Netflix or Blockbuster? 2009 update? Blockbuster will be including games now again [Mobile/Archive]

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msuna

01-26-2009, 02:15 PM

Netflix or blockbuster 2009 update?
Can anyone tell me which service to use? They seem to have similar prices except Netflix charges 1 dollar more for blu ray and no in store plan option. Does anyone know if blockbuster charges extra for blu ray rental???? I personally like having the extra in store option but not sure its worth the extra money. Can someone help from experience. Thanks!

Plus anyone know where to get a good promo code for either for longer than a one month trial or reduced cost for say 3 months or 6 months. i know blockbuster used to have better plans with video games etc too probably....

BLOCKBUSTER NOW INCLUDING GAMES IN THEIR MOVIE PROGRAM ONLINE SIMILAR TO GAMEFLY.

Blockbuster announced today that it will begin offering game rentals as part of its Total Access online movie rental service. The company will start a pilot program during its second quarter, with a goal of implementing the integrated system nationally by the second half of the year. Essentially, Blockbuster is trying to morph Total Access into a Netflix meets GameFly offering.

majorscud

01-26-2009, 02:17 PM

netflix, especially if you have an xbox 360 for the streaming movies.

mietha

01-26-2009, 02:26 PM

netflix, especially if you have an xbox 360 for the streaming movies.

Pretty much.

NRPinguino04

01-26-2009, 02:34 PM

The above posts say it all. I am very happy with my $10 a month for streaming video to my 360, and Blu Rays arriving at my door.

GregOfTheDead

01-26-2009, 02:37 PM

netflix hands down.

joeyatog

01-26-2009, 02:38 PM

I've had Netflix for about 7 years now and I love it. But, if you are really going to take advantage of the in-store feature, Blockbuster would be worth it. I personally would never use that feature, as most of the stuff I rent is kinda obscure and they usually do not have those titles at the Blockbuster retail locations.

I know people who have Blockbuster and their online selection is much more robust than the in-store one (probably not as great as Netflix's though). They are pretty pleased with it.

To me, the instant streaming through the PC and Xbox 360 are awesome features that I use a lot and that far outweighs the in-store trade-ins at Blockbuster.

I guess it all depends on what you really want. =)

PaRappa/GMRTAG

01-26-2009, 02:48 PM

If you are not gonna use BB's in store exchange much, go with Netflix.

AceSXE

01-26-2009, 02:55 PM

netflix its great.... no contest

Rollett

01-26-2009, 02:56 PM

Yes BB's online selection is much more limited then Netflix, If your into Anime Netflix has tons. BB when i tryed it has very limited selection mostly DBZ or other popular mainstream stuff. Its also hard to find odd off beat movies on BB, Like Redneck Zombies! (that was messed up) And other firms... Foreign ect... So i would weigh that against the instore exchange.. And the fact that it only takes Netflix 1-2 days in most cases for a exchange in mail.

mang9432

01-26-2009, 02:59 PM

+1 for netflix. i've had both, and even if you aren't using the instant streaming netflix is better, although I use the instant streaming A LOT.

HighlightShow

01-26-2009, 03:01 PM

Currently a Netflix user, and I enjoy it greatly!

msuna

01-26-2009, 03:07 PM

Streaming outweighs the $1 dollar extra you have to spend to get blu rays since blockbuster does not charge for that?

Slappybob

01-26-2009, 03:28 PM

I really like netflix, fast shipping and a good selection. Plus i can stream through my xbox 360 and i like that.

bobodenkirk

01-26-2009, 03:28 PM

dubbfoolio

01-26-2009, 03:38 PM

support cagcast and sign up through the main page link. btw netflix has a better selection of indie flicks.

mang9432

01-26-2009, 03:43 PM

I just switched to Blockbuster last week. I liked Netflix up until I added the blu-ray access. After they sent me the 10th straight cracked blu-ray disc, I gave up. I've had a couple blockbuster blu-rays come already and none have been cracked.

I'd say go with Netflix if you aren't planning on using the blu-ray access. They really seem to not give a damn about how often they are sending out cracked discs.

i get blu-ray's all the time and have never had a cracked one. maybe your mailman was stepping on them

nbballard

01-26-2009, 03:48 PM

I just switched to Blockbuster last week. I liked Netflix up until I added the blu-ray access. After they sent me the 10th straight cracked blu-ray disc, I gave up. I've had a couple blockbuster blu-rays come already and none have been cracked.

I'd say go with Netflix if you aren't planning on using the blu-ray access. They really seem to not give a damn about how often they are sending out cracked discs.

I got about 3 cracked BluRays myself right after starting the service. I was pretty annoyed. Since then everything has been fine though.

Remember any of your discs that were busted? It'd be funny if they were the same.

Boltbacker

01-26-2009, 03:52 PM

I prefer Netflix, I have been getting Blurays since this summer and have never had a cracked disc. I have had Netflix for about 6-7 years and have only had2 dvds that were sent that were damaged.

evildeadjedi

01-26-2009, 04:12 PM

I like Blockbuster since I exchange movies in-store all the time. Online is used for stuff I can't find in store. Many people I know have liked Netflix. I'm planning on upgrading from RR lite so I might go with Netflix due to the streaming on 360 live.

raybert

01-26-2009, 05:05 PM

yes, netflix!

Sharp Katana

01-26-2009, 05:26 PM

netflix is better, I have had both services and if you plan to stream movies through your xbox this is the one you want. Just a warning though, they don't have many new releases for streaming.

blackhole82

01-26-2009, 05:27 PM

I'm going to go ahead and say netflix as well for the reasons listed above.

dmaul1114

01-26-2009, 05:28 PM

Netflix.

Great selection, great service, streaming for PC/360 etc. is great.

Blockbuster may be worth it if you have one nearby and want to take advantage of being able to swap out discs in store a few times a month.

My only gripe with Netflix is sometimes new release Blu Rays take a while to get. For instance Pineapple Express is still listed as "very long wait" for me. But it doesn't bother me much as I always have 100 or so movies in my queue so I can live without getting new release blu rays for a while.

albino_hippo

01-26-2009, 05:29 PM

Rocko

01-26-2009, 05:30 PM

Another vote for Netflix.

Space Cowboy YGI

01-26-2009, 05:31 PM

Go with Netflix:

1. Xbox Live Streaming
2. Better Selection (alot of Not Rated, Obscure Titles)
3. Quick Turn-a-round if you find the correct Post Office where they scan them in.

Only gripe. Don't have your Que jam packed and don't answer any of their emails asking "when did you mail/receive" or you'll probably get flagged. I forgot the correct term for it, but it hurts your chances of getting anything good (recent) in the future.

bobodenkirk

01-26-2009, 05:33 PM

I got about 3 cracked BluRays myself right after starting the service. I was pretty annoyed. Since then everything has been fine though.

Remember any of your discs that were busted? It'd be funny if they were the same.

Sunshine
Dark Knight (twice)
Transformers
Shoot 'em Up (twice)
The Matrix (twice)
The Matrix Reloaded
TMNT

turls

01-26-2009, 05:49 PM

I just switched to Blockbuster last week. I liked Netflix up until I added the blu-ray access. After they sent me the 10th straight cracked blu-ray disc, I gave up. I've had a couple blockbuster blu-rays come already and none have been cracked.

I'd say go with Netflix if you aren't planning on using the blu-ray access. They really seem to not give a damn about how often they are sending out cracked discs.

10th straight? I call exageration. They would have dropped you after the 4th or 5th one in a row at most. If not shame on Netflix, nothing against you but that is making it cost more for everybody else.

msuna

01-26-2009, 05:49 PM

Whichever way you go with, you may want to consider looking in the referral section on CAG. There are a lot of those kinds of sites that have Netflix/BB as an offer and you can cash $30 in your pocket just for signing up under the person.

Really, no idea. I will definitely sign up under cag i just can't figure out which service. It seems they are roughly the same. Blockbuster used to be better and seems to be cheaper with the online only package b/c they don't charge $1 extra for blu-rays. They used to give coupons from what i read for free rentals but they apparently stopped that for some dumb reason otherwise id be all over them. The streaming to my xbox definetly would help.

turls

01-26-2009, 05:51 PM

Only gripe. Don't have your Que jam packed and don't answer any of their emails asking "when did you mail/receive" or you'll probably get flagged. I forgot the correct term for it, but it hurts your chances of getting anything good (recent) in the future.

People oversimplify and leave out probably 70% of the variables NetFlix uses when trying to figure out why they don't get new releases as much as they think they should. I do both of those things, always have (jam-packed queue since 2000), and I always get new stuff quick.

mikesmith

01-26-2009, 05:51 PM

dont forget the BB exchange program is limited to 3 per month...

I have used both and its hands down netflix even if you dont have an xbox 360, pc streaming is still nice and you can get bluray/netflix players or a cheap roku box that can stream high def netflix as well.

erectiontown

01-26-2009, 05:52 PM

not giving blockbuster business should be incentive enough to go netflix

Birbo

01-26-2009, 05:58 PM

dmaul1114

01-26-2009, 06:10 PM

not giving blockbuster business should be incentive enough to go netflix

Indeed. That was a big reason I never considered them. I had such bad experiences in the B&M stores years back I really didn't want to give them any business.

bobodenkirk

01-26-2009, 06:16 PM

10th straight? I call exageration. They would have dropped you after the 4th or 5th one in a row at most. If not shame on Netflix, nothing against you but that is making it cost more for everybody else.

I know it sounds like an exaggeration but what else can I say, it really happened. I was surprised they didn't suspend my account from having to report so many damaged discs as well. After the 3rd disc I got cracked I googled the problem just to see if there was anyone else out there experiencing the same thing as me and sure enough. There are plenty of people out there that have experienced the same thing, even worse in some cases.

But anyway, I'd still recommend Netflix actually, haha.

joeyatog

01-26-2009, 06:28 PM

that's odd! i have had netflix for 7+ years and maybe have had 3 damaged discs. and it was never a cracked disc, just bad scratches that affected playback. not one blu-ray has been damaged so far. but i also don't typically rent the big blockbusters (usually cuz i bought 'em!), so maybe that has something to do with it.

that is unfortunate...i would be pissed if i continually received jacked up discs!

and about shipping, depending on where you live, netflix is really quick. two days on average from sending to receiving. sometimes three if it's over the weekend.

