Storing DVDs to computer's HDD for viewing

[l0whit07]

OK so I have a pretty good size DVD/BD collection. I would love to have a good amount of the movies ripped to my HDD so I can watch them from the HDD. I've ripped DVDs before for backup purposes but I don't believe those were ever in a file format that allowed me to watch the file from the HDD.

I'm pretty sure I just need some software but I can't seem to find a good program. I thought you could do it with Divx but I couldn't get it last night. I would like to also have the files compressed to about 1gb per movie.

Obviously freeware would be best, but if I have to pay a little bit that isn't a problem either. I just want good reliable software as I have a lot of DVDs I want put on my comp.

I make sure to try and buy movies now when a Digital copy is available with the disc, which thankfully most Blu Rays include. But for all the movies I already own, that isn't really an option.

Anyone that can provide any insight would be much appreciated! Thanks!

[GSZX1337]

HandBrake

[s1mplehumar]

iwisosoft is also a good alternative

http://www.easy-video-converter.com/download.html

[Krooner]

if you right click the video_TS folder you can make VLC media player play it as if it were a disc in the drive.

[Niode]

Make an ISO image of the DVD and then open the ISO with VLC. Easy peasy.

If you want to be a bit more conservative with space then use Handbrake on h.264 codec and set the size to something like 1.2GB.

[cober]

thanks for information