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Buy the best digital photo frame
Choosing a digital photo frame? From deciding between sizes to questions about how many photos can be stored, our expert tells all in the Which? video guide.
Video guide to buying the best digital photo frame
Can’t decide on the best digital photo frame? In this video guide, our technology expert advises on size, resolution, memory and power – and tricks you can use in the store to see which digital photo frames are best.
How to choose the best digital photo frame
Essential digital photo frame features
When selecting the best digital photo frame, consider size, resolution and memory. Frames can be as large as 15 inches – while you don’t want a wall-hung digital photo frame to be too small, it can be more intrusive than the same-sized artwork. To ensure a clear picture, look for a resolution with a large number of pixels – at least 800x480 for a 7-inch frame.
If the digital photo frame has built-in memory, you can copy photos straight from a computer or digital camera. Other digital photo frames need a memory card – check that a frame uses the same card as your camera.
Digital photo frame extras
Look at slide-show options, found on most frames, including how much time you can set between picture changes. If you want to use lots of photos, a Wi-Fi connection will allow you to send pictures via a computer, and some frames can also take pictures from Bluetooth-enabled devices.
For a digital photo frame to suit your home, look for interchangeable inserts so you can match it to your décor. Some digital photo frames can playback video – so look for that if such an option appeals.
Buy the best digital photo frame
Advanced features are irrelevant if your digital photo frame has poor picture quality. Look for its contrast ratio – shown, for example, as 300:1 or 500:1 – the higher the first number the better. Also check out contrast of dark and bright images if you're buying in store – and view frames at different angles and distances to see what looks best.
Think about where the frame will go – would your wedding pictures look best displayed on a wall-mountable frame? And when you put your frame up at home, make sure that it isn't in direct sunlight as that makes it harder to see the images displayed on screen.
Choosing a cheap digital photo frame
You can get digital photo frames for less than £50, but it's important to check their quality. If you are looking for a cheap digital photo frame, consider choosing a smaller one, as these are usually cheaper.
Digital photo frames are also often cheaper online than in store, so shop around for the best prices.
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Which? tests more thoroughly than any other organisation
We test digital photo frames using many different images, so you can be sure that Which? Best Buy digital photo frames will display your precious photos at their best.
Digital photo frames under the microscope
Which? uses microscopes to measure the resolution on digital photo frames, and technical instruments to measure the screens’ brightness and contrast. We also use experts to see how well a range of pictures and videos display on the digital photo frames when viewed at distances of 0.5m and 2m.
