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Now there is more chance of getting hold of a copy of the latest release as online movie rental companies like Blockbuster and Netflix can stock more copies at their distribution centers. This is a review of both online movie rental services, including how they are the similar and how they differ.
How does Blockbuster work? At Blockbuster, users have two main options to rent movies. The first option is to rent a movie online and have the DVD mailed to you. Usually, the DVD will arrive within two business days of placing your order through their website. Membership plans for this service allow you to rent either 1, 2 or 3 movies at a time for a fixed monthly fee. These fees are $8.99, $13.99 and $16.99. There are no late fees and as soon as you return your movies, you can rent more.
The other way to watch movies at Blockbuster is to stream them directly to your computer or any internet ready device. This can even be an Xbox or Playstation. You stream the movie via an internet connection to the Blockbuster website. This option is included in the plans above at no extra cost.
Blockbuster still have their bricks and mortar stores so you can also rent and return their movies in one of their stores. They also offer game rentals and Blu Ray DVD rentals at no extra cost.
How does Netflix work? Blockbuster started offering their customers a chance to rent movies online only because Netflix was cutting into their profits.
Netflix remains more popular than Blockbuster, but Blockbuster is starting to catch up by offering features that Netflix does not.
For example, Blockbuster's rental by mail plan includes Blu-ray discs, but at Netflix, Blu-ray users have to pay extra. Other than that, the fee structures and prices are the same. Netflix doesn't offer game rentals like Blockbuster does.
Which one should you choose? If you don't mind paying a bit extra for Blu Ray DVD rentals (if you need to rent on Blu Ray), Netflix is best because of the movie range.
If you want to rent games as well as movies and also want to rent and return in store, Blockbuster is the only one that offers this.
The selection of things that you like to watch is also important. So check which online movie rental service offers a wider selection of your favourite TV shows and movies.
If you are still unsure, why not take one of their risk free trials and see which one you prefer? Both companies offer a trial.
