This disclosure describes thin optical media that may be compliant with conventional DVD drives. Unlike conventional DVDs, however, the described media does not include the non-information bearing “dummy” substrate. Instead, the described media may comprise a single substrate having a thickness of approximately 0.6 millimeters. Depending on the format, reflective layers, information layers, dyes, phase change materials, or other materials may be deposited over the replicated side of the substrates. Furthermore, in accordance with this disclosure, a hard coat layer is also formed over the replicated side of the media in order to provide mechanical integrity to the media. Printable layers, printed layers, lacquer, or other materials may also be added. The elimination of the non-information bearing “dummy” substrate can reduce raw materials, thereby reducing costs and providing a more environmentally friendly optical disk. The hard coat can provide the mechanical protection to the replicated side of the 0.6 millimeter substrate.