Blu-ray players may seem outdated in the age of streaming, but they still deliver unrivaled audio and visual quality that can‘t be matched by even the highest quality streams. With the ability to play Ultra HD Blu-ray discs and upgraded audio codecs like Dolby Atmos, a quality Blu-ray player paired with a UHD TV allows you to experience movies and shows as the director intended – with sharp 4K images, vibrant HDR color, and immersive multi-channel sound.
Even if you don‘t have a 4K TV yet, a good Blu-ray player will help maximize video quality by upscaling the image from standard 1080p Blu-ray discs and even regular DVDs. And with built-in wi-fi and streaming apps on most models today, you won‘t have to give up the convenience of services like Netflix just to enjoy superior disc playback.
How We Chose the Best Blu-Ray Players
With many different Blu-ray players on the market, it can be tricky to determine which model best fits your needs and budget. We selected our top picks by prioritizing key criteria most buyers value:
Picture Quality: All of our selections offer excellent video quality for their respective price ranges. Premium players like the Panasonic DP-UB820 excel in terms of color, contrast, clarity and upscaling lower resolution content to 4K.
Sound Quality: Sound is just as important as video when it comes to the home theater experience. Our picks support leading surround sound formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X to create an immersive audio environment.
Format & Disc Support: We favored players that offer full backwards compatibility, allowing you to enjoy your existing DVD and Blu-ray library. Support for niche formats like SACD, 3D Blu-ray and DVD-Audio varies by model.
Streaming & Smart Features: In addition to disc playback, most players today stream audio/video from services like Netflix, YouTube, Hulu and more. Premium picks offer faster navigation and more robust selection of apps.
Value: While high-end players offer best-in-class performance, you can still get excellent quality for an affordable price from value picks like the Sony BDP-S1700.
Now let‘s take a look at the Blu-ray players that stand out from the pack in 2023.
1. Panasonic DP-UB420 – Best Overall
For its balance of performance and features at a reasonable cost, we‘ve selected the Panasonic DP-UB420 as our pick for best overall Blu-ray player.
Despite its mid-range price point, the DP-UB420 delivers video quality on par with more expensive players thanks to Panasonic‘s acclaimed HCX processor. You‘ll enjoy precise colors, optimized contrast and excellent 4K upscaling whether you‘re playing Ultra HD Blu-rays, standard Blu-rays or even DVDs.
In terms of format support, the DP-UB420 checks all the boxes: 4K, Blu-ray, DVD, CD, and even 3D Blu-ray playback if you still have a compatible TV. It displays both Dolby Vision and HDR10+ high dynamic range content forExpanded color and brightness.
While streaming services are limited compared to other picks, you still get access to popular options like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube and more. And supporting both Alexa and Google Assistant voice control is a nice bonus.
With superb image quality, broad format support and intuitive operation, the DP-UB420 hits the sweet spot for both movie buffs and casual viewers not looking to break the bank.
Key Features
- Terrific 4K upscaling and image enhancement
- Plays 4K UHD, Blu-ray, DVD, CD, and 3D discs
- Supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+ HDR
- Intuitive remote and on-screen menus
- Built-in Wi-Fi and popular streaming apps
- Voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant
Positive
- Excellent picture quality for the price
- Easy to setup and use
- Solid smart TV features
Negative
- No support for Dolby Atmos or DTS:X audio
- Limited streaming app selection
- Disc loading times can be slow
2. Sony BDP-S1700 – Best Budget
If you want quality Blu-ray playback without spending too much, look no further than the Sony BDP-S1700. Priced around $100, this wallet-friendly player still manages to deliver excellent HD video along with handy smart features.
Despite some cost-cutting design compromises like the plastic casing, Sony doesn‘t skimp where it counts most – picture and sound quality. The BDP-S1700 renders colors and detail accurately from Blu-ray sources while enhancing DVDs through capable upscaling.
Format support covers the basics like Blu-ray, DVD, CD and even Sony‘s proprietary Playstation game discs if you need to relive some vintage titles. There‘s no support however for advanced formats like 4K UHD, 3D or SACD.
As you‘d expect for the price, streaming services don‘t match more expensive players. But you still get access to popular apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube, Hulu and more. The remote is highly intuitive with dedicated buttons for main functions.
For shoppers who want great Blu-ray HD quality on a budget, the BDP-S1700 fits the bill nicely. You‘ll enjoy crisp movie watching and music playback without missing out on streaming convenience.
Key Features
- Great HD picture quality from Blu-ray discs
- Upscales DVDs to near HD quality
- Plays Blu-rays, DVDs, CDs and Playstation games
- Built-in Wi-Fi with Netflix and other popular streaming apps
- Easy to navigate remote control
Positive
- Terrific value for the performance
- Easy to setup and operate
- Compact, inconspicuous design
Negative
- No 4K or 3D support
- Materials like plastic casing feel cheap
- Limited streaming app selection
3. Sony UBP-X700 – Best for Dolby Vision
For home theater owners with Dolby Vision compatible TVs, the Sony UBP-X700 is the best Blu-ray player for fully realizing this advanced HDR format. Movies encoded with Dolby Vision promise more vibrant, nuanced colors and better contrast through dynamic metadata that optimizes the picture on a scene-by-scene basis.
Beyond stellar Dolby Vision playback, the UBP-X700 also impresses with its crisp 4K Blu-ray images and polished smart TV interface. Fast processing ensures smooth navigation whether streaming movies or loading disc menus. Setup is quick with automatic detections of 4K TVs and internet connections.
In terms of disc support, the UBP-X700 checks all the key boxes: 4K UHD, standard Blu-ray, DVD, and CD. High dynamic range is well covered with Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma). The lack of 3D Blu-ray support won‘t be an issue for most people these days.
