Microsoft accidentally made a fantastic 4K Blu-ray player years ago
Physical media is making a resurgence, especially in home theater circles. Rather than pay for streaming services in perpetuity, some buyers are realizing that owning higher-quality 4K UHD Blu-ray discs is the better option. However, finding a new 4K player in 2026 is trickier than it should be. Only a handful of brands make quality players, and the good ones often start at $500 and up. If you’re looking for a budget 4K UHD Blu-ray player to start your collection, the best option might not be a standalone player at all.