Question about purchasing Digital HD movies

[rooboy78]

I know this is probably in the wrong thread but bear with me before you move it somewhere else, but if I purchase a Digital HD movie, for example, one that is not available on DVD or Blu-ray, I know I can watch it on my Smart TV (if I purchased it through Amazon for example), but since it is not actually being downloaded and I am just streaming it, how does the quality compare to the actual Blu-ray disc? Is it the same? Because if not I can't fathom why some people seem to be purchasing all their movies on digital and do not want to have the tangible disc in their player if the quality is better.

Please enlighten me.

[steve_dave]

It all depends on the connection and service provider.

Granted, it will be a while before streaming even offers the video bit rate and lossless audio that Blu-ray has.

Amazon now offers up to 1080p video on most of their devices and apps. But be prepared for 720p video and audio will always be Dolby Digital 5.1 at the most.

Most of us prefer Vudu which is a lot more robust:

1. Vudu lets you watch the first two minutes so you can see the quality before you commit. That's assuming the first two minutes aren't all studio & production company leaders and credits on black screen.

2. Vudu now offers Dolby Atmos for selected titles. Along with Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 for another batch. You'll also get

3. You can redeem UV codes included with Blu-rays and DVDs to add to your library.

4. You can share your Vudu library.

The only downside is that your regionally locked with Amazon and Vudu, meaning any US purchases will only work in the US or via proxy outside of the US.

There is a lot more information in the Digital Movies section including a nice FAQ.

[rooboy78]

Thanks for the reply steve_dave! So if I purchased a new movie on amazon Prime, for example, am I guaranteed to get that movie in 1080p?

[steve_dave]

Originally Posted by rooboy78

Thanks for the reply steve_dave! So if I purchased a new movie on amazon Prime, for example, am I guaranteed to get that movie in 1080p?

No guarantees with Amazon.

It depends on the connection you have. Amazon will sell you an HD copy and that does have a 1080p stream but if your connection is not strong enough to handle it, you'll get 720p.