Rollett

01-26-2009, 06:30 PM

Been useing them (Netflix) for years now... probably 4-5 years i think Only had 3 discs bad.. and no bad blu-rays... And btw this isnt Gamestop so we dont need to make up False policys ect.. and rules like dont rate the shipment time ect...

lupinckc

01-26-2009, 06:32 PM

Ive had Netflix for a few years now and have never had a problem.

EDIT: My only gripe is that Blu-Ray movies seem to be hit or miss as far as placing availability or not. (Read a post further down and reminded me)

namtrahj

01-26-2009, 06:43 PM

I've been using Netflix since 2002 and I've received probably close to 1000 discs with only two or three that didn't work (only one that was cracked), zero bad Blu-Rays and one instance where they sent me a disc I didn't ask for. I get a new disc like clockwork two days after I send one in, but I do have a distribution center in town. I would think that the people who have had cracked Blu-Rays must have had some weird problem at their particular distribution center.

Also, Netflix has continuously upgraded/tweaked their website over the years--they seem to be interested in actually improving.

Also, fuck Blockbuster.

mick16

01-26-2009, 06:45 PM

I have BB under the 1 rental out at a time with unlimited exchanges for $10 a month. If they jacked it up to the current BB rental rates, I'd probably flip back over to Netflix with the 3 out at a time program. I do like being able to go to the store and picking up a movie between rentals as that's usually a 2 day process that you're without a movie, but probably isn't as big of a deal if you have more than 1 at a time subscription.

Then I use my mom's Netflix login account information for the free streaming as she never uses it so I'm getting the best of both worlds...

Okari

01-26-2009, 06:45 PM

My only gripe with Netflix is sometimes new release Blu Rays take a while to get. For instance Pineapple Express is still listed as "very long wait" for me. But it doesn't bother me much as I always have 100 or so movies in my queue so I can live without getting new release blu rays for a while.

Perhaps I just got lucky, but even though Pineapple Express was listed as "very long wait" for me, I got a copy anyways. I've noticed that it's been a bit wonky lately with a ton of movies switching back and forth from "short wait" to "available now".

I've had a few cracked discs, quite a few recently, but only one has been a Blu-Ray disc (Iron Man).

Dief88

01-26-2009, 06:56 PM

Are there any month-long trials going on for either BB or Netflix right now?

Death by Kuvasz

01-26-2009, 08:54 PM

For Netflix and the damaged discs, the quality seems to vary where you live. When in Nevada and now Alaska, Netflix is fine. When I lived in Maine however, I was always recieving damaged discs. I recieved one of the Soprano discs in two pieces, and it was shipped out that way because there wasn't a mark or fold on the envelope. I quit using it because of the bad service there.

If you have a little money to blow why not try both for a month or two and get a feel for them.

I like Netflix better as they seem to ship faster than BB. I tried BB but sometimes it would be days after they recieved a disc before they would ship the next.

dmaul1114

01-26-2009, 09:45 PM

Perhaps I just got lucky, but even though Pineapple Express was listed as "very long wait" for me, I got a copy anyways. I've noticed that it's been a bit wonky lately with a ton of movies switching back and forth from "short wait" to "available now".

I've had a few cracked discs, quite a few recently, but only one has been a Blu-Ray disc (Iron Man).

Yeah, I hadn't had any problems, but lately stuff has been very long wait for me. Maybe they hold off on sending me new releases since I sometimes keep disks a week or two before getting around to watching them. Who knows, but like I said no biggie.

I've had no problems really with bad discs. The first blu ray I got-- Incredible Hulk--wouldn't load, but all others have played fine. DVDs I don't recall getting any that wouldn't play in the 2 years or so I've had the service. A couple that skipped once or twice, but not thing that froze up totally or wouldn't play at all.

oasisboy

01-26-2009, 10:04 PM

After they sent me the 10th straight cracked blu-ray disc, I gave up.

Are you sure it was 10 straight cracked discs? Maybe it was 9 or 11.

oasisboy

01-26-2009, 10:06 PM

Plus anyone know where to get a good promo code for either for longer than a one month trial or reduced cost for say 3 months or 6 months.

I have a code for 1 year free but since you requested 3-6 months... sorry :lol:

GregOfTheDead

01-27-2009, 03:42 AM

I've had netflix for five years and only got one damaged blu ray and two damaged dvds, I find 10 damaged discs in a row to be very hard to believe, no offense. If you are telling the truth maybe your mailman hates you or something.

ticalmc2k2

01-27-2009, 04:39 AM

Netflix hands down. By far a better variety and amazing selection even on rare DVDs. The only thing BB has going is the ability to return/rent from store. Netflix still wins.

Bruno29

01-27-2009, 07:29 AM

I have been a member of Netflix for almost a year. The only problem I have had is with missing discs. At first this would occur on a regular basis. They were always quick to send another disc, For the last 2 or 3 months I have not had this problem.

Brian9824

01-27-2009, 08:30 AM

I use Blockbuster but I'm curious about the Netflix streaming. Not too sure how good it would be over my wireless set up. Blockbuster does have in-store exchange plus you get online coupons every month that can be used to rent games.

Not anymore they don't. The plan is limited to a few exchanges a month and no game coupon and they increased price.

Another vote for Netflix hands down. I had both at one point and while blockbuster slashed my plan benefits and raised prices Netflix was adding new features in for free.

Plus netflix has a FAR greater selection.

metallicoholic

01-27-2009, 03:26 PM

I've been with Blockbuster for a little over three years and I really don't have any complaints. However, I don't like how they have taken away the monthly free video game coupon and the unlimited in-store exchanges. I almost dropped them after that unlimited exchanges became three a month.

But, on the plus side, if I'm in the mood for a certain movie or my friends and I want to rent something specific, we can just go to Blockbuster with one of the online rentals and exchange it right there. No waiting. True, Netflix has the instant watch option, but from what I've seen of it, I'm not impressed. It seems like everything I would like to watch instantly I can't and the ones that I could looked like total garbage thanks to my slow internet connection. The TV series that Netflix has available for instant streaming also looked appealing until I found out that many of them don't have all of the episodes.

Of course this was a few months ago so things could have changed by now. I would just access how much you're going to use the service and how badly you want mvoies. If you're an instant gratification kind of person that likes to watch movies all the time, I'd go with Blockbuster (permitting there is BB somewhere near your house). If you don't mind having a day or so without a movie and like the selection of Netflix's online streaming, that is the best way. Both are going to cost roughly the same and will probably have their fair share of problems.

msuna

01-27-2009, 03:28 PM

Seems like netflix so far is favored a lot. It just seems they are exactly the same plan with exactly the same costs. Except streaming vs store. Who knows what is even available to stream. I watch mostly recent movies. I don't usually go back and rent older movies.

bigdaddy

01-27-2009, 03:41 PM

Netflix is iffy at times, however I hate Blockbuster with a passion like no other.

I rented Eagle Eye, got it the 14th, returned it the 20th, they didn't get it until yesterday! Luckily I reported it missing on Friday and got a new movie Saturday. The Dark Knight came and I had to clean the disc when it started to mess up in the middle of the movie!

Sgt Barone

01-27-2009, 04:06 PM

Netflix>>>>>>>>Blockbuster

guessed

01-27-2009, 05:13 PM

I actually talked with my wife today about switching from Blockbuster to Netflix. We've been with Blockbuster for a year, and they keep taking things away from us. We started with $19.99, 3 at a time, unlimited exchanges. About a month later, I believe, they jacked the price up to $34.99, so we chose downgrade to 3 at a time, 5 in-store exchanges a month for $19.99. A while later, we discovered that we could actually do 5 exchanges per store per month, but that got shut down pretty quickly, too. Now, they are changing it so that they won't send new discs when we exchange in-store, they will wait until we return the discs for which we exchanged (which isn't really much of a change, considering how slow they have been lately). BTW, we have received several broken dvds/blu-rays, so that isn't exclusive to Netflix.

It's a shame that the streaming content doesn't have an option for closed captions/subtitles yet - at least, that's what I've read.

dmaul1114

01-27-2009, 06:57 PM

Who knows what is even available to stream. I watch mostly recent movies. I don't usually go back and rent older movies.

Streaming would be useless for you for the most part then. Anyone that just wants to watch recent hollywood films will be disappointed.

The selection is very good for older movies, foreign films, indie films etc., and there's several good TV shows available--Weeds, The Office, Heroes etc.

So if you have a BB nearby, that's probably the better option since you don't need streaming or Netflix's better selection if you mainly rent recent hollywood films.

badboysean

01-27-2009, 07:13 PM

I am about to reactivate my old blockbuster account which I definately prefer over netflix. Mine is unlimited 3 at a time with unlimited in store exhanges and 2 game rentals a month as well.

guessed

01-27-2009, 07:16 PM

I am about to reactivate my old blockbuster account which I definately prefer over netflix. Mine is unlimited 3 at a time with unlimited in store exhanges and 2 game rentals a month as well.

Good lord, how much does that run you? And how do you add the game rentals?

Can anyone who has netflix tell me, are any older (70s, 80s, 90s) TV shows available for streaming, or just newer ones? Thanks.

hopeunknown

01-27-2009, 09:24 PM

Good lord, how much does that run you? And how do you add the game rentals?

Can anyone who has netflix tell me, are any older (70s, 80s, 90s) TV shows available for streaming, or just newer ones? Thanks.

There's some. Offhand I can think of Sliders, Magnum P.I., Columbo, Murder She Wrote, a bunch of BBC shows, Battlestar Galactica, Knight Rider, Dr. Who, Miami Vice, A-Team, Incredbile Hulk

bones56

01-27-2009, 09:35 PM

yeah netfix especially if you have a 360!!

bigdaddy

01-27-2009, 09:40 PM

TV Shows...

MI-5
Doctor Who New Season 3
Roar
Knight Rider
MacGyver
A-Team
Airwolf
Xena
Hercules
Sliders
Simon and Simon
Hulk
She Spies
Heros Season 3
Dead Like Me
Jericho
CSI
Quantum Leap
OLD BSG
Law and Orders
New Outer Limits Season 2
A few Showtime Shows
Several older mystery shows
Several of the newest seasons of TV shows liek The Office USA and 30 Rock.

guessed

01-27-2009, 09:53 PM

There's some. Offhand I can think of Sliders, Magnum P.I., Columbo, Murder She Wrote, a bunch of BBC shows, Battlestar Galactica, Knight Rider, Dr. Who, Miami Vice, A-Team, Incredbile Hulk

TV Shows...

