First — Delivery vs File Format
There are actually two separate decisions here, and people often confuse them:
- How do you want to receive your files? — USB drive, DVD disc, or download link
- What file format? — MP4, MOV, AVI etc.
Most people only need to think about the first question. The file format decision is simpler than it sounds — MP4 is almost always right, and it's what we use by default.
Delivery Option 1: USB Drive
A USB drive gives you your converted files as digital MP4 files on a physical drive you can plug into a TV, computer, laptop or tablet. It's the most popular option and the one we'd recommend for most people.
Most people. Plug into any modern TV's USB port, copy to a computer for backup, or share with family. The most flexible option by far.
You can supply your own USB drive — any standard drive will do, just make sure it has enough space. Allow around 1GB of storage per hour of video. Or we can supply one for an additional $20.
If your USB drive needs reformatting to accommodate large files, any existing data on it will be erased. Always back up anything important before sending your drive.
Delivery Option 2: DVD
A DVD gives you your content on physical discs that play in a standard DVD player — ideal if you want to watch on a traditional setup, or if you have older family members who aren't comfortable with computers or USB drives.
Many modern TVs, laptops and computers no longer have a DVD drive built in. DVDs also have a storage limit of around 2 hours per disc, and like tapes themselves, they can degrade over time. If you're thinking long-term, USB or download is a better choice.
Delivery Option 3: Download
A download link gives you access to your converted files online — no physical media. Download directly to your computer, phone or tablet and share the link with family members anywhere in Australia.
People comfortable with computers who want files quickly, or who want to share easily with family in different locations. Bear in mind that an hour of video is around 1GB — make sure you have enough storage space before downloading.
Comparing Your Options
| Option | Best for | Watch on | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|
| USB Drive | Most people | Smart TV, computer, tablet, phone | Excellent — copy and back up easily |
| DVD | Traditional setups, older family members | DVD player, some computers | Good — but players becoming rarer |
| Download | Tech-comfortable users, sharing online | Any device | Excellent — once saved locally |
What About the File Format?
Short answer: MP4 is almost always right. MP4 plays on every smart TV, every iPhone and Android phone, every Windows PC and Mac, every tablet, and every major video platform — YouTube, Facebook, Instagram. It's also compatible with every major video editing application if you want to edit your footage later.
There is genuinely no reason for most people to choose anything other than MP4. We convert to MP4 by default.
If you're a video professional planning to edit in DaVinci Resolve or Final Cut Pro and need a higher-quality editing codec, get in touch and we can discuss options. For everyone else — MP4 is perfect.
Can I Choose More Than One?
Yes — you can select multiple delivery options. For example, USB for everyday viewing AND a DVD for a grandparent who prefers traditional media. Just select both options when ordering and we'll prepare both for you.
What About CD?
CDs are available as a delivery option for audio content only — audio cassettes and vinyl records. CDs aren't suitable for video due to their limited storage capacity. If you're converting audio tapes or vinyl, a CD gives you a familiar format that plays in any standard CD player.
The Bottom Line
The decision is simpler than it looks:
- Watch on a modern TV and keep a backup? → USB drive
- Share easily or download quickly? → Download
- Family members who prefer physical media? → DVD
- Not sure? Want flexibility? → USB — it's the most versatile option
Whatever you choose, your content will be converted to high-quality MP4 files. The delivery method is just about how you receive and watch them. Still not sure? Just ask — we're happy to help you decide.
"The format question trips people up more than anything else — but once you understand the difference between delivery and file format, the decision usually takes about 10 seconds."
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