Physical media enthusiasts like us love the tactile experience of holding a CD, cassette tape, or vinyl record in our hands. Compared to digital streaming, physical media is often considered more durable. However, their lifespan depends on various factors.
CDs are relatively long-lived, with some lasting over 100 years if stored properly. A factory-pressed disc can outlast the average human lifespan. But, real-world conditions and user handling play a significant role in determining their durability.
The main weakness of optical discs is scratches, which can prevent the laser from reading data. Disc rot occurs when the metal layer oxidizes, rendering it unreadable. While high heat and humidity are the primary killers of physical media, proper storage and regular checks can extend their lifespan.
To ensure your collection remains playable, check your CDs and DVDs regularly for signs of oxidation or discoloration. Making backups with hard drive storage is convenient and cost-effective. Investing in an external drive will let you create backups without losing quality.
Source: https://www.howtogeek.com/your-cd-and-dvd-collection-is-slowly-destroying-itself