Old school picture frames are so last century. After all, they don't do much more than show off one shot (that you have to print). Snore. Digital photo frames, on the other hand, let you create slideshows with cool transitions to display all of your vacation pics. And some of these handy devices integrate video, audio, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a host of other features. The best part? LCD technology is finally becoming affordable enough for these frames to be had at fairly reasonable prices. Sure, you can land a killer deal on a solid frame, but you need to know what to look for. Here are five rules to follow to help you pick the perfect digital picture frame.
Rule 1: Consider the User
Some of the
picture frames we've reviewed, such as epathchina apple shaped digital photo frame, have fancy features like full Web browsers, streaming Internet radio, and text news feeds. Wi-Fi-enabled photo frames often cost considerably more than those that only display local content. Web-connected features can also add complicated menu options that may be confusing to novice users. If you're focused on viewing photos and little else, it's probably best to keep extra features to a minimum; you'll also save money that way.
On the flip side, the lesser-known Pandigital uses an excellent display in its PanTouch Clear Digital Photo Frame, a touch-enabled model that has video support and delivers good-looking images. The frame also offers a wide color gamut and an intuitive touch experience for less than half the price of the HP DreamScreen.
Rule 3: Never Settle for a Resolution Below 640 by 480Regardless of Price
Rock-bottom prices on some frames, such as the 7-inch Digital Photo Frame, may render them mighty attractive, but beware of subpar images. This frame's resolution of 480 by 234 pixels is too low to display details, so most of its images look boxy and pixelatedno bargain! Only consider frames with a resolution of 640 by 480 or higher.
Rule 4: Select Your Aspect Ratio
Photo frames typically support either a 4:3 or 15:9 aspect ratio. By default, most point-and-shoot
digital cameras capture photos in 4:3. A frame with an aspect ratio of 4:3 will be the best fit for your photos, as 15:9 frames will have to crop a piece of the top and bottom of your photos to fit the image on the LCD. On the flip side, a 15:9 aspect ratio gives your images a pleasing widescreen feel. One of our favorite frames, the Digital Photo Frame, displays in 15:9. That, together with its slick design and intuitive software, makes it look and feel like a mini HDTV.
Rule 5: Images Are Only Part of the Picture
Superior image quality isn't the most important feature to everyone. Sure, you want to see your pictures clearly and sharply, but there's more to consider. Do you need an accelerometer so you can use the frame in both portrait and landscape mode? Do you want to watch video in addition to viewing photos? Do you want to set your photo slideshows to music? This might seem like common sense, but not all frames are created equal; if there's a must-have feature on your list, check the specs before you buy.
Start by reading our reviews of the latest models, and be sure to follow our rules as you shop for a
digital photo frame.
