Remember those long road trips where keeping everyone entertained felt like a quest? Staring out the window for hours can get boring, especially for younger passengers. In today’s world, a good car entertainment system makes all the difference between a peaceful drive and constant “Are we there yet?” questions.
Choosing the perfect Car DVD system, however, can feel like navigating a confusing maze. You see terms like “touchscreen,” “Bluetooth,” and “resolution,” and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. What features do you really need? How do you know which one fits your car and your budget? These choices can cause real headaches before you even hit the road.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down what matters most in a Car DVD system. You will learn exactly what features offer the best value and how to match a system to your family’s needs. Get ready to transform your car rides from tedious to terrific!
Top Car Dvd System Recommendations
No. 1
WONNIE 12" Dual Car DVD Players Portable DVD Players for Car Headrest Play a Same or Two Different Movies with 5-Hour Rechargeable Battery, Mounting Brackets, All Region, Support USB/Sync TV
- 【2 X Car DVD Players】WONNIE has more than 10 years of experience in car DVD players. The Newest 12" dual car DVD players features upgraded chips for clearer, more vivid. The enhanced mounting bracket ensures stability, preventing drops or other issues on bumpy roads. You can connect the two players via AV cable to share the same movie or play different discs according to personal preferences, making journeys enjoyable. Allow you to focus on driving without worrying about anything from backseat.
- 【All Region & Multi-Formats Playback】The dual car headrest dvd players can play all regions discs from DVD, DVD±R, DVD±RW, CD, CD±R, CD±RW, VCD, SVCD, SVCD (Not support Blu-ray disc, MP4 and Bluetooth). Design with USB (max to 32GB FAT32 and 720*576 pixels), support multi formats: image (JPG, JPEG), audio (MP3, WMA), videos (VOB, AVI, MPEG 1, MPEG 2)
- 【Dual Powerful Stereo Speakers & Adjustable Volume】The dual car portable video players have built-in two stereo sound speakers and a headphone jack design in each unit that will give you a powerful new listening experience. You can connect wired earphones/headphones or speakers for each player and adjust the volume through the remote controls.
- 【Attention】 During the playback, long press VOL+/VOL- on the player to increase/decrease the volume, short press to fast-forward/rewind. When you short press the volume button on the player, it's normal that you could change the speed of the player.
- 【Rechargeable Battery & 3 Power Modes 】There are 3 power modes, 2 Car DVD players are built-in high-capacity rechargeable batteries, you can watch movies anytime and anywhere, usually can play about 5 hours, 2 AC adapters (for home), 2 in 1 car charger (for car 12V).
No. 2
FANGOR 7.5 Inch Dual Car DVD Player, Portable Headrest Video Player for Car with 5 Hours Rechargeable Battery, Last Memory, AV Out/in, Support USB/SD/Sync TV, All Regions (1 Player+1 LCD Screen)
- 【Dual Portable DVD Player】The upgraded 7.5 inch portable dvd player for car consist of one car dvd player and one LCD screen. It adopts a new chip technology to transmit high-quality audio and video signals to both screens and helps reduce disc skipping during bumpy rides. The dvd player for car support playing the same movie simply via AV and DC cable connections. The AV OUT port allows syncing playback to a large TV or a projector for a broader viewing experience
- 【Dual Powerful Stereo Speakers】The car dvd player dual screen is equipped with upgraded stereo speakers that deliver louder and clearer sound, attracting children's attention and keeping them quiet on road trips, offering you a more pleasant journey
- 【5 Hours Rechargeable Battery】The main player has a built-in high-capacity rechargeable lithium battery that can run for about 5 hours on a full charge. When connected to the monitor, both screens will play for about 2.5 hours. The dual dvd player also comes with an AC adapter and a car charger to keep kids entertained for a long time
- 【All Regions and Multi-format Support】The car dvd player for kids can support multiple formats. ① All-region disc formats: DVD, DVD+R/RW, DVD-R/RW, CD, CD+R/RW, VCD, and SVCD. ② Support USB 2.0 and SD/MMC card up to 32GB (FAT32) and max resolution is 720x576. You can play pictures (JPG, JPEG), audio (MP3, WMA) and videos (VOB, AVI, FLV, MPG, MPEG1/2/4). No support for Blu-ray discs, MP4 files, or Bluetooth
