M-DISC: The DVD/Blu-ray discs that claim to last 1000 years
M-DISC – DVD/Blu-ray compatible discs that may last up to 1000 years
M-DISC is a write-once optical disc technology introduced in 2009 by Millenniata, Inc., designed for archival longevity. Unlike standard discs that use organic dyes, M-DISC uses a glassy carbon data layer that is inert to oxidation and has a melting point up to 1000°C. Available in DVD and Blu-ray formats, M-DISC claims a lifespan of up to 1000 years under proper storage. The technology has been tested by the US Department of Defense and French LNE, and is listed by NIST as an acceptable archival format for 100+ years. Despite Millenniata's bankruptcy in 2016, M-DISC continues to be manufactured by Verbatim and Ritek, and is used by datahoarders and the state of Utah for cold storage.
The glassy carbon layers, in theory if preserved correctly in an environment like a salt mine, could store the data for over 10,000 years before going outside of readable specifications.
- tim--
> Verbatim Japan claims that M-DISCs now use a titanium layer to prevent moisture ingression and to provide environmental stability
From what I understand, Verbatim no longer manufactures true M-DISC media. https://www.reddit.com/r/DataHoarder/comments/1i0ky6v/what_h...
It's all just MABL now.
- msephton
I have a few of these drives. They also rip discs very accurately. Bit-identical to my Plextor, at a fraction of the price. But sadly no ripping software offers these the verification logging that is required for redump approval.
- noinsight
The drives to read them (Blu-rays) will be the problem. Pioneer stopped manufacturing them in 2024, only LG drives are available now.
Coincidentally I just bought one, they’ve doubled in price now recently.
Also bought some M-Discs to try. They’re half the price in Japan (Amazon) compared to Germany.