September 14, 2007

Blu-ray vs HD-DVD - What's Going On?

Bluray Hddvd Shiny Shiny has a really amazing article on the current state of HD-DVD and Blu-Ray. From what they've found the stats are a nightmare - there are enough out there for each format to pick some stat and make it look like they're winning. For instance: Blu-ray discs are outselling HD-DVD discs 3:1. But, HD-DVD players are outselling Blu-ray players 3:1. Are the Blu-ray player owners buying a hell of a lot more films? Nope, it's all about the PS3. Because the PS3 has the Blu-Ray player - it's already got a huge installed base.

And, there's no doubt that you're going to have to invest somewhere - by 2011 it's predicted that 60% of homes will have an HD ready TV, but only 20% will receive HD from their television provider. So, this missing 40% are going to have to get their HD content from somewhere - and it's likely to be players, either standalone, laptops or games consoles.

Our answer is to buy a dual format player or just stick to DVD. Trust us - you're in no rush, and if you have a premium cable package the majority of good films show on the HD channels anyway. And if you have to rush out - get a PS3 or the Xbox HD-DVD option for your Xbox 360.

Via Shiny Shiny

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