- 【Last Memory Function and Clamsell Design】The headrest dvd player for car support the last memory function, so you don't need to worry about starting from the beginning, and it picks up each exciting scene from where you left off. The car movie player features a clamshell design, making disc changes super easy without removing the player
No. 3
WONNIE 10.5" Two Car DVD Players Portable Dual Screen Headrest Video Player, Play a Same or Two Different Movies with 5-Hour Rechargeable Battery,2 AC Adapters,2 Mounting Brackets,Support USB/SD Card
- 【2 × Car DVD Player】WONNIE New generation 10.5 inches car headrest DVD player with HD 1280x800 pixels, upgrade chip and have more stable function. The car DVD player dual screen support playing different movies for two kids or playing the same movie via simple AV cable connection. AV OUT also allows the portable car DVD player to sync the movie to large TV or projector for larger view experience
- 【Two Installation Methods Fits for Most Car Headrests】The car DVD entertainment system will keep your kids entertained on long drives and say goodbye to boredom, whining, and crying. The included 2 car mounting brackets and 2 headrest mounting straps attach the dual car DVD players to the car headrest very easily
- 【Multi-Formats Playback & All Regions】The dual portable DVD player support a wide range of formats. ① All-region disc formats: DVD, DVD+R/RW, DVD-R/RW, CD, CD+R/RW, VCD and SVCD. ② Support USB 2.0 and SD/MMC cards up to 32GB (FAT32) for playing music and movies (maximum resolution cannot exceed 720×576 pixels). Video Formats: VOB, AVI, FLV, MPG, MPEG-1/2/4. Audio Formats: MP3, WMA. Image Formats: JPG, JPEG. Note: Blu-ray, MP4, and Bluetooth not supported
- 【3 Power Modes & 5 Hour Rechargeable Battery】There are 3 power supply systems for dual DVD player for car: 2 AC adapters, a 2-in-1 car charger (used only for 12V car), and high-capacity rechargeable battery (built-in each car movie player).So you can watch movies anytime and anywhere without worrying about running out of power. The DVD player for car headrest supports up to 5 hours of actual playback time solely after a full charge
- 【Upgraded 2 Stereo Speakers & Adjustable Volume Level】 WONNIE DVD player for car has built-in two stereo speakers in each unit that can provide clear stereo sound. With upgraded volume control technology, both car DVD player headrest can individually adjust the volume from 0-20. You can also adjust the volume through the remote control. Each unit has a headphone jack, you can connect wired earphones/headphones or speakers for sound
No. 4
Car DVD Player Dual Screen, FANGOR 7.5 Inch DVD Player for Car Play The Same or Two Different Movies with Headrest Straps, Support Last Memory, AV Out/in, USB/SD Card, All Regions
- 【2 x Car DVD Players】FANGOR New-generation 7.5" dual screen car dvd player adopts new chip technology, providing a crystal-clear display and stable performance even on bumpy rides. The dual dvd player for car can play different movies for each child. They can also be easily synced to play the same movie using an AV cable connection and by switching the second player to the AV mode with the SOURCE button【Note: For car use only. Comes with a 2-in-1 high-quality car charger; no built-in battery】
- 【All Regions and Multiple Formats Support】The dual car dvd player supports multiple formats: ① All-region disc formats: DVD, DVD+R/RW, DVD-R/RW, CD, CD+R/RW, VCD, and SVCD. ② Compatible with USB 2.0 and SD/MMC cards up to 32GB (FAT32) and max resolution is 720 x 576. You can enjoy pictures (JPG, JPEG), audio (MP3, WMA) and videos (VOB, AVI, FLV, MPG, MPEG-1/2/4). Does not support for Blu-ray discs, MP4 files, or Bluetooth
- 【Upgraded Dual Powerful Stereo Speakers】The car tv for back seat features two upgraded stereo speakers that deliver louder and clearer sound, providing kids with an excellent listening experience. Volume can be adjusted individually using the player or the remote control. Each player is equipped with a headphone jack, allowing kids to connect wired earphones and enjoy their favorite cartoons
