How to buy a digital picture frame

It is no secret that a picture is worth a thousand words. But now, a single digital picture frame can store more than a thousand pictures, creating an alternative to traditional frames.

Digital picture frames are growing in popularity, and major electronic companies are rolling out an array of products that feature innovative technology and special features. Some digital frames not only store photographs, but also music and videos. Some are even equipped with alarm clocks and calendars.

Among the newest innovations are frames with Wi-Fi capabilities. These digital marvels are produced with their own e-mail addresses. Users electronically send photographs from any location to their digital picture frame via e-mail or text message, and the photo will automatically be saved to the device.

With so many features, it can be difficult to decide which one to buy. There are three important factors to keep in mind: quality, versatility and ease.

The quality of a digital picture frame is determined by the display resolution, which varies from frame to frame. The higher the resolution, the clearer the picture will look. Most 8-inch frames have a display resolution of 800 by 600 megapixels and most 6 1/2 -inch frames are 720 by 480 megapixels. Anything lower will reduce the picture quality.

Versatility between “landscape” mode and “portrait” mode is equally as important as display resolution. Some digital frames are made with a locked picture mode that cannot be switched to accommodate the proper orientation of individual photos. Therefore, if you purchase a landscape picture frame, it may not be able to read portraits. Check to make sure the frame can be set to either of the two modes or you will not be able to display all of your images.

In addition, the frames you purchase must match the memory format from your digital camera. “There are many types of media, and the frame should have the ability to read any memory format,” said Jim Langehenning, manager of technical services at Consumer Reports.

Ease of use should be the determining factor in choosing a suitable digital picture frame. Although a frame with many special features may be appealing, if it’s not easy to use, you’re not going to take the trouble to learn it, especially if it’s difficult to set up and maintain. A digital frame is supposed to make picture displays fun and convenient.

“Many newer frames have built-in printers, cordless phones and answering machines. But the primary purpose should be to display pictures,” Langehenning said.

The leading model of digital picture frame is the HP df800 ($170), according to the May 2008 ratings by Consumer Reports.

The frame has an 8-inch display screen with a resolution of 800 by 600 megapixels. It is equipped with 128 MB of internal memory and is compatible with other external memory formats. The frame comes with two interchangeable cover plates and is capable of playing video. Most important, it is rated “excellent” by Consumer Reports for its ease of use.

The runner-up is the Samsung SPF-83V ($190). It has an 8-inch display screen with an 800 by 600 megapixel resolution, similar to the HP df800. Although the frame is compatible with external memory formats, only 64 MB of internal memory is provided. It did not rate as well for its ease of use, but it is Wi-Fi compatible, so it is worth the extra money.

After purchasing a digital picture frame, proper storage is important to maintain picture quality.

“Where you put the piece of equipment is also important,” he said. “You do not want to put it in too bright of a room because the screen will get washed out.”