MI-5
Doctor Who New Season 3
Roar
Knight Rider
MacGyver
A-Team
Airwolf
Xena
Hercules
Sliders
Simon and Simon
Hulk
She Spies
Heros Season 3
Dead Like Me
Jericho
CSI
Quantum Leap
OLD BSG
Law and Orders
New Outer Limits Season 2
A few Showtime Shows
Several older mystery shows
Several of the newest seasons of TV shows liek The Office USA and 30 Rock.

Thank you both. Looks like a lot to keep me busy, although I was kind of hoping for Greatest American Hero - Guess I'll have to rent it. It has been at the bottom of my Blockbuster queue for a while (the bottom, because it isn't something my wife would watch).

oasisboy

01-27-2009, 10:19 PM

and there's several good TV shows available--Weeds

Can someone tell me which is the episode on Weeds where Mary Louise Parker is, "doing her thing" :lol:

hopeunknown

01-28-2009, 02:34 AM

Can someone tell me which is the episode on Weeds where Mary Louise Parker is, "doing her thing" :lol:

The brick dance? That's in season 3. (Only seasons 1 and 2 are on netflix, damn!) I burned and started watching season 3 the other night. :)

greyzieoriental

01-28-2009, 07:12 AM

$10 a month for netflix and streaming to my 360

Not sure if you have a redbox at your Mickey D's/grocery stores, but I get a free rental every week from them which has mostly new releases. 1 free rental per CC you have.

Brian9824

01-28-2009, 11:00 AM

I am about to reactivate my old blockbuster account which I definately prefer over netflix. Mine is unlimited 3 at a time with unlimited in store exhanges and 2 game rentals a month as well.

Give them a week or so and they should slash it and reduce it to the current rate, assuming they even let you reactivate without changing plan. When i resubscribed I had to select a different plan before they would let me use it.

Beer Monkey

01-28-2009, 12:14 PM

Blockbuster.com, for the in-store game rentals. I'm grandfathered in and I get TWO each month!

Lots of you may not be gamers, though.

oasisboy

01-28-2009, 01:17 PM

The brick dance? That's in season 3.

Ok, I will be straightforward. Which one is the episode where she gets some action with a dude?

metallicoholic

01-28-2009, 02:20 PM

Now, they are changing it so that they won't send new discs when we exchange in-store, they will wait until we return the discs for which we exchanged (which isn't really much of a change, considering how slow they have been lately).

I'm sure you already know this but you're getting screwed big time. I've been sitting on the Mummy 3 (which I rented in-store via an exchange) for a week and a half now and have all three of my online rentals as well. I admit that the exchange has been a little slow lately, but that's because Blockbuster has been waiting for my top selections to become available instead of sending out the next one on the list. I have to say that's pretty awesome of them.

Red Box is another option I've been toying with (since there are a TON of these in San Antonio) but I really don't see myself returning a movie after one night.

bigdaddy

01-28-2009, 02:20 PM

Ok, I will be straightforward. Which one is the episode where she gets some action with a dude?

She gets fucked on the top of a car in the 5th episode I think, somewhere in season 1. Season 3 she gets it on a lot, and does a little dance. I forgot to buy it when it was cheap. :(

Season 4 finale she takes a bath, that's when you see the most.

guessed

01-28-2009, 03:29 PM

I'm sure you already know this but you're getting screwed big time. I've been sitting on the Mummy 3 (which I rented in-store via an exchange) for a week and a half now and have all three of my online rentals as well.

Yes, I know I'm getting screwed, which is why I am switching. The new policy has not taken effect yet (I haven't actually read about it, just heard about it from my wife).

Don't you get late fees on "Mummy 3" if you don't return it within 5 days?

NegativeZero

01-28-2009, 03:36 PM

netflix, pick the company who will be around for awhile, and has a successful business plan.

doubledown

01-28-2009, 09:27 PM

netflix be's are always long wait for me

msuna

01-29-2009, 02:40 PM

be's? And btw, THANK YOU TO EVERYONE who has responded. I have learned a good deal so far.

fuzzyfuk

01-29-2009, 06:50 PM

netflix all the way. I love streaming on my xbox 360 and extra dvd I get in the mail.

badboysean

01-29-2009, 07:21 PM

Is there a list of netflix HD movies available for streaming on 360?

metallicoholic

01-29-2009, 09:14 PM

Don't you get late fees on "Mummy 3" if you don't return it within 5 days?

I haven't had late fees at Blockbuster in a long time. As far as I know, you get a week after the due date to return something. At that point, they charge your credit card for the full amount. If you return the movie within 30 days of that, you get a refund minus the stocking fee. The most I've been charged so far is the stocking fee.

badboysean

01-30-2009, 10:56 PM

Is there a list of netflix HD movies available for streaming on 360?

anyone?

keeponwithbrian

01-31-2009, 04:15 AM

I've been trying to decide between Netflix and BB myself. I've been a long time in-store renter with BB for many years, pretty much exclusively, because the better deal overall was with them. No other local stores could compete with the price or rediculous length of time the movies sat in my possession. In terms of online renting, after much extensive research, I'm leaning toward BB for several reasons. The fact that there are two blockbusters within 10 minutes (seperate directions) from me does affect that decision. The ability to exchange mailed DVDs and use coupons towards free and discounted rentals further affects it. I know I'm going to go back and rent in-store occasionally because I couldn't possibly have my sole DVD renting service be waiting for DVDs to come in the mail that could be anything on my queue list. My friend encouraged me to do Netflix, not necessarily instead of BB, but just because he is using it now and is pleased with it. However he lives in a very small town, outside of Springfield that does not have a video store of any kind. So any online service would be wonderful in that regard. I have a question to anyone who is on the BB plan. If you do happen to receive a defective, damaged, or incorrect DVD in the mail, can you give that to a local store in exchange for a replacement? A more specific example: if you receive a damaged copy of a movie, can you take it to a local BB and get the same dvd off the shelf for free. This would be a big deal to me. If this happens with Netflix, I would have to send it back and wait for a replacement that hopefully will be ok, but if BB could help in-store and immediately rectify the problem, that would be amazing. I know BB offers the in-store exchanges but I'm not clear if they deal with these matters or if you're stuck mailing it back in and waiting. Thanks to anyone for some helpful info.

ryoga79

01-31-2009, 05:14 AM

I started up Netflix after NXE, and I love it. I did blockbuster online years ago before the "trade in at stores" thing, and it would take days to get movies. Now I pop a movie in the mailbox and 48 hours later I have a new one.

Plus, I have watched more stuff through streaming on my 360 then I thought possible. Catching up on tv shows through netflix is awesome (as is 30 Rock, now I"m finding out).

scottc320

01-31-2009, 09:55 AM

If I were to sign up under the 1 DVD a month plan, does a TV Series count as "1 DVD" or does it count as more? Also, can any TV series be streamed online from Netflix?

badboysean

01-31-2009, 10:00 AM

Who has a better blu ray selection, netflix or bb? Also, is there a list of whats available to stream on 360?

thebob101

01-31-2009, 10:34 AM

The Netflix streaming on Live is great if you have a fast connection. Downside is there is not a whole lot of great movies to pick from.

Blockbuster has the free instore rentals with a subscription. That is cool, but it means you have to live your home.

Sofa King Cheap

02-01-2009, 05:25 AM

I prefer BBV for one reason: 2 disc rentals via in store exchange. If you want the 2nd disc of a movie title via Netflix (or BBV online), it counts against you as an extra disc being out.

undiegnome

02-01-2009, 06:00 AM

If I were to sign up under the 1 DVD a month plan, does a TV Series count as "1 DVD" or does it count as more? Also, can any TV series be streamed online from Netflix?

Every disc counts as a rental. If it's a 3-disc DVD set that's 3 rentals.

Netflix has a limited selection of content on the service but does include 30 Rock and The Office. Here's hoping South Park is available eventually but I would doubt that MS would stream content that is available for purchase in the video marketplace.

ObiBen

02-01-2009, 07:52 AM

I signed up for Netflix again once I heard about the 360 streaming feature. an extra $1 for blu-rays doesn't bother me. I have a friend who used BlockBuster in the past and said they continually hiked up his fees.

bigdaddy

02-01-2009, 01:08 PM

If I were to sign up under the 1 DVD a month plan, does a TV Series count as "1 DVD" or does it count as more? Also, can any TV series be streamed online from Netflix?

I never understood why people think you would get a 6 DVD box set to count as one DVD? That never makes sense on any scale.

Morphx2

02-01-2009, 01:14 PM

Wife and I cancelled DirecTV. All we use is Netflix streaming/rent, I download movies, and we watch streaming news/tv shows online.

Saves a crapload!

rjpadin

02-01-2009, 11:10 PM

Wife and I cancelled DirecTV. All we use is Netflix streaming/rent, I download movies, and we watch streaming news/tv shows online.

Saves a crapload!

I'm on bb and thinking of doing the same as the above, just canceling Dish and BB and going Netflix. I think if you go with the three disc a month option you get the best of both worlds. Newest movies and steaming media. I'm going to try the Netflix free trial and I suggest you do the same and go from there.

kube00

02-01-2009, 11:35 PM

Huh well this may sound bias I used both services and I had more problems with Netflix shipping me broken and unplayable movies. For some reason it took them 5 days to get me movies. Blockbuster shipping center located in the same area, 2-3 days easily.

thepik241

02-02-2009, 02:43 AM

Where can I find the full list of movies/tv shows available to stream via PC/Xbox 360?

Also does anyone have a coupon for a trial? I want to try out the service for a little bit.

BustaUppa

02-02-2009, 11:19 AM

Also does anyone have a coupon for a trial? I want to try out the service for a little bit.did you try www.netflix.com/cagcast ?

I've never used netflix, but as a 360 owner I am now considering it. Is there some tell-all FAQ that explains how this all works on the 360? The official Netflix website seems pretty vague. And a lot of the articles I've found seem to assume a working knowledge of netflix, which I don't have!

sevin300zx

02-02-2009, 12:51 PM

I have had Blockbuster for going on 4 years now, and it has stillllll been what i signed up for. They have only changed the price 1 time, and that was from 17.99 to 19.99. Which im totally ok with. I get 3 out at a time, and unlimited exchanges still, and 2 movie\game coupons a month.

The newest thing they have done that i am thinking about dropping them for is the in store "no late fee's" is gone. So if i take a movie back and exchange it and forget about it, it's 1.99 a day that i dont take it back.

I currently have like 16$ in late fee's to pay at my local store for 3 movies.

I know i need to stay on top of it, but i liked the lazibility of the previous system. So i may switch to netflix.

We'll see...

bobo2k4

02-02-2009, 01:29 PM

Netflix

I've been using it for about a year or so and its been great.

