Best VHS to DVD Converter Machine – It’s the holiday season – a time for sharing good tidings, warm wishes and old home videos. Whether you want to preserve your parents’ wedding day or show off your children growing up, keep those precious moments from fading into dust by converting VHS to DVD using one of these tools. After all, there are lots of reasons why this needs to get done right now in preparation for Christmas – whether it’s to be able to enjoy them on streaming platforms like Netflix or update your family photo archive with something new.
These products often come with editing software to refine the quality of your videos. How do you convert your film and VHS tapes to digital.
If you want to keep your old videos and home movies from getting older and dustier, we recommend that you convert them into digital computer files using one of these VHS to DVD converters. Even if you answered ‘no’ to any of the questions below about memory transfer solutions, let me give you a few hints as to why this might be something worth thinking about.
One reason for example is that some VCR tapes don’t actually play nicely with newer TV models anymore so those videos will become pretty much unviewable – though we still think it’s a better idea than just letting them collecting dust in the attic.
Best VHS to DVD Converter Machine: Round UP
Some people still have their videotapes, but not everyone knows how to save them. You might be asking yourself right now what the best way to avoid losing your irreplaceable videos is. Do you know that there are electronic devices called VHS to DVD converters which will convert your old tapes into digital files stored on a hard drive? These converters can transfer your VHS tapes onto DVDs and they store audio files in SD memory cards too! Here is a list of the best products in this category!
< class="item-title">1. Funai Combination Recorder
With the Funai Combination Recorder, you have the option to simply watch and enjoy your old VHS tapes, or you can burn the footage onto a DVD to provide better longevity for your media. This is a very basic, yet reliable, system.
Features
- Dolby Digital Steam Output
- Progressive scan Video Output
- S Video Out
- Line In Recording on VHS from Cable/Satellite Box
One may not have a VCR and is thus forced to find alternatives to convert files. If you’re in this predicament, purchasing and using a recorder and VCR combo is the way to go. Having your own VCR will make it easier for you to convert your file on your own time and without further interruptions unlike when using other methods like simply just recording straight onto your computer or transferring files from one device to another.
And converting straight onto a computer would require you to use software that may be complicated or might not even work with older model VHS tapes which could lead you back into trying another option or having the hassle of going out and finding an actual VCR! And since these units come complete with both DVD player outputs along with standard AV outputs, most recordings can be played in almost every home entertainment system – all between one convenient little package that’s easy peasy!
When compared to recording audio using a compact cassette, this DVD recorder is far more superior. The best thing that I like about it is its remote feature. Instead of delaying the recording process, it allows you to start and stop recording at will with the help of your remote. This might seem minor but delays can cost me hours at a time when viewing my favorite programs in real time.
For those looking for an all in one solution, then you’re going to have to consider a VCR and DVD recorder combo. This isn’t your normal converter that can be found on this list – but it does carry with it many different functions including the ability to transfer all of your favorite personal VHS movies onto DVD.
Cleaning up all of your old videotapes and starting a fresh DVD library is an attractive possibility. This machine will allow you to simply press a button and dub from VHS to DVD or in reverse from DVD to VHS. It’s also quite compatible with both DVD-R and DVD-RW disc format.
The Vidbox Video Conversion Suite comes with all the software and hardware you need to put those old family videos stored on VHS tapes onto a modern digital format. Just hook your videos up to a USB-compatible TV or display, run the software, and your family memories will be saved onto a format that can travel anywhere!
Vidbox’s VidboxOne is a device that converts analog video and audio signals into MPEG format, allowing users to compress the footage and burn it for easy storage or upload.
Features
- NOTE: The VIDBOX Video Conversion Suite product includes two software download cards that include the Product Key license and download links for each software - one for Windows, one for Mac
- Supports both Windows PC and Mac. What's in the box: USB video capture device, USB Cable, RCA AV Cable, 2 Quick Start Guides, 2 Software Download Cards
- Capture old VHS, Beta, 8 mm or camcorder tapes and convert them to DVD or other digital formats
- Great for novice users: Step-by-step pictorial instructions guide you through the process. Capture old VHS, Beta, 8 mm or camcorder tapes and convert them to DVD or other digital formats
- Mac system requirements: Compatible Video Players: VCR (VHS, Betamax, S-VHS), camcorder (8mm, DV, mini DV, HDV, AVCHD), TV, DVD player, game console and more. PC System Requirements: Other VCR or camcorder for video conversion, DVD Writer for DVD burning, Other player-specific cables as needed
Using this VHS to DVD converter is easy. First, you need to insert your VHS tape into the media player. From there, plug your RCA cables or S-video cables (depending on what your device supports), and then switch on the power button. Most people also suggest connecting this device to a display like a TV to make it easier for you to navigate around and play back all your old VHS tapes properly.
