Which format writeable DVDs

Bargain_Rzl

I have a Dell laptop with a combi CD ROM/writer/DVD ROM/writer.

I'm a bit ashamed to say that in over 2 years of possessing this machine I have never used the writing function of this drive

My question is, how can I tell which format of writable DVDs it supports? (This IS a moneysaving question because I don't want to have to buy DVD+R and DVD-R discs in order to find out!)

Thanks
Rzl

chatty123

click on my computer and then right click your hard drive (c). scroll down to properties and the click onto hardware .. it should then tell you whether you need -OR+

stefano

And what is the difference between - and + in layman terms?
Which one will I be able to play in a home dvd player?

Poppycat

-r is the most compatable and popular format.

coolagarry

I find that for practical purposes it makes no difference. I have 3 dvd players all different and all play both formats without any apparent difference

sco0ter

I have 3 Home DVD players. 2 will only play -R and one plays both.

vgopal

if you have nero installed, run nero info tool, it will tell you what you can write and at what speeds.

i would have to say that in my experience -r discs are not only more compatible but also generally cheaper.

antonios_2

stefano wrote:

And what is the difference between - and + in layman terms?
Which one will I be able to play in a home dvd player?

Hi!
In layman terms there is no actual difference It's just the order information is recorded!

It's always a good idea to check compatibility of a home DVD player- "Supported media formats" is usually a list of disks you can play. Most new players support all formats and conveniently enen rewritables (DVD-RW or DVD+RW)

Cheers!! :beer: