Blank DVDs - What to Look for with Blank DVDs

Blank DVDs typically hold upwards of 4.7 gigabytes of information. Compared to the average 700 megabytes available on a CD-ROM, blank DVDs offer quite a bit more storage. Such DVDs can be used for anything from saving a film to backing up data. The only thing needed to take advantage of this technology is a computer equipped with a DVD burner.

When buying blank DVDs, it's important to distinguish between DVD-Rs and DVD-RWs. The first of the two allows for data to be burned once onto the disc. Once the burning session has been closed, no new data can be added and the existing data cannot be removed or replaced. DVD-RWs, on the other hand, can have information burned, erased, and replaced as many times as the user sees fit. Although this makes them more versatile, they are also more expensive.

Consumers shopping for blank DVDs may notice a slight difference between certain brands. Some are listed as DVD+Rs, while others are DVD-Rs. In truth, the difference between both types is almost negligible. DVD-R was the first recordable format created and is compatible with over 90 percent of all players and burners. DVD+Rs are a slightly different format that's also compatible with close to 90 percent of players and burners. Although the odds of incompatibility are low, it's always wise to double check your system prior to making a purchase.

Consumers often get confused when it comes to the compatibility of their blank DVDs and their stand-alone DVD players. Nowadays, a growing number of players will recognize content on a burned DVD. Nevertheless, in order for the files to play, whether they are video or audio, they need to be formatted correctly. Compatible formats depend entirely on the individual system.