Technical Reference: Recordable DVD Formats
DVD Recordable Formats
Format
Attributes
DVD-R
Single-write format. Plays on most DVD players, ROM drives. Cheapest recordable discs at less than $5 a unit.
DVD-RW
Can be written and rewritten up to 1,000 times. Must erase entire disc before re-recording. Compatible with about 70% of DVD players and drives.
DVD+R
Single-write format. Compatible with 84% of DVD players and drives. "Plus" formats not ratified by the DVD Forum.
DVD+RW
Can be rewritten up to 1,000 times. Doesn't have to be erased to be rewritten. Compatible with 70% of DVD players and drives. Faster write speeds than minus formats (2.4x vs. 1x).
DVD-RAM
Can be written and rewritten up to 100,000 times. 9.4GB capacity. Not compatible with vast majority of DVD players or DVD-ROM drives.
This article viewed
27897 times as of 12/12/2024
---
First published on 07/04/2003
---
Last modified on 07/04/2003
Note: Some of our articles were originally published several years ago. There may be errors or newer information.
If you find an error, please use the Contact page to let us know.
We create these articles as a public benefit to our fellow IT Support and network administration professionals.