BrinX

02-02-2009, 03:54 PM

Netflix

I've been using it for about a year or so and its been great.http://n08q1114fvte161.imageshacknow.info/img/1242/v08w1128rhlb/smile.gif
Netflix. Definitely :p

oasisboy

02-03-2009, 12:37 PM

I prefer BBV for one reason: 2 disc rentals via in store exchange. If you want the 2nd disc of a movie title via Netflix (or BBV online), it counts against you as an extra disc being out.

I usually don't care about bonus discs so this is not an issue for me. If you do, then you have too much time to watch all those bonus features.

Who in the world watches all those "behind the scenes" so that you see this actor talking about how he loved playing the role of Mr. Big John. I also don't care about watching the "gag reel" so that I see some actress laughing like an idiot because she forgot her line. I also don't need to know the director's filmography (I can just go to imbd.com)... etc, etc...

Indiana

02-03-2009, 03:27 PM

simmias

02-04-2009, 09:51 PM

I've never used netflix, but as a 360 owner I am now considering it. Is there some tell-all FAQ that explains how this all works on the 360? The official Netflix website seems pretty vague. And a lot of the articles I've found seem to assume a working knowledge of netflix, which I don't have!
It's really, really easy, and really, really cool. There are probably 1000+ movies and TV shows available to watch instantly. You download a small app on your 360, add movies to your "instant queue" on Netflix, and they show up in the dashboard under the Netflix section.

Each movie or tv show you add has its own little DVD box icon, and it remembers how much you've watched. You can pause, rewind, fast forward, and skip "chapters." It takes maybe 20 seconds to buffer in the beginning, and then it's just like watching TV. I'm going through 30 Rock right now, and it looks great on my 52" Samsung.

The selection isn't as big as I'd want it to be, but there's plenty there you'll want to watch, and they add stuff all the time.

msuna

02-11-2009, 03:03 PM

Update for you all. Blockbuster will incorporate game rentals in their online plan.
Blockbuster announced today that it will begin offering game rentals as part of its Total Access online movie rental service. The company will start a pilot program during its second quarter, with a goal of implementing the integrated system nationally by the second half of the year. Essentially, Blockbuster is trying to morph Total Access into a Netflix meets GameFly offering. The question: Will the quality of service be as high as the two go-to names in the field?

epb

02-11-2009, 03:22 PM

I've had both and choose Netflix. Online streaming > in-store exchanges.

GrilledWitOnions

02-13-2009, 07:59 PM

icehouse

02-13-2009, 11:10 PM

The three out netflix plan has treated me great so far. The streaming is just a bonus.

Guerrilla

02-14-2009, 12:12 AM

Sure the games from BB is tempting, but I'd rather stay with Netflix for the streaming movies on my XBox.

EGWill

03-02-2009, 01:23 PM

I just downgraded Netflix to the 1 @ a time option but keeping XB360 streaming AND kept my Blockbuster account for 3 @ a time with unlimited in-store exchanges plus 1 game coupon a month (downgraded from the original two). This way I get the best of both worlds and each member of the family can have one DVD out at a time.
Hoping that BBV pilot hits here soon.

mang9432

03-02-2009, 01:37 PM

another plus for netflix.

South Park Seasons 1-9 Streaming

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/02/business/media/02carr.html

Brian9824

03-02-2009, 01:56 PM

Also will have to wait and see what they try to charge. Basically though no faith in blockbuster. They have changed their plans so many times over last few years you have to wonder if they have any clue how to run a business.

BustaUppa

03-02-2009, 03:25 PM

Has there been any news about Netflix streaming 5.1 sound over Xbox Live? I remember reading that they planned on adding that soon.

metallicoholic

03-03-2009, 11:15 PM

digitalbabe

03-04-2009, 05:28 PM

Blockbuster and Netflix should have carried games all along. I hope Blockbuster can get it together before the speculations of bankruptcy become a reality, for yet another media giant.

cueball939

03-04-2009, 05:41 PM

I had Blockbuster before and I liked it. I used the in store exchange all the time and got a coupon for free in store rental every month and used that for games. So I kinda got games and movies for the price of one.
My brother does have Netflix and the streaming on 360 and anime selection is pretty nice.

bigdaddybruce44

03-04-2009, 07:15 PM

Nothing will probably ever get me to give up my one-out Netflix deal. The streaming to the 360 has been an awesome, awesome value. I sometimes simply forget about my actual rentals, and they just sit on my desk for a week or two, simply because there is so much great, older stuff to watch instantly.

tardoman

03-05-2009, 01:22 PM

Hollywood Video is about to unveil a new plan that allows for unlimited game or movie rentals for $39.99 / month! I'll have more details after lunch. I have a pamphlet in my car.

Edit: It's called the powerplay. There are 4 different levels to the plan: Silver ($7.99), Gold ($14.99), Platinum ($24.99), Diamond ($39.99).

Each plan has a set quantity of monthly PowerPoints (excluding Diamond), and rentals vary in point cost. Older movies = 2 points, new release movies = 3 points, Blu-ray = 4 points, and games = 5 points.

Silver $7.99 -- 8 monthly powerpoints, 1 item out at a time, no due dates on movies, 5 day rentals on games.
Gold $14.99 -- 15 monthly powerpoints, 2 items out at a time, no due dates on movies, 5 day rentals on games.
Platinum $24.99 -- 25 monthly powerpoints, 3 items out at a time, no due dates on movies, 5 day rentals on games.
Diamond $39.99 -- Unlimited powerpoints, 3 items out at a time (2 game max), no due dates on games & movies.

On any of the plans you can extend game rentals for 1 point per day. Platinum plans can also add points in one dollar increments.

Powerpoints also rollover from month to month if they go unused.

The pamphlet also states that PowerPlay members get additional discounts on previously viewed movies & games, snacks, and concessions.

nbballard

03-05-2009, 02:03 PM

hum.. As much as i love the streaming netflix thing, the Hollywood video deal might not be a bad arrangement. Depending on how close the stores are to you.

darkdaze73

03-05-2009, 04:42 PM

My local Hollywood video never have any of the new releases in stock. I tried to rent Unreal 3 from the time it came out til about 3 or 4 months after its release. The last time I went the manager asked what I was looking for. Come to find out, whoever rented it never returned it. I was thinking to myself "geez, either take the ****** case off the shelf or buy a new one."

Br4inDead

03-05-2009, 04:50 PM

qwerty1

03-06-2009, 11:16 PM

For people that use Netflix: What kind of internet connection do you have? I thought I had a decent connection but all the movies I've tried to watch look awful. I have a friend that had the same experience. Is there a certain setting to help this or does it just all depend on internet connection?

Its not just you. The quality on some of the older movies is rivaled by VHS, the newer ones arent bad at all but still sub par compared to a physical media. I've noticed some horizontal tearing issues as well which plagues everything.

The quality will improve in the long run, right now i really enjoy it simply because its incredibly convenient.

BustaUppa

03-07-2009, 02:23 PM

Is there any sort of wiki, or maybe a page on the Netflix site itself, that lists all the movies available for streaming? That could sell me on this more than anything else. Or would the only way to really see the selection be to start a free trial?

Dr.Zoidberg

03-07-2009, 09:43 PM

I used BB for awhile and really liked them. Took a break sometime last year since they had gone up from like $20-$25 for 3 at a time unlimited return in the store and I had been watching a lot and wanted to wait till some new stuff came out. Decided to try Netflix and have been happy and do enjoy watching over my xbox. They do not have a great selection online but I have seen some of my movies in my DVD queue swich to online and that's a plus. I did like BB and they are very close to my house so I would switch to them again.

As far as the streaming on the xbox 360, I have watched Firefly and Bigger, Faster, Stronger both in HD and they looked great. They have to get more movies online, that's for sure.

Thank you for the correction, I did watch Serenity...lol

kennistond

03-07-2009, 09:58 PM

As far as the streaming on the xbox 360, I have watched Firefly and Bigger, Faster, Stronger both in HD and they looked great.

Just so people don't get the wrong idea, he watched Serenity.

jallen

03-08-2009, 02:34 PM

another plus for netflix.

South Park Seasons 1-9 Streaming

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/02/business/media/02carr.html

or you could just stream any episode in existence through the official page :applause:

http://www.southparkstudios.com/

BustaUppa

03-09-2009, 04:14 AM

or you could just stream any episode in existence through the official page :applause:

http://www.southparkstudios.com/True, but there's definitely something to be said for the convenience of watching it from your Xbox. I sure don't feel like lugging my PC into the living to hook it up to the HDTV... it'd be much easier in my case to just use the 360!

BustaUppa

03-09-2009, 12:03 PM

hey I just saw this useful site, http://instantwatcher.com. It taps into the Netflix database and lets you browse all the titles available for "instant watch" streaming!

Frogurt.man

03-30-2009, 04:38 PM

Dear *****,

You are receiving this email because you added unlimited Blu-ray access to your account for $1 a month. The number of Blu-ray titles has increased significantly and will continue to do so. As we buy more, you are able to choose from a rapidly expanding selection of Blu-ray titles. And as you've probably heard, Blu-ray discs are substantially more expensive than standard definition DVDs.

As a result, the monthly charge for Blu-ray access is increasing for most plans and will now vary by plan. The charge for monthly Blu-ray access on your 4 DVDs at-a-time (Unlimited) plan will increase from $1 a month to $5 a month. The price of your 4 DVDs at-a-time (Unlimited) plan is not changing and remains at $23.99 a month.

The new charge for Blu-ray access will be automatically added to your next billing statement on or after April 27, 2009 and will be referenced in your Membership Terms and Details.
If you wish to continue unlimited Blu-ray access for $5 a month, you don't need to do anything. If not, you can remove Blu-ray access anytime by visiting
If you have questions about this change or need any assistance, please call us anytime at 1-888-923-0898.

-The Netflix Team
Shit.

xistence

03-30-2009, 04:44 PM

Got the same email.

I have the unlimited 3 @ a time. Increase from $1 to $4.

