DVD-R

• DVD-Rs store digital data onto a disc. The information is engraved into one or both sides of the disc by a laser, depending on whether the disc is double sided.
  
  

DVD-RW

• DVD-RW also stores digital data engraved by a laser. The DVD-RW format allows the user to erase and rewrite data, whereas this is not possible on the DVD-R.
  
  

DVD-RW Shelf LIfe

• According to Pioneer, the developer of the DVD-RW, a user can rewrite data on a DVD-RW about 1,000 times.
  
  

Usage of DVD-RW

• DVD-RW are best for storing home video recordings and backups of data that changes frequently because they are rewritable. DVD-RW is also a good choice for storing data collections that get larger over time, such as photographs.
  
  

Usage of DVD-R

• DVD-R is best for storing data that never changes.