Best DVD Players with HDMI Output – Complete Buying Guide

DVD players with HDMI output are the standard for connecting to modern TVs and home theater systems. HDMI delivers the best possible video quality from your DVDs by carrying uncompressed digital video and multichannel audio over a single cable. Here’s what to look for and our top recommendations.

Why HDMI Matters for DVD Players

HDMI is the modern connection standard that replaced composite RCA, S-Video, and component cables. For DVD players, HDMI allows upscaling standard-definition video to near-HD or Full HD quality, significantly improving picture quality on modern 1080p and 4K TVs. Without HDMI, you’re limited to composite video (480i), which looks pixelated and outdated on large screens.

Key Features in HDMI DVD Players

Video Upscaling

All HDMI DVD players perform upscaling, converting standard DVD resolution (720×480) to higher resolutions like 1080p or 4K. Higher-quality upscaling processors produce smoother edges, reduced noise, and better color accuracy. Look for players with “1080p upscaling” or “4K upscaling” if you have an HD or 4K TV.

Deep Color Support

Some HDMI DVD players support Deep Color (12-bit color depth), which provides smoother gradients and more accurate color reproduction. This is particularly beneficial for animated DVDs and content with subtle color transitions.

Audio Return Channel (ARC)

HDMI ARC allows the TV to send audio back down the HDMI cable to a soundbar or AV receiver without needing a separate optical audio cable. This simplifies setup but requires an ARC-compatible TV and audio device.

HDMI CEC Control

Consumer Electronics Control allows you to operate the DVD player with your TV’s remote control using a single remote. A convenient feature that reduces remote clutter.

Top DVD Players with HDMI Output

1. Sony DVP-SR370

Sony’s budget HDMI DVD player delivers reliable performance in an ultra-slim chassis. It features 1080p upscaling via HDMI, plays all major disc formats including DVD±R/RW and CD, and includes composite RCA as a fallback for older TVs. Price: approx. $45

2. LG DVD Player (DP-132H)

LG’s compact DVD player includes HDMI output and a USB port for media file playback. It handles DVD, DVD±R/RW, CD, and CD-R/RW. Simple plug-and-play setup with a remote control. Price: approx. $35

3. Philips PDP-S3800/37

Philips’ slim DVD player features 1080p upscaling and plays DVD, DVD±R/RW, CD, and DivX files from USB. Its minimalist design fits any entertainment center and includes HDMI and composite outputs. Price: approx. $40

4. Samsung DVD-FHDM

Samsung’s DVD player features HDMI upscaling to 1080p, a USB port for multimedia playback, and an ultra-compact design. Compatible with all major disc formats and available at an affordable price. Price: approx. $40

5. Panasonic DVD-S700 4K UHD DVD Player

For those with 4K TVs, the Panasonic DVD-S700 upscales standard DVDs to near-4K quality and includes built-in 4K networking and HDR support. It’s one of the few dedicated DVD players with true 4K upscaling capability. Price: approx. $130

Choosing the Right HDMI DVD Player for Your Setup

If you have a 1080p TV, any HDMI DVD player with 1080p upscaling (most modern models) will look great. If you have a 4K TV and want the best possible picture from standard DVDs, the Panasonic DVD-S700’s 4K upscaling is worth the premium. For older 720p TVs, 1080p upscaling may actually look worse due to unnecessary processing — in this case, use composite output for the most direct signal.

FAQ

Does HDMI improve DVD quality over component cables?

HDMI and component cables carry comparable video quality for DVDs (both support up to 1080p). However, HDMI is more convenient since a single cable carries both video and audio, while component requires five cables plus separate audio cables. For 4K upscaling, HDMI is required.

Can I use an HDMI DVD player with an older TV without HDMI?

No — if your TV has no HDMI input, you’ll need to use the composite RCA (yellow/red/white) output instead. Some newer DVD players still include composite for this reason.

Do DVD players with HDMI also support optical audio?

Some mid-range and premium models include optical (Toslink) audio output in addition to HDMI. Budget models typically only have HDMI and composite RCA.

Conclusion

HDMI is the standard connection for any modern DVD player setup. Choose a model with 1080p or 4K upscaling for the best picture quality on your HD or 4K TV, and consider a model with USB media playback if you want to expand beyond physical discs. The Sony DVP-SR370 and Panasonic DVD-S700 represent the best budget and premium options respectively.

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