Guide to Rip DVDs with VLC: Simple Steps and Key Considerations

Have you ever wanted to transfer that cherished family movie or a personal collection of DVDs to your computer without worrying too much about the technical aspects? Do you want a free and straightforward solution for ripping DVDs? This guide will show you how to rip DVDs using VLC Media Player, addressing both standard and copy-protected discs. We will also highlight Cisdem Video Converter as an excellent alternative for dealing with more complex DVD copy protections.

Steps to Rip a DVD with VLC

Step 1: Install VLC Media Player

First, make sure you have VLC Media Player installed on your computer. If you haven't downloaded it yet, visit the VLC official website and follow the instructions to install the software. Once installed, VLC will be ready to help you rip your DVDs in no time.

Step 2: Insert the DVD

Simply insert the DVD you want to rip into your DVD drive. VLC doesn't require any additional setup for playback, and this step ensures the movie or content on the DVD is ready for ripping.

Step 3: Open VLC and Choose Conversion Options

Once VLC is open, navigate to Media Convert / Save. In the new window, switch to the Disc tab and select DVD as the disc type. Your DVD drive should appear there automatically; if it doesn't, select it manually. This step prepares VLC for the ripping process.

Step 4: Set Output Options

Next, click Convert / Save and choose a profile for your output format, such as MP4 or MKV. Then, click Browse to specify the location where you want to save the ripped DVD file.

Step 5: Start Ripping

After setting the output options, click Start. The ripping process will begin, and VLC will save the file for you. Keep in mind that ripping can take some time depending on your computer's speed and the length of the content being ripped.

Ripping Copy-Protected DVDs

When it comes to owning commercial DVDs, you may encounter copy protection measures that prevent simple tools like VLC from ripping the discs properly. DVDs might use advanced DRM (Digital Rights Management) systems such as CSS region codes, Disney X-Project DRM, or Sony ARccOS, which are designed to prevent unauthorized copying.

Alternative Ripping Tool: Cisdem Video Converter

For these types of DVDs, consider using Cisdem Video Converter, a specialized software designed to handle different protection methods.

How to Use Cisdem Video Converter

Visit the Cisdem website and download the software for free.

Open the program and click on Rip DVD.

Insert the copy-protected DVD into your DVD drive.

Add the DVD to Cisdem Video Converter by dragging the DVD or the VIDEO_TS folder into the program, or using the Add DVD button.

Select the titles you want to rip and the preferred subtitle and audio tracks.

Pick your output format, such as MP4 or MKV.

Click the Convert button to start the ripping process. The software will handle the decryption and save the file in the format you selected.

My Recommendation

If you're looking for a straightforward and free solution for ripping standard DVDs, VLC is your go-to choice. However, for commercial DVDs with copy protection, Cisdem Video Converter is the recommended tool. It is built to deal with different protection methods and provides a higher success rate when ripping with commercial DVDs.