Sony UBP-X700 4K Ultra High Definition 3D Blu-Ray Player

If you’re not familiar with Blu-ray, it is a high-definition format used for filming and presenting video content. Another format much like this is HDTV, or high-definition television. Blue-ray allows viewers to experience better image detail, more shades of color and added depth. It uses video compression and blue-laser technology to create higher-definition video playbacks on DVD-sized discs.

Blu-ray was first introduced in 2006, and since then, the technology has only gotten better. There are many different versions available, including 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray. Of course, these advanced features are not needed (or even advised) unless your TV is also compatible. If you have a 4K TV with HDR, though, you may prefer using 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray discs for the most impressive display.

You will also need to know what HDR version your TV has when shopping for a Blu-ray player. These versions could be HDR10, Dolby Vision or both. If it is a 1080-pixel (or 1080p) TV, don’t waste money on features that you won’t be able to use. However, if you are planning to upgrade your TV, keep this in mind when shopping for a Blu-ray player.

Blu-ray players can be very affordable, but don’t click “buy” until you have compared the most important features. See how the player supports HDR; if only on discs, integrated apps may not be able to use it. You can also check whether the player is HDR10 or Dolby Vision. HDR10 is thought of as the HDR standard, and it can be used for free with all brands.

• Upscaling to 4K is worth looking into, since it makes standard Blu-rays look sharper.
• Not all Blu-ray players support Wi-Fi, so check to make sure that the one you are considering does. This is an important feature if you want to stream with greater ease. Note, however, that wired Blu-ray players that use an ethernet port may be more reliable for connecting to the internet if your Wi-Fi is spotty.
• If you don’t have a standalone streaming box, see how the Blu-ray player supports streaming apps.
• Don’t forget about the audio. Some higher-end Blu-ray players have high-resolution audio, which works well for home theaters. Also, check your audio connections at home; if you are not running HDMI into your A/V receiver, you may need to figure out the best way to run your audio with your new Blu-ray.