Digital vs. physical media has been a long-standing topic of debate. Netflix, Disney+, Spotify, you can easily stream anything with a single click. Yet, recently, there’s been a surprising comeback of Blu-rays, vinyl records, and DVDs. But how physical media still thrives in the age of streaming, by the way? Let’s discuss all the reasons!
The “Comeback” of Physical Media
Alright, streaming services are convenient. However, the enduring value of steelbooks, Blu-rays, vinyl records, and DVDs cannot be ignored. In fact, Gen Z is driving the “comeback” of physical media.
Yes, physical media is cool again, now, even more than before. The evidence? The Rolling Stone collectors stated, Physical Media Is Cool Again. Streaming Services Have Themselves to Blame.
Now here’s the twist: the rise of fan culture, especially on social media, has given DVDs and other physical media a chance to make a comeback. After all, who wouldn’t like to get physical media of their favorite artist, along with the memorable merch?
The Reasons for the “Comeback”
In today’s digital landscape, some of us might think that physical media collecting is just a waste of money. But if we’re talking about the value, physical media is considered more valuable than online streaming. How?
Here are the reasons physical media still thrives in the age of streaming.
Better Picture and Sound Quality
First, let’s talk about the technical matters. Physical media (4K UHD/Blu-ray) offers a better picture and sound than streaming. How is this possible?
It uses uncompressed or less-compressed data streams. As a result? Higher bitrates for richer detail, color depth (HDR), and immersive, lossless audio (Dolby Atmos/DTS-HD MA).
The Appeal of Physical Media
Speaking of visual appeal, physical media definitely wins.
Here’s why.
Imagine getting box sets that include limited-edition items with aesthetically pleasing designs. You surely would love to showcase them, wouldn’t you?
Along with the “comeback,” vinyl records resonate with Gen Z for their aesthetic appeal. When you purchase DVDs, you’ll get the whole package. From a unique artwork and inserts to custom boxes for packaging those DVDs—all are a part of the experience.
After all, purchasing and owning a physical copy of a Taylor Swift or Lana Del Rey album can build a deeper connection than a digital playlist can ever do.
No More Internet Issues
We all know the feeling of getting into a great movie, only for the internet to ruin it. Well, this won’t happen with physical media. Whenever, wherever you feel like watching your favorite movie, you can simply turn on that physical media.
But some streamers do offer downloads, though. Are you sure you’ll still have those downloads when the internet issue is going on and on? After some time, downloads will expire.
Physical Media vs Digital Media: The Trade-Off
Whether it’s Netflix, Spotify, or Disney+, all streamers require a subscription. By the end of the month, you have to subscribe again to continue streaming those movies. Unfortunately, no matter how long you subscribe, those movies will not be yours.
Physical media? Once you purchase vinyl records or DVDs, they will be yours forever—no more paying for a subscription.
Physical Media Supports Artists
Unlike tiny streaming payouts, physical media better supports artists.
Here’s how:
- Artists earn much more per sale of a physical medium (a CD or vinyl) than from thousands of streams. Hence, it will directly fund their work.
- Merch sales, especially at shows, cover high costs for gas, food, and lodging, acting as an essential lifeline for touring musicians.
The overall result? Physical media helps in fostering deeper fan connection through tangible ownership, art, and bonus content. In simple words, physical media helps preserve artistic works beyond the whims of digital licensing.
Serves as a Digital Escape
Many times, we have a desire to escape from the crowded digital world. And this is another reason physical media continues to thrive. Gen Z’s movement to physical media reflects a desire to escape digital fatigue. Being born and raised in an era of constant connectivity, they’re rediscovering the joy of engaging with music in silence and comfort.
How the Industry Responds to the “Comeback”
As Gen Z has shown a great interest in physical media, vinyl market sales keep rising. Today, we can see many artists taking advantage of this trend by releasing collector’s editions and exclusive physical formats.
While less popular than vinyl, CDs and cassettes are also experiencing a comeback. In fact, physical media news mentioned that 18-24-year-olds of Gen Z now love listening to CDs or cassettes, along with people in the 45-54 age group. Fascinating, isn’t it?
Wrapping Up
Undoubtedly, physical media still thrives in the age of streaming, and it becomes even better now. The key reasons physical media is thriving are: better picture and sound quality, the appeal of physical media, and no more internet issues, the trade-off, it supports artists, and serves as a digital escape.
Today, we can see many artists taking advantage of this trend by releasing collector’s editions and exclusive physical formats. Even Gen Z now loves listening to CDs or cassettes, along with people in the 45-54 age group. Nevertheless, we can confidently say that physical media thrives and will continue to thrive.