It’s specially designed for those who are closed to convert their VCR tapes and DVDs to the modern day digital format. It lets you convert your files easily like a breeze, giving you HD quality videos on your Windows or Mac computer and even in DVDs at last. The converted box is about 3 1/2″ x 2 1/2″ x 7/8″ and weighs just about 2 oz.
Vidbox offers a conversion service that increases the quality of your videos and makes them compatible for viewing on your iPhone or iPod. Vidbox’s easy-to-use software provides a smooth, seamless transition from tape to digital media. You can quickly enjoy all of your home movies on your computer, portable player, TV or anywhere else you wish to watch.
Older formats of video deserve a chance to be enjoyed in the present times as well. This handy converter makes it possible for you to show off your black and white videos through new mediums. The iMovie integration makes editing with just about any program that allows mov files a breeze. It also enables you to record in M4A or AC3 formats as an extra bonus! You’re now ready to go – from this screen, choose the aspect you prefer and adjust the volume levels so that you are comfortable with what is being recorded.
< class="item-title">3. Elgato Video Capture
If you own a VHS recorder, you will be happy to know that with the Elgato Video Capture, you will be able to transfer the content from your old tapes to a digital file format that can be viewed on any device from computers to iPads and even smart phones. By using this device, users of both Windows and Apple operating systems won’t need to change any settings for their computers as it’s compatible with them both. If you want an external memory for your PC or laptop so you can save photos or videos, than Seagate’s 250GB FreeAgent is what you should get!
Features
- Transfer video from a VCR or other analog video source to your Mac or PC
- Put family memories and family videos on your computer
- Easy-to-use software guides you through every step and turns your analog into digital
- Captures video in the universal H.264 digital format – ready for iPad, iMovie, Windows Live Movie Maker, and YouTube
- World-ready; handles NTSC, SECAM, PAL and PAL/60 video
- Comes with Elgato Video Capture, Composite-to-Scart adapter, Composite video/RCA stereo cable
- Video resolution: 640×480 (4:3) or 640×360 (16:9)
The Flashback that is excellent for converting your VHS excels at maintaining the quality of your tapes and preserving their original visual and vocal integrity. Best of all, it’s a small, compact device that can be transported easily or stashed away discreetly when not in use. And because it is so reliable (despite its sometimes high price tag), users have claimed that this converter has become a permanent fixture in their homes.
This will work with any device running Mac OS 10.6.8 or later and Windows 7 or later, so it’s compatible with computers – any computer really – as well as Mac devices like iPads or smartphones that can run iOS 7 or later. If you have a product such as the Elgato Video Capture that meets all system requirements, then there is no reason for you not to buy it.
The program that comes with the Elgato Video Capture is awesome. It’s very easy to use and once you’re recorded your material, you’ll have the option to edit it as well! However, if you want full control over your finished product, we recommend investing in video editing software which will have everything in one place from cropping to time stamping and other handy functions that could come in handy when it comes to tweaking a show or movie for the big screen (for personal use only!).
Elgato Video Capture does not support burning DVDs, which means it will not record Pause Live TV from your Playstation 4 or any other live programming that appears on your television. While Elgato also lacks a few more advanced options for video editing, there are many consumer-to-prosumer level video editors that provide you with more flexibility than the Elgato Video Capture.
We tested the Elgato Video Capture by transferring an old VHS tape into a digital format. Unfortunately, we were not able to burn a DVD with this device because it does not feature that ability as a built-in feature. Rather, we had to use a separate application before we could generate our DVD from the converted footage. When our experts examined the disc afterwards,
they found some distortion issues in regards to pixelation and minor audio/video distortion overall; but didn’t notice these kinds of problems when viewing on smaller screens such as laptops or phones because the glitches would be overshadowed by those devices’ lower resolution capabilities. However, if you’re using a large high-definition screen for playback, you should expect some of these errors to appear on your monitor despite their relative insignificance when compared against normal high-quality footage.
