This is one of the more economical players and does everything well. I really like the flywheel controls which control the volume and screen brightness - very easy to operate. Picture is good - at least as good or better than some more expensive players. Some other portable players in this price range have very poor sound (low volume), but not this. It can play very loudly if you choose to. Unfortunately, I have to return it because it does not play VCD's. However, if you do not have VCD's and want an economical DVD player, look no further. This player (and most portable players) does not have the fast forward/backward buttons on the unit (only on the remote). I fail to see the use of a remote when a "portable" unit will probably right on your lap.