Digital Picture Frame Buyer’s Guide

Written on Jul 4, 2008 by K Richard Douglas and filed under Knowledge Base

There are numerous features to consider when purchasing a digital picture frame. How many colors can the frame reproduce? What is its resolution? Does the digital picture frame allow viewing from an angle? Does the frame come with its own remote? Can it display video in addition to still images? Once you have determined what features are most important, it’s time to look at what’s available.

Several manufacturers produce digital picture frames and most offer a selection of sizes. Common sizes, measured diagonally, range from 3.5” to 15”. Some are wall mounted and some sit on your desk or table; it’s critical to consider frame location when making your decision. Generally, what differentiates one frame from another is the display quality, frame design, connectivity, file transfer method, multimedia  support and extra features.

Display Type and Quality

One of the many features of digital picture frames that effects picture quality is something called the ‘aspect ratio’.  The aspect ratio is the ratio of the horizontal dimension of your picture to the vertical dimension.  A standard full-size screen typically offers a  4:3 ratio.  Many frames come with a widescreen option that produces a ratio of 16:9.

The widescreen format has proven popular with computer monitors and televisions, and digital picture frames are no exception.  Remember though that most digital cameras use the standard format.  You need to shoot in an optional widescreen format, when it’s available, to produce an image that is perfect for the 16:9 ratio, otherwise you’ll need to crop your photos or use a built-in zoom feature to fill the entire frame display.

The resolution and display quality are important. A high resolution display can produce the same rich, vibrant colors that you experience with a high quality print. Resolution is measured in pixels per inch just like a computer monitor; the greater the number of pixels, the crisper the details in your pictures.

Frame Design

Digital picture frames range in design from high-tech to country. The difference is usually found in the border around the frame’s display. Sony for instance uses a very sleek, modern look, while others go with more standard wood or painted frames. Kodak and a few other companies let you interchange the frame plates to make sure the frame fits with its surroundings.

Connectivity

When you are considering connectivity, you are really deciding if transferring files with a physical connection to your PC or via memory card is what you want. Some digital frames come with built-in wireless options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. These features generally add substantial cost, but do offer new ways to update images on the frame. Some let you update pictures over a wireless connection to your social networking profiles or other websites. With Bluetooth you can transfer images over the air from your Bluetooth equipped devices like a mobile phone or laptop.

Even if you go wireless, you won’t be able to avoid the power cord. Most frames require connection to a power supply; although some work with rechargeable batteries. However, those often need recharging after a few hours and generally offer very small screens.

File Transfer

The source image files generally come from a memory card inserted into the frame or internal memory within the frame.  Current digital picture frames support a variety of memory cards like Memory Stick, CompactFlash,  MultiMediaCard, Secure Digital, xD Picture Card and even a USB drives. It’s a nice idea to buy a frame that supports the memory you already have. Images from these external sources can generally be copied to a frame’s internal memory. A larger amount of internal memory means the frame can hold more pictures and display them without a need for external memory.

Multimedia Support

Some digital picture frames include the ability to play audio and video files. These are typically higher-end frames that have built-in speakers. Don’t expect great sound though, these frames won’t replace your MP3 player. A handful allow for output to larger screens as well. For instance, Sony is starting to integrate HDMI ports on their frames so you may view your stills on high-definition televisions.

Extra Features

A variety of additional options may be included with digital picture frames such as built-in clocks or calendars, auto-shutoff, remote controls, the ability to print directly to a printer, an option to connect directly to a digital camera and many more. Each option and its usefulness is a matter of personal preference.

Before You Buy…

There are a few points to keep in mind when purchasing a digital picture frame beyond the standard features. If you go the wireless route, a moderate comfort level with computers is advised.  Some digital picture frame manufacturers include services that download photos from a web site where your friends or family can submit new photos. These services often require a subscription fee.   Also, it’s a good idea to keep in mind that some frames that are widescreen will crop your standard sized images.  This will result in some image loss at the top and bottom of your photo.

Consider the viewing distance in the room where you will use your digital picture frame.  Will the images on the screen be easy to view from a point across the room?  Larger formats are expected in the future, but some manufacturers already produce frames that will work in most rooms.

Another thing to think about is that LCD screens, like those used in digital picture frames, can ‘hold’ an image permanently if the image has been left displayed on the screen for a long period.  It’s best to use the slideshow feature available on most frames to prevent this.  This also allows the viewer to anticipate the next picture and holds their interest.

Digital picture frames provide a unique way to share your memories.  They are an attractive purchase or gift because they can always be updated and you can never have too many frames. Your digital picture frame will quickly become a point of interest in your home or office.