what non DVD format can I play in a DVD player?

[dvdnewbie64]

I want to convert an avi video so it will play in a DVD player, but don't want to convert it to DVD format because I don't have 10 gb of free space required by DVD flick. What's the best format for this and how compatible will it be in a new cheapo DVD player? What's the best program to convert it? Thanks in advance.

[filmboss80]

Up at the top of the left column of this site, you'll find "What Is > DVD." Please read it, especially the technical and file structure info near the bottom. Most standalone, set-top DVD players -- especially "cheapo" units -- will only play DVD-compliant files, though some newer models are showing up with Divx capability. Consult the owner's manual of your DVD player to see what formats it will handle.

[bendixG15]

If you are going to be doing video work, then you will need lots of hard drive space. Suggest you invest in an el cheapo drive that works and go from there.

[guns1inger]

I want to convert an avi video so it will play in a DVD player, but don't want to convert it to DVD format because I don't have 10 gb of free space required by DVD flick. What's the best format for this and how compatible will it be in a new cheapo DVD player? What's the best program to convert it? Thanks in advance.

Learn about your equipment. This may mean - *shock* - reading the manual. This will tell you what your player is capable of. If it is Divx certified, or mpeg-4 (ASP) capable then you may not even have to co9nvert the file. If you do, then yes, you will have to buy yourself some extra HDD, or find a new hobby.

[usually_quiet]

Also remember that DVD players are limited to playing standard definition content, even if the file formats are compatible and the player up-converts.

[yoda313]

Simple - convert to vcd. That will 99% always play on a dvd player. Now granted its not guarenteed but that is a safe bet. PLus you'd be able to burn to cdrs instead of dvd.

However you might seriously want to consider a new harddrive. Check online and even ebay. I'm sure you could get a decent usb or internal harddrive for under 50.00 USD. Then you won't have this constraint.


FYI you can also convert to an actual dvd while using vcd video. You just need to convert the audio to 48khz for the dvd specs. The mpg1 video is actually compliant in the dvd universe. Dvd authoring applications like Tmpgenc Dvd Author will even convert the audio for you if you already have converted the video to vcd.