Feature Set:  

SyWi DVD offers a few convenient features and has a few quirks. The program allows you to set parental controls and bookmark the DVD so you can easily return where you left off. The program also allows you to adjust colors in the video picture and offers sub-title viewing capabilities.

Some aspects of the program are less appealing, however. The control panel In SyWi DVD is permanently attached to the view screen and when the default skin (theme) is changed, the control panel can become larger than the view screen, blocking your view. In addition, the Screen Capture function fails to properly capture a picture.

Ease of Use:  

SyWi DVD ranks below average in ease of use. Once installed, the default function plays DVDs from a file, not from a disc. You must find and decipher the correct control panel button in order to change the setting to allow DVDs to play. This can be a difficult and time-consuming process (which could be easily avoided with the selection of a different software product).

Ease of Installation:  

The installation and setup process in SyWi DVD is uncomplicated and straightforward.

Video Quality:  

With the exception of full-screen mode, SyWi DVD produces a clear picture. In the full-screen mode, the video quality is slightly decreased.

Audio Quality:  

Due to the absence of multi-channel and headphone support, the audio quality is below average compared to leading DVD players.

Help/Support:  

The support and documentation available in this program lacks substance. SyWi DVD offers support through e-mail and provides a contact phone number in Holland. This call is not toll-free, so you should factor in the price of telephone support if you decide to purchase this product.

If you can afford to purchase a higher-quality product, it is well worth the money to do so.