Dual-Layer and Double-Sided DVDs: What's the Difference?

Recordable DVDs are available in several formats to accommodate various uses and capacities. Two popular types are dual-layer and double-sided DVDs. Each format has a total of two recordable layers, holds an enormous amount of data, and looks identical to the other. Still, dual-layer and double-sided are different types of media. We compared both to help you make the best choice for your recording needs.

Dual-Layer DVDs

Hold more data and larger files.
Better for videos.
Hold all your files in one place.

Double-Sided DVDs

Compartmentalized.
More compatible.
Rewriteable version available.

Movies are typically available on single-sided, dual-layer DVDs. Many movies are sold as sets with alternate versions and extra footage spread across multiple discs. Some films come on double-sided DVDs with different content on each side. Long movies are sometimes split between the two sides, so the viewer must flip the DVD in the middle of the film to continue watching.

Dual-layer and double-sided DVDs break down into two major categories:

Recordable: DVDs cannot be overwritten after burning.
Rewriteable: DVDs can be erased and overwritten over and over again.

To further confuse the matter, rewriteable DVDs are available with two sides and two layers. These discs hold more data than typical DS or DL DVDs.

Dual-Layer DVDs Pros and Cons

Advantages

Holds larger files.
Better for video files.
A good way to burn many files in one place.

Disadvantages

Less flexible.
No rewrite capabilities.

Dual-layer (DL) recordable DVDs come in two formats: DVD-R DL and DVD+R DL. Both have only one side, but that single side has two layers to which data can be written. Together, the two layers hold a total of up to 8.5 GB, or about four hours of video. Thus, either option is ideal for most home or business uses.

The "R" in the acronyms above refer to technical differences in how data is recorded and read. However, you won't notice much difference between the two. Check the DVD burner documentation to make sure it includes support for DVD-R DL, DVD+R DL, or both.

Double-Sided DVDs Pros and Cons

Advantages

Two separate sides.
Keep files organized.
More universal support.
Rewriteable version available.

Disadvantages

Limited size on each side.
Essentially a regular DVD on each side.

As the name implies, double-sided (DS) recordable DVDs can hold data on two sides, each of which has a single layer. A double-sided DVD holds roughly 9.4 GB of data, which is about 4.75 hours of video.

DVD burners that support DVD+/-R/RW discs can burn to double-sided discs. All you have to do is burn to one side, flip the disc, like an old LP record, then burn to the other side.

Which To Choose?

There isn't a clear winner here. This is one of those situations where you need to choose the right tool for the job. Choose a dual-layer DVD to burn a video DVD or when you need the space for a single large file. Double-sided DVDs are a better fit for storing multiple smaller files. The two-sided design also compartmentalizes and organizes those backed up files automatically.

A Note About DVD Burners

Older computers are typically equipped with optical disk drives that read and burn DVDs. However, since the advent of cloud storage and digitized media, many new computers lack this feature. If you like to play or create DVDs using your computer, check its documentation to see which types of discs are compatible. If no optical drive is included, buy a standalone drive.