DVD burning software: How to buy
Your options
Vista Home Premium has built-in support for burning data or video to DVD
If you want to get hold of some DVD burning software, there are several options to choose from.
- Bundled with the hardware. If you’ve just bought a DVD burner, the chances are you’ve been provided with some software. This may well do everything you want of it, so check it out before you hand over any money.
- Full paid-for version. These have more features, and will often be enhanced versions of the bundled versions. This group includes the most capable software packages, but they often come with more features than the average user will need.
- Free downloads. If you don’t have any software and don’t want to spend any cash, you could consider a free download. These might have fewer features than the other packages, but they can get the job done.
- Included with your operating system. If you have Windows Vista Home Premium, you already have support for burning DVDs built in to the operating system.
In order to burn discs yourself, you’ll of course need a DVD burner – see our reviews of DVD burners for more details of which one is right for you.
Which type is right for you?
Basic users
If all you want to do is transfer files to disc, the software that comes bundled with your DVD burner should be fine for your needs. It’s also worth checking what’s included with your operating system - Vista Home Premium, for example, has built-in support for writing data or video to DVD, so if this may be all you need.
Advanced users
More advanced users who want to do more than simply copy files to disc may benefit from the additional features offered by paid-for DVD burning software. These can include all sorts of extra features, such as image editing or label printing.
Some of them offer a free trial, and you’ll be able to download the software directly from the manufacturer’s website.
If you’re on a budget
If you need some DVD burning software and you’re working to a tight budget, don’t rule out free software. It’s often lower on features than the full commercial products, but it can be worth a look. Check out our reviews for information on where to download.