Shit Indeed.

rpgamer92

03-30-2009, 05:32 PM

i prefer gamefly over blockbuster, so i would say netflix is better although i have never tried it.

chuckstaton

04-01-2009, 01:24 AM

chuckstaton

04-01-2009, 01:25 AM

PS I will say, I've had the $17.99 price forever at BB.com - it might be higher now

bigdaddybruce44

04-01-2009, 01:29 AM

For me, the 360 streaming is easily worth the $10 a month I pay for the one-at-a-time deal, plus BD. Whatever movies I get in the mail are simply extra.

chuckstaton

04-01-2009, 01:49 AM

GrilledWitOnions

04-01-2009, 03:03 AM

Interesting. What's weird to me about their streaming thing is that you'd think people who pay monthly for a movie service would be interested in new releases, which I've heard the streaming feature is devoid of.
But streaming is basically it, right? For actual DVDs/blu-rays, blockbuster just murders Netflix then?
It's actually quite a bit higher for blockbuster than the plan you have - you were grandfathered in, your plan remained low. For a 3 at a time unlimited exchanges it's $35. If you limit it to 5 in-store exchanges, it's $20/month. No plan has any coupons for free games AFAIK.

I personally love blockbuster, but I worked there for years, so it was great to bring my movies in and see everyone. Why others like Netflix:
-The prices are nearly the same at this point, but Netflix has streaming, blockbuster has in-store exchanges
-Netflix actually does have (last I checked, last fall), a much better selection than Blockbuster. Blockbuster gets a lot of major foreign language movies but they are still missing a lot of niche stuff - especially anime. From what I remember Blockbuster had terrible anime selection all the way around, while Netflix was great.
-Netflix's site is MUCH better. I loved using it. Blockbuster was always sort of a pain. I don't know how much has changed in the last 6 months or so, but Netflix just made it very easy to find and get your movies.

I think many people also just love underdogs - but I don't understand this notion since if Blockbuster, Hollywood Video, and everyone else went out of business, what would Netflix do? I garauntee they'd raise prices. They are in business like everyone else. They DO handle themselves (and maybe their customers) better, but the bottom line is money.

chuckstaton

04-01-2009, 04:17 AM

I'd have to admit I've never even really seen anime at blockbuster. That's definitely true. The game coupons are definitely standard though (I think you may have missed them because they aren't advertised as "free game coupon" - it says "plus one free printable coupon every month" and the coupon itself says "good for one movie or game").
I used the Netflix site - in 2005 - I'm positive it's changed by now so I can't say I have any experience there. The thing is I always felt the in-store exchange was so great, because you could get new releases when you wanted and the DVDs are checked in right then. This whole new Netflix blu-ray thing has soured me ever more to them now, which is why I was wondering.

GrilledWitOnions

04-01-2009, 05:18 AM

The game coupons are definitely standard though (I think you may have missed them because they aren't advertised as "free game coupon" - it says "plus one free printable coupon every month" and the coupon itself says "good for one movie or game"). Actually, around the time Blockbuster did their first price hike (if I'm remembering correctly), they nixed the coupons. You're one of the lucky few that was grandfathered in with the old price and got to keep the coupons. Coupons are now no longer part of any plan for new subscribers, and many, like myself, had the price raised and coupons taken out of the plan.

I used the Netflix site - in 2005 - I'm positive it's changed by now so I can't say I have any experience there. The thing is I always felt the in-store exchange was so great, because you could get new releases when you wanted and the DVDs are checked in right then. This whole new Netflix blu-ray thing has soured me ever more to them now, which is why I was wondering.I totally agree with getting the NR movies on Tuesday, right away, with in-store exchanging. Blockbuster does make it somewhat more difficult than Netflix though IMO. Here's an example (assuming an average 2 day turnaround):

My goal with any rental service is to have movies cost on average, less than $1 each, hopefully much much less. Lets say I have the $35/month plan, 3 at a time, unlimited exchanges. I need 35 movies in the month to reach my goal.

In any given week I think I can average two deliveries of movies - lets say 3 come on Monday, I watch them by Tuesday and return them (+3), get new ones Thur (+3). Return Friday(+3), get new ones hopefully Monday(+3) to return on tues(+3). First week total: 12 (not counting the 6 from the second week here).

Get movies Mon (+3), return Tues(+3), now I'm at 18. My next set of movies arrive Thursday probably (+3), return Friday (+3, total 24), get new ones by Monday hopefully, and have a day to watch them to get my exchanges Tuesday. Week 2 is 24 movies total.

Repeat for week 3, and I am at 36, week 4, 48, average, 72 cents/movie.

-----
So lets look at the $20/month plan - I now have to realllly pick and choose which NR movies I want on Tuesday, as I only get 5/month, and I need to hit 20 movies to make it $1/movie. We'll assume that there are three I want on the first Tuesday, and then two more the following Tues. This means in two weeks I have 23 instead of 24. My next two weeks, I average about 3 deliveries per week, totaling 18 more movies. I have hit my goal (and then some), and have gotten 41 movies in a month for $20, around 48 cents per movie. BUT, I had to realllly think hard about what movies I wanted to exchange for, and maybe make some sacrifices - not a huge deal as I can probably get them next month, but to some the "right-now" factor is a big thing - in fact it's what the in-store exchanges are good for, is appeasing that.

Compare to Netflix, $17/month with what I think was reported as an increase to $5/month for BD, plus streaming for free. Okay, we're looking at a total of $22/month. Assuming a 2-day turnaround, I get roughly 9 movies a week (deliveries on M,W,F), which is 36 movies/month. Remember, with Blockbuster I was holding some of those movies for exchanges, so I didn't get Monday deliveries. This is an average of 61 cents per movie. You may not get every NR movie right away, but the site design is better, they have a better selection, and you can get streaming video while you wait for your movies to come.

Conclusion: For about 10 cents more per movie you can get Netflix. For price Blockbuster barely wins, but I think Netflix still has them on quality and selection.

chuckstaton

04-01-2009, 06:12 AM

Actually, around the time Blockbuster did their first price hike (if I'm remembering correctly), they nixed the coupons. You're one of the lucky few that was grandfathered in with the old price and got to keep the coupons. Coupons are now no longer part of any plan for new subscribers, and many, like myself, had the price raised and coupons taken out of the plan.
I totally agree with getting the NR movies on Tuesday, right away, with in-store exchanging. Blockbuster does make it somewhat more difficult than Netflix though IMO. Here's an example (assuming an average 2 day turnaround):
My goal with any rental service is to have movies cost on average, less than $1 each, hopefully much much less. Lets say I have the $35/month plan, 3 at a time, unlimited exchanges. I need 35 movies in the month to reach my goal.
In any given week I think I can average two deliveries of movies - lets say 3 come on Monday, I watch them by Tuesday and return them, get new ones Thur. Return Friday, get new ones hopefully Monday to return on tues. First week total: 9.
Get movies Mon, return Tues, now I'm at 15. My next set of movies arrive Thursday probably, return Friday (total 18), get new ones by Monday hopefully, and have a day to watch them to get my exchanges Tuesday. Now I am at 24.
At this rate it's easy to see where I'll fall - 2 more weeks, another 18 or so movies, and I'm at 42 movies - hmm this seems like a lot more than I remember calculating it at... but 83 cents/movie.
-----
So lets look at the $20/month plan - I now have to realllly pick and choose which NR movies I want on tuesday, as I only get 5/month, and I need to hit 20 movies to make it $1/movie. We'll assume that there are three I want on the first tuesday, and then two more the following Tues. This means in two weeks I have 14 movies instead of 15. My next two weeks, I average about 3 deliviers per week (Monday is available again), totaling 18 more movies. I have hit my goal (and then some), and have gotten 33 movies in a month for $20, around 60 cents per movie. BUT, I had to realllly think hard about what movies I wanted to exchange for, and maybe make some sacrifices - not a huge deal as I can probably get them next month, but to some the "right-now" factor is a big thing - in fact it's what the in-store exchanges are good for, is appeasing that.
Compare to Netflix, $17/month with what I think was reported as an increase to $5/month for BD, plus streaming for free. Okay, we're looking at a total of $22/month. Assuming a 2-day turnaround, I get roughly 9 movies a week (deliveries on M,W,F), which is 36 movies/month. Remember, with Blockbuster I was holding some of those movies for exchanges, so I didn't get Monday deliveries. This is an average of 61 cents per movie. You may not get every NR movie right away, but the site design is better, they have a better selection, and you can get streaming video while you wait for your movies to come.
Netflix wins hands down. It sorta sucks cause I like Blockbuster - I have a lot of friends and good memories from working there. And for YOU, yes, you have it awesome - you have the old plan so you get an incredible deal. I'd stick with Blockbuster, but for new people, Netflix wins.
If anything is wrong here let me know... I think I confused myself :P

I guess the reason I thought the coupon thing was normal was because for a while I just thought it was an extra movie coupon then discovered it was for games. I didn't realize they took it out of the system (or how awesome they're making it for grandfathered-in members).
I'd say your calculations are definitely off - lol - no big deal. You calculated Netflix as having delivery dates on M/W/F but that's impossible (where's the mailing time, time to watch movies, and time to send them back?).
But otherwise - I'll go with your theories here - although I'm afraid if you really look into the theories you proposed, Blockbuster is the clear winner.

Let's look at Netflix 3-at-a-time with blu ray ($22, you said) vs. Blockbuster 3-at-a-time/blu-ray/unlimited-exchanges ($35, you said).
Here's your proposed deal:
You have Netflix. If you get three on Monday, you watch all three by the next day at like 2 PM to get them in the mail (this is already a stretch, but it's what you said). That means they'll probably get TO Netflix by Wednesday (at the very fastest), which means Netflix will send them out Thursday (at the very fastest), which means (and this is the EXTREME fastest never-would-happen version) you'd get your next three on Friday.
And this is an EXTREMELY generous calculation - I had Netflix. If I sent out three movies on Tuesday (after getting them in Monday) the amount of times I actually got more movies three days later was almost never.
With Blockbuster, not only are three counted in when you bring them to the store (as opposed to putting them in a mailbox, then waiting for your Netflix movies to get to Netflix) AND you get three movies then.

But - if you want to really look at it like that (extremely generous calculations included) with that turn-around time:

Netflix - get three movies Monday, watch all and send back by Tuesday (somehow), get three more Friday. Repeat. That's three movies for every every four days. There are 24 mailing days in a four week month (yes this is a short estimated month, but I'll use the same exact timeframe for the BB comparison). That means you get 18 movies a month (with blu rays) for $22. That's $1.22 a disc.
Blockbuster - get three movies Monday, watch all and bring to BB store on Tuesday to exchange for three more, then (according to your Netflix mailing calculation) you get three more sent to you for THURSDAY (as they were checked in on Tuesday, as opposed to what would be Netflix's Wednesday due to mail). That's six movies every three days. There are 24 mailing days in a four week month - this means you get 48 movies a month, paying $35. That's $0.72 a disc.

