Should you buy Blu-ray or HD DVD?

Considering all the differences (and similarities), which -- if either -- next-generation DVD format should you buy?

There's a simple answer to that question. If you want to avoid coming up on the short end of a VHS vs. Beta type of format war, you shouldn't buy either format just yet. Certainly, if you're an avid movie collector, there's no way you can complete your collection with discs from a single format alone. And which of the two formats will ultimately survive in the marketplace is impossible to know at this stage of the battle. So, unless you relish repurchasing your entire movie collection in yet another format, it might be wise to hold off on any purchase for now, and see how things shake out.

The best outcome for us consumers would be for the two formats to merge (unlikely) or for some enterprising manufacturer to come out with a player that plays both formats. That's what many consumers are waiting for -- a dual-format player, so they won't be penalized if one or the other formats fails to catch on.

Michael Miller is a writer and commentator on technology and digital lifestyle topics.