Netflix or Blockbuster??

Question

I want to join one. Which is better in your opinion and why? Thanks! :)

This is between the competing online services they both offer.

Answer 1

Got this as a response when I posted the same question a month ago...


Netflix vs. Blockbuster
A Side-by-Side Comparison and Conclusion


When comparing Netflix with Blockbuster Online, there are so many similarities that it may seem like a toss-up. The giants of the online DVD rental explosion are feeding off each other's ideas, spawning lawsuits and smearing campaigns that rival the cola wars of the mid-1980's.

Both programs allow us to pay a monthly fee, for which we receive DVD movies sent through the mail. When we return them in the postage paid envelopes, we receive more DVD's. It's an ongoing cycle that fits almost perfectly with the current American need to get the most out of the least — more movies for less money, less effort, and less time.

Side by side, they are almost identical, but here is how they stack:

Speed of Delivery

Netflix used to have the clear edge here, but expansion to include more distribution stores has brought Blockbuster up to par. Still, for those who rent less, Netflix "throttles" the movies to these higher priority customers, pushing the heavier renters further down the list. To this, they have admitted. Blockbuster has not admitted to this practice, but their denials are not firm. Still, Netflix will have a higher overall percentage of 1 day turns on movies than Blockbuster.

Edge: Netflix


Cost

There is not a current difference in cost, though this seems to change every few months. When one lowers, the other matches. When one raises, the other follows. It is similar to airlines manipulating the markets towards their own unintended dooms. In the short run, Blockbuster offers a free month while Netflix offers 2-weeks. Blockbuster also has a customer service crew that offers discounts and "mishap compensation" more easily.

Edge: Blockbuster Online


Selection

Netflix is approaching 60,000, while Blockbuster is closing in on 55,000.

Edge: Netflix


Website

From talking to many users, it seems that while the concepts of listing movies on a queue and searching for movies in several different ways is the same for both, Netflix has the superior overall layout and useability. Its website seems smarter, though sometimes a bit slower during peak periods.

Edge: Netflix


Fringe Benefits

Netflix has none. What you see is what you get. The fact that Blockbuster offers a free in-store rental every week is extremely helpful in getting the newest releases. With both programs, you sometimes have to wait weeks to get the hottest titles, even if it is at the top of your queue. Being able to walk in and grab that week's best title is something that Netflix cannot touch.

Edge: Blockbuster Online


Intangibles

Netflix has more experience with online DVD renting, both in regards to time and sheer mass of customers. Blockbuster, as mentioned before, has superior and more responsive customer service. Having a human being available at the local store to help during problems is a big benefit. If there was a large enough gap in any of the above mentioned criteria, I would say that they supercede the intangibles. In this case, there is no substantial difference. The more human aspect of Blockbuster makes it the choice.

Edge: Blockbuster Online

When all is said and done, Blockbuster online is the choice. I recommend doing as I did — take advantage of the free trials they have currently available.

www.blockbuster.com/trial

promo code: 40037

Answer 2

They both have services where they send DVD's to your door. You just have to look at the plans and then decide which one is better considering how many movies you want sent to you at one time.

I receive Blockbuster and I have never had a problem and they always have a great selection. We get 3 DVD's at a time, so we are never bored and always have something to watch even when we are waiting for another DVD.

Answer 3

Blockbuster is more convienent because it's right there and they usually have what you want.
Netflix takes more time and sometimes the DVD's aren't in great condition.

Answer 4

ive nvr used it but i think netflix b/c five dollars a month and if u go to blockbuster for like two movies its like $12.. go with the netflix...NO LATE FEES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Answer 5

Netflix:
http://www.netflix.com/
Blockbuster:
http://www.blockbuster.com/homepages/LoadBlockbusterHomepage.action

I think Blockbuster has a better plan.

Answer 6

If you're really really addicted to movies - and can watch many on one day, Netflix worths more.

Answer 7

blockbuster-always in stock!

Answer 8

Netflix...you don't have to leave the house.