1. DVD & CD Formats CD +R CD +RW DVD -RW CD -R DVD -R DVD +R DVD +RW CD -RW DVD +R DVD -RW CD -R CD +R DVD -R

2. Different Formats DVD-RDVD+RDVD-RWDVD+RWDVD-RAM 2 hours of video, 4.7GB data (single) 4 hours of video, 9.4GB data (double)

3. -R A single-write format Currently the most compatible (92%) of all DVD Recordable formats with existing DVD ROM drives and DVD Players DVD-R discs are currently the cheapest recordable DVD discs to purchase

4. +R A new single-write format, based on DVD+RW technology Offers a defect management system Compatible with most newer DVD ROM drives and DVD Players (86%)

5. -RW Allows you to write, erase and re-write on the same disc up to 1,000 times Before re-writing you must first erase the entire disc DVD-RW drives can also write to DVD-R discs Compatibility problems with some DVD Players and DVD ROM drives (75%)

6. +RW Designed to allow you to write and rewrite without first having to erase the entire disc Can be re-written up to 1,000 times Offers a defect management system Compatibility problems with some existing DVD Players and DVD ROM drives (75%) Faster writing speed than "minus" formats (2.4x vs. 1x) Newer drives can write to DVD+RW and DVD+R discs

7. So, which one do I buy? Depends on usage For Computer, does not matter To share with other devices, need to do research: http://www.dvdrhelp.com/dvdplayers.php http://www.dvdrhelp.com/dvdplayers.php

8. Closing Check out these web site: Check out these web site: http://www.dvddemystified.com/dvdfaq.html http://www.dvdrhelp.com/ http://www.dvdirect.com/TSS/charts/DVDFormats.htm http://www.gocyberlink.com/english/dv- entertainment/articles/recordable_dvd_article.jsp http://www.dvddemystified.com/dvdfaq.html http://www.dvdrhelp.com/ http://www.dvdirect.com/TSS/charts/DVDFormats.htm http://www.gocyberlink.com/english/dv- entertainment/articles/recordable_dvd_article.jsp