Hitting the road for a long trip with kids in the back used to fill me with dread, picturing hours of “Are we there yet?” and sibling squabbles; I desperately needed a way to keep them quietly occupied. Without an effective solution, these journeys would inevitably become stressful endurance tests, turning what should be family bonding time into a frustrating ordeal for everyone in the car. Finding something like the WONNIE 13.3 Inch Car TV – Headrest Video Player could have significantly eased those past travels.
Anyone who spends a significant amount of time in their car, particularly with passengers in the back seat – think parents on road trips, taxi or rideshare drivers with repeat customers, or even someone who wants an extra screen for camping or tailgating – understands the value of keeping people entertained. Boredom in a confined space like a car can lead to restless passengers, distractions for the driver, and generally unpleasant journeys. An in-car entertainment system solves this by providing access to movies, shows, or even games, turning potential misery into manageable travel time.
The ideal customer for a headrest video player like this is someone seeking a dedicated screen for the back seat without the expense or complexity of a built-in system. It’s perfect for families with young children or teenagers who want to watch their own content. This type of device might not be necessary for solo commuters or those whose vehicles already have integrated entertainment screens. Before buying, consider screen size needs, the types of media you want to play (USB, HDMI, older formats), how you plan to power it, and the complexity of installation. Also, think about connectivity – do you need to connect a phone, a gaming console, or just play files from a USB drive? Understanding these factors will help determine if a specific player meets your needs.
An Overview of the WONNIE 13.3 Inch Headrest Player
The WONNIE 13.3 Inch Car TV presents itself as a straightforward solution for adding a video monitor to your car’s back seat. Designed primarily as a headrest screen, its promise is simple: provide a dedicated display for passengers to consume media, helping to keep them occupied during travel. When you purchase the WONNIE video player, you typically receive the monitor unit itself, a remote control, a car charger, headrest straps for installation, a 3.5mm-RCA cable, a user manual, and a mounting bracket.
This specific player targets users looking for a relatively large screen (listed specs show a 12-inch display area despite the 13.3-inch product name) and versatile input options without being a full-fledged, often more expensive, portable DVD player. Unlike older portable DVD players that have a built-in disc drive, the WONNIE relies entirely on external sources like USB drives or devices connected via HDMI or AV. It’s suited for someone comfortable dealing with digital media files or connecting their own streaming device or phone (provided they have the necessary adapters/cables), but not for someone hoping to pop in a DVD or expecting wireless phone mirroring straight out of the box.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons based on my experience and gathered feedback:
Pros:
* Large 12-inch screen size provides a good viewing experience for backseat passengers.
* Supports a wide range of media file formats from USB drives.
* Multiple input/output options including HDMI IN/OUT and AV IN.
* Comes with multiple installation methods (straps and bracket) to fit various headrests.
* Equipped with upgraded stereo speakers and a headphone jack.
Cons:
* Does not have a built-in battery, requiring constant connection to power.
* Does not include HDMI cables or adapters needed to connect most modern phones/devices.
* Lacks built-in wireless phone mirroring (despite some listing mentions, relies on wired connection with external adapters).
* The listed product size (13.3 inches) differs slightly from the listed screen size (12 inches).
* User reviews mention potential issues with HDMI port reliability and confusing instructions initially.
Diving Into the Functionality and Advantages
Having spent a good amount of time with the WONNIE 13.3 Inch Car TV, I’ve gotten a real feel for how it performs on the road. It’s important to look beyond the initial setup and understand the day-to-day usability and what makes this specific car monitor a viable option for backseat entertainment, as well as where it falls short.
The Screen Size and Visual Experience
One of the immediate benefits you notice with the WONNIE headrest video player is the generous screen real estate. While the product name is 13.3 inches, the actual display area is listed as 12 inches, which is still quite large for a headrest monitor. This isn’t a tiny screen you have to squint at; it’s big enough that passengers in the back can comfortably watch content without being right on top of it.
The display boasts a 1080p native resolution. For watching standard movies and TV shows from a USB drive, this resolution provides a clear and crisp picture, especially considering the viewing distance in a car’s back seat. Colors are decent, and brightness is usually sufficient for typical car interiors, though direct sunlight can still be an issue, as with any screen. The benefit here is a much better visual experience than trying to watch something on a small phone or tablet screen precariously balanced somewhere. A larger, dedicated screen reduces eye strain and makes watching more enjoyable, which is the core purpose of a car video player.
Connectivity Options: Plugging In Your Content
The WONNIE Car TV offers a variety of ports, providing flexibility in how you get content onto the screen. It includes USB, HDMI IN, HDMI OUT, AV IN, and an earphone jack.
The USB port is probably the most straightforward method for many users. Loading up a flash drive with MP4, MKV, or other supported video files is easy, and the player handles playback smoothly for most common formats. This is a major benefit as it allows you to pre-load content without needing a network connection or streaming device. You just plug in the USB drive, navigate the files using the remote or on-screen menu, and hit play.
The HDMI IN port is where things get interesting, and also where some users might face a learning curve or need extra purchases. HDMI allows you to connect external devices like smartphones, tablets, streaming sticks (like a Fire Stick or Roku, though powering these separately might be needed), or even gaming consoles. The benefit is immense versatility – you’re not limited to files on a USB drive. You can stream content from your phone (via apps), play mobile games on a bigger screen, or keep console gamers happy on a long journey. However, this is a key area where the product’s value proposition hits a snag for modern users. Connecting a smartphone usually requires a USB-C or Lightning to HDMI adapter, plus an HDMI cable. None of these are included. So, while the port is there and offers great potential, realizing that potential requires additional investment and dealing with extra cables, which some users find cumbersome. There have also been scattered reports from users about the HDMI port being finicky or failing, which is definitely a potential drawback to consider.
The HDMI OUT port is a less common feature on single headrest monitors and offers the benefit of syncing the display to another screen, perhaps another headrest monitor or a larger display if using it outside the car (like at a campsite). The AV IN port is useful for connecting older devices that use the classic red, white, and yellow RCA cables, like some older DVD players or game consoles, though this is less relevant for most modern setups. The inclusion of an earphone jack is crucial for allowing passengers to listen privately, preventing distractions for the driver or others in the car who might not be watching.
Media Format Compatibility
A big plus for the WONNIE 13.3 Inch Car TV – Headrest Video Player is its broad support for various media types. According to the specifications, it can play a wide array of image (JPG, PNG, BMP), audio (MP3, AAC, MAV, FLAC, WMA, M4A), and video formats (VOB, 3GP, TP, TS, MPG, M2TS, F4V, DAT, MP4, MKV, WMV, RMVB, RM, AVI, FLV, TRP). This extensive compatibility means you’re unlikely to run into issues with incompatible files when playing from a USB drive. You don’t typically need to spend time converting videos before loading them up, saving time and hassle. The benefit is a smooth, hassle-free experience when using the most common method of playback.
Installation Made Manageable
Installing the WONNIE headrest monitor is designed to be relatively simple, offering two main methods: headrest straps and a mounting bracket. The included adjustable straps are the most universal option; they wrap around the headrest posts and the back of the seat, securing the monitor firmly. This method is generally quick and doesn’t require any tools or modifications to the car. The mounting bracket provides a more rigid attachment point, typically screwing onto the headrest posts, offering a more permanent and stable feel. The benefit of providing both options is that the player can be fitted to a wide variety of car makes and models, and users can choose the method they prefer or find most secure for their specific headrest type. While initial setup and interpreting the instructions might take a little trial and error for some, the physical installation process itself is designed for accessibility.
Audio Output: Speakers and Headphones
Sound is obviously a key part of the media experience. The WONNIE video player is equipped with what are described as upgraded stereo speakers. For in-car use, these speakers provide sufficient volume for passengers sitting near the monitor. The sound quality is adequate for dialogue and general viewing, though it won’t rival a high-end audio system. More importantly, the presence of a standard 3.5mm earphone jack is a significant benefit. This allows passengers to plug in headphones, ensuring privacy for the listener and quiet for others in the car (especially the driver). This is invaluable for maintaining a peaceful cabin environment on long drives, allowing different passengers to watch or listen to different things, or simply allowing the driver to listen to their own audio without interruption.
