How to turn Blu-rays into a private streaming library · Digg

How to turn Blu-rays into a private streaming library

PCMag’s updated guide uses MakeMKV for ripping, optional HandBrake compression and Plex for playback around the home.

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Blu-ray discs and a computer used to build a private digital movie library.

TLDR

A PCMag guide explains how to digitize Blu-ray discs for a private media library that does not disappear when streaming catalogs change. The process requires a compatible Blu-ray drive and MakeMKV, with additional setup for many 4K UHD discs. Rips commonly occupy 15GB to 30GB, while 4K files can exceed 50GB, so HandBrake compression or extra storage may be useful. Plex can then make the files available across devices on a home network.

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Streaming services make movies easy to start and surprisingly easy to lose when licenses change. PCMag’s updated guide lays out a way to turn discs a viewer already owns into files that can be played from a computer or served around the home through Plex.

The basic workflow starts with a Blu-ray-capable optical drive and MakeMKV, a Windows, macOS and Linux application that copies a disc into the MKV video format. Standard Blu-rays are the simpler case. Many 4K UHD discs require a compatible drive, and some drives need custom firmware or updated decryption data before MakeMKV can read them.

Storage is the practical constraint

After scanning a disc, MakeMKV lists the movie, extras and other titles. The user chooses the main feature, audio tracks and subtitles, then saves the resulting file. PCMag cautions that some discs may fail because of newer copy protection, damage or drive compatibility.

The files are large: a typical Blu-ray movie is roughly 15GB to 30GB, while a 4K UHD rip can be 50GB or more. HandBrake can compress the result at the cost of some image quality. Once the files are organized, a media server such as Plex can provide a Netflix-like interface on televisions, phones and other devices connected to the library.

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@PCMagGoing all-in on streaming makes it hard to ever really own your favorite media. If you have a sizable physical media collection, make it easy to access your favorites by digitizing your discs. https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/take-back-your-movie-collection-how-to-rip-bluray-discs-to-your-pc?taid=6ab62a093a03d10001618119&utm_campaign=trueAnthem%3A+Trending+Content&utm_medium=trueAnthem&utm_source=twitter

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