DVD Player

If Phil Bartoszewicz had his way, the days of storing those boring black-cased DVD players in your attractive entertainment center would be over. He would ensure that everyone had access to DVD players that blend in with your stylish decor. And that's exactly what he's done with his concept design called Hokkaido: a stand alone optical DVD player with a retro touch, but obviously modern in its design. Sleek and geek chic, that's how I like my components.

Seriously, can someone please give this guy a job so I can claim a Hokkaido for myself? Oh, and just one tiny suggestion? Make it Blu-ray compatible, please. Thanks.

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Remember the concept for the tiny clip-inspired portable music player that supports CD and MP3 files?

Turns out there is a pretty similar concept out there by designer Yeon-shin Seung that plays DVDs. You insert your DVD the same way you would on the CD and MP3 player, but a little display pops up to reveal your content.

I love the design and idea, but don't think it's all that practical or ready for mainstream consumers, who generally purchase portable DVD players for children and travel. No one needs their DVDs exposed while dealing with tippy cups of orange juice and Cheerios. For a closer look at the device, read more

I've never been the target customer when it comes to portable DVD players because I hardly ever watch movies on small screens and when I do, I'm happy just using my laptop. Having recently spent some time with my friend's four-year-old, I learned that some people — particularly those who haven't lost their two front teeth yet — rely on portable DVD players for entertainment in planes, trains and other boring locations.

I got a chance to take the Insignia 10.2" 16:9 Widescreen LCD Portable DVD Player for a spin and was pleasantly surprised. I often think of Insignia as an "inexpensive" or "affordable" alternative to more pricey gadgets, but I was immediately intrigued by the player's compact size, light weight and sleek body.

To check out additional pictures of the player and read my full review,  read more

I know people often expect the "best" gadget in a category to be universal, however it seems each country's portable player tastes are as unique as their native cuisine.

This month's WWD Magazine featured a fun insert with a list of the coolest portable digital players from around the world. Italians pick the Zen Vision M by Creative as the coolest portable player.

The Zen Vision, $374, has long played second or third string to the iPod and other portables in the US, but apparently, Italians love the player's 2.5-inch high res LCD screen and the freedom to download videos and music in various formats.

Japan picked the Phillips PET725/44, Australia goes ga-ga for the fifth generation iPod, Brazil likes the Philips PET725/44, Japan loves the Sony DVP-FX810 and the US apparently adores the Panasonic DVD LS 91. To each his own, right?

Gotta love the fact that portable DVD players give us the luxury and freedom to watch our fave videos anywhere and at anytime! From planes and trains to automobiles, these tiny little gadgets are sure to keep us entertained for hours.

Polaroid 7" Portable DVD Player
This smokin little DVD player is the perfect gift this holiday season! With a clear display for a smaller size. With outstanding picture, great sound, a rechargeable battery and the fact that it includes headphones and a car charger adapter, this affordable little player is hard to pass up!

Get one at Amazon for $130.

For two more suggestions, read more