Very clear, going by the rules you stated to get movies in, watch them all in one day, allow one day for mailing time between the consumer (you) and Netflix/Blockbuster. Blockbuster gives you two and half as many movies, for half as much per disc.

If you go Netflix 3-at-a-time/blu-rays ($22) vs. Blockbuster 3-at-a-time/blu-rays/5-instore-exchanges ($20).

Netflix - same as above, $1.22 a disc.
Blockbuster - get three movies Monday, watch all and bring to BB store on Tuesday, then you get three more sent to you for Thursday. That's only three movies every three days. There are 24 mailing days in a four week month - this means you get 24 movies a month PLUS add on those five in-store exchanges. You get 29 movies a month, paying $20. That's $0.68 a disc.

Very clear again - Blockbuster gives you one and half as many movies, for half as much per disc.

Either way, Blockbuster beats the price. I'm not counting my grandfathered-in plan, I'm just counting the prices that are up now for new members (the prices you gave me).

Also note - with EITHER Blockbuster plan, you get to go get a new release every Tuesday (even the "5 exchanges per month" plan, as there are never
more than 5 Tuesdays in a month), which Netflix can't give you.

So if you're trying for that less-than-$1 per-disc idea, Blockbuster is what you need :)

Shinpachi

04-01-2009, 08:35 AM

I don't really feel like picking out quotes, but this is directed at the post above me: Netflix sends out movies the same day that they receive them, nearly anyone who has it could tell you that, and there's news articles confirming their receiving/shipping process as such. And according to Netflix, with their hundred-some distribution centers, 95% of subscribers are within one day's mailing. No offense, but you must live out in the boonies or order some extremely rare titles to get them any later, or your USPS people are slacking.

Also, you really should factor the free streaming into the equation somewhere, and maybe the price difference for non-blu-ray plans.

I personally can't trust Blockbuster after how the local one had a nasty habit of screwing people. Oftentimes when I went in there, I'd overhear someone raging about exhorbitant late fees, and rumor has it the employees were told to empty the inbox before midnight. Rumors aside, their late fees were ludicrously high back in the 90's when I went there, and their "No more late fees (now we'll charge you to buy the movie if it's late)" reeked of disrespect for their consumers. I'm skeptical of them changing.

Netflix has yet to do me wrong, and has very nearly every anime and foreign movie I've ever wanted to see. I think you might also find most people aren't that concerned with getting new releases on tuesday nights as much as they are by the weekend, if they're concerned at all.

Lastly, does Blockbuster have anywhere near as awesome of a movie recommendation system as Netflix does? That's a huge draw for some people that use it frequently, and it's great if you've got eclectic tastes.

bigdaddybruce44

04-01-2009, 10:58 AM

Not for nothing, but I dropped my Netflix envelope in the mail yesterday at 4:30, and they already shipped out a new movie this morning.

dmaul1114

04-01-2009, 11:02 AM

Yeah, I've always had a 3 day turn around in the 2 years or so I've had Netflix.

chuckstaton sounds like a very heavy user who wants to try to get as many movies as possible each month, so maybe he got throttled when he had Netflix before.

I'd never switch to Blockbuster.

1. Just hate the company from bad instore experiences years ago.
2. Love Netflix's streaming.
3. Last I checked Netflix had a much better selection of foreign films, indie films and documentaries.

Brian9824

04-01-2009, 12:11 PM

I'd also like to mention that netflix dvd selection kills blockbusters selection for many stuff like foreign films, anime, japaneese movies, etc. The netflix turnaround on dvds is also far better.

Without game exchange blockbuster fails horribly, with game selection its intresting again however i'd still take netflix for their selection

bigdaddybruce44

04-01-2009, 12:14 PM

Out of curiosity, I checked out Blockbuster's plans, and they don't blow me away. The one-out unlimited runs $12, and though you get the added benefits, like in-store exchange, that simply does not trump 360 streaming in my book.

chuckstaton

04-01-2009, 02:25 PM

Shinpachi - there's also articles claiming that Netflix screw you over if you're going as fast as possible with DVD exchanges, so one-person accounts are hard to trust.
Also - Blockbuster charging a late fee until the movie is paid for is such a great deal with 90% of titles. I did an in-store exchange for a free rental with one of my BB.com envelopes for something like Home Alone, and the late fee ended up being one dollar, which allowed me to keep the movie (as they counted the envelope trade-in as "$5"). That doesn't sound disrespectful to me at all.

To All Responding - My post was in response to another post that specifically was talking about the most movies per month, and paying the lowest for each disc. I didn't make up that comparison.
I wish there was some actual data on the number of movies each company has in stock. I've seen at least three charts online and they're all completely different. I definitely believe the people who say Blockbuster has a smaller anime section, but I guess the question to me is the percentage of difference.
In other words - if Netflix has 100,000 DVDs, and Blockbuster has 95,000 DVDs, that doesn't seem like a huge margin. Also, if you're that adamant about one type of film - you're really just going to continually rent it for months/years? The idea of getting 25 - 45 DVDs a month seems to be based around checking out a lot of new titles, or titles you haven't seen - to me it doesn't translate to checking out one or two specific genres.
Also - I know you're all talking about the streaming - but isn't it like 1/20th of their selection is available for streaming? And also - I've read alot of forums where people are like "My Netflix streaming looks like shit. How can I improve this?" and someone else will answer "You can't. It's a two hour streaming video so making it look good would take forever to load it."
I also feel like the ratio of "problems with streaming video through xbox 360" vs "problems with just playing a DVD in your DVD player" is definitely higher. Not saying everyone will have a lot of problems constantly, but regardless, one is based on streaming video which is obviously never as reliable as a hard product.
Also - to throw this in - I don't use my consoles for DVD players (not the Xbox, not the PS2) - and the Xbox 360 is the most EASILY broken console of all time, due to the console being on for too long and overheating, so all the people going that route, to me, are not being too smart about their systems. (I have owned 7 Xbox 360's in 3 years, and I keep it in a cool place - for the record, I've also never even paid for one of them).
So the lack of NR, the incredibly incredibly high lack of selection, the lack of quality on the streaming Netflix deal, and the fact that I have to either run it on a computer screen or the most easily broken console of all time, really make that uninteresting to me. Not to mention the fact that I have a lot of friends and we're often at different people's houses (and our band's monstrous practice space) watching movies I get in - which, to use Netflix streaming, you'd have to move your Xbox 360 somewhere, it has to be somewhere with internet, then hope there's an ethernet port to plug in to. That's a huge difference from having a DVD.
One more thing - whenever me, or one of my friends, or my girlfriend, remembers "Oh, this movie is out now" - I ALWAYS have a Blockbuster envelope and we go down the street and grab it, free. With Netflix, you can't be like "What do you want to do tonight?" "Oh that movie came out that we missed in theatres!"
Also - is there no argument for the in-store experience? There are many many movies that I rented because I saw them on the wall and looked at them. I'll go into Blockbuster knowing I have four free DVDs coming to me and I'll look for quite a while before settling on stuff - some new stuff I've never heard of, some old stuff I forgot about, etc.
I guess you can sort of paruse that way online but come on - it's not the same.

Just seems like an obvious choice. It's just weird to argue the idea that three of the smallest sections are lesser at Blockbuster (anime, foreign, documentaris) but to also argue FOR the streaming movies at Netflix, which probably, like I said, has about 1/20th of the titles Blockbuster has in general.

Also - you guys probably aren't even going to BELIEVE me on this one (and honestly, I don't blame you) but my local Blockbuster (which closed down in October) always had a late fee deal where you get the movie for the two or three or five days, PLUS a seven day "grace period" before late feeds apply.
I know that sounds dubious and crazy (you rent a new release the day it comes out, it's due back a week from the following Thursday) but it was how they did it. I feel like I've always got incredible deals at Blockbuster/Blockbuster.com and Netflix, for my money doesn't compare to them.
Now there are simply no late fees for Blockbuster.com members - but they did that even before there was a Blockbuster.com

dmaul1114

04-01-2009, 02:47 PM

The idea of getting 25 - 45 DVDs a month....

Well the thing is the vast majority of people probably don't go through nearly that many. On a good month I'll get through 10-15 movies and many months less if I'm traveling or extra busy at work etc.

Also - I know you're all talking about the streaming - but isn't it like 1/20th of their selection is available for streaming? And also - I've read alot of forums where people are like "My Netflix streaming looks like shit. How can I improve this?" and someone else will answer "You can't. It's a two hour streaming video so making it look good would take forever to load it."

Selection is very good for older movies, classics, documentaries, indy films etc. They look very good. Most DVD selections look just a tad worse than an upconverted DVD, and stuff that's in HD looks a tad worse than HD cable. And I just have an 8.0 MBPS Comcast connection so new super speed or anything.

I wouldn't get Netflix just for the streaming, but it's a damn nice addition to have for new extra cost and helps me squeeze in some more movies when I've mailed my 2 discs back and want to watch something else--tends to happen on the weekends as I'll finally find time to watch my 2 discs and then use the streaming for the next couple of days if I have time to catch something else.

And I have few problems with it, sometimes I couldn't use it when my connection was slow or something, but that's only happened once or twice in a lot of use since November with the 360 update. So I can't complain--and again it was something added onto my existing account at no extra charge.

One more thing - whenever me, or one of my friends, or my girlfriend, remembers "Oh, this movie is out now" - I ALWAYS have a Blockbuster envelope and we go down the street and grab it, free. With Netflix, you can't be like "What do you want to do tonight?" "Oh that movie came out that we missed in theatres!"

And that is the one advantage of BB. If people use the in store you can get stuff right away rather than waiting a couple days. So it's a preference of whether you like that better or streaming--and I'd take the streaming personally. But it's a too each their own.

Also - is there no argument for the in-store experience?

I'll argue against it. Video rental chains are on par with Gamestops in terms of being staffed by and frequented by all assortments of nerds, kids, idiots etc. and it's just not worth the annoyance and hassle. And it also just takes time to get to the store, wait in line etc., and I'm busy as hell and try to stay out of stores as much as possible and do as much shopping/renting/etc. on line at possible.

Haven't been in one in years and will never set foot in a rental store again. So the instore exchange/experience has no appeal to me personally. But I see why others like it. Again, to each their own.

Just seems like an obvious choice. It's just weird to argue the idea that three of the smallest sections are lesser at Blockbuster (anime, foreign, documentaris) but to also argue FOR the streaming movies at Netflix, which probably, like I said, has about 1/20th of the titles Blockbuster has in general.

