Do Siblings Need Two DVD Players? How to Decide Whether to Buy Another and Choose the Right One
Aiden TsangShare
Before buying, identify why one player is causing conflict
“The older child wants to finish a movie, but the younger one wants to watch a different cartoon,” or “It’s a hassle to pack up the DVD player at home every time we travel.” Both situations might prompt you to consider a second player, but they don’t call for the same solution. The first calls for an additional player to play different titles at the same time; the second calls for one to reduce the effort of preparing for and traveling with a player.
First, write down one recent situation that caused a problem. Do viewing times overlap? Is the screen hard to see? Do you forget to charge the player? Is it difficult to operate? Once you’ve identified the issue, you can decide whether you need another of the same model or a model with a different size or power source. Choosing based only on screen size may leave you with the same difficulties when carrying or connecting the player.
When a second player is needed—and when one is enough
| Problem | What to try first | When to consider buying another |
|---|---|---|
| We want to watch different titles at the same time | Set times to take turns | Scheduling doesn’t solve the problem, and separate playback is needed |
| We’re watching the same video, but it’s hard to see from seats at the side | Adjust the screen position and seating | It can’t be improved within the available safe placement options |
| Getting ready to go out is a hassle every time | Keep the cables and discs together | You take it out often and also need to use a player at home |
| It’s hard to explain how to operate the player to family members | Make a note of just the buttons they use most | A dedicated player is needed in another room |
If you don’t use the player at the same time, sharing one is a sensible option. On the other hand, if you’re arguing over it almost every week, having separate players can cut down on waiting. Keep in mind, though, that two players also mean more devices to charge, more storage space needed, and more discs to manage. Consider not only the purchase price but also whether you can keep up with the day-to-day upkeep.
Watching different titles is not the same as sharing the same video
For different titles, play them separately on each device
If you want to watch different DVDs on two players, you’ll need a disc for each player. You can’t put a single DVD into two trays at the same time. If each child has a particular title in mind, separating the discs before you leave can help prevent arguments once you get there.
You’ll also need to consider the sound. If both players’ speakers are on at the same time, it may be hard to hear either one clearly. If you use headphones, check the ports on each model and the compatible plug type. Keep the volume at a reasonable level and be mindful of others nearby. It’s also important to keep cables out of walkways.
To share the same video, check the ports and device combination
Buying two players doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll automatically show the same video. To connect them and share playback, the output on the source device must be compatible with the input on the receiving device. Input and output ports serve different purposes, and similar-looking connectors don’t necessarily mean the devices can be connected. Check the cable type, port direction, and where you plan to set up the players.
The PD156 product description lists AV input and AV output, but that doesn’t guarantee compatibility with every other model. If you’re buying two players for simultaneous playback, give the seller the model numbers of the device you’re currently using and the one you plan to connect, and confirm that the combination is supported before purchasing. We don’t recommend buying a conversion cable first without checking compatibility.
Should you add the same model or choose a different one?
If your family is familiar with the controls on your current model and you’re happy with its screen size and portability, there’s a good reason to consider buying the same model. However, included accessories may differ between product listings or bundles even when the model number is the same. Don’t assume you’ll get the same items as before; check the details of your current order.
If your needs at home and on the go are different, you could choose separate players for each purpose. For the one you take with you, prioritize how easily it can be packed and how you’ll power it; for the one at home, prioritize the available space and visibility. A larger screen can be convenient, but first check whether it will fit in your bag and whether you have a stable surface to put it on. Measuring the width and depth of the places where you’ll use it can make your decision easier.
Aestiquo options to consider based on how you’ll use them
Want to distinguish players by color? PD101 Pink
The 10.5-inch PD101 in pink is an option if you want to distinguish who owns which player by color. Don’t choose based on color alone; also check whether the DVDs you watch, the power source you need, and the included accessories suit your needs. The current product description contains multiple statements about power options, so if you want to use a charger you already have, check the model number and specifications before buying.
Considering portability and power? PD102
The 10.5-inch PD102 is an option to consider if you want to use Type-C charging. According to the product description, continuous playback lasts up to 4 hours for DVDs and 5 hours for CDs. Even though both figures are described as “up to 5 hours,” DVD playback time is different. If you’re traveling for a long time, also plan for opportunities to recharge. Use an adapter and cable that meet the requirements in the instruction manual.
Check the PD102’s power options, playback time, and included accessories
Want a larger screen at home? PD156
The 15.6-inch PD156 is an option if you have space to set it up. The product description lists its weight as approximately 1.79 kg and its dimensions as approximately 37.7 × 25.5 × 4 cm. Compare the effort involved in carrying and storing it as well. Although it supports USB and SD cards, it does not support the MP4 format, so don’t choose it if you want to play videos from your smartphone directly.
Check the PD156’s size, supported formats, and connection ports
Checklist before buying another player
- Decide whether you want to play different titles or share the same video.
- Check the types of discs you want to play. DVD compatibility does not mean Blu-ray compatibility.
- For USB videos, check the supported formats, not just the file extension. Having a USB port alone does not guarantee smartphone connectivity or video playback.
- Check whether the cables, power adapter, and car headrest mount you need are included in this bundle.
- If you’ll use it in a car, check vehicle and mount compatibility, how it will be secured, and how the cables will be routed.
- If you’ll take it abroad, check the region and video format of the discs you’ll play separately from the power specifications for your destination.
If you’re unsure, contact the seller before ordering with the model number of your current player, where you plan to use it, the discs you want to play, and whether you want to watch the same video or different ones. This will make it easier to get the information you need. There’s no need to include personal or payment information.
Frequently asked questions
Q. Should siblings always have two players?
No. If they watch the same title and can share viewing times, one player may be enough. Consider buying another only when you need separate playback or different players for different locations.
Q. Can we watch a DVD we already own on two players at the same time?
You can’t put one disc into two players at once. To share the same video by connecting the players, you need to check the output, input, cable, and model combination. Simply buying two players from the same brand may not be enough.
Q. Can I reuse an old charger or remote control?
Don’t assume they’re compatible until you’ve checked the model numbers and specifications. In particular, don’t choose a power supply based only on the connector shape; check the requirements in the instruction manual. Remote control compatibility also needs to be checked for each model.
Q. Is it okay to choose a gift based only on its color?
It’s a good idea to check whether the recipient wants to watch DVDs or Blu-rays, along with where they’ll put the player, how easy it is to operate, and what they’ll need to power it. Being able to use the discs they already own is an important part of ensuring they’ll enjoy the gift for a long time.
In summary: It’s easier to choose when you can explain one reason for buying another
A second player is meant to fill a gap in what your current one can do. Decide on one specific use—such as watching different titles at the same time or keeping one player for travel and another at home—before comparing options. If one player can meet your needs, continuing to use it is also a perfectly good choice. When you do need another, check disc compatibility, power requirements, ports, and included accessories to reduce the chances of finding after purchase that it doesn’t work or is missing something you need.
