Portable and Headrest DVD Players

Screen size, swivel and headrest kits for travel

Screens range from about 6 inches to 15 inches. A 7 to 10 inch screen is easy to pack, while 12 to 15 inches suits a shared view on a trip. A swivel screen turns to face another seat or flips to show a game. Dual-screen headrest kits give each rear passenger a screen, with one player and a second screen that straps to the front seat headrests. Battery runtime is limited, so check that a mains adapter and a 12 V car adapter come with the player.

Discs, region codes and USB files

A portable DVD player reads DVD and usually audio CD, and many accept recordable formats such as DVD-R or CD-R. It will not play Blu-ray discs. DVDs carry region codes, so check whether the player is region-free or locked to one region, or discs from elsewhere may not play. USB or SD playback lets you watch video files, but the supported formats are limited, so MP4 files in common codecs are the safest. Composite AV outputs connect to a TV in standard definition, and a headphone jack keeps the screen quiet for others.

Questions about Portable and Headrest DVD Players

Can a portable DVD player play Blu-ray discs?

No. A DVD player reads DVD and CD discs only, and Blu-ray needs a different laser and drive. If you own Blu-ray discs, look for a player that lists Blu-ray in its compatible discs.

What does region code mean for DVDs?

DVDs may be coded for a region of the world, and a player locked to one region will refuse discs from another. Region-free players accept all, so check the listing if you watch discs from abroad.

Can I connect a portable DVD player to a TV?

Yes, if it has an AV output. Composite AV carries standard-definition video and stereo audio through yellow, white and red connectors, so picture quality is limited. Check that your TV still has a composite or adapter input.