Again the streaming is a free add-on to the regular unlimited plans. I'd never sign up for Netflix because of it, but it's a nice feature and I use it a lot. For me it's a better feature to have than instore exchange--for you it's vice versa.

Too each their own. You seem pretty determined in convincing people otherwise. Are you a Blockbuster employee or schill or something?

Both services have their pros and cons and I can see why someone would prefer Blockbuster (instore exchange, no Blu Ray fee) and I can see why others like myself prefer Netflix (streaming, better selection in some genres). It's good to have competition and options so people can choose a service that best fits their needs.

chuckstaton

04-01-2009, 03:13 PM

Honestly if you remove in-store exchange from BB (which some people can't get if they're not near a BB), and streaming from Netflix (which, again, some people can't use on a TV if they don't have a 360 or a good internet connection) then the prices/systems are pretty much exactly the same, with Netflix being slightly higher in price (maybe $2 or so a month).
So in that respect, I consider them the same. They both have one advantage either way, but if you take those advantages out, they're very comparable (with Blockbuster having a very slight pricing edge).

I just see the in-store exchange and the physical DVD as a much higher value than the streaming option and I find it sort of odd to dispute that. If somone's answer is "I don't have a blockbuster near me" than it makes perfect sense to choose Netflix over BB.com, but if you have the option, one just seems to be a much higher value.

Also - come on! Gamestop NEVER has nerds working at it!
...

I've actually gotten really lucky with employees at local retailers (FYE, Gamestop, Blockbuster, Moviestop) and for the most part, have become friends with them all to the point of constant discounts and kickbacks. I've seen shitty employees before, but I feel like that the idea of them is a little exaggerated.

dmaul1114

04-01-2009, 03:18 PM

I just see the in-store exchange and the physical DVD as a much higher value than the streaming option and I find it sort of odd to dispute that. If somone's answer is "I don't have a blockbuster near me" than it makes perfect sense to choose Netflix over BB.com, but if you have the option, one just seems to be a much higher value.

It's not odd at all. It's great for some like you that watches an absolute shit ton of movies a month, and doesn't mind going to the store etc.

Streaming is better for someone like me that is busy as hell, hate's going to stores etc. and can just fire up something on the streaming service in the rare instances that both of my discs are mailed out at the same time--or when I just don't feel like watching one of my rentals at the store.

Plus it's great for documentaries, indie films, foreign films etc. that Blockbuster and other chains often don't carry so it's a good way to "force" myself to catch up on some of those titles from time to time since I have them readily available in my instant queue to watch whenever I have the urge.

But don't get me wrong, I see why others prefer the in store pick up more than streaming. I don't find it odd at all, and you shouldn't find it odd at all that some prefer streaming.

GrilledWitOnions

04-01-2009, 03:26 PM

First, the turn-around-time for Netflix: as others have mentioned, it's about 1-day. I am not sure of this, but I know before blockbuster did in-store exchanges, I was told that basically as the item was received at the post office it was checked in at the distro center. I don't know how true that is - but if it is true I would wager Netflix does the same thing. Either way, as long as Netflix doesn't throttle you, turn-around-time is great. And despite the fact that Blockbuster doesn't have it in their terms, I felt like my account was being throttled during the last few weeks I had the 3 at a time 5 exchanges plan - I was receiving movies about once per week. And before that, they ALWAYS broke up my shipments - I returned three, two would ship one day, the third on the next. EVERY time. I believe it was to stagger the movies so I wouldn't be able to rent as many as quickly, and to make it seem like I'm getting movies all the time, day after day. However it was pretty frustrating.

In other words - if Netflix has 100,000 DVDs, and Blockbuster has 95,000 DVDs, that doesn't seem like a huge margin.
It doesn't seem huge but when I go looking for a specific movie and Netflix has it over Blockbuster, it can make a HUGE difference. Even just a couple times, and it happened more than just a couple times.

Also - I know you're all talking about the streaming - but isn't it like 1/20th of their selection is available for streaming? And also - I've read alot of forums where people are like "My Netflix streaming looks like shit. How can I improve this?" and someone else will answer "You can't. It's a two hour streaming video so making it look good would take forever to load it."
I also feel like the ratio of "problems with streaming video through xbox 360" vs "problems with just playing a DVD in your DVD player" is definitely higher. Not saying everyone will have a lot of problems constantly, but regardless, one is based on streaming video which is obviously never as reliable as a hard product.This is all something to consider, definitely. I've not used Netflix' streaming, I am curious as to how bad it looks. I have a 32" HDTV that I've watched streaming television on with Hulu, and it looks not great, but very watchable. I know a 2-hour movie is going to be longer than a 1/2 hour tv show, so it probably doesn't look as good - but if it's anywhere near hulu quality I'd be fine with it.

So the lack of NR [in streaming], the incredibly incredibly high lack of selection [in streaming], the lack of quality on the streaming Netflix deal, and the fact that I have to either run it on a computer screen or the most easily broken console of all time, really make that uninteresting to me. Not to mention the fact that I have a lot of friends and we're often at different people's houses (and our band's monstrous practice space) watching movies I get in - which, to use Netflix streaming, you'd have to move your Xbox 360 somewhere, it has to be somewhere with internet, then hope there's an ethernet port to plug in to. That's a huge difference from having a DVD.I know this isn't typical but I have a HTPC hooked up to my living room tv. For me it would be as easy to stream a movie as it would be watch a dvd. Like you said, I can't take it with me, but I don't get out enough for that to matter. :P
One more thing - whenever me, or one of my friends, or my girlfriend, remembers "Oh, this movie is out now" - I ALWAYS have a Blockbuster envelope and we go down the street and grab it, free. With Netflix, you can't be like "What do you want to do tonight?" "Oh that movie came out that we missed in theatres!"This is one of the biggest selling points of blockbusters online service. However, remember that they have changed the service: often times I would think, "I want to go get that movie right now!" only to remember that I had already used all of my exchanges. You had to really plan out what you wanted to rent. And there was no way I was going to pay $35 a month for a plan that basically added convenience.
Also - is there no argument for the in-store experience? There are many many movies that I rented because I saw them on the wall and looked at them. I'll go into Blockbuster knowing I have four free DVDs coming to me and I'll look for quite a while before settling on stuff - some new stuff I've never heard of, some old stuff I forgot about, etc.
I guess you can sort of peruse that way online but come on - it's not the same.It can go either way. Myself, I don't care about going inside as much now that I've moved and don't see my friends there. I'm more likely to have to talk to strangers and people I don't know or want to talk to (I'm sorta a shut in aren't I :P) And although it's a little more exciting to go look at tangible product, I don't use the net with my phone, so if I want a second opinion on a movie, I can't just check for reviews online.

Just seems like an obvious choice. It's just weird to argue the idea that three of the smallest sections are lesser at Blockbuster (anime, foreign, documentaris) but to also argue FOR the streaming movies at Netflix, which probably, like I said, has about 1/20th of the titles Blockbuster has in general.To me the streaming is an icing-on-the-cake deal. It's a counter to in-store exchanges. It's a way to have something while you wait for your queued movies to arrive. I think, if I had Netflix, I'd most likely use the streaming for a spur of the moment I want to watch a movie sort of thing - it's not like renting a movie, it's filler for that. So the selection and quality aren't really a big deal. But when it comes to renting the movie - the one I want to see - and Blockbuster doesn't have it at all? Then it becomes a big deal.

Also - you guys probably aren't even going to BELIEVE me on this one (and honestly, I don't blame you) but my local Blockbuster (which closed down in October) always had a late fee deal where you get the movie for the two or three or five days, PLUS a seven day "grace period" before late feeds apply.
I know that sounds dubious and crazy (you rent a new release the day it comes out, it's due back a week from the following Thursday) but it was how they did it. I feel like I've always got incredible deals at Blockbuster/Blockbuster.com and Netflix, for my money doesn't compare to them.
Now there are simply no late fees for Blockbuster.com members - but they did that even before there was a Blockbuster.comThe No Late Fees policy is actually like this, for everyone (not just online members):
Rent a movie, you have either 2 or 8 days to return it. You then have 1 week from the due date to get that in (the grace period), or it is sold to your account. You then have 30 days to return the movie or game, at which point the cost of movie is refunded to account less $1.25 (restocking fee). Keep it over 30 days it's yours.

Now, I know some people think Blockbuster is trying to screw them with this but it's really a very good deal. They handled it all wrong, however, like they do with most things. The commercials didn't really explain all of this. Nobody ever goes to the store and asks for the details. And when they DO, they don't listen. People assume they can just take everything how they want and then Blockbuster should bend over backwards when they don't understand it. The company told us we were basically the ones that had to make the no late fees policy clear to customers - but for the first few months it was really hard getting people to listen to us talk about it and understand it. People were returning games 3 months late and expecting to not pay anything.

The No-Late-Fees policy is not to make a bunch of money off of lazy forgetful people. Blockbuster lost TONS of money doing this - late fees were a huge part of their revenue stream. And you have to consider that when a customer has a movie for over 30 days, that's time that another customer might have been renting it - maybe it would have gone out multiple times. All (theoretical) money lost. But if it's a NR title, you know it'll get rented probably a couple more times, so someone having a new title for a month really doesn't help. Then, Blockbuster basically says, "You know what, you aren't bringing this back; you've had a month, it's yours". But they have to then try to rebuy that movie - and sometimes it's out of print. And the $1.25 restocking fee if you DO get it in before 30 days? VERY reasonable. When you don't return a movie, it's added to a list of not returned movies. An employee then has to go out to the shelf with this list and check for EVERY MOVIE THAT IS 7-8 DAYS LATE. The list might be about 200 titles and three pages long. You have to check each part number to the list, and see if it was an employee that missed scanning the rental in. Blockbuster did this before the end of late fees, but the EOLF made it horrendous, and where we used to do it once a week, we now did it every day. This is what the $1.25 paid for, IMO.

Man, I keep writing like, a wall of text!

dmaul1114

04-01-2009, 03:32 PM

This is all something to consider, definitely. I've not used Netflix' streaming, I am curious as to how bad it looks....

See my prior post. Most SD material looks just a tad worse than a DVD (I've only had one that had a bad encoding and was unwatchable), while HD stuff looks just a tad worse than HD Cable--not much difference between watching Heroes Season 3 episodes on their vs. watching them live to my eyes.

leshrac55

04-01-2009, 03:32 PM

Blockbuster.com, to me, has always been a better value - $17.99 for 3-at-a-time, blu-rays included, each envelope trades in for an in-store rental (including blu-rays), plus a video game coupon each month.
Oh yeah - and no late fees on any in-store rentals.

