In reality, the concept is pretty simple, the pricing can't be beat and the quality can, in fact, vary, but good services ensure DVD downloads are high in quality on their end. This means, the only quality concern is on the receiver's side. Let's look at two factors that can impact the quality of DVD downloads:

* The site they're purchased or rented from. This can have a huge impact on the end product. If the files are clean and the software solid, there generally isn't any reason to have concern about the movies you purchase via download. They should be delivered electronically in the same style and file type format as an actual purchased DVD disk.

The companies that offer DVD downloads range from the big names in the computer and movie industry and smaller clearing house names to peer-to-peer locations. The only caution is to make sure the site you buy from has licensing rights to actually sell, and chances are the purchase will be solid.

* The equipment on the buyer's end. If you try to download a DVD to a computer that's old, outdated and on a bad Internet connection, for example, the resulting file might be compromised. If, however, your machine is newer and designed to handle and play DVDs, you should be in good shape.

Once you purchase a DVD download or even rent one, there are some things you can do on your end to ensure a quality viewing:

* If you intend to play it on your computer, make sure background programs have been closed and even consider turning off your connection to the Internet to lessen interference with the files. DVD downloads are large files, and they are by nature, very graphics heavy. With this in mind, it's important to make sure the computer's energy is dedicated to playing the movie, rather than surfing the Net.

* Make sure if you're running the DVD on the computer, but want the images to appear on your larger television screen, be certain you've made the connections correctly, using high quality video cables. Lesser cables can really impact the viewing quality.

* If you've decided to make a burn of the movie and play it in a DVD player, be certain the burn was A.) legal, B.) doesn't include copyright protection files that will hamper play and/or quality and C.) is a solid copy.

DVD downloads are generally worth the price. Whether they're purchased in a package deal that includes tons of downloads or by the single movie, if they're done right, they're quicker to obtain, easier to store and offer the same kind of quality as a regular disk.

Plus, they tend to be a whole lot cheaper, too, which is always a good thing for a consumer. Just make sure your set up is right and the files coming in are decent copies and it will be easy for you to see why this trend is going so strong.