Even though the VCR may have died, that doesn’t stop us from trying new ways to save our favourite programs.
There are more ways to record television than ever before.
Our guide will help make informed decisions, navigate the maze and identify the device that best suits your needs.
Personal video recorders, or PVRs, explained
PVRs are simple devices that allow you to record from Freeview channels onto an internal hard drive. Here’s the quick summary of everything you need.
PVRs let you record multiple programs at once, sometimes up to seven in some cases. While watching something else, it also records other programs.
They all can record Full HD TV.
The programme guides can be accessed electronically, so you can select what to record and view.
They come with a built-in hard disk, typically 500GB to 250GB (2,000GB).
A 500GB harddrive can store about 125 hours HD footage or 250 hours SD content.
Some allow you to connect to the internet, giving access to catch up and streaming apps like Netflix or iPlayer.
DVD recorders
A DVD recorder is also called a DVDr and records TV programmes onto a DVD disc. A DVD can only store one to four hours’ worth of footage. The best choice is to get a DVD with an integrated hard disk if you intend on using it as your primary TV-recording tool.
While they were popular for a while these models have experienced a decline in popularity over the past ten to fifteen years. The popularity of PVRs, on-demand content, and other devices will make it difficult to find new models to purchase. We also don’t test these models.
Pros:
You can also record TV programmes to store them for long-term use
You can share recordings between family and friends
Cons:
Recording more than one programme at a single time is not possible
HDTV cannot be recorded by most DVD players.
PVRs are typically more difficult to use.
Can only record Freeview channels
Only a few are still around today.
PVR/DVD Recorder Combo
The PVR/DVD recorder combos combine the hard-disk storage capacity of both a PVR (typically 250hrs or 125 HD) and the option to transfer your favourite recordings onto a DVD. Although they offer the best of both options, these are very rare.
Pros:
Large internal TV hard drives
Can you archive to DVD
Cons:
Can record only one program at once
Use of a standalone PVR is less straightforward
Few on the marketplace
They are usually more difficult than a good standalone PVR. If both a DVD recorder and a PVR are needed, we recommend purchasing two separate devices.
How to transform your TV into an MPVR
Sometimes you don’t even need a TV with a PVR. Many modern smart TVs already have this function. It will require a USB drive or memory stick that you can plug into the TV’s USB ports.
You can only record broadcasts that are received local by the TV’s built-in Freeview/Freesat. It won’t be capable of recording anything from an external device, such as an Amazon Fire TV Stick or Sky settop box.
The TV’s number of tuners will also restrict your ability to record. The TV will only allow you to record the show you’re currently watching. One means that you can simultaneously record and watch another show. However, you don’t have to use a particular size hard drive as you do with standalone PVRs. These drives are cheaper and you can attach any size you need.
