A head-to-head 4k blu-ray players comparison to help you pick the right one for your home theater.
Updated June 3, 2026
Verdict
The Panasonic DP-UB820 supports both Dolby Vision and HDR10+, has Panasonic's excellent HDR Optimizer and superior video processing, and delivers reference-grade picture quality. The Sony UBP-X700 is a reliable budget player with Dolby Vision (but no HDR10+) at less than half the price. Buy the Panasonic UB820 for the best image and dual HDR format support; buy the Sony X700 if you want solid 4K HDR playback on a budget.
| Panasonic DP-UB820 | Sony UBP-X700 | |
|---|---|---|
| Dolby Vision | Yes | Yes |
| HDR10+ | Yes | No |
| HDR Optimizer / tone mapping | Yes, excellent | Basic |
| Video processing | Reference-grade | Good |
| Analog audio outputs | 7.1 + dedicated stereo | None (HDMI/optical only) |
| Build | Heavier, premium | Lightweight, compact |
| Best for | Best picture, dual HDR, AV fans | Budget 4K HDR playback |
| Price | ~$500 | ~$200 |
You want the best possible UHD picture, support for both Dolby Vision and HDR10+ discs, superior tone mapping, and analog audio outputs for legacy gear.
Check Panasonic DP-UB820 on Amazon
You want reliable 4K HDR and Dolby Vision playback at the lowest price and do not need HDR10+ or advanced video processing.
No. The Sony UBP-X700 supports Dolby Vision and HDR10 but not HDR10+. The Panasonic DP-UB820 supports both Dolby Vision and HDR10+, so it can read the dynamic-metadata layer on any 4K disc regardless of which format the studio used.
If picture quality matters to you, yes. The UB820 has superior video processing, Panasonic's HDR Optimizer for better tone mapping, both Dolby Vision and HDR10+, and analog audio outputs. The Sony X700 is a great value player, but the Panasonic is a noticeable step up for a dedicated home theater.
Yes. Both pass through Dolby Atmos (and DTS:X) bitstream over HDMI to your AV receiver or soundbar, so either one delivers full immersive audio from compatible discs.
The Panasonic DP-UB820 (or the step-up DP-UB9000) is the better fit for a high-end setup thanks to its reference video processing, dual HDR support, and analog outputs. The Sony X700 is better suited to budget or secondary systems.