Although the VCR is no longer available, we are still able to save our favorite shows using new methods.
Recording TV is easier than ever.
This guide will help you to weigh your options, understand the jargon, and choose the right device for your needs.
Explaination of personal video recorders (PVRs).
PVRs allow you to record from Freeview channels onto your computer’s hard drive. Here’s a quick overview of all you need to know.
You can record multiple programs simultaneously with a PVR, in some cases up to seven, while simultaneously watching another program.
All can record Full-HD TV.
You can choose what you want to record and watch with the built-in electronic program guides.
These devices have a built in hard drive that is usually 500GB to 1TB (2,000GB).
500GB TV hard drives can store approximately 125 hours HD footage and 250 hours SD content.
You can access streaming and catch-up apps like Netflix and iPlayer by connecting to the internet.
Video recorders
A DVD recorder, also known as a DVDr, records television programmes onto a disc. A DVD disc usually holds between one and four hours of footage. A DVD disc with a built in hard drive is the best option if you intend to use it as your primary TV-recording device.
These were very popular for a while, but they have been steadily declining in number over the past ten or so years. You’ll struggle to find a new model with PVRs and the on-demand content they offer. We don’t even test them.
Pros:
For long-term storage, you can record TV programs
You can share recordings to family and friends
Cons:
One program can be recorded at a given time
HDTV is not supported by most DVD players.
These are generally more difficult than PVRs to use.
Only record Freeview channels
Today, there are very few.
Combination PVR/DVD recorder
Combinations of PVR and DVD recorder combine the hard drive storage capacity of a standard PVR (typically 250 hours or 125 HD) with the ability to transfer your favorite recordings onto DVD. This allows you to share or keep your favourite recordings for a long period of time. These are great if you want to have the best of both worlds, but they’re rare nowadays, just like DVD recorders.
Pros:
Large internal hard drive
Can you archive to DVD?
Cons:
You can usually only record one program at a given time
It is more difficult to use than a standalone PVR
There are very few of them on the market
These devices are generally more difficult to use than a standalone PVR. If you need both a PVR or a DVD recorder, we recommend purchasing two separate devices unless space is an issue.
How to convert your TV into a personal video recorder
You may not need a PVR in some cases. Most modern smart TVs come with a built-in PVR function. You will need a USB stick or hard drive to make full use of this feature. The USB port on your TV can then be plugged into the memory stick.
Recording broadcasts will only be possible if they are received locally by the TV’s Freeview or Freesat. This means that it won’t be able record anything from an external device such as a Sky set top box or Amazon Fire TV Stick.
The number of tuners on the TV will also limit your options. You can only record one show if it has one tuner. You can record one show and watch it simultaneously with two. You don’t have to stick with a specific size hard drive like you would when you purchase a standalone PVR. They can be attached to any size drive you wish, and they are much less expensive.
