An inkjet printable DVD is a DVD made with an inkjet ink permeable coating on the upper, non-recording surface of the DVD. This allows compatible CD/DVD inkjet printers to print directly onto the disc. During the early and mid 2000s many consumer inkjet printers offered CD/DVD printing.[1] Inkjet printable DVD media offer a way to customize DVD-Rs.[2] When inserted into a suitable inkjet printer, it is capable of reproducing appropriate inkjet printer page output, including text and pictures. Along with inkjet, there are also alternative methods that are similar, but use different methods or materials, such as thermal transfer. With the printing being done by a machine, the positioning of the label is automatic.
As the inkjet DVD surface is part of the media, drive damage is less likely, regardless of storage conditions. Additionally, the labels can also be damaged by other conditions, such as humidity and damp objects. Inkjet DVD media are safer in slot-loaded optical drives.