DVD-Read-Only-Memory. DVD-ROM is a 4.6" digital storage disc that can be read by DVD-ROM drives installed in PCs. DVD-ROM discs exist in various storage capacities ranging from single layer single side (4.7 GB) to dual layer dual side (17 GB).

DVD-Video was designed for home entertainment. The DVD-Video specification defines a type of data and interactivity that can be placed on DVD discs, i.e. DVD-ROM or DVD-R. Titles compatible with this format play back on set-top DVD players that plug into TV sets as well as on desktop PCs equipped with a DVD-ROM drive and additional hardware and software. The hardware and software required for viewing a DVD on a PC decodes digital audio and video and accesses the DVD-Video navigation features.

A type of DVD that allows one time recording of data. DVD recordable discs can store 4.7 GB on a single-sided disc. DVD-R discs can be played back on PCs equipped with the necessary hardware and software or DVD set-top players.

An erasable and rewritable DVD disc. DVD-RAM is targeted for PC storage and multimedia applications. The specification for DVD-RAM enables users to store 2.6 GB on a single-sided disc and 5.2 GB on a double-sided disc. DVD-RAM discs are a PC media and cannot be played back on DVD set-top players.

In addition to high quality multi-channel audio, the DVD specification offers options including still images, testing information, visual menus and video with an easy-to-use navigation system.

DVD-RW is a rewritable format designed for authoring use. This format is an extension of the DVD-R format. DVD-RW drives are able to record DVD-R and rewrite DVD-RW. DVD-RW discs can be read by PCs and set-top DVD players. They have a capacity of 4.7 GB per side.