapes, sizes and prices. With so many options on the market today, it's a wonder you can even choose the right one! The following buyer's guide has been compiled so the portable DVD player you want finds you!
What's in a Name: Comparing Brands
Much like in the fashion world, certain brand names ring certain bells. For example, you might know the names Philips and Panasonic before Audiovox, but a name does not necessarily equate value or durability. When it comes to choosing and purchasing a portable DVD player, your final decision should not depend on a name. So, where to start? First, it is important that you understand the features you are paying for and which you want or rather do not want.The Features Explained
Screen size
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| LG DP781 |
Cost:
Generally speaking, 7-inch models price around $40-$100, 8- to 10-inch models between $130 and $200, and 12-inch-plus models for $200 or more.
Dealio's Pick:
The 8-inch screen on the LG DP781 delivers high resolution images, convenient swivel and flip capabilities, and a powerful 5 hour battery life.
Dimensions & Weight
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| Zenith DVP615 |
Cost:
The lighter they are the more expensive. Heavier options price out at $130.00.
Dealio's Pick:
The Zenith DVP 615 7-inch widescreen player is a great option and has received rave user-reviews on PCMag.com due to its ease of mobility and durability.
Digital Outputs & Accessories
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| Philips DCP951 |
- S-Video- Determines video quality
- Optical Out- Determines audio quality
- Headphones- How many headphone jacks do you need, will people be sharing one player?
- Head Mounts- Do you want to be able to mount the portable DVD player in a car?
- Power Adapter- Can you charge the portable DVD player in a car?
The right accessories can make the player, so when you are shopping for portable DVD players make sure you understand what exactly you are paying for.
Cost:
Varies.
Dealio's Pick:
The Philips DCP951 has a 9-inch widescreen and includes an iPod docking port that allows you to both play and charge while supporting a variety of file formats.
Media Type
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| iLuv i1155 |
Cost:
Players that play only DVDs will run as low as $35.00, the more features add, the more expensive the players get, some running as high as $250.00.
Dealio's Pick:
At around $200, the iLuv i1155 is the top-rated all-in-one portable DVD player for music, photo and movies. With USB and memory card drives, this portable DVD player takes ingenuity and accessories to a whole new level.
Battery Life
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| Sony DVP FX820 |
Cost:
Varies.
Dealio's Pick:
Sony's DVP-FX820 has a 6-hour long battery that is sure to last you on long flights and long car rides.
Now, armed with information you can take buying to the next level! The following are the 5, best-rated portable DVD players on the market today:
- LG DP781 - This eight-inch widescreen portable DVD player has gotten rave reviews for its excellent resolution and reasonable price.
- Zenith DVP 615 - This seven-inch widescreen portable DVD player is not only lightweight and compact, but also durable which makes it great for kids.
- Philips DCP951 - With a nice nine-inch display, this portable DVD player has a built-in iPod slot for enjoying iPod videos on the same screen
- iLuv i1155 - A touch pad sensitive control system and adjustable stand makes this portable DVD player a new classic
- Sony DVP-FX820 - The eight-inch swivel screen allows for easier viewing and the battery has an estimated six hours of DVD video playback.
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