Netflix or Blockbuster

In 2003 we started renting movies over the web at our house. And while we’re having fun playing in the early stages of the full-video-access-over-the-web revolution, renting DVDs via the mail will probably be a vital part of our home entertainment world for a while to come. And even though the we’ve been satisfied with our current rental plan, every once in a while the age-old question pops up, and it’s as relevant in 2008 as it was four years ago: Which is better, Netflix or Blockbuster ?


For all their similarities, there’s a lot to pick and choose from between these two. In fact, the differences between the two are much greater now than in past years, which makes it easier than ever to pick the plan that suits your needs best. Ask yourself a few basic questions about what’ll make your life easier. How many videos do you go through in an average month? How important is access to video games as opposed to movie streaming? Is driving to the neighborhood store no big deal or an inconvenient drag? Once you consider your priorities, picking the right plan is a snap.
When Blockbuster Total Access service came out in 2004 with free unlimited in-store exchanges for DVDs received through the mail, it was an offer that Netflix ultimately couldn’t match. However, this extra value was key in helping Blockbuster gain new subscribers, the program proved just too expensive to maintain
So last year, Blockbuster came out with Blockbuster By Mail (a mail-only plan similar to Netflix), put caps on monthly in-store exchanges for regular Total Access members, and introduced Total Access Premium, with unlimited in-store exchanges for a higher monthly fee.

If making additional trips to stores isn’t your idea of a time saver, then the Netflix vs. Blockbuster comparison becomes much simpler.
For mail-only plans, prices are comparable. Even though Blockbuster will save you a buck a month on a couple of its plans, Netflix has the larger library. Either one will have you covered for recent releases and Hollywood hits, but when you’re looking for that hard-to-find classic or indie title, that additional thousand titles can make a big difference.
And even though Blockbuster has eleven different plans to choose from, they max out at three simultaneous rentals
Both Blockbuster.com and Netflix will are at the top of the game when it comes to selection, convenient returns, reviews, personalized recommendations, gift cards — and a place to buy DVDs on the cheap.
Cheers, DVD