In the name DVD-R DL, DL stands for Dual Layer or Double layer in DVD+R DL. Dual layer DVD or Double layer DVD has two recordable dye layers, and each layer can hold 4.7 GB of data. This means it can store almost double the data stored by single layer disc, taking the total storage capacity to 8.55 GB. Though, a dual layer DVD costs more than a single layer DVD, recording speeds of dual layer media is much lesser than single layer recording media. The dual layer discs have another layer on the disc itself. This second layer is accessed by the drive by shining the laser through the semi transparent first layer. Dual layer DVD media is single sided dual layer and is also referred to as DVD-R9 or 8.5 GB media.
DVD-R DL by Taiyo Yuden is considered to be one of the best in the market. They manufacture non rewriteable or write once recording media using organic dye. Taiyo Yuden DVD-R DL media has 8.5 GB of storage space, on single side. This allows for 240 minutes video in standard mode. Taiyo Yuden media is highly compatible with majority of DVD players. It offers 2-8 x recording speed in DVD media.