Unasked for advice from an old, old Auntie
Now that media is being sold on blu-ray, dvd and CD formats again, some of you might not have the proper players. Many already do, or know how to get them, this is not for those people. I'm not trying to talk down to anyone.
In my humble, and non-expert opinion, the best thing to do is get a blu-ray player or external player, because it will play blu-rays, dvds and cds.
Best External Blu-ray Drives
Or look to a ratings website or organization which you trust.
But if your budget is like mine, you need something more afforable. You can look on ebay, Amazon marketplace, or any other stores that show you the links for used items, to find a drive or player at a lower price. But buyer beware! Check out the seller's rating, and how many people have rated them. Read the most recent ratings to see how your purchase might be handled.
You might want to see an actor's (musician's, writer's, director's) earlier work. That might only be available on dvd, or blu-ray, (or cd). Same rules with the used ones there.
Here are the meanings of the condition descriptions from e-bay.
Movies & TV, Music, Video Games
Brand new: The item was never opened or removed from the manufacturer's sealing (if applicable). The item is in original shrink wrap (if applicable). See the seller's listing for full details
Like new: The item looks as if it were just taken out of shrink wrap. It has no visible wear, and all facets of the item are flawless and intact. See the seller's listing for full details and a description of any imperfections
Very good: The item is used but still in very good condition. There is no damage to the jewel case or item cover: no scuffs, scratches cracks, or holes. The cover art and liner notes are included. The VHS or DVD box is included. The video game instructions and box are included. The teeth of the disk holder are undamaged. There is minimal wear on the exterior of the item. The CD/DVD doesn't skip. There are no fuzzy/snowy frames on the VHS tape. See the seller's listing for full details and a description of any imperfections
Good: The item is used but in good condition. It may have minor damage to the jewel case, including scuffs or cracks, or to the item cover, including scuffs, scratches, or cracks. The cover art and liner notes are included for a CD. The VHS or DVD box is included. Video game instructions are included. The CD/DVD doesn't skip. There are no fuzzy/snowy frames on the VHS tape. See the seller's listing for full details and a description of any imperfections
Acceptable: The item has obvious and significant wear but is still operational. There may be tears or holes in the VHS/DVD box. The video game instructions and box may not be included. See the seller's listing for full details and a description of any imperfections
Check the condition descriptions on the site you're buying from to be precise about what you are getting.
Of course, most media can be rented or bought from streaming services. No one in 2024 needs any advice on how to do that. This is only for those of you who want to own what you buy, and sell it later if you find you don't want it anymore.
Good luck! Happy watching!