- 【Last Memory Function and Car Headrest Straps Included】 The car dvd player for kids supports resume playback, so you don’t need to worry about starting from the beginning, and it picks up each exciting scene from where you left off. Includes two customized headrest straps for easy installation on car headrests and can be conveniently moved to other back seats or vehicles
- 【100% Customer-Service】FANGOR offers a new replace-ment of reasons within 365 days and professional technical support. If you have any questions about the car movie player, please reach out to us directly via "Get Product Support" on the Amazon order page or after-sales email (PS: If you have missed any accessories or received a broken item in the package, we will send you the new one)
No. 5
WONNIE 10.5" Two DVD Players Dual Screen for Car Portable CD Player, Play a Same or Two Different Movies with Two Mounting Brackets, 5-Hour Rechargeable Battery, Support USB/SD Card Reader
- 【2 × Car DVD Player】 WONNIE New generation 10.5 inches car headrest DVD player with HD 1280*800 pixel, upgraded chip and more stable function. The dual screen car DVD Player support playing the different movies for two kids, or playing the same movie via simply AV cable connecting. AV OUT also allows the portable DVD player for car to sync the movie to a big TV or projector for larger watching views
- 【Fits for Most Car Headrests】The car DVD entertainment system will keep your kids entertained on long drives and say goodbye to boredom, whining, and crying. The included 2 car headrest mounting brackets and 2 headrest mounting straps attach the car headrest video players to the car headrest very easily
- 【Multi-Formats Playback & Region-Free】The dual DVD player for car headrest supports playback of multiple formats.① DVD Formats: DVD, DVD+R, DVD-R, DVD+RW, DVD-RW, CD, CD+R, CD-R, CD+RW, CD-RW, VCD, SVCD (Blu-Ray not Support). ② Video Formats: VOB, AVI, MPEG1, MPEG2. ③ Audio Formats: MP3, WMA. ④ Image Formats: JPG, JPEG. ⑤ Supports up to 32GB USB/SD/MMC card to play music and movies (Maximum resolution cannot exceed 720*576 pixels)
- 【Upgraded 2 Stereo Speakers】 The dual portable car dvd player have built-in two stereo speakers in each unit that can provide clear stereo sound. With upgraded volume control technology, both DVD player for car headrest can individually adjust the volume from 0-20. You can also adjust the volume through the remote controls. Each player has a headphone jack so you can connect wired earphones/headphones or speakers for sound
- 【3 Power Modes & 5 Hrs Rechargeable Battery】There are 3 power supply systems for the WONNIE two car DVD players: 2 AC adapter, a 2-in-1 car charger (used for the car 12V), and high-capacity rechargeable battery(built-in each DVD player). So you can watch movies anytime and anywhere without worrying about running out of power. Powered by high-capacity rechargeable battery, the headrest DVD player portable for car supports up to 5 hours of actual playback time
No. 6
GOnavidio 10.1" Dual Car DVD Players with HDMI Input, Headphones, Mounting Brackets, Headrest DVD Players for Car Support USB/SD Card, AV in/Out, Last Memory, Play A Same or Two Movies, No Battery
- More Ways to Entertain: The dual car dvd players let kids watch different shows independently, or connect them via AV cable to share the same movie. With included headphones and remotes, perfect for keeping everyone entertained and peaceful on long rides
- HDMI Input: The players support the playback of 1080P videos from your mobile phone, Firestick, PS3, PS4, Xbox, Raspberry Pi and computers in sync. More choices, better entertainment
- Unrestricted DVD Regions: No restriction for discs from all regions! Our Car TV support various DVDs formats, like CD, DVD, CD-R/RW, DVD -R/+R, DVD+RW/-RW, VCD, SVCD(except Blu-ray DVD). Last memory function keeps your viewing progress and always starts from where you leave
- Support Multi-Media Files: The built-in USB and TF card (up to 32GB FAT32 and 720*576 pixels) slots allow a host of media files to stream to the player. Compatible with multiple video formats, such as JPG, JPEG, MP3, WMA, VOB, AVI, MPEG 1/2, MPG, 3GP, etc
- Kindly Note: The car DVD player do not have an inbuilt rechargeable battery, you need to connect a car charger to play it. Please note that the cable must be firmly inserted when using. After turning off the car engine, the player will also turn off the power.
