Debating between streaming platforms and DVD collection: your choices to enjoy beloved movies and series.
In the ever-evolving world of entertainment, the way people consume movies and TV shows continues to be a topic of interest. As we delve into the current landscape, it's clear that streaming services have emerged as the dominant trend, accounting for 44.8% of TV viewership in the U.S. as of May 2025[1]. Streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney Plus, with their instant, on-demand, and wide content libraries, have surpassed both broadcast and cable combined[1].
However, amidst this streaming dominance, there's a notable resurgence in physical media collecting, particularly among movie enthusiasts and collectors. This revival is driven by nostalgia, perceived value, and the superior quality offered by physical formats like 4K Blu-rays and special editions such as Steelbooks[2]. Collectors value physical media for its tangible nature, collectible packaging, and the best possible home theater experience, which streaming often cannot match due to compression and streaming quality limits[2].
Limited edition discs like Steelbooks play a significant role in this physical media resurgence because they offer unique, attractive packaging that appeals to collectors and fans. Such editions are often marketed as premium products with exclusive artwork and packaging, making them desirable both as display items and as a way to preserve favorite films physically[2].
As we navigate through Home Cinema Week, currently ongoing from 30th June to 6th July, our website is hosting discussions about various aspects of home cinema. We invite you to share your opinions about physical media and streaming, and to let us know if you prefer streaming services, physical copies, or have collections gathering dust. Responses can be posted in the comments section of the website, on social media channels, or on forums. Your insights will be compiled for a feature to be published at the end of Home Cinema Week.
For those who prefer physical media, our TV and AV test room contains multiple shelves of 4K Blu-rays, and a list of the best 4K Blu-ray players is available on the website. 4K Blu-ray offers higher bit rate, resulting in better picture and sound quality[3]. No judgement will be passed on why people choose to buy physical discs, whether for collection or for watching.
On the other hand, watching on streaming services does not require physical space, making it a convenient option for many. The worry of a movie being taken off a streaming platform is eliminated with a physical copy. The debate about the impact of Dolby Atmos soundbar systems on affordable home cinema speaker packages is also a topic of discussion during Home Cinema Week.
References: [1] Statista (2025). Streaming vs. broadcast and cable TV viewership share in the U.S. 2010-2025. [online] Available at: https://www.statista.com/statistics/1036020/streaming-vs-broadcast-cable-tv-viewership-share-us/
[2] Home Cinema Choice (2025). Why physical media is making a comeback. [online] Available at: https://www.homecinemachoice.com/features/why-physical-media-is-making-a-comeback/
[3] CNET (2023). What is 4K Blu-ray? [online] Available at: https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/what-is-4k-blu-ray/
- With streaming services dominating the entertainment landscape, the debate over physical media versus streaming continues, particularly among movie enthusiasts.
- In the world of audio, hi-fi amplifiers are a popular choice for those seeking the best possible home theater experience.
- Technology advancements have led to a revival in physical media collecting, with special editions like Steelbooks gaining popularity due to their attractive packaging and superior quality.
- The fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, and home-and-garden sectors, though different from entertainment and technology, still make use of streaming platforms to preview and review their offerings.
- Limited edition discs like Steelbooks are considered investments by some collectors, with some editions selling for hundreds of dollars on online marketplaces.
- During Home Cinema Week, discussions are being held about news and deals in the technology and entertainment sectors, with a focus on home cinema speakers and accessories.
- Some brands are now offering Steelbooks as part of their marketing strategies, using them as a means to promote their latest movies and TV shows.
- Streaming services have also ventured into the world of travel, with platforms like Tripflix offering movie and TV recommendations based on travel destinations.
- The use of Dolby Atmos soundbars in home cinema speaker packages has sparked a debate in the technology community, with some arguing they provide an immersive cinema-like experience at an affordable price.
- Lifestyle bloggers and influencers have long used streaming services as a means to review movies and TV shows, with many providing thoughtful insights and analysis for their followers.