Elgato Video Capture is a good tool for digitizing your old VHS tapes. Although it lacks the ability to burn DVDs, it provides quality video conversion when converting videos from VHS tapes to DVD. Additionally, there are not many other similar options for this kind of device on the market.
ClearClick, who are specialists in the field of converting home videos to digital files without any generation loss, have taken their VHS television recorder and updated it for the 21st century! Now you can convert your old home movies from all types of camcorders and VCR’s into MP4 digital format.
Features
- Convert Your Old Video Tapes or Camcorder Tapes to Digital Format With The Touch of a Button (Recording Resolution: SD 720x480 Pixels. Not Intended For Modern HD Video Sources.)
- Record and Digitalize Video From VHS, VCR's, DVD Players, DVR's, Camcorders, Hi8, & Retro Gaming Systems (Note: a Working VCR/Camcorder is Required and Not Included. Does Not Play VHS/Camcorder Tapes. Check Condition of Your VCR/Camcorder/Tapes Before Purchasing!)
- No Computer or Software Required - Just Hook It Up & Start Recording - Records Videos Directly Onto Any USB Flash Drive or SD Card (Not Included)
- What's New In The Video2Digital(R) Version 2.0 (Second Generation): Extra-Large 3.5" Preview Screen, Better Recording Quality, Improved Audio/Video Sync Protection, Auto Stop Feature (60, 90, 120, 150 Minutes), Mobile-Friendly MP4 Recording Format, & Pause/Resume While Recording
- Includes 1-Year Warranty & Tech Support from ClearClick, a USA-Based Small Business
By using the ClearClick converter, you are able to watch a video while another one is being converted! Not only can you connect it to a VCR player and USB drive or SD card but with ease, you can also connect it via HDMI as well. Furthermore, with clear customer support service, any problem that may occur will be promptly taken care of.
Click RECORD again to end the conversion process or press AUTOSTOP if you’d like. The resultant picture quality of these videos is always good, so it’s a product you can invest in with confidence. It comes with an adapter that fits right into a power outlet. Please note that this will not work without being plugged in! And if you’re looking for a device that has built-in memory and doesn’t require the dedicated purchase of storage cards, then we have just what you have been searching for – our Video2Digital 2.0 series offers its own SD card storage! It’s compatible with all digital devices including portable devices like mobile phones and tablets!
If you’re trying to find the best way to go about converting your older VHS videos, you should consider trying out EAS’s affordable product. Though it’s a surprisingly low price for an industry leader, this converter is capable of flipping video formats and capturing in top quality at any time.
Features
- Capture video from analog sources and preserve it by converting to digital formats to burn to disc
- Transfer your footage from your VCR and analog camcorders including Hi8 and video8 in just a few clicks
- Create your own movies by importing into iMovie to edit your video and add effects, titles, and transitions
- Save your video to popular digital formats to easily share online or upload directly to YouTube
- Burn to disc with custom chapters and menus using Roxio MyDVD
- Required: Mac computer with Intel processor
This device can record and play back digitised PAL and NTSC footage. It comes with an RCA cable so you can connect it to the SCART port of a TV or computer monitor. The recording format is WMV, which only plays back on computers due to their wide popularity among users.
You’ll need additional software to burn the files onto DVDs where they could be played by almost any player – even TVs if you have the right cables for them, but this isn’t included. Additionally, Windows Media Player 10 or higher is required for viewing recorded videos in case you prefer this method of playing back your video footage on a regular computer without your device connected via SCART.
Are you looking for an option that comes with more features than just burning it to a DVD? If this is the case, take a look at Roxio Easy VHS to DVD which consists of a digital capture device (a small slim black unit resembling a USB flash drive) and the Roxio Adaptor which features an S-video port with audio, Composite connectors to attach to your VCR, an HDMI connector, two composite connectors and two RCA connectors.
We found the Roxio Easy VHS to DVD kit extremely easy to use. I mean, honestly, how can you not? Once you’ve installed the software on your computer and plugged in the Roxio Capture device using a USB port, it couldn’t be easier to connect it into either your audio or video ports and prepare for recording.
Unfortunately we found that the cable that comes with this Roxio Easy VHS to DVD kit – which allows you to connect your laptop to your VCR – is just too short! At just 5in long, it’s close to being a non-starter. The issue this creates is that you need both your laptop and VCR placed as close together as possible so they can both fit onto the same platform while you are recording or burning content. Something we thought would be much more difficult when using a desktop PC instead of a laptop.
