Buying Guide: Portable DVD Player

Planes, trains, and automobiles; the trips you take may be long, but don't have to boring! You don't have to let the next road trip or camping excursion ruin the opportunity for some entertainment along the way, especially when you can take your favorite movies and DVDs along with you. A portable DVD player is the perfect addition for the person on the go, as well as a much-needed companion for long road trip travels. A portable DVD players offer the advantages of convenient sizes, high screen resolutions, and may even double as a CD player. With surround sound functions and crystal clear viewing areas, you can enjoy home entertainment even on the road, flight, or long trip away from home. Today's options and accessories also offer the addition of surround sound capabilities, and a long battery life that ensures maximum utility.

When searching for the best DVD player to suit your needs, you'll need to keep in mind the following key features:

Dimensions
The majority of DVD players weigh just under 2lbs, but models such as the Toshiba can weigh between 3-4 lbs. Look for heavy-duty cases in aluminum to reduce the chances of wear and tear on the road.

Screen and Resolution
Most portable DVD players are available in sizes from 7" to 9" screens, in an LCD screen format. LCD screens are great for durability and long-term use.

Formats Supported
Look for CD R-W compatibility to watch your home-made movies, as well as CD player options. Also look for add-ons such as A/V inputs that allow camcorder and digital viewer watching in addition to regular DVDs.

Battery Options
Look for a rechargeable, removable battery for the easiest battery options.

Surround Sound Capabilities
Dolby Digital Sound is a great feature of many portable DVD players, providing high quality digital resonance with clear sound delivery on headphones..

Price
High-quality portable DVD players can range from under $200-$400+. The average price will range from $200-$300.

Car Charging Capabilities
The flexibility of car charging will let you enjoy even the longest road trip with back-to-back movies! Take advantage of the car charging function of many portable DVD players available.

The top three picks and selections available in today's portable DVD player market are from Panasonic, Toshiba, and Sony. Each offer some key features and benefits that will enhance your portable DVD watching experience:

Toshiba SD-P2600
This is the largest of all screens in DVD playes with a hefty 8.9" full color screen. It includes two headphone jacks for easy sharing for those family camping trips, and has a functional 3.5" hour playback time with its strong rechargeable battery. The Toshiba SD-P2600 weighs about 3.5 pounds, and is an excellent choice for families. This model does support CD players and CD R-Ws. This model is priced just under $300.

Sony DVP-FX701
This 7" model can be found in an attractive aluminum encasement, and is a great choice for high-quality and long-term durability. The 3 hour playback time is possible with its rechargeable battery, and the package includes a convenient car charger. The widescreen liquid-crystal display provides sharp picture and screen resolution, and includes built-in speakers. The Sony DVP-FX 701 offers a splitter for headphones for two or more users, and can play a variety of formats including CD R-W; this model supports digital video and camcorder movie watching with cable attachments. This model is priced under $250.
Panasonic DVD-LS50
This 7" screen model features a wireless remote and adjustable widescreen function. The 2.5 hour playback time is possible with its rechargeable battery, and the speaker system is outstanding with the Dolby Digital system installed. This model does support a surround sound system, and is priced at around $300.