The 7 Best Overhead Video Players
This wiki has been updated 22 times since it was first published in November of 2018. For many parents, keeping little passengers happily occupied is a high priority on road trips. Overhead monitors and flip-down DVD players provide hours of entertainment with videos, games, and more. Compared to headrest models, they deliver better picture quality, an easier installation, and much less glare. Here we include selections offering exceptional performance, reliability, and value. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Pyle PLRV1525
2. DDAuto 1337B
3. Rockville RVD12HD
Editor's Notes
March 08, 2021:
We've previously looked at flip-down DVD players, but DVDs are all but a dead medium, so we've expanded the list to include some overhead monitors. Of course, some, like the Alpine RSE3HDMI, do have a built-in DVD player, but those tend to come at a premium now. If you're going to spend that kind of money, the DDAuto 1337B is far more worthwhile, due mostly to the convenience of its Android operating system.
Alternatively, if you're okay with loading your media onto a USB thumb drive or using a streaming stick, the Pyle PLRV1525 is tough to beat. It's designed for permanent installation and can connect directly to your existing car stereo with relative ease. If you aren't concerned with connecting high-resolution audio to your main speakers, the Xtrons CM136HD and Xtrons CM173HD should be on your list. Both of these have IR and FM transmitters to handle the audio. Unfortunately, that's their major limitation, as they can't output to wired headphones or speakers in any way.
November 28, 2018:
Perhaps our most useful suggestion regarding selecting a drop-down DVD player is be sure the model you choose offers all the functionality you desire. In addition, as installation can be tricky, you may wish to have a professional do it for you – which is usually still cheaper than buying the factory model from a car dealership. Here we list some of the best choices at a range of price points.
4. Xtrons CM173HD
5. Alpine RSE3HDMI
6. Xtrons CM136HD
7. Rockville RVD10HD
Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.