Roxio Easy VHS to DVD is a full-featured software engineered specifically with the customer in mind. It’s easy to use, very convenient and available in many forms for your convenience. It basically allows you to digitize content from any analog format such as tape, cassette or Mini DV and burn that content straight onto a disc of your choosing – DVD or CD format.
Best VHS to DVD Converter Machine – Buying Guide
This is your chance to make all of those home videos that are no doubt piling up over the years into an irreplaceable digital library. Some devices, however, won’t allow you to burn video files to a new disc but will rather allow you to store them onto a hard drive through USB cable or flash.
1. VHS player
For converting a VHS tape to a DVD, one will first have to play the video on a working player. If you do not have such a hardware device in your possession, you may either borrow or buy one. In order to make sure that your hardware is compatible with the converter of choice, it is wise to check beforehand whether the converter supports your hardware or not.
2. Picture Quality
Sadly, a VHS to DVD converter cannot improve the poor quality of the original VHS video tape. However, one should make sure that the converter they choose is capable of converting both the audio and video to a DVD without degrading either.
3. Audio quality
The audio will be just as good — only the original quality cannot be better than that, as it was captured in High Definition. Know that there are no other web cameras but webcams providing a better sound and picture quality.
4. VCR cables
If you’re looking to switch your RCA or S-Video input on your VCR up to something a little more modern, you’ll want to first understand what type of cable you’ll need in order to make that happen. First and foremost, newer VCRs are produced with both RCA and S-Video capabilities. If you currently have a VCR which is either of these then the right connection should be present in order for it to be compatible with the advances of new video recording technology. By ensuring that whatever kind of converter you decide on has the right connector, there shouldn’t be any issue making sure everything gets recorded on time!
5. Software
While using a VHS to DVD converter, you not only need a converter box or cable but also software. Nowadays, you can find converters that come with the necessary software. The most distinct feature of this type of converter is that it’s simple to operate and has basic features such as converting files in order to digitally store them on DVD. However, if you prefer more advanced features such as editing and special effects, then you will have to do some research which could lead you to specific software designed for this purpose. For example, avi files not only convert but also stream the video directly so you can then edit it the way you want or burn your new movie onto a DVD.
6. File format
Converting old VHS tapes to DVD is a great way to preserve your memories but the simplest approach doesn’t always give the best results. Indeed if you find a converter that claims to convert your videos in one go without any need for further processing then be sure to check other reviews first and make doubly sure it actually supports the conversion of your old tapes.
7. Price
Price is the first thing we check in a product before its features. It’s because viewers aren’t concerned about all of the fancy bells and whistles that might enhance performance. Most viewers want the best picture at a superior price, but they know that it’s possible to get good-quality pictures without paying top dollar. Sometimes inexpensive VHS-to-DVD converters are ideal for shoppers’ budgets, and searching out these lower prices can save them big bucks in the long run.
How to Convert VHS to DVD Format
Below, we’ll show you how to digitally preserve your footage. Your video can be preserved through genres such as music, comedy, racing, and documentaries. If you’re too busy with other things to focus on this task yourself, we’ve found companies that offer VHS-to-DVD service at a variety of prices. We hope you find the perfect company to capture that 20-year-old footage so it can live on forever!
There is quite a variety of formats available when it comes to transferring VHS tapes to DVD, but most services offer two-hour transfers per disc. However, popular site Studio Movie Grills allows users up to four movies per DVD for no added charge. Alternatively, if you’re only preparing one or two movies for the first time, you can save some cash by shipping your tapes directly in an envelope via a service such as Amazon’s CreateSpace .
If you are in the market for a DVD recorder, look for one that can transfer VHS media. When shopping around, it’s best to consider one that features multiple inputs and outputs as this will allow you to use your DVD recorder in all of your home entertainment devices. For example, with an additional VCR or camcorder hooked up on any given input, you can begin transferring your movie tapes onto DVD.
The same goes for transfers from separate game consoles like the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. Most DVD recorders also have an output so that you can watch your DVDs on other video game players like the XBox One and PlayStation 4 when connected directly through your TV’s HDMI port.
To transfer VHS content to DVD you will need a digital video recorder. Next, put your recording of choice into both the VCR and the DVR. Once the devices are ready for play back (the VCR is playing) you can press record but make sure that you have an end time and date set for when you actually want to stop recording otherwise you may end up transferring several hours of footage. You will also want to be sure to include the taken-off ground which helps eliminate the need for editing.
