I have made a final decision after much contemplation – I am canceling my subscriptions to the streaming platforms and switching back to DVDs. I have considered several reasons for this and would like to share them with you so that you can understand my decision. While I may miss out on some content, I believe there are other advantages to this choice. What could possibly go wrong?
Just like you, I was subscribed to multiple streaming services, including Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Video. However, I am now transitioning back to the DVD era in the next few days as if I had traveled back in time with Doc in the Delorean. My decision is based on a few factors, such as wanting control over the content that I watch and the desire for more stable image quality.
How did I get here?
Let me give you some context. Like many people, I used to have a large collection of DVDs and series. At one point, I had so many that I struggled to find enough storage space for them at home. However, with the arrival of Blu-ray, I found myself having to switch platforms and this dampened my interest in maintaining my collection. The idea that it was essential to upgrade my entire collection from DVD to Blu-ray became exhausting.
Let me give you some context before explaining my reasons for returning to DVDs. Like many people, I used to have a massive DVD collection that was difficult to manage due to space limitations. When Blu-ray became popular, I found myself struggling to keep up with the constant need to upgrade my collection. Eventually, I gave up and donated my DVDs and Blu-rays to charity shops.
However, the rise of streaming services changed the game again. Despite having access to multiple platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Video, and HBO Max, I often found myself struggling to find what I wanted to watch. For example, I enjoy watching Jaws every summer, but I recently discovered that it will no longer be available on Netflix after May 15th. This means I’ll have to search other streaming services or even check which countries still have it available on Netflix. It’s not exactly convenient.
Aside from the convenience factor, there are other reasons why some people are turning back to DVDs instead of relying solely on streaming services.
Don’t need internet
Indeed, another advantage of DVDs is that you don’t need an internet connection to watch them, which can be especially useful in areas with poor or no internet connectivity. This can also save on data usage for those with limited internet plans. Additionally, with DVDs you don’t have to worry about buffering or lagging, which can sometimes disrupt the viewing experience on streaming platforms. With DVDs, you have a physical copy of the movie or TV show that you can play whenever you want without any interruptions or quality issues.
Control of your catalog
By having your own DVD collection, you have more control over the content you want to watch and the availability of it. Subscribing to only one streaming service may limit your access to a certain type of content. For instance, if you prefer classic productions, it may be difficult to find them on one platform. However, having your own collection of DVDs means you can select titles based on your interests and preferences. Moreover, you can also find special editions of movies and TV shows that might not be available on any streaming service.
Additional features
While it is true that only a small percentage of DVD buyers watch the extras, for some people it is an essential part of the experience. During the time when DVDs were the standard, it was common to find documentaries, audio commentaries, deleted scenes, and other content that added interest to the playback. However, on streaming platforms, this type of content is rare to find, although some services like Disney+ have started to include them.
Higher technical quality
While it is true that streaming platforms are improving their capabilities and offering content in 4K, it’s not always guaranteed. Some services still reduce the image quality to adjust the bandwidth consumption and limit the ability to enjoy maximum viewing. This is also the case for sound quality, with some exceptions. For those seeking the best quality for their home entertainment, it is better to opt for Blu-ray instead of DVD.
Access to specific movies
Yes, that is correct. The availability of movies and TV shows on streaming platforms is determined by many factors, including licensing agreements, popularity, and demand. Some older titles may not be available due to expired licensing agreements or because they were not as popular as newer titles. Additionally, some older titles may not have been converted to digital format or may have lost their original dubbing tracks, making them difficult to include on streaming services. This is where physical media, such as DVDs or even VHS tapes, can provide access to these older titles.
But maybe it’s not such a good plan
Yes, those are certainly some of the drawbacks of relying on DVDs. It can be a challenge to find certain titles, and the cost of some rare or out-of-print DVDs can be prohibitively high. And as you mentioned, DVDs require physical storage space and can be cumbersome to transport from room to room. Additionally, DVDs can be prone to scratches and other damage that can affect playback quality.
Another potential disadvantage of relying on DVDs is that the format itself may become obsolete at some point in the future. While DVDs are still widely available and supported today, the rise of digital streaming and downloading suggests that physical media may become less and less popular over time. This could potentially limit the availability of replacement players and other equipment needed to play DVDs.
I must confess that I am still hesitant and uncertain about my decision to switch from streaming to DVDs. Sometimes I wonder if it’s just a passing frustration caused by not being able to access some of my favorite movies or series repeatedly on streaming platforms. However, when I come across other people on social media who are experiencing the same issues as me, it motivates me to stick to my plan. I’m curious to know if you have ever considered making the switch as well?
