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Enjoy watching
movies in the comfort of your home? You now have more options than ever for
renting films and popular television shows.
Whether you decide to stick with DVDs, catch the latest flicks
on your computer, or prefer streaming video, everyone can find an affordable and
convenient option.
It’s just a
matter of choosing what works best for you. Some things to consider: where you want to watch movies (computer or TV), how you want them delivered to you, how often you rent movies, and how long it takes you to watch them.
Below are just some of the many choices available. Regardless of what you choose, renting movies is always better for you wallet and the planet than
buying new DVDs. And you don’t have to find a place to store DVDs or figure out what to do with them when you’re done with them.
- Amazon Video on Demand: Streams
movies directly to your TV over the Internet. You’ll need a compatible TV,
Blue-Ray player, set-top box, TiVo, or an Xbox 360. You may be able to connect your
PC directly to your TV. Over 50,000 movies to choose from, prices range from
$.99 to $3.99 for a 24-hour rental.
- Blockbuster: Offers a rent-by-mail option that
is similar to Netflix’s except that you have the option to exchange movies in
stores. Unlimited plans range from $8.99 to $19.99 a month. You can also rent
digital movies to view on your TV, Blu-ray player, TiVo DVR, cell phone, or
computer. On
Demand rentals start at $2.99 for a 24-hour period.
- Hulu: Watch popular movies and TV shows for
free online. You’re limited to whatever is offered so you you’ll have less
choice than if you pay to rent. Still, if you’re watching on your computer
anyway, it might be worth checking to see if a title is available on Hulu
before renting.
- iTunes: Rent movies for $3.99 for 24 hours. You’ll have to watch on
your computer, iPhone, or iTouch unless you have an Apple TV.
- Netflix: Plans for renting DVDs by mail
range from $8.99 a month through $13.99 a month. You can also watch movies
instantly right on your TV if you have a Play Station 3 or Xbox. Wii
owners will be able to take advantage of streaming video starting this
spring. One recent development — Netflix is delaying sending
out Warner Bros.’ newly released DVDs for 28 days.
- Redbox: You do have to
make a trip to the store to take advantage of rock-bottom prices, but it may be
worth it since you can rent DVDs for $1 a day plus tax. Choose your movie
online. Find a nearby Redbox that has your selection available and reserve it.
Scan your credit card when you pick up your DVD and return movies to any
location you want. You’ll also
have access to all new releases immediately.
Environmental journalist Lori Bongiorno shares green-living tips and product reviews with Yahoo! Green’s users. Send Lori a question or suggestion for potential use in a future column. Her book, Green Greener Greenest: A Practical Guide to Making Eco-smart Choices a Part of Your Life is available on Yahoo! Shopping and Amazon.com.