Craig CVD401a Disc Player Review
Our verdict
The Craig CVD401a is a compact, affordable DVD player at $31.95 with 1080p Full HD output via HDMI and a 4.2 rating from 9,600 reviews, which is an unusually strong review count at this price point. It is a dependable pick for buyers who need a simple disc player that connects to a modern TV.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Budget buyers who want a compact, HDMI-connected DVD player with 1080p upscaling and a proven track record
Skip if
You want native Blu-ray playback, streaming apps, or a player with more than basic disc and HDMI support
- Resolution 1080P Full Hd
- Disc format Blu-Ray
- Connectivity Hdmi
- Color Black
- Dimensions 6.5 X 7.8 X 1.7 In
- Weight 1.8 lb
- Priced 78% below the category median ($147.81 across 100 tracked models)
- Weight of 1.8 lb - lighter than 79% of the 108 models we track
Pros
- 1080p HDMI output at a $31.95 price is strong value
- 9,600 reviews at 4.2 stars is a robust, trustworthy data set
- Very compact body at 6.5 x 7.8 x 1.7 in and 1.8 lb
- Simple HDMI setup with no network configuration needed
Cons
- No Blu-ray disc compatibility
- No wireless or streaming features
- Craig is a value brand without the hardware reputation of Sony or LG
Our scorecard
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Owner rating4.2/5
4.2 average across 9,600 owner ratings
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Popularity4.9/5
9,600 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other AV receivers and amplifiers, soundbars, home theater speakers, subwoofers, surround sound systems and Blu-ray players we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
['At $31.95, the Craig CVD401a competes at the lower end of the disc player market. What separates it from many budget competitors is the 1080p Full HD output via HDMI, which means DVD content is upscaled to a resolution that looks much better on a modern flatscreen than a basic composite connection would produce.', 'The review volume here is notable. 9,600 reviews at a 4.2 rating is a substantial data set that reflects real-world performance across many households. The dimensions are compact at 6.5 x 7.8 x 1.7 inches, and the 1.8 lb weight makes it easy to fit into tight spaces or travel with.', "Craig is a value-oriented brand rather than a premium AV name, but this player's review record suggests it delivers on its core promise reliably. There are no network features, streaming apps, or Blu-ray support, but for a pure disc-to-TV connection it performs its function well."]
Specifications
| Resolution | 1080P Full Hd |
|---|---|
| Disc format | Blu-Ray |
| Connectivity | Hdmi |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 6.5 X 7.8 X 1.7 In |
| Weight | 1.8 lb |
Performance notes
Resolution is listed as 1080p Full HD with HDMI connectivity. Physical dimensions are 6.5 x 7.8 x 1.7 inches and the unit weighs 1.8 lb, making it one of the smaller players in its category. Output is upscaled from DVD source material, not native 1080p content.
What buyers say
9,600 reviews at 4.2 stars is a strong performance for a sub-$35 player from a value brand. The review count means the rating is not skewed by a small group of early buyers. The consistent score across that volume suggests the player reliably handles everyday DVD playback without major issues.
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Frequently asked questions
Does the Craig CVD401a upscale DVD content to 1080p?
Yes, the player outputs at 1080p Full HD via HDMI. This means it upscales the 480p source resolution of standard DVDs, resulting in a sharper picture on 1080p or 4K televisions than you would get from a composite-only player. The improvement is visible especially on larger screens.
How small is the Craig CVD401a?
It measures 6.5 x 7.8 x 1.7 inches and weighs 1.8 lb, making it one of the more compact disc players in this price range. It fits easily on a shelf, inside a media cabinet, or in a travel bag, which is useful for dorm rooms, RVs, or secondary bedrooms.
Is Craig a reliable brand for a disc player?
Craig is a budget-oriented electronics brand, not a name associated with premium AV equipment. However, the CVD401a's 4.2 rating across 9,600 reviews provides strong evidence that this specific model performs reliably for basic DVD playback. That review volume makes it easier to trust than a less-reviewed product from a similar brand.