Best Blu-ray players
Blu-ray players might seem like yesterday's tech for gadget hounds, but they're still a bedrock of any modern home theater. Not only will a modern Blu-ray player handle all your disc-based media (Blu-ray, DVDs, CDs), they're also very capable streaming-media players, with support for apps like Netflix and Pandora.
Here you'll find a list of our favorite 2012 Blu-ray players, with a heavy emphasize on value. Don't get bogged down worrying too much about image quality, as all players are pretty much the same. Instead, pick a player that has that's easy-to-use and has features and streaming services you want. And if you're even a casual gamer, the PS3 Slim remains the best overall home theater value on the market.
And if you want to see all CNET's Blu-ray testing in a convenient (and huge) chart, check out CNET's 2012 comprehensive Blu-ray chart.
Sony PlayStation 3 Slim (160GB)
With a smaller design, more energy-efficient operation, lower price tag, and built-in Blu-ray and multimedia capabilities, the PS3 Slim delivers a compelling package for an affordable price.
Price: $229.00 - $400.00 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Panasonic DMP-BDT220 
The Panasonic DMP-BDT220 is the best Blu-ray value of 2012, with built-in Wi-Fi, tons of streaming-media apps, 3D compatibility, and a simple user interface.
Price: $134.99 - $154.99 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Sony BDP-S590
The Sony BDP-S590 is a great-looking Blu-ray player with built-in Wi-Fi, 3D compatibility, and tons of streaming-media apps, but it's slow to load discs and has some user interface quirks.
Price: $129.49 - $171.70 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
LG BP620
If you want 3D, the LG BP620 has most of the right features, but the absence of Amazon Instant and a dedicated Netflix button hurt its value a bit.
Price: $129.00 - $139.99 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
