DVD Recorder Formats | DVD Recorder World

DVD / HDD RECORDER FORMATS

The differences between the major formats are minimal. Although a few years ago, the decision seemed vital, these days it is more a case of choosing a recorder which has the features that you like.

DVD-R

The write once version of DVD-RW. Normally DVD recorders that support DVD-RW also support DVD-R. The blank media is usually cheaper than DVD+R.

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DVD-RW

The rewritable version of DVD-R. Normally DVD recorders that support DVD-R also support DVD-RW. There are 2 modes - 'video' which has 70-80% compatibility with standard DVD players and 'VR' which is great for edting but not well supported.

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HDD

Not actually a DVD at all, but a hard drive recorder. Offers the ability to pause live TV, but of course, recordings are not portable to other devices.

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DVD-RAM

An 'early' format, but still supported by some manufacturers. Disc capacity is larger and it support a higher data transfer rate meaning that you can have simoultaneous playing and recording, providing the much sort after 'pausing live TV' effect. The downside is that DVD-RAM discs can't be played by majority of other DVD hardware. DVD-RAM discs are edit friendly.

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DVD+R

The write once version of DVD+RW. Normally DVD recorders that support DVD+RW also support DVD+R. Has 70% compatibility with standard DVD players. The blank media is usually more expensive than DVD-R.

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DVD+RW

The rewritable version of DVD+R. Normally DVD recorders that support DVD+R also support DVD+RW. Offers basic editing and has 70% compatibility with standard DVD players.

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Blu-Ray

A new developmental format of optical disc format aimed at playing back and recording high definition video. Developed by Sony, it has so far, not received massive backing from film studios, unlike its rival from Toshiba HD-DVD.

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HD-DVD

A high definition format currently under development by Toshiba. It has a smaller capacity than Blu-Ray, but is similar to existing formats, meaning multi-compatibility might be easier to achieve. HD-DVD has received the backing of many major film studios (with the notable exception of Sony who support Blu-Ray).

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