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How To Choose Between Blockbuster And Netflix

By: Stephen Pomposello

Break Studios Contributing Writer

If you're having a tough time trying to figure out how to choose between Blockbuster and Netflix, have no worries, this guide will help you make your choice. There's nothing like being able to catch a good movie without leaving the comfort of your home or waiting for it to come on TV at a scheduled time. Thanks to Netflix and Blockbuster, you can order any title and have it sent either right to your door, or stream it from your computer. Both companies are quite similar in what they offer their members, making this somewhat of a difficult to decision.

  1. Plans and prices. Both Netflix and Blockbuster offer the same monthly plans and prices: $8.99 for one DVD at a time no limit per month, $13.99 for two DVDs, and $16.99 for three DVDs at a time, with no limit per month. However, Blockbuster also has what is called a Total Access membership, which ranges between $11.99 and $19.99 per month for up to three DVDs out by mail plus five free in-store exchanges at select Blockbuster stores. But then again, this would require you to leave the comfort of your home to go to the store, so Netflix wins here.
  2. Delivery. You might be wondering which company delivers the quickest. Blockbuster reportedly has a faster delivery time than that of Netflix. However, both Netflix and Blockbuster mention one day turnarounds. At the end of the day, no matter which company you choose, if some sort of delay interferes with the mail in general, then it will delay your movie, regardless of what company you are ordering from.
  3. Discounts and benefits. Netflix and Blockbuster both advertise roughly the same package benefits. However, Netflix charges an extra fee for access to Blu-Ray rentals, while Blockbuster gives it to you for free. On top of that, Blockbuster includes many perks and benefits which Netflix doesn't have, including coupons, subscriber only deals and movie theater tickets, all of which are available from their store location, which is one thing Netflix can't offer.
Posted on: Jun. 13, 2010