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Summary
CDs and DVDs last anything from two years to several hundred years, depending on factors like storage condition and disc quality.
Do you have a CD or DVD collection holding precious data or your impressivemusicand movie collection? The lifespan of CDs and DVDs can vary depending on a number of factors, but we’ll explain what you need to know.
The Lifespan of CDs and DVDs
In general, factory-pressed CDs and DVDs are expected to last many years if you store them under ideal conditions, but the exact lifespan can vary. Some studies have suggested that factory-pressed CDs and DVDs may last for up to 20 years or more under ideal conditions, while others have found that they may begin to degrade after just a few years.
Related:4 Reasons You Should Still Keep an Optical Drive Around
For example,a studyconducted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) with the Library of Congress, found that the lifespan of CDs and DVDs can range from as little as two years to more than 30 years. What makes the difference is the discs' quality and storage conditions.
In contrast, CDs and DVDs burned at home may have a significantly shorter lifespan. This is because burning can often make lower-quality discs more susceptible to damage and degradation. That means you should store burned CDs and DVDs under ideal conditions and back them up regularly to ensure that the data they contain isn’t lost.
For backup purposes, you may want to buy special archival-grade blank discs, which if handled correctly are rated for decades or even centuries.
98913 Verbatim M-Disc BDXL 100GB
These archival grade disks will probably outlast you and your grandchildren
Factors That Affect the Durability of CDs and DVDs
Some of the most important factors that can affect the lifespan of CDs and DVDs include:
Maximizing as many of these factors as possible will increase the odds that your discs will last as long as possible.
How to Extend the Lifespan of CDs and DVDs
You can take several steps to extend the lifespan of CDs and DVDs and ensure that the data they contain remains accessible for as long as possible. Some tips for increasing the longevity of CDs and DVDs include:
With all of that in mind, you should also consider using alternative storage methods for essential data. CDs and DVDs may not bethe most reliable data storage method in the long term. Consider using other storage methods, such ashard drivesorcloud-based services, for valuable data you want to protect. Using multiple forms of media is always better than putting all your eggs in one basket.
