Panasonic’s UB420 and UB820 are two of the company’s latest 4K Blu-ray players. The UB420 sits in the midrange, while the UB820 is Panasonic’s current flagship player.
But how do these two models actually compare, and is the UB820 worth the extra cost over the UB420? Here’s an in-depth look at the pros, cons, similarities, and differences.
| Feature | UB420 | UB820 |
| Price | $$ | $$$$ |
| Video Formats | 4K, 1080p | 4K, 1080p |
| HDR Support | HDR10, HDR10+ | HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision |
| Audio Formats | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos |
| Build Quality | Plastic | Metal |
| HDMI Ports | 2 | 2 |
| USB Port | 1 | 2 |
| Networking | Ethernet, Wi-Fi | Ethernet, Wi-Fi |
| Streaming Apps | Basic | Extensive |
When it comes to actually playing back 4K Blu-ray discs, both the UB420 and UB820 deliver superb video quality. They support 4K resolution at up to 60 frames per second, as well as standard 1080p Blu-ray playback. HDR is also handled excellently on both models.
The UB420 supports the two most common HDR formats – HDR10 and HDR10+. HDR10 is by far the most widely used format, while HDR10+ is a slightly more advanced version supported on some 4K Blu-ray discs and streaming platforms.
The UB820 adds support for Dolby Vision HDR on top of HDR10/HDR10+. Dolby Vision has some advantages over HDR10, thanks to dynamic metadata that allows scene-by-scene adjustments for improved image accuracy. However, Dolby Vision is not found on 4K Blu-ray discs. It’s used primarily for streaming content, so Dolby Vision support is not a critical feature for disc playback on the UB820.
Also Read: Comparison Between Sony STR-DH790 And Denon AVR-S760H.
For audio, the UB420 and UB820 both support Dolby Atmos – the premier surround sound format found on most 4K Blu-ray releases. Dolby Atmos provides highly immersive audio with sound effects that can move all around you in 3D space.
The UB820 does have some slight audio advantages stemming from its superior internal processing. But both players will deliver excellent Dolby Atmos performance that significantly elevates the sound quality compared to basic surround sound.
Here’s an area where the UB820 really distinguishes itself from the UB420. The cheaper UB420 has very basic smart platform with just a handful of major streaming apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and YouTube. Navigating the interface feels dated as well.
By contrast, the UB820 has Panasonic’s latest smart platform that is much more robust. Streaming app support is extensive with all the major services like Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, Apple TV and more. Everything is smoother and quicker to load. The interface is nicer to use too.
So while both players handle disc playback equally well, the UB820 is far superior for streaming. Its smart features are comparable to a dedicated streaming box like the Apple TV or Roku. The UB420 is very bare bones if you want more than just disc playback.
Panasonic has given the UB820 a premium metal exterior that looks and feels high-end. The UB420 is an all-plastic construction that is decent but has a cheaper feel.
Both players share a similar overall design aesthetic. The UB820’s build quality is simply in a different league with finely brushed metal and smoothly operating disc trays.
In terms of size, the UB820 is slightly larger and heavier at 2.2 kg Vs. the UB420 at 1.2 kg. But the footprint is nearly identical.
Also Read: Differences Between Vizio And Philips TV.
For connectivity, the UB420 and UB820 are quite similar. Both have two HDMI outputs to connect to an audio system and TV. They also each have a single USB port and Ethernet networking. However, the UB820 adds a second USB input for expanded connectivity.
One handy advantage of the UB820 is that it comes bundled with a high quality HDMI cable in the box. The cheaper UB420 does not include an HDMI cable.
An optional Wi-Fi adapter is available for both models. Wi-Fi comes built-in on the UB820, while it requires an extra dongle on the UB420.
A few extra flourishes on the UB820 add to its premium capabilities. The player has an IR blaster to control other components, along with RS-232C serial control.
There’s also a headphone jack and separate audio output ideal for connecting an external DAC. Little touches like the backlit remote and illuminated power button further elevate the UB820.
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The main differences are the UB820 has superior streaming capabilities and build quality, along with Dolby Vision support. The UB420 focuses purely on disc playback at a lower cost.
No, the UB420 is limited to HDR10 and HDR10+ support. Only the higher model UB820 includes Dolby Vision compatibility.
For most buyers, yes. The additions like Dolby Vision, far better streaming features, and premium construction justify the extra cost of the UB820 for an all-around great 4K Blu-ray player.
Yes, both the UB420 and UB820 support Dolby Atmos audio from 4K Blu-ray discs and many streaming apps. This provides highly immersive 3D sound effects.
The UB420 delivers strong disc playback at its lower price point. But you’ll miss out on the extensive streaming options, superior build quality, and Dolby Vision support of the UB820.
Here’s a quick rundown on which player to choose:
So weigh how important features like streaming, build quality, and Dolby Vision support are against the additional cost of the UB820. For most buyers, the UB820 is the better all-around player despite the steeper price. But the UB420 holds its own for disc playback alone.
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