The DVP-FX720 is the latest portable DVD offering from Sony, and has a good range of input and output options at a very competitive price. Though it doesn't have the higher-resolution screen of Sony's premium model, the video quality is still good, and the unit includes a connector for composite video output. The in-built speakers are relatively poor, but that is to be expected in a portable player.

The 7-inch, 480x234 resolution panel displays video content in faithful colours, with no evident ghosting. While the image is slightly fuzzy due to the low resolution, fine detail is still visible which makes watching a DVD a pleasant experience. Contrast levels are decent, and there is a small degree of adjustability for backlight and colour levels in the setup menu.

The speakers built in to the player are the only real let-down. At all volumes the treble and bass felt a little lacking, with only a mid-range present. While this is useful for movie dialogue, background noises and music are often lost. Sony has not bundled a set of headphones in the packaging, and volume controls for the inbuilt speakers is limited. The speakers are inaudible at less than half the volume, and even at maximum volume they would be drowned out in a busy environment.

Thankfully Sony include a large number of audio inputs and outputs with this device, which boasts a composite video output, optical audio output and dual-headphone outputs. Further to this, the optical and video ports can also serve as inputs thanks to a switch located on the side of the case.

The FX720 has a glossy white clamshell case with a black plastic interior. With the removable five-hour battery attached, the player weighs 730g, which is on par with other similarly-sized models. A limited array of playback buttons are found on the unit, but the included remote has all the necessary functionality. The screen tilts vertically but offers no other range of motion. On the flip side this leads to a more solid feel than complex swivelling and rotating screens.

The file types that can be played back include MP3 and JPEG files, as well as DivX. Combined with the possibility of reading DVD-RW discs, this offers the option of regularly copying multiple movies to one disc, which reduces or negates the need to carry several discs around with the player. As well as this, the unit offers a USB port which is able to access a thumb drive or MP3 player loaded with video or audio files.

The FX720 is competitive with models from other companies, with the advantage of having a slightly cheaper retail price than average. It's simple enough to use, but offers a small amount of video tweaking if needed. Only slightly hampered by poor speakers, the player is worth a look for those interested in a mid-level portable DVD player.