How to Compare DVD Player Prices

Price is not the same thing as value. Price is the money that comes out of your pocket. Value is the enjoyment, performance or other benefit that you get by paying the price. When you compare DVD player prices, you are really comparing DVD player values.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Set a price range. A good price range for a decent DVD player starts at $100 and goes up to $250. This range will get you a DVD player with quite a few features and solid performance without straying into semi-professional home theater quality DVD territory.

2. Pick out at least five DVD players within this price range. Include models from several manufacturers, if possible.

3. Compare lists of features from each model. If a DVD player includes significantly more or better features than normal, note the price. Also note the price of DVD players that have fewer features than average.

4. Analyze the cost difference versus the performance difference. Is the savings in cost worth the loss of available features? Are additional features worth an increase in cost?

5. Determine the value. List the features that are important to you. Compare your list to the available features of each DVD player. DVD players whose features match up closely to your list of desired features have a high value.

6. Compare the cost of the DVD players that have a high value to you. Select the DVD players that have a low cost, but high value.

Tips & Warnings

• Don’t forget to include a warranty when you are comparing features and cost. A good warranty that is fully backed up by the manufacturer adds considerable value to a DVD player and is worth the extra cost.
• After you’ve determined the DVD players that are the best value, start comparing the performance of each player to narrow down your choices.
• Educate yourself about standard DVD player features before you start comparing prices.