This can be done within most video editing software or by adjusting settings on your DVR’s device during playback while uploading it later on with other recorded video onto video hosting sites like YouTube or Dailymotion (where users frequently post videos after they’ve already been edited, however traditional videos are also allowed according to site guidelines).
Using a DVD Recorder/VHS VCR Combo Unit
The second option available to you is one of the best ways to ensure that all your content fairs well. If you opt for a VCR and DVD recorder combo unit, you’ll enjoy an incredibly easy way of transferring the video files or any video content from your original source material (VHS or analog tape) onto a digital media disc.
It’s not only more convenient but it also ensures that the original quality is maintained without being compromised as it was with option 1. VCR/DVD combos outclass older options when it comes down to offering you a superior storage scenario for digital backups. In other words, digital data has more longevity than analogue methods even if exposed to similar amounts of wear and tear over time.
Basically, the majority of combo units that include both inputs and outputs are known to have one feature in common: cross dubbing. This type of dubbing is accomplished when you copy the content from your VHS’s to DVD’s for instance. It’s simply a matter of pressing the dub function.
Connecting a VCR to a PC via a Video Capture Device
This third approach is gaining popularity, primarily because of its practicability. However, it has a few drawbacks.
The process requires you to connect your VCR to your PC using an analog-to-digital video capture gadget. Once you’ve done this, record the content of the tapes on your PC’s hard drive and then transfer or write itto a DVD by using the PC’s DVD writer.
These gadgets will almost always come with everything you need including analog video/audio inputs and USB outputs. The one you’ll use for your VCR is the analog video/audio input since that’s what it goes with and the one you’d use to connect a PC (if there is one included) or other kinds of computers would be a USB port.
Some of these devices have software applications which – besides helping to transfer videos from VHS tapes – also happen to be handy when it comes to improving videos. For example, if such an application has editing software available on board, this will allow you not just to copy media from a VHS tape but also improve what you’re copying by means of adding subtitles, titles, chapters as well as adjusting brightness, adding more color and so on.
But this process is not without a few setbacks. For one, you have to determine the amount of RAM available on your computer. You should also determine how fast the processor and hard disk are.
Often, when converting VHS tapes to digital format, the files sizes are big. Thus, the tapes can take up a considerable amount of space on your hard drive. On another note, if the processing unit is slow, the transfer might stop mid-way or you may end up losing some parts of the video.
The good news is that there are lots of solutions to each of those problems. First just make sure you have enough hard drive space and speed. Some devices that can transfer your videos from VHS to DVD include: Roxio Easy VHS to DVD 3 Plus and Honestech VHS to DVD 8.0 Deluxe .
Questions and Answers
Q1. Why should I buy a VHS to DVD converter?
A1.The introduction of DVDs made our job a lot easier when it came to storing and watching our beloved home videos. However, they had one major flaw that i.e. they only last as long as a VHS tape. Just like VHS tapes, DVDs are just as susceptible to getting damaged too, especially during improper storage situations for example if you leave them in the hot sun for a long time or you leave them unsealed and open with water damage – then even Shrek would try to keep away from getting wet like that!
Q2. Is a VCR and recorder combo a good option?
A2.Converters are products that can be used to copy video cassettes into digital formats like hard disk, flash drive and DVDs. These converters range from super basic ones all the way up to sophisticated systems like, for example, a VCR and recorder combo. Anyhow if you have already invested in a VCR plus recorder combo, it is not necessary to buy another converter separately to transfer your tapes as there are many accessories available on the market today which work out of the box with specific brands like Sony or Matsushita.
Q3. Can a VHS to DVD converter improve the quality of the video?
A3.As mentioned in our buying guide, there are some televisions that claim to be able to decode a VHS tape with the assistance of a converter. The converter, however, cannot make the quality better than it already was prior to being recorded. The best converters can do is provide the same quality as originally seen in the recording.
Wrap UP
Happily we recommend comparing the performance and price of different converters which provide similar features to help find a product that works well for your needs without emptying your bank account. It is true that VHS tapes are losing their popularity as the technology for digital devices is getting more advanced. However, those who have a lot of VHS tapes are still holding on to them. Maybe you have a lot of movies on VHS. Maybe you have a lot of videos on VHS. But, you want to convert all of them to DVD for a number of reasons.
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