No. 7
Car DVD Player Dual Screen with Headrest Mount, DESOBRY 10.5" Portable DVD Player for Car with Suction-Type Disc in, Play a Same or Two Different Movies, Support 1080P Video,HDMI Input, USB/SD Reader
- 【3S Auto Load Discs & Last Memory】Our headrest DVD player for car with Suction-Type Disc in design,not only protects the player loader, but also loads the disc automatically, super easy for adult on front seat or kids on back seat to change dics. Besides, the DVD players with last memory function, every time start from where you leave, time-saving
- 【HDMI Input & AV In/Out】DESOBRY Dual Screen DVD Player for Car with HDMI input function makes it can sync up to 1080P video and audio from phones, computers, Raspberry Pi, Xbox or kindle fire etc.(Pls. confirm your phone supports HDMI output before ordering) Then, the AV In/Out function makes it can sync to TV for bigger screen watching via the included RCA cable.
- 【Regions Free & USB/SD Slot】 Our dvd player for car headrest owns wide compatibility, can play free regions discs from CD, DVD,CD±R, DVD±R, DVD±RW, VCD to SVCD (but not blue-ray DVD). USB/SD card supports playing MP3,WMA,VOB,AVI,DAT,MPEG4,MPG,JPG,JPEG (max to 128GB FAT32 & 1920*1080 pixel).
- 【HD Vision & Adjustable Screen】DESOBRY upgraded car DVD player for kids offer clearly 1920 * 1080P@30fps HD video playback to enhances viewing experience. And thanks to 135° adjustable screen angle, kids can watch the videos at a comfortable angle anytime so that their neck won't be sore and can minimizes reflected glare to protect their eyes.
- 【Perfect Travel Partner】 The Car TV DVD Player comes with two mounting brackets make you easy to install the DVD players to the headrest, it's so firmly that the video player won't shaked or fell down. Then, each player equipped with dual bottom speakers to bring clear and loud stereo sound. It creats a entertained space for back seat, eliminate the kids' anxiety and restlessness, let you drive in peace comfortably and safely.
No. 8
DESOBRY 10.5" Car DVD Player with Headrest Mount, Portable DVD Player for Car with Headphone, Suction-Type Disc in,Support 1080P Video,HDMI Input,USB/SD Card Reader,AV in/Out,Last Memory&Region Free
- 【3S Auto Load Discs & Last Memory】Our car DVD player for kids feature with Suction-Type Disc in design, it will automatic sucks the disc and loads in seconds,easy for adult on front seat or kids on back seat to change dics. The car tv DVD player also built-in last memory function makes watching more convenient by restarting from the break point every time.
- 【HDMI Input & Sync TV, Player】DESOBRY car headrest dvd player with HDMI input function makes it can sync up to 1080P video from phones, computers, Raspberry Pi, Xbox or kindle fire etc.(Pls. confirm your phone supports HDMI output before ordering) And its AV In/Out function makes it can sync the screen to TV for larger watching views via the RCA cable. Besides, you also can play different videos simultaneously or via the included AV cable to sync two screens.
- 【Wide Compatibility】Our headrest DVD player for car owns wide compatibility and can play free regions discs from CD, DVD,CD±R, DVD±R, DVD±RW, VCD to SVCD (but not blue-ray DVD). USB/SD card supports playing MP3,WMA,VOB,AVI,DAT,MPEG4,MPG,JPG,JPEG (max to 128GB FAT32 & 1920*1080 pixel). Note:ONLY suit for standard discs with a 12 CM diameter.
- 【HD Vision & Adjustable Screen】DESOBRY 2022 New gerneration portable car DVD player offers clearly 1920 * 1080P@30fps HD video playback to protect kids' eyes and enhances viewing experience. And thanks to 135° adjustable screen angle, kids can watch the videos at a comfortable angle anytime so that their neck won't be sore and can minimizes reflected glare to protect their eyes.
- 【Easy to Install & Stereo Speakers】The travel DVD player for car comes with a mounting bracket, makes you install the player on the headrest firmly, and the video won't shake or dropped again.And the built-in dual bottom speakers will bring you clear and loud stereo sound. Compare with speakers in the back or front, bottom speakers effectivly decrease sound interference to the front passengers.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Car DVD System
A car DVD system brings entertainment right into your vehicle. It keeps passengers happy on long trips. Picking the right one needs a little know-how. This guide will help you make a smart choice.
