If you want more flexibility from your DVD video collection, such as the ability to watch them on a Sony PSP, Apple iPod or iPhone, Microsoft Zune, Creative Zen or some other device, you need DVD ripping software. If you want to be able to store your favorite movies on your computer's hard drive, you too need software capable of ripping video.

With this form of software, you will be ale to rip and convert your DVD discs to a format that is compatible with some of the most popular portable multimedia players available, such as the previously mentioned iPod,Zune,PSP and others.

Whatever your portable multimedia device is, you will see that it will likely read MP4 (or sometimes WMV) videos only. Now, when getting a DVD ripping program, the question on what to look for will be one of the first questions that you will likely ask.

The specification is a very important factor when comparing programs to one and other. Try to consider the ripping speed. You want a program that will be able to rip your DVD videos to the right format as fast as possible. Besides, you would not want to wait a whole day just to rip one movie, would you?

The speed the software can rip video at is a key consideration.

Next you should try to look for a program that will be able to rip DVDs in batch and in full mode. A batch mode allows you to rip just certain chapters of the DVD. Or, if you are ripping a DVD that contains TV series, you will be able to tip only the episodes you want to rip. You might also only want to rip the DVD audio and not the video.

The next important consideration is the user friendliness of the ripper. If it is too complicated to operate, then you might want to pass up on the software. Look for a DVD ripper program that is easy to use.

The last thing to think about is the customer support provided and whether or not a free trial download is provided. In the best case scenario, you will be able to try out the program before you buy and you will be able to get email support if you need it.

Keep these tips in mind while shopping to find the best DVD ripping software for your needs.