So it's basically 6-at-a-time including blu-rays, as you get two DVDs for each envelope you get. Also - Netflix users - how do you rent DVDs on their release date? Do you just try to "time" your return?
With BB.com I just keep an envelope for when a new DVD comes out and I just go in and grab it. I can even call BB in the morning and they hold me a copy.

Actually, this isn't quite right... It USED to be that you could basically double the amount of movies you had out by using the in-store rentals, but this is no longer the case (unless you game the system a little, which I'm sure wouldn't last long... more on this in a sec). Until about a month ago, you could trade in your mailed-dvd for an in store one and they would ALSO ship out the next DVD on your list. The in-store DVD had the same due dates as any other in-store DVD rental.

However, the new policy is that in-store rentals COUNT towards the number of DVDs in your plan. So, if you only have a 1 out at a time plan, and you trade in your mailed DVD at the store, then the DVD you got out from the store is now your "plan" DVD, and BB will NOT send out the next DVD on your list. The only slight benefit that BB has given in return for this crappy policy change is that the in-store movies no longer have a due-date (just as the ones you get through the mail don't).

If you really want to get around this, you can report your mailed DVD broken/lost or whatever and say you want the next movie on your list, then trade it into the store for another movie and you'll have an extra movie out. I wouldn't recommend this though as I'm sure BB's tolerance for you always losing/breaking movies won't be that high.

This policy change was almost enough to get me to switch to Netflix finally, but with Netflixes blu-ray price increase, and the fact that I'm still grandfathered into a BB plan that gives me a free in-store game/movie rental each month (plus the promise of eventually having games on their online service), I'll probably stick with BB for the forseeable future. That said, I wonder how long BB has left. At the very least, I imagine that their B&M stores will probably start closing down pretty soon, as that's what these policy changes seem to point toward.

GrilledWitOnions

04-01-2009, 03:34 PM

See my prior post. Most SD material looks just a tad worse than a DVD (I've only had one that had a bad encoding and was unwatchable), while HD stuff looks just a tad worse than HD Cable--not much difference between watching Heroes Season 3 episodes on their vs. watching them live to my eyes.
I was writing for a while and you guys snuck some stuff in in the meantime - I'm glad someone wrote about the quality. I figured it can't be terrible or else no one would use it.
Actually, this isn't quite right... It USED to be that you could basically double the amount of movies you had out by using the in-store rentals, but this is no longer the case (unless you game the system a little, which I'm sure wouldn't last long... more on this in a sec). Until about a month ago, you could trade in your mailed-dvd for an in store one and they would ALSO ship out the next DVD on your list. The in-store DVD had the same due dates as any other in-store DVD rental.

However, the new policy is that in-store rentals COUNT towards the number of DVDs in your plan. So, if you only have a 1 out at a time plan, and you trade in your mailed DVD at the store, then the DVD you got out from the store is now your "plan" DVD, and BB will NOT send out the next DVD on your list. The only slight benefit that BB has given in return for this crappy policy change is that the in-store movies no longer have a due-date (just as the ones you get through the mail don't).

If you really want to get around this, you can report your mailed DVD broken/lost or whatever and say you want the next movie on your list, then trade it into the store for another movie and you'll have an extra movie out. I wouldn't recommend this though as I'm sure BB's tolerance for you always losing/breaking movies won't be that high.

This policy change was almost enough to get me to switch to Netflix finally, but with Netflixes blu-ray price increase, and the fact that I'm still grandfathered into a BB plan that gives me a free in-store game/movie rental each month (plus the promise of eventually having games on their online service), I'll probably stick with BB for the forseeable future. That said, I wonder how long BB has left. At the very least, I imagine that their B&M stores will probably start closing down pretty soon, as that's what these policy changes seem to point toward.
Wow that's terrible. I guess I'll go to Netflix next time I rent movie - blockbuster is too pricey and confusing.

dmaul1114

04-01-2009, 03:37 PM

I was writing for a while and you guys snuck some stuff in in the meantime - I'm glad someone wrote about the quality. I figured it can't be terrible or else no one would use it.

Yeah, it's very solid--and I'm watching through the 360 on a 50" HDTV, so not on a small monitor or TV where flaws are less noticeable.

I'm 100% pleased with the quality--especially for free with the disc plan.

leshrac55

04-01-2009, 03:45 PM

GrilledWitOnions

04-01-2009, 04:03 PM

Maybe this is because I live in Chicago, which is one of BB's distribution centers, or maybe it's because I only have the 1 at a time plan (which, sometimes when I'm busy it can even be quite awhile before I exchange), but BB's turnaround time for me has always been fantastic. In some cases, I've returned a movie to a store and then received the next movie in my queue the following day... Typically, it will come probably 2 days after you exchange in store, meaning that it's usually just a 1 day turnaround. I haven't sent movies back through the mail in awhile, so not sure if they're quite as fast when I send it back to them, but with their new policy changes, I'll probably get to try this out pretty soon.
My TOT with BB was always really great as well, right up until they changed a policy AGAIN without telling anyone (month-to-month exchanges became billing-cycle to billing cycle), and I just got fed up and quit (needed to save money anyway). But my distro center is in Sacramento, CA I believe, and I usually would return movies say Monday, and get new movies Wed. I had no problem with this. My friend in Sac said she got movies the next day (similar to your report) because she was so close to the distro center. But in the last few weeks I had BB, I would return movies on Mon and get new ones Fri. There was no holiday or weather to slow the mail down. It was simply taking longer. I'd say Netflix and Blockbuster are on par for speed. I'm pretty excited to try Netflix again - check out the streaming and see if I get throttled :P

dmaul1114

04-01-2009, 04:17 PM

Yeah, turn around times should be about the same if you're not being throttled as long as you have a distrubution center semi-nearby.

With throttling from forum posts it seems it happens on both services. Just don't be one of those people who obsesses over watching movies as quickly as possible in order to maximize their subscriptions and you'll be fine. If you're almost always getting 2, 3, 4 dvds a time, watching them all and mailing them back the next day they're going to throttle you after a while.

I don't like they way they do it, they should really just scrap the unlimited label and put a max per month on each plan. Just put it a few discs above the average rented for each plan across the board and most people will never be affected and they can still thwart the super heavy users who should be on higher plans based on how many movies they get through in a month.

Sixtywatz

04-02-2009, 05:03 PM

Netflix Stock was over 40.00 the last time I checked. Blockbuster's stock was somewhere under 1.00. Maybe .083, if this is any indication on what the general public and investors see as the better deal. It is clearly Netflix

ohmyblazes

04-02-2009, 05:17 PM

If Blockbuster does this games thing I definitely might check them out. I doubt it will be as good as Gamefly though. Gamefly really needs some competition.

msuna

07-31-2009, 01:39 PM

anyone have a 1 month free trial code for netflix?

Legolas813

09-12-2009, 09:49 PM

slidecage

09-12-2009, 11:47 PM

I didn't realize Blockbuster had rolled out Redbox-like boxes already, called "Blockbuster Express". I saw one at Publix today (and it turns out there are over a dozen in my area). $1/day rentals. Looks cool, but I'll stick to Netflix.

your going to see a lot of blockbuster boxes in the next year.... worker at a local blockbuster was told you could expect to see 5000 boxes by the summer of 2010 almost 20,000 boxes by the end of 2010

they will start to close B&M stores down and just stick these boxes up..

be very interesting to see if its true.... Then again im only paying 1.07 for redbox rentals... I get to pick what i want and dont get trottled up the ass by either netflix or bb

bleak

09-13-2009, 12:04 AM

Redbox and Netflix are much better companies. I would just like to remind people that Blockbuster wanted to merge with Circuit City late last year. That doesn't indicate strength or good management to me but desperation. Netflix sends movies out SOOOO much quicker! It has a much better selection. It has online streaming. I'm sorry but Blockbuster is second best. I've tried both, and Netflix is just flat out better.

Publix was giving out free rentals at the register to the Blockbuster kiosk by the entrance and I couldn't even find a movie I'd want for free in it. It was a crap selection, and the only intelligent person ever at Blockbuster was the guy who founded it, saw the writing on the wall, and sold it for hundreds of millions of dollars 10-15 years ago.

plong

09-24-2009, 04:33 PM

I've been a Blockbuster account user for about 4 weeks now, and I can say that the turnaround time SUCKS. Like, "sucks donkey balls" sucks.

My distribution center is only about an hour drive from my house, and still, I put a dvd in the mail to return it on Monday, then I get the shipping email today (3 days later) saying my next movie will be here next monday (8 days later) WTF

This also happened last week too, except they actually got me the movie in 5 days. I don't understand how this isn't a 3-day operation. 4 at the outside.

Ugh.

nbballard

09-24-2009, 05:10 PM

nakedninja

09-24-2009, 05:21 PM

i heard if you cancel netflix, they will try to get you back with a cheaper rate. true or false

slidecage

09-24-2009, 06:11 PM

i heard if you cancel netflix, they will try to get you back with a cheaper rate. true or false

false (at least the 3 times i quit they never offered me a thing)

Dr.Zoidberg

09-24-2009, 06:59 PM

I do enjoy the streaming through netflix with xbox and I have enjoyed some tv shows like Dexter and Harper's Island that I probably wouldn't have seen if it hadn't been streaming. The only thing I do miss since I only get 1 movie through the mail right now through netflix is that when the new movies come out on blu ray, I do have to wait for some time but it's not a dealbreak.

I do hope Blockbuster turns it around simply that redbox and netflix need the competition of each other.

QuasidodoJr

09-25-2009, 01:30 AM

Since I've had my Blockbuster online account for a few years now, I still get unlimited exchanges. They've let me know on multiple occasions, as long as I stick with the current plan, I'll get to keep unlimited exchanges and at a cheaper price than other customers, also.

I prefer dropping them at the store and getting extra movies to watch. So, BB does me way better than Netflix.

bigdaddybruce44

09-25-2009, 01:32 AM

Went another month without returning my movie to Netflix, and I didn't even care. I squeeze every penny out of the instant streaming.

evildeadjedi

09-25-2009, 02:12 PM

I was with Blockbuster for four years but with the changes and never having what I want online or locally it's over. Switched to Netflix a little over a week ago and I have already received 3 movies through the mail(I'm on the one at a time plan). I love the instant streaming to me that's the deal breaker right there! The movies must be scanned at the post office cause I mailed it and then showed "received" a few hours after the fact.