Key Features to Look For
The best systems offer more than just DVDs. Think about what you need most.
- Screen Size and Resolution: Bigger screens look better. Look for at least a 7-inch screen. High resolution (like 1080p) makes movies look sharp.
- Format Compatibility: Can it play DVDs, CDs, and maybe even Blu-rays? Ensure it handles common digital video files like MP4 or AVI.
- Mounting Style: Do you want a head unit that replaces your dashboard radio, or a screen that mounts on the headrest? Headrest mounts are great for back-seat viewing.
- Connectivity Options: Modern systems should have USB ports and SD card slots. Bluetooth is a huge plus for streaming music or using hands-free calling.
- Sound Quality and Output: Check if the system has built-in speakers. Better systems allow you to connect to your car’s main speakers or use wireless FM transmitters to send audio to your car stereo.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used affect how long your system lasts and how good it looks.
Screen Durability
For touchscreens, look for sturdy glass surfaces instead of cheap plastic. Plastic screens scratch easily. Good quality casings resist vibrations from driving.
Disc Drive Mechanism
The DVD player mechanism needs to be robust. A smooth, quiet loading mechanism usually means better internal parts. Cheap drives often skip or fail quickly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a car DVD system great? What should you avoid?
Quality Boosters:
- Fast Boot Time: A good system starts playing quickly. You do not want to wait forever for the menu to load.
- Intuitive Interface: The menus should be easy to navigate, even while driving. Simple icons help a lot.
- Reliable Customer Support: If something breaks, good support saves the day.
Quality Reducers:
- Poor Viewing Angles: If the picture looks washed out when you look at it from the side, the screen quality is low.
- Excessive Lag: Slow response times when you touch the screen make the system frustrating to use.
- Cheap Wiring: Poorly insulated wires can cause interference with your car’s radio signal.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about who will use the system and when.
For Families on Road Trips
If you have kids in the back seat, dual-screen headrest systems are fantastic. Each child can watch a different movie. These systems often include game inputs, which keeps boredom away.
For Commuters and Solo Drivers
If you mainly want better navigation, music integration, or hands-free calling, look for a single-DIN or double-DIN head unit. These replace your factory radio and integrate features directly into your dashboard.
Installation Considerations
Some systems are plug-and-play. Others require professional installation, especially if you connect them to your car’s existing speakers. Always check the complexity of the setup before buying.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Car DVD Systems
Q: Can I use my new system for navigation?
A: Many modern car DVD systems, often called “head units,” include GPS navigation. Check the product description to ensure it comes with maps pre-loaded or supports navigation apps.
Q: Will a new DVD system fit my older car?
A: It depends on the size. Standard sizes are single-DIN (tall and thin) or double-DIN (square). You might need a special mounting kit to ensure a tight fit in older dashboards.
Q: Can the back seat screens play separately?
A: Yes, if you buy a dual-screen system. Most dual headrest units allow independent playback, meaning one person watches a DVD while the other streams music from a USB stick.
Q: How do I connect my phone to the system?
A: Most new systems use Bluetooth for easy connection. Some also feature Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which mirror your phone screen directly onto the car unit.
Q: Do I need to cut wires to install this?
A: Simple add-on screens often plug into your car’s cigarette lighter. Replacing the main stereo unit usually requires connecting power, ground, and speaker wires, which is sometimes best left to a professional.
Q: What is an FM transmitter?
A: An FM transmitter lets the DVD system send its audio through a weak FM radio signal. You tune your car radio to that specific frequency, and the movie sound plays through your car speakers.
Q: Are these systems safe to use while driving?
A: For safety, video playback is usually locked out on the front screen when the car is moving. Backseat screens are fine. Always supervise children watching videos.
Q: Does the system drain my car battery?
A: Yes, any electronic device draws power. If you leave the system running when the car is off, it can drain the battery. Most modern stereos have a feature that cuts power if the battery gets too low.
Q: Can I play games on these units?
A: Many head units come with basic built-in games. More importantly, if the unit has A/V inputs, you can often connect a modern gaming console like a Switch.
Q: What resolution is best for viewing DVDs?
A: Standard DVDs are lower resolution. However, if you plan to use USB drives for digital files, look for 1080p support for the best picture quality on modern screens.