Blu-ray trumps streaming in terms of audio and visual quality every time.

But there are still plenty of reasons to want a Blu-ray and DVD player.

Its possible youve balked at the high prices streaming providers ask, especially when looking for new content.

Tiny PC Hero

And when youre notgetting anything tangibleto call your own, its easy to get nostalgic about old collections.

Besides, now is agreat time to start a new collectionor even continue an old one.

Blu-rays provide superior video and audio quality tostreaming services.

Blu-ray disc in Blu-ray player drive tray

Corbin Davenport / How-To Geek

You also dont need to rely on internet speeds or any internet at all, for that matter.

To begin with, you oughta assess disc compatibility.

Some Blu-ray players are region-locked.

Panasonic DP-UB820-K

Panasonic

This means they are incompatible with any disc from outside the region where you bought it.

see to it your player is not region-locked if you plan on buying discs from outside your country.

You should also consider the formats that the player is compatible with.

Panasonic DP-UB154-K

HDR (or high-dynamic-range) compatibility is another essential consideration.

In a perfect world, all players will support Dolby Vision,HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG.

It is available at a decent midrange price and delivers impeccable image quality with excellent audio.

Panasonic DP-UB9000

It supports4K Ultra HDBlu-rays, standard Blu-rays, 3D Blu-rays, and DVDs.

It will also play any CDs from your collection.

4K Blu-rays look especially incredible when played through the UB820.

Sony UBP-X800M2

It also effectively upscales to 4K, breathing new life into your lower-resolution discs.

With support forDolby Atmosand DTS:X, the audio complements the picture well with a good speaker setup.

A goodsoundbarand surround system will ensure movie night is something the whole family can look forward to.

A NAVISKAUTO Dual Screen Blu-Ray DVD Player with remote.

Another downside is the remote.

Its overcrowded buttons and lack of backlighting make it difficult to use in a dimmed room.

The Panasonic DP-UB820-K offers exceptional 4K image quality, vibrant colors, and striking contrast at a reasonable price.

A Panasonic DP-UB820-K under a giant, vibrant TV screen.

Panasonic

HDR support includes HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG.

Unfortunately, there isno support for Dolby Vision, which may deter some potential buyers.

It also lacks the HCX processor found in pricier Panasonic Blu-ray players.

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The Panasonic DP-UB820-K offers exceptional 4K image quality, vibrant colors, and striking contrast at a reasonable price.

However, the 4K images are fantastic for the price.

However, connectivity options are limited to one HDMI, one USB, and an Ethernet port.

Additionally, the lack of Wi-Fi means that there are no integrated streaming apps or voice control.

A Panasonic DP-UB154-K

Panasonic

The 4K pops out with color and detail.

Even the advanced 4K upscaling ensures low-res DVDs are close to UHD quality.

The DP-UB9000 supports all majorHDR formats, including Dolby Vision and HDR10+.

A Panasonic DP-UB9000 in a dark setting.

Panasonic

But this Blu-ray player excels in more than just picture quality.

The audio is also top-notch with the DP-UB9000.

Audiophiles may be disappointed to learn that the player lacks DVD-Audio and SACD support.

A Sony UBP-X800M2 next to a TV.

Sony

However, less particular music fans can play their CDs just fine.

On top of the 7.1 channel output, there are also a plethora of connectivity options.

This is further enhanced by the steel plate on the disc drive and effective anti-slip pads on the bottom.

A NAVISKAUTO Dual Screen Blu-Ray DVD Player strapped to the back of a car headrest.

NAVISKAUTO

It’s a weighty Blu-ray player, but it can take a bit of abuse.

Its relatively affordable and offers an excellent audiovisual experience.

The UBP-X800M2 supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG video formats.

With dual-band Wi-Fi, the X800 supports 2.4 and 5GHz networks.

This is an improvement on its more affordable predecessor, theSony UBP-X700M, which supported only single-band 2.4GHz.

This tech uses multiple transmitters and receivers to transfer more data simultaneously.

However, its worth noting that, like most DVD players, streaming services are limited.

With the X800, you are restricted to Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube.

Regarding the design, it is very minimalist.

Even the power indicator is so discreet that its almost imperceptible.

However, it has a sturdier construction than previously, with its metal chassis making it more durable.

However, this adds to the weight, making it heavier than its predecessor.

The Sony UBP-X800M2 offers excellent 4K picture quality and high-res audio performance at a reasonable price point.

Despite this, Full HD video does look very good on the displays.

The audio is surprisingly good, too, with dual stereo speakers loud enough to go headphone-free.

At the same time, their front-facing design helps to avoid disturbing passengers in the front.

This ensures even the longest road trip can be filled with the joys of Pixar and Disney’s finest.

The NAVISKAUTO Dual Screen Blu-Ray DVD Player is an excellent entertainment solution for family road trips.

It features two 10.1-inch Full HD screens, good audio quality, and a car-friendly design.

FAQ

Can a Blu-ray player play DVDs?

Yes, Blu-ray players are backward compatible, so you could watch DVDs on them.

Can a Blu-ray player play CDs?

There shouldnt be any problems playing CDs on a Blu-ray player.

Most of them are designed to play at least Blu-ray, DVD, and CD formats.

Check for compatibility beforehand if this is the case.

Can gaming consoles play Blu-rays?

If so, which ones?

you’re free to play Blu-rays on some gaming consoles.

Certain next-gen systems support 4K Ultra HD Blu-rays, such as the standard PS5 and the Xbox One X.

The PS3, PS4, and PS4 Pro, and the original Xbox One support standard Blu-rays only.

Are Blu-rays better than streaming?

There are pros and cons, so it depends on the individual.

Blu-rays offer a superior audio and visual experience, especially when watching in 4K.

They also support advanced audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS.

In fact, streaming eliminates the need for storage space anywhere other than your gadget or the cloud.

you might watch media on any gear you choose from anywhere you are.

But many people prefer their physical collections and enjoy the space they consume.