DVD +r and -r

[imported_Krypto]

I have no idea what the difference between dvd +r and dvd -r. Is there some difference here? I have a DVD+/-RW which I take it to mean I can burn either of those types of media, but I would like to know what the difference is and if there is any "better" of the two. Thanks!

 

[rikadik]

From what I've read, DVD-R is the official DVD format. And apparently it is not called a 'dvd minus r' - it is just the same formation as CD-R (i.e. DVD-Recordable).

DVD+R confused the issue - this is a format produced by some other companies (which I can't remember). This is referred to as 'dvd plus r'. Strange isn't it.

Anyway, DVD-R are shown to be more compatible on DVD players. However as time progresses, more and more newer DVD players support both DVD-R and DVD+R, as well as the RW formats.

Hope this helps

 

[Bozo Galora]

What's the difference between DVD-R and DVD+R?

http://www.answerbag.com/q_view.php/2279

Commercial Answer

The truth is that the two competing technologies use different formats. No single company "owns" DVD and both technologies have their "champions".

DVD-R/RW was developed by Pioneer. Based on CD-RW technology, it uses a similar pitch of the helix, mark length of the 'burn' for data, and rotation control. DVD-R/RW is supported by the DVD Forum, an industry-wide group of hardware and software developers, and computer peripheral manufacturers. The DVD-R format has been standardized in ECMA-279 by the Forum, but this is a private standard, not an 'industry' ISO standard like the CD-R/RW Red Book or Orange Book standard.

DVD+R/RW is also based on CD-RW technology. DVD+R/RW is supported by Sony, Philips, HP, Dell, Ricoh, Yamaha, and others, and has recently been endorsed by Microsoft. DVD+R/RW is not supported by the DVD Forum, but the Forum has no power to set industry standards, so it becomes a market-driven issue.

Technical Answer

DVD+R is a dvd disc that allows multiple layers for one disc where as dvd-r only allows one layer. They will not compete to become the de Facto standard, because they are both here to stay. Multi layer DVD+R can allow extra capacity per disc than DVD-R hence its high cost!

 

[imported_Krypto]

Ahh, I see, so the DVD+R just holds more then the DVD-R. Ok, thanks for the help guys.

 

[BlueWeasel]

DVD+R has multiple layer capability, but that doesn't mean it holds more. Using a single layer burners, both DVD-R and +R media hold exactly the same. DVD+R is newer technology and allows for dual layers (using a dual layer burner) and bitsetting.

 

[imported_Krypto]

Ok, so for a single layer DVD+/- burner it sounds like DVD-R is the best way to go even though I could use DVD+R but there really wouldn't be any point for that right if it's a single layer burner?

 

[BlueWeasel]

Well, it really all depends on the DVD player you have. Most computer drives can read both with no problems, but some older DVD desktop players may not be able to read both media types. Granted, most players made within the past year or two should be able to play both, but you'll need to verify this.

 

[Bozo Galora]

what its all about is what media type and dye (brands dont tell much until you info their manuf code) works best with your burner.
and with some Burners and some software you can bitset - change the +R or -R leader to DVD-ROM on your burned DVD which makes it much easier to read universally - on other DVD burners and set top boxes.
the only way to learn is to start burning

 

[Sunner]

My 4 year old standalone DVD player has no problems reading +R discs.
Media compatibility should be a nonissue for most people, so I only buy + discs.

 

[awal]

Originally posted by: Sunner
My 4 year old standalone DVD player has no problems reading +R discs.
Media compatibility should be a nonissue for most people, so I only buy + discs.

If media compatibility is a nonissue for most people why not buy both formats?

 

[imported_Krypto]

I guess I'll have to do a trial and error test to see which is best for my burner. I bought an averatec 5400 series laptop yesterday at walmart (walmart is the only one who carries this model) because it was a really good deal (List price $998.00 Sale Price $750.00) not bad for savings, and I've never had a dvd burner, that is the reason why I asked what the difference was. Staples had a great deal on their dvd burner media so I'll have to swing by there sometime today and pick up some +r and -r to see which one works best.

 

[racefan]

Originally posted by: BlueWeasel
DVD+R has multiple layer capability, but that doesn't mean it holds more. Using a single layer burners, both DVD-R and +R media hold exactly the same. DVD+R is newer technology and allows for dual layers (using a dual layer burner) and bitsetting.

How would you burn something using the multible layers of the + DVD's. I have a new NEC 3500 duel layer burner I just installed. I did not see any difference using the + or - when I backed up some files as they both offered the same amount of storage space 4.3? usable

 

[Markfw]

I have a one year old DVD player (Toshiba)that has a problem reading some of my DVD+R. I will buy -R from now on.

 

[BlueWeasel]

You'll need to get dual layer media if you want to burn more than 4.3gb to a single disc. Most of the DVD+R media you find in retail stores is only single layer and can't burn more than 4.3gb.

 

[cubby1223]

This is what I tell _everyone_ when they ask me what the difference is - the difference is who gets the royaltee payments for the technology.

I'm partial towards -R just because I purchase a burner when all you could get is -R, and for the RW formats, DVD-RAM kicks all their butts, so I had a -R/RAM burner for a long time (I'm just now upgrading to LG's super-multi recorder drive).

 

[Hardtarget]

from what i understand dvd-r is more "compatible" but dvd+r is more reliable.

ie. - works on 90% of player, + works on 80% of players, but + will be more reliable in the long run.

I have a NEC 3500a and i just bought some + and it works great and play sno problem in my phillips dvd player.

 

[Bozo Galora]

Dual layer DVD's will run you $8-$12 EA in a three pack

http://www.meritline.com/dl-dv...le-layer-verbatim.html

Thats why no one uses them - LOL

 

[halfadder]

The burner in my PC can write to both -R and +R, so I just use the cheapest/fastest blanks I can buy. Which is currently a 25 pack of DVD-R.

 

[imported_Krypto]

Originally posted by: halfadder
The burner in my PC can write to both -R and +R, so I just use the cheapest/fastest blanks I can buy. Which is currently a 25 pack of DVD-R.

Probably what I will do also.

 

[Baked]

Get DVD+R and change booktype to DVD-ROM when you burn it, most compatible.

 

[jag1]

Everything you need to know about DVD burning. -R is the best format.

http://www.digitalfaq.com/