Bargain Blu-ray players

Unlike regular DVD players, high-def Blu-ray players aren't just about playing discs. Many new models can also stream online movies and music, essentially turning any TV into an Internet TV. In fact, all the players in our Select Ratings (available to subscribers) have this feature, and the least expensive player, A1 Panasonic, costs just $100.

The 3D-enabled Blu-ray players in our Ratings (available to subscribers) can play both 3D Blu-ray discs (when used with a 3D-capable TV and 3D glasses) and standard Blu-ray movies as well as DVDs and audio CDs. Prices for 3D models have fallen sharply over the past year, and the lowest-priced 3D player in our Ratings (available to subscribers), B3 Panasonic, is just $135.

All the recommended Blu-ray players offer excellent picture quality from high-definition Blu-ray discs and DVDs, and all were very easy to use. Increasingly we're finding that features are what differentiate one model from another. For example, B2 Panasonic has built-in Wi-Fi; B1 Sony and B3 Panasonic require an optional Wi-Fi adapter. Wireless capability is especially useful if you don't have a wired Internet connection in your TV room.

Among the 3D-capable models, B1 Sony has the most extensive online offerings, including five streaming movie services, Pandora and Slacker Internet radio, and more. It can also play high-resolution Super Audio CDs and can be controlled with an iPhone, iPod Touch, or Android phone (with an app). B2 and B3 Panasonic can make Skype video calls when used with an optional Web cam, and they're the only players with an SD card slot for viewing photos. A1 Panasonic lacks the SD card slot and Skype calling ability of its siblings. We found slight differences in load times (the amount of time it takes for a disc to load and start playing), which might be a factor in your choice. A2 LG and B1 Sony took a bit longer than others to load Blu-ray discs.