Power Requirements and the Missing Battery
This is a critical point for potential buyers of the WONNIE Car TV. Unlike some portable players that might have a built-in rechargeable battery for cordless use, this headrest monitor does not. It requires constant power, supplied by the included car charger that plugs into the cigarette lighter socket.
The benefit is simplicity – you plug it in and it works as long as the car is running or the socket is live. However, the lack of a battery is a notable disadvantage. This means the screen will turn off every time the car is turned off (unless your car’s power outlet stays live), potentially interrupting playback. It also means you can’t easily take the screen out of the car to use elsewhere without a separate power source (like a 12V AC adapter, which is not included). This dependency on the car’s power outlet makes it less versatile as a “portable” device compared to a tablet or a player with a battery. It’s strictly an in-car solution that needs to be plugged in at all times during use. Potential buyers expecting true portability or uninterrupted playback during short stops should be aware of this limitation.
Addressing the “Phone Link” and Wireless Confusion
The product description mentions “Support Phone Link Bluetooth FM HDMI USB Airplay”. Based on user feedback and the nature of the device, it’s important to clarify what this likely means in practice. As discussed, the HDMI port allows for a *wired* connection to a phone (requiring adapters and cables). The “Phone Link” likely refers to this capability. User reviews strongly indicate that the device does *not* have built-in Bluetooth for wireless streaming or screen mirroring features like Airplay or Miracast. If you’re hoping to wirelessly cast your phone screen to this device, you will likely be disappointed, as this functionality does not appear to be present. The mention of FM might refer to an FM transmitter feature (common in car accessories to broadcast audio to the car’s radio), but details are sparse, and user feedback focuses more on the lack of Bluetooth/wireless mirroring. The core method for getting content onto this screen from a modern phone is a wired HDMI connection via external adapters. This is a significant point of confusion based on the product listing and is a definite drawback for users expecting modern wireless connectivity.
What Other Users Are Saying
After scouring online feedback, it’s clear that many users find the WONNIE 13.3 Inch Car TV – Headrest Video Player to be a valuable addition for entertaining passengers, particularly children, on car rides. Users appreciate the large screen size and its effectiveness in keeping kids occupied, describing it as a “game changer” and a “nice device to have in the car.” The ability to play media directly from a USB drive with good picture and sound quality is frequently highlighted as a strong point. However, common frustrations echo my own observations. Many users express disappointment over the lack of a built-in battery, requiring the unit to be constantly plugged into the car’s power outlet. The necessity of purchasing separate HDMI cables and adapters to connect smartphones is another recurring complaint, with some finding the wired connection cumbersome. There are also isolated reports of technical issues, such as the HDMI port not functioning correctly for some individuals shortly after purchase. Overall, the sentiment is positive regarding the core function of providing a large screen for USB playback, but potential buyers should be prepared for the accessory costs and limitations regarding power and wireless connectivity.
Final Thoughts on the WONNIE 13.3 Inch Car TV
Dealing with restless passengers, especially kids, on long car journeys is a problem that needs a practical solution; leaving it unaddressed can lead to significant stress and distraction for the driver, making travel far less enjoyable and potentially less safe. The WONNIE 13.3 Inch Car TV – Headrest Video Player offers a focused approach to solving this by providing a dedicated screen for the back seat. It’s a great fit for those looking for an affordable way to add a relatively large display for playing digital media files via USB or wired HDMI connection.
Three key reasons this player could be a good choice are its large, clear 12-inch screen, its ability to play a wide variety of video formats directly from USB, and its straightforward installation options. While it has its limitations – namely, the lack of a battery, the need for external adapters/cables for modern phone connectivity, and no built-in wireless features – if your primary need is a large, wired screen for playing pre-loaded content or connecting a device you already have the cables for, the WONNIE headrest monitor is worth considering. It serves its core purpose effectively, provided you understand its power and connectivity requirements upfront. To check out the WONNIE 13.3 Inch Car TV – Headrest Video Player and see if it meets your specific needs, Click here.