TV-DVD Combos information

If space or ease of setup and use are not of utmost concern, most experts say that you are better off buying a separate DVD player than a TV-DVD player combo. Though there are exceptions, standalone TVs and DVD players tend to be more full-featured than those included in combos and perform somewhat better. On the other hand, a combo is easier to use -- for example, inputs are switched automatically when a DVD is inserted -- so they are a good choice for a number of situations, such as when small children will be regularly playing DVDs.

ConsumerSearch has a separate report on DVD players, and companion reports on other types of TVs, including standard televisions, LCD TVs and plasma TVs.

There's not much insightful research out there on TV-DVD player combos. However, there are some good primers on TVs and DVD players that can help point you in the right direction.

CNet.com's TV Buying Guide talks you through everything there is to consider before choosing a type of TV.

Consumer Reports offers a good guide to the types of televisions and to HDTV, although you must be a website subscriber to read it.

"How To Buy Television Sets" includes helpful information about digital and high-definition television.

"DVD Player Buying Guide - What You Must Know" at TimeForDVD.com is a simple and straightforward guide to key DVD player features and specifications and what they mean.

Manufacturers' sites can provide you with detailed information and specs for a model you may be considering:

LG

Sharp

Toshiba

Westinghouse Digital Electronics

RCA

Magnavox