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Streaming video services are abundant, and we love them for their convenience and selection. However, as cutting edge as streaming technology may be, tangible disc players pack a quality punch that streaming just can’t stand up to.
With the proliferation of ultra high definition TVs and other audio/video components, everything we know and love in visual form has been upgraded. Only one issue: our ultra HD TVs need 4K and UHD content. Enter the 4K Blu-ray player, which can play Blu-ray discs with four times the resolution of conventional Blu-ray (at full HD).
What You Need to Know About Blu-ray
Blu-ray is the next evolution of digital video disc content devices. Where DVDs topped out at 480i resolution, BR has an upper level of 1080p. Though these numbers mimic what is available on streaming services, there are other data-based differences which make Blu-ray a superior format.
Image and sound quality are data-dense. The more data that can be transmitted, the more in-depth the experience. While streaming services have done an increasingly better job of transmitting more data rich files, they are still no match for Blu-ray’s capability. Add two other Blu-ray factors and you have a winning formula: HDR and WCG. HDR stands for High Dynamic Range (something streaming services are trying to roll out, but are having success only with exceptional high bandwidth users); WCR stands for Wide Color Gamut. These two acronyms are responsible for the peak performance of Blu-ray, delivering more life-like colors and contrasts, with the ability to draw out even the tiniest of details on screen.
While there are many decent Blu-ray players in the market, to get true 4K content on screen, you’ll want to find a 4K Blu-ray player that is equipped to display 4K content from compatible Blu-ray discs. You’ll also want to make sure you have a 4K or UHD TV to get the most out of this resolution quality.
The best 4K Blu-ray players connect easily to your home theater system, and many are equipped to provide hi-res audio capabilities as well. We’ve also found internet-ready options and options that let you plug in a USB, to access even more content and files.
Streaming may be more convenient, but for a truly remarkable viewing experience, 4K Blu-ray is hard to best. Here are some of the best 4K Blu-ray players to pick up.
