Blu-ray is the next generation optical disc format — the replacement for traditional digital video discs (DVD). Blu-ray refers to a technology and not a specific company — all the top manufacturers make Blu-ray disc players.
Blu-ray has raised the quality of the images you see over older DVD technology. When home video format changed from VHS to DVD it was a drastic transition, rendering existing tapes obsolete. That’s not true with the transition from DVD to Blu-ray, because Blu-ray players can play standard DVDs and up-convert them to look even better. Do note though that Blu-ray discs won’t play in older DVD players.
Here’s how to be a smart consumer when Blu-ray shopping, starting with an overview of basic characteristics:
- Higher resolution based on the use of blue lasers rather than the red lasers used in standard DVD players, with razor-sharp image quality. The result is 1080p (pixels or picture element) for Blu-ray versus 480p for regular DVD.
- More contrast, richer colors due to advanced video compression methods.
- Higher resolution soundtracks, which the equivalent to the studio master.
- Increased disc durability when compared to traditional DVD-R (recordable) and DVD-RW (re-writable).
- Increased storage capacity compared to DVD discs — up to 25GB on a single layer disc and 50GB on a dual layer disc, with over 9 hours of HD video, versus a maximum of 8.5GB for standard DVD discs.
- All BD players include a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) port that stream s video and audio over a single cable, making it the best way to connect to an HD TV.
- Improved starts. Some stand-alone models start up in approximately three seconds.
Types and Price Ranges
Blu-ray players are available in a variety of types and models made by different companies. Players are broadly grouped into three categories — portable, stand-alone, and integrated, which are built into other devices or systems. Prices vary greatly by make and store.
- Portable – Only a modest selection is available in this category, as portables only started to be available in 2009. While they are “stand-alone,” portables look much like small laptops minus the keyboard, with 5- to 10-inch screens. Others are tablet-style with an exposed screen. Others are designed to mount in cars. Many only have a play-back capability to view Blu-ray discs, DVDs, CDs, JPEG photos, and a memory card slot. (Starting at about $130.) Some feature BD Live to download content from the Internet. (From about $200 and up.) In addition to portability, some can be used at home and connected to an HD TV via an HDMI cable and used like a stand-alone Blu-ray Disc player. These types also can be connected to an HD-Audio compatible A/V receiver with a home theater speaker system, enabling you to enjoy movies with outstanding surround sound. (Prices start at around $200 up to $700, with most models in the low to mid range.)
- Stand-alone – this category has the largest selection. Models are available to stream movies and content, and with DVD-R and RW capabilities. (From about $200.) Others feature 3-D capabilities and are WiFi ready. (From about $250 and up.) The high-end models feature everything from BD Live and WiFi to Dolby digital sound technology and more. (Expect to pay $250 to $800 or more for top brands loaded with features.)
- Integrated – models in this category have Blu-ray technology built into their systems. Integrated Blu-ray technology is available in some laptop computers, game consoles and home theater systems. (From around $300 up to several thousand dollars.)
Key features
Be aware of the features available in Blu-ray technology and know what you want when shopping to ensure your long-term satisfaction and enjoyment.
- BD Live technology – provides access to additional Blu-ray disc content via the Internet (which could be via cable or Wi-Fi) and extras like interactive gaming.
- Ethernet port and wireless options – virtually all of the top brands now include broadband connectivity and some include WiFi access, as well as the ability to stream movies.
- Load times – although it may seem like a minor point, slow disc-loading times were a disadvantage of Blu-ray in the past, and for some models they may still not be optimal. Try before you buy and ensure this feature meets your expectations.
- BonusView – lets you play back picture-in-picture content with selected Blu-ray disc titles. BonusView is standard on most Blu-ray players.
- USB connections & memory card slots – a built-in USB provides a means to connect a digital camera or flash drive so you can view digital photos on your Blu-ray player. A secure digital (SD) slot facilitates the loading of data.
- HDMI output – provides an uncompressed, all-digital A/V link for the highest quality connection and supports HD broadcast content.
- Multiple discs – some high-end models hold up to five discs, which is useful when playing back-to-back movies or when watching a series of TV shows recorded on discs.
- 3-D capability – this is important if you are planning to upgrade to 3-D TV.
Purchase Decisions & Considerations
If you need a new disc player, seriously think of purchasing Blu-ray technology.
- Determine your requirements and primary use – to get the full benefit of Blu-ray, you need an HD TV. Do you want surround sound? Are you planning to upgrade to 3-D TV, when available?
- Review relevant and readily available information – take the time to look at consumer product reviews to gain insight into performance and reliability.
- Know your options – be as aware as possible of which types and models with what features meet your needs — portable, stand alone or integrated as part of another device.
- Establish your budget – like most electronics, prices can range from basic to high end so determine what you can spend before reaching a buying decision.
- Comparison shop – compare the prices of various models offered by different manufacturers. Go online at sears.com or view, touch, and listen to a wide brand selection at a Sears store near you.
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