Do printable DVD-R have a higher fail rate?

[Rolando]

Hi guys, So far I have used fairly inexpensive media (memorex) for DVD-5 backup and have not encountered a problem yet. over 50 DVDs if you include data backup not just DVD movies.

I am thinking of getting the printable kind since our new printer (a gift) can print straight on to CD and DVD instead of applying labels like I have been doing.

DO these have a higher fail rate? or are they just as reliable (or unreliable).

thanks!

[CWR03]

As long as the disk itself is from a good manufacturer (Taiyo Yuden, Verbatim or even Sony), whether or not it's printable isn't relevant to the quality of the disk. THe "printable" part is just a coating that absorbs the ink. I bought some cheapo printables that were on sale that were identified as PRODISK, and they're pure crap. They were supposed to be 16X but wouldn't burn reliably over 4X.

[Rolando]

thanks, I'll give it a try and keep that advice in mind.

[Video Dude]

The top of a printable disc is usually more scratch resistant than a regular disc. And printable discs will be more reliable than a disc with a paper stick on label.

[CWR03]

The top of a printable disc is usually more scratch resistant than a regular disc. And printable discs will be more reliable than a disc with a paper stick on label.
Very true - I've had to score the labels on many of my older disks to make them read, since the label shrunk and warped the disk.

[Video Dude]

Get good quality printables, Taiyo Yuden or Verbatim, like CWR03 mentioned. I forgot to put that in my post above.