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Resolved Question

Is an insignia 8" LCD digital Photo frame a good buy?

Jan 15, 2012 2:45AM PST

I am looking for two digital picture frames for my parents (one each). The frames only need good digital resolution and the ability to take full size SD cards (since I already have two 2GB cards). I was looking at the Insignia 8" digital photo frame (listed at best buy for 119.99, at MicroCenter for 39.99, same UPC). Is this a good a basic frame or not? I want to be able to set it to both slideshow and "freeze" on a favorite picture.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Insignia%26%23153%3B+-+8%22+LCD+Digital+Photo+Frame/9379497.p?id=1218095151115&skuId=9379497

and

http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0379825

Thank you!

Ambam_00

Discussion is locked

Ambam_00 has chosen the best answer to their question. View answer

Best Answer

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Some experimentation required with all brands
Jan 15, 2012 6:53AM PST

The main problem I've had with digital frames is that the feature set can be a little buggy. (That Insignia is *way* overpriced, btw.) Sometimes the slideshow functionality only parses certain files or folders regardless of what you tell it to do. YMMV, according the brand/model.

I've found the Viewsonic frames to have the best image quality, for what it's worth. Prices are low enough overall IME that it makes more sense than going with a Best Buy house brand. Look at both Amazon & Newegg for much better prices. Microcenter I prefer to use for computer parts in a pinch rather than products like HDTVs or monitors. Caveat emptor. Also look at return policies closely with these items/retailers.

Don't forget about the differences between widescreen frames (16:9) and ones with standard 4:3 aspect ratios like normal photos. It's getting harder to find good frames that do 4:3 but there are plenty of less than desirable widescreen frames for sale all over. I personally don't like any black bars on a photo frame, but maybe that won't bother you as much. If you end up with a frame *larger* than 8", make certain the native resolution is 1024 x 768 and not 800 x 600. Conversely, make sure a 7 or 8" frame is no less than 800 x 600.

Look at this one, which I see is still around-
Viewsonic VFD823-50

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Giving it a try
Jan 16, 2012 7:13AM PST

I had to pick up some other stuff at microcenter today so I grabbed one frame to try out. I'll load up an SD card with pics and test the functionality and look of the frame, if I like them, I'll go grab another one. I will also post my experience here.

Thanks for the help,
Ambam

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Answer
This is strictly my opinion.
Jan 15, 2012 10:58AM PST

$119..no, $40..maybe. personally, I would not buy one at any price. As I have stated before..the idea itself was great. but think about this though..isn't there something wrong if all we do is looking at photos? My kid gave one of those as a xmas gift a few years back...it has been dark needless to say.

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Not wrong at all
Jan 15, 2012 12:29PM PST

My parents have specifically requested some updated photos of activities I participate (swordfighting) and I thought rather than send them two or three framed photos for the home/office sending a digital frame would allow them to receive more pictures, have a way to view them, and if they want, to print out copies. My parents work at a location where they can not have anything personal on the computers, so a wall photo or digital frame is the only way to "personalize" their cubicles/offices.

YMMV,

Ambam

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If that's their request then...
Jan 15, 2012 4:29PM PST

you can't go wrong I suppose and since it's an office and people goes in and out of there, it may make an interesting conversational decorative piece. Go with the best.

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Wow, why such price difference.
Jan 15, 2012 4:39PM PST

I definitely WILL NOT get it from Bestbuy. The thing look to identical.

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You must not know very many grandparents
Jan 16, 2012 1:34AM PST

Who doesn't have older people in their lives who like to look at photos? Wink

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You maybe correct, but....
Jan 16, 2012 2:09AM PST

I can only judge by my own experience. I do look at photos once in awhile so I just preferred photo album or the TV.