We compare and review the latest handheld / mobile TVs with built-in digital tuners. The TVs in this comparison range from entry level to fully loaded but never break the bank.
When consumers transitioned to digital only signals back in 2009, it rendered millions of battery operated TVs useless. Most handhelds were used during storms and other emergencies when power wasn’t available. All of the handheld TVs we’ve reviewed below have a built-in rechargeable battery with the exception of the last one, the Axion AXN-6979.
| Product Name | Average Amazon.com User Rating | Bottomline | Features |
Battery Duration and |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Axion AXN-8701 (Handheld LCD DTV) |
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The AXN-8701 provides a clean crisp picture, but those seeking a more mobile solution might look at other handhelds in the same class. The AX-8701 only lasts 100 minutes on a full charge, and might be a bit awkward to hold if you don’t plan on setting it down for a while. The AXN-8701 is a good pick for folks who travel frequently and want to bring a TV that can remain plugged in, yet is small enough to pack in a small bag. |
7" LCD Screen (480 x 234 Resolution) Rechargeable Battery A/V input for DVD Player or Game Console Includes AC Adapter and Car Adapter Built in antenna and external antenna input Remote Control Included
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The AXN-8701 will last approx. 100 minutes on a full battery. Approximately 4 hours of recharge time is needed to fully charge the battery. |
Viore PLC7V95 (Handheld LCD DTV) |
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Feature rich with a USB / SD card input to allow for playback of MP3 music or to view picture albums. Some reviewers have noted that the PLC7V95 is capable of DIVX movie playback. This unit also has the highest viewing resolution of all handhelds featured in this comparison. One drawback to the PLC7V95 is that it does not include a car charger. Also, with 100 minutes of battery duration, it’s not the best solution for those looking for a truely mobile DTV. |
7" LCD Screen (1440 x 234 Resolution) Rechargeable Battery USB / SD Card input A/V input for DVD Player or Game Console AC Adapter Only Remote Control Included
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The Viore PLC7V95 will last approx. 90 minutes on a full battery. Approximately 4 hours of recharge time is needed to fully charge the battery. |
Haier HLT71 (Handheld LCD DTV) |
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With approximately 2.5 hours of battery life, the HLT71 is truely a mobile DTV. The added coaxial input may be an attractive feature for those with a VCR but not necessary given the A/V input that this unit is also built with for DVD players and game consoles. With it’s cheap price tag, slim profile, and long battery liffe, the Haier HLT71 is a good option for those who want a really good but featureless mobile DTV. |
7" LCD Screen (480 x 234 Resolution) Rechargeable Battery Selectable screen ratio 16:9 or 4:3 A/V Input and Coaxial Input AC Adapter and Car Adapter Remote Control Included |
The Haier HLT71 will last approx.150 minutes on a full battery. Approximately 4-5 hours of recharge time is needed to fully charge the battery. |
Envizen Digital ED8850A Duo Box Pro (Handheld LCD and DVD Player) |
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The pricest Mobile DTV unit of the bunch but also has a built-in DVD player. Tons of features including a USB input, 3-in-1 card reader, and a high resolution screen. Wonderful battery duration at approx. 2.5 hours on a full charge. If you want all the bells and whistles, this is the one to get. |
7" LCD Screen (720p Resolution) Rechargeable Battery Includes AC Adapter, car adapter, car head seat attachment, carrying bag, external antenna USB Input and MS/SD/MMC Card Reader Remote Control Included |
The Envizen Digital ED8850A will last approx.150 minutes on a full battery. Approximately 4-5 hours of recharge time is needed to fully charge the battery. |
Axion AXN-6979 (Handheld LCD and DVD Player) |
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High Resolution Dual Screens (Yes, 2 Screens), DVD player, and a compact design allows for a truely mobile entertainment experience. No USB input or card reader, but does have multiple headphone jacks if needed. The AXN-6979 is a great option for those wanting to outfit their vehicle with a DTV and DVD player. The A/V inputs also allow for additional connections such as a game console (Xbox or Playstation 3). |
(2) 7" LCD Screens (1440 x 234 Resolution) A/V Input Top Loading DVD player Mounting straps for headrests Remote Control Included |
No Battery |
