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It's tricky to put a price - or in this case, a discount - on a polished user interface, since nice-looking icons and extra features can easily translate into meaningless clutter.
That's not a criticism that can be directed at the basic Toshiba BDX5300, but we do worry that the rather manual approach to smart TV will mean these features just won't get used as often as they should.
We liked
Aside from its excellent treatment of 2D and 3D Blu-ray discs, the presence of both BBC iPlayer on the UK version and Netflix on the US version, and Wi-Fi connectivity, have to be the standout features of the Toshiba BDX5300.
Digital file support is also much more comprehensive that we'd imagined (even stretching to playback of lossless FLAC music files) on this good-looking, slim 3D Blu-ray player. As the initial price drops online, this is bound to become an even more attractive proposition.
We disliked
While we can't argue with its core features count, the Toshiba BDX5300 doesn't behave like a thoroughly modern home hub as many Blu-ray players now do.
It's the icon and app-less user interface that's to blame, but the remote control doesn't help get rid of the impression that Toshiba has cut a few too many corners to reach its low price.
Final verdict
Although the Toshiba BDX5300 puts in a fine effort in terms of core features, the presence of the BBC iPlayer/Netflix, Wi-Fi and 3D Blu-ray support, there are more polished, easier to use and smarter 3D decks around. But those on a tight budget should look no further for a 3D quick fix.
With Wi-Fi-powered smart TV services and universal disc playback that includes 3D Blu-ray discs, Toshiba has produced perhaps the lowest priced such Blu-ray player. However, a user interface that recalls the 1980s and a frankly terrible remote control are the flip-sides.
Also consider
Sony makes a few budget 3D Blu-rays decks, which have more smart TV options than the Toshiba BDX5300. However, choose the Sony BDP-S590 over the BDP-S490 or BDP-S390 if you favour built-in Wi-Fi.
Other options include the Samsung BD-E6100 or Panasonic DMP-BDT220 or Panasonic DMP-BDT320.
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