For discerning home theater fans, the UBP-X700 delivers spectacular Dolby Vision performance along with excellent audio and smart connectivity. If you want to experience movies and shows with the most dynamic color and contrast possible, this player can‘t be beat.
Key Features
- Superb Dolby Vision playback
- Excellent 4K Blu-ray and upscaling quality
- Sleek interface with snappy navigation
- Plays 4K, Blu-ray, DVD, and CD
- Built-in Wi-Fi with a variety streaming apps
Positive
- Next-level Dolby Vision HDR quality
- Easy to set up and operate
- Loads discs and streams content quickly
Negative
- No support for 3D Blu-ray
- Only two channel analog audio outputs
4. Panasonic DP-UB820 – Best for 3D Blu-ray
While major TV manufacturers have moved on from 3D, there are still home theater enthusiasts with compatible 3D sets that want the absolute best playback quality possible. That‘s where the Panasonic DP-UB820 comes in – this premium player sets the new reference standard for bringing 3D movies to life along with best-in-class audio performance.
Engulf yourself in your favorite films as the DP-UB820 fills the room with immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound. Its quad-core processor flawlessly handles the expansive mix of audio channels. And you can enjoy tons of detail with support for hi-res music files like FLAC, ALAC, DSD and more.
Beyond its 3D and audio excellance, the DP-UB820 also delivers some of the finest 4K and Blu-ray images you‘ll find thanks to HDR optimization and pro-grade video processing. If you‘ve held on to your 3D TV and movie collection, this player unleashes its full potential while also showcasing your entire disc library at its best.
Key Features
- Unrivaled 3D Blu-ray playback
- Outstanding Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio
- Plays 4K UHD, Blu-ray, DVD and CD
- Hi-res music playback: FLAC, ALAC, DSD
- Intuitive remote with smart home control
Positive
- Breathtaking 3D picture quality
- Immersive object-based sound
- Great streaming features and app selection
Negative
- Very expensive
- Overkill if you don‘t need 3D
5. Sony PlayStation 5 – Best for Gamers
For gamers seeking a Blu-ray player, there‘s no better choice than picking up a PlayStation 5. This latest-generation console packs cutting edge graphics and immersive sound formats so both gameplay and movies are more dynamic than ever – especially if you have a compatible 4K/120Hz television.
Equipped with an Ultra HD Blu-ray drive, the PS5 displays incredible detail and visual pop from 4K discs thanks to deep color support, high dynamic range and smooth frame rates. You‘ll also enjoy spatial 3D audio in supported games and movies for more lifelike sound positioning.
Even when you aren‘t gaming, the PS5 makes an excellent home theater hub. Along with pristine 4K Blu-ray playback, it streams all the top video, music and live TV services. And unique social features like Share Play let you watch movies and shows online with friends as if you were in the same room.
For hardcore gamers seeking a complete entertainment device with stunning graphics and sound, the PlayStation 5 is hands-down the ultimate combo Blu-ray player and game console.
Key Features
- Jaw-dropping 4K gaming and Blu-ray video
- 3D spatial audio heightens immersion
- Built-in 4K streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+ and more
- Share Play virtually watches movies/shows with friends
- Doubles as a full featured smart home media hub
Positive
- Cutting-edge gaming and Blu-ray performance
- Unique social entertainment features
- Sleek, modern design fits any living room
Negative
- Very expensive upfront cost
- Occasional gaming issues need patches
What To Consider When Buying a Blu-ray Player
Your Television – If your TV only displays up to 1080p, you won‘t benefit from a 4K Blu-ray player. Make sure your television has HDMI inputs that support 4K and high dynamic range content to take full advantage of premium player features.
Disc & Format Support – Consider what movie collections and audio formats you already own and want future access to. For example, support for niche audio like SACD may be important to audiophiles.
Streaming Apps – Most Blu-ray players have popular apps like Netflix and Amazon Prime built-in, but app variety and how smooth the interface is can vary. Check that your must-have streaming services are available if cutting cable.
Audio System – To enjoy immersive Dolby Atmos/DTS:X soundtracks, connect your player to a surround sound system or soundbar that decodes these advanced formats.
Price – Determine how much you‘re willing to spend to access certain features and performance. Going from basic HD 1080p to 4K HDR quality costs more, but the visual improvements may be worth it to film buffs.
Frequently Asked Blu-ray Questions
Do I need internet access for a Blu-ray player?
A Blu-ray player will work just fine without internet access solely for movie/music discs. However, internet connectivity allows you to stream video and audio from services like Netflix as well access web-based features. Virtually all Blu-ray players today have built-in Wi-Fi.
Will my old DVD collection still play?
Yes, Blu-ray players are backwards compatible to play your existing DVD, and in most cases, CD collections. The player will even upscale the standard definition DVD picture quality closer to HD levels on compatible televisions.
What cables will I need?
At a minimum, use a new High Speed HDMI cable to pass maximum video and audio data from the Blu-ray player to your television/audio system. If your equipment doesn‘t support HDMI, some players also have composite cables compatibility.
Is setup difficult?
Modern Blu-ray players and TVs make the setup process easy with automatic detection of internet networks and devices over HDMI. The initial installation prompts help you get connected and playing discs/streaming quickly without any advanced technical knowledge.
How long do Blu-ray discs last?
Manufacturers estimate a Blu-ray disc life expectancy around 10-15 years if properly stored at room temperature in a sleeve when not in use. Burned Blu-ray discs have an estimated lifespan around 5 years before data deterioration. Proper handling gives them the best chance of longevity.
We hope this buying guide helps you shop for the perfect high-quality Blu-ray player to make movie watching at home more dazzling than ever before. Let us know if you have any other questions about picking the right model for your needs and budget!
