The Best Blu-Ray and Ultra HD Blu-Ray Players of 2024

Our faves can handle Blu-ray disc, DVD, and CD playback and support Wi-Fi, hi-res audio, and 4K content

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The best Blu-ray players can handle Blu-ray discs, DVDs, and CD playback so you can use all your media; plus, they support hi-res audio and 4K content. Bonus points go to the ones that include Wi-Fi streaming, too.

We've researched so you don't have to: Here are our picks for the best 4K Blu-ray and Ultra HD Blu-ray players.

Best for Streaming

Sony Network Blu-Ray Disc Player

Sony BDPS6700 4K Upscaling 3D Streaming Blu-Ray Disc Player (2016 Model)

Amazon

Pros
  • Built in Wi-Fi

  • 4K upscaling

  • Dolby audio

Cons
  • Bulky design

This Sony Blu-ray player is one of the more feature-rich options available and is relatively affordable. It lets you play CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays and stream shows. There’s even a screen mirroring feature for watching your phone’s content on a larger screen, and DLNA certification means you can share content across your home network. 

The BDP-S6700 has a dual-core processor and dual-band Wi-Fi for a speedy wireless connection. Everything loads exceptionally quickly, with a Quick Start mode and Fast Loading to get Blu-ray discs playing almost instantly (around 30 seconds from when you close the tray). 

For many people, the BDP-S6700 will be the only device they need to access their shows, movies, and music. There’s a USB port for watching pictures and videos on a storage device, and you can stream content, too, with apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu available via a user-friendly interface.

With 4K upscaling, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, and TRILUMINOS color technology, the S6700 offers a high-quality picture and exceptional sound. The BDP-S6700 is a fantastic value for anyone who wants a budget Blu-ray player that can do it all.

Pros
  • Ethernet connectivity

  • Works with some streaming services

Cons
  • No 4K

If you want something more straightforward, this LG Blu-Ray player offers a clear 1080p picture, USB playback, and internet connectivity for streaming content.

It doesn't feature 4K, which is disappointing, but its low price point and other features make up for the lower-resolution picture. 

This Blu-ray player connects to the internet using a wired Ethernet connection; it doesn't include Wi-Fi. Once connected, however, you can access apps like YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime when you access the web.

The BP175 can play CDs and DVDs in addition to Blu-rays, and it supports several audio and video technologies, such as Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, and many more. If you're looking for a 1080p-capable device that can stream and play discs for less than the cost of many streaming devices, the LG BP175 won't disappoint.

Wireless

Sony Home Theater Streaming Blu-Ray Player with Wi-Fi

Sony BDP-S3700 Blu-ray Disc Player

Walmart

Pros
  • Wi-Fi with MIMO

  • Screen mirroring technology

  • Customizable interface

Cons
  • No 4K

The Sony BDP-S3700 features Blu-ray, DVD, and CD playback and 1080p upscaling for DVD playback when connected to a 1080p TV.

Additional capabilities include playback of still images, video, and music stored on USB flash drives or other compatible devices. You can use a front-mounted USB port for content and plug in an external mouse or keyboard. 

The Sony BDP-S3700 offers internet streaming, with access to apps like Hulu, YouTube, Vudu, and Netflix via wired or wireless network connectivity. The BDP-3700 also incorporates screen mirroring (Miracast), which allows you to share content from your smartphone. In addition, you can access media content stored on other network-connected devices, such as PCs and media servers.

You get a standard remote control included in the package, but you can use Sony's TV Sideview App to organize content and control the player's transport controls.

Most Versatile

Sony 4K UHD Blu-ray Player

Sony UBP-X800M2 4K UHD Blu-ray Player

Amazon

Pros
  • 4K UHD support

  • Can stream 4K content over Ethernet and Wi-Fi

  • Supports most surround sound formats

Cons
  • Only HDMI and digital coax outputs

The Sony UBP-X800M2 has everything you'd expect from a Blu-ray player, including compatibility with 4K UHD discs (including HDR and Dolby Vision) and 2D/3D Blu-ray, DVD, audio CDs, and SACDs. You can also play Hi-Res audio files via USB or network-connected PCs.

In addition to the physical disc and hi-res audio playback, the UX800M2 can fully stream 4K content from the internet via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, including Netflix. So, you can binge your favorite shows or watch a Blu-ray Disc on the same device.

For audio, the UBP-X800M2 is compatible with most surround sound formats, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. You can stream music from the UX800 to compatible wireless speakers via Sony's SongPal App.

However, as much as the X800M2 offers, only HDMI and Digital Coaxial outputs are provided. Although you can use this player with a non-4K TV (you won't benefit from its 4K capabilities), your TV must have an HDMI input to accept a video signal.

On the other hand, the X800M2 provides two HDMI outputs, one of which is audio-only output. This is very practical for those who own a 4K Ultra HD TV but a home theater receiver that may not be compatible with 4K/HDR video signals.

What to Look For in a Blu-ray Player

Look for these critical items in any Blu-ray player:

  • 4K/UHD playback
  • Streaming features
  • Wi-Fi connectivity

If you already have a television capable of displaying 4K UHD video, you’ll enjoy exceptional video quality if you choose a Blu-ray player that also supports this level of video quality. If not, a player with upscaling might be something to consider.

One of the great things about Blu-ray players is that many can also replace a dedicated streaming device. Look for a Blu-ray player that supports your favorite streaming apps, such as Netflix and Hulu.

If you want to use any streaming apps on your Blu-ray player, connect it to the internet. Ethernet is better if your Blu-ray player is close enough to your modem to connect via an Ethernet cable. A wired connection is less likely to give you trouble with buffering and other similar problems, but you need a cable available. Otherwise, look for a Blu-ray player capable of connecting to your Wi-Fi network.

FAQ
  • Do Blu-ray players play regular DVDs and CDs?

    Yes, all Blu-ray players can play DVDs and CDs. You won't have to worry about backward compatibility if you have older media content formats. In addition, all Blu-ray players can upscale DVD resolution to HD quality, so your older content will also look better on a Blu-ray player.

  • Are Blu-ray players region-locked?

    Blu-ray players are region-locked, which means that the device can only play Blu-ray discs purchased in the same region. For example, Region A is North America, South America, U.S. Territories, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and other areas of Southeast Asia. If you have a Blu-ray player purchased in Region A, it can only play Region A discs.

  • Are there wireless Blu-ray players?

    Yes, there are wireless Blu-ray players. The best ones support Blu-ray and DVD playback, have Wi-Fi with MIMO, and support streaming services and casting content from your phone. They should also be able to play media from network-connected devices.

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