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The Which? reviews of high-definition Blu-ray players tell you all you need to know about buying the best models, cutting through the jargon so that you select the one that suits your needs.
Blu-ray is the latest development in the world of DVD players and discs. A Blu-ray disc gives a high-definition image that's sharper and more detailed than a conventional standard-definition DVD. However you do need a Blu-ray player to play them on.
If you have a high-definition TV and you want the best picture quality, your choice is simple: buy a high-definition Blu-ray player. But not all Blu-ray players are equal, some offer much better picture quality and more features than others.
Blu-ray
Some Blu-ray players also have extra features that are worth looking out for.
3DTV
Some Blu-ray players can play back 3D Blu-ray discs which, when connected to a suitable 3D television set, will display movies in 3D as if you were watching at the cinema. You’ll still need to wear the special glasses though.
BD-live
BD-Live lets you connect to the internet when you insert a Blu-ray disc, so you can download extras such as games, and interact with other users.
Wi-fi
Most Blu-ray players have an ethernet port so you can link to the internet using a cable for accessing BD-live and other content. However some also have built-in wi-fi so you can do this wirelessly. With some players you can upgrade to wi-fi connectivity by buying an additional wi-fi adaptor.
Net-TV
Once connected to the internet many Blu-ray players also give you access to additional content which can be streamed to your TV, often including access to YouTube and catch-up TV services such as BBC iPlayer.
USB port
Many Blu-ray players have USB ports. They can allow you to connect the player to digital equipment, such as a camera or music player, and play photos and music via your player and TV.
Surround-sound outputs
If you intend to hook your Blu-ray player up to a surround-sound system then make sure it has a compatible digital output. There are two types of connections – coaxial (wire) or optical (fibre optic). If you have a surround-sound system, buy a player with the same connections.
Disc loading times
Some Blu-ray players are notoriously slow to power up, load and start playing a Blu-ray disc. Which? tests each model to identify the worst offenders so you can avoid those players that will have you impatiently drumming your fingers before they eventually get round to playing your movie.
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