A Guide to Understand VHS to DVD Conversion

While VCRs are still available, you won't find too many in working condition now. Therefore, it is best to store your old tapes in a format that is easily accessible. That is why VHS to DVD conversion has become very popular in recent times.

When you convert VHS to DVD, you can choose the format you want to keep your videos in, which is very convenient. You can watch the files on an actual DVD or as a video file on your computer or your mobile. If you too want to convert your VHS tapes to DVD, keep reading this guide.

1. How to Transfer VHS to DVD

There are two ways to convert VHS to DVD; which one you use depends on whether you already have a way to play your VHS or not. You can convert or transfer VHS to DVD in the following ways.

• Use a DVD Recorder and VCR Unit
• Connect the VCR to a personal computer using a video capture device.

Take a look at the following sections to understand how to transfer VHS to DVD when using a converter.

1.1 DVD Recorder and VCR

A DVD and VCR combo unit consists of two separate units to run both types of media (VHS tapes and DVDs). If you are new to VHS to DVD conversions, it is best to use this kind of device because you do not need to connect any extra cables or run the software.

Such devices also come with cross-dubbing features. This means that while you can convert a VHS tape to DVD, you can also do the opposite by pressing the "Dub" button.

If your DVD and VCR combo unit do not have the dubbing option, you can still copy the VHS tape. To do this, you will have to follow the steps given in the next section and select the recording function on the DVD and then press "Play" in the VCR.

1.2 VCR to PC Recording Through Video Capture Unit

Apart from using a DVD recorder/VHS VCR combo unit, you can transfer VHS to DVD by connecting the VCR directly to your PC. To do this, you will have to use a video capture unit which is an analog-to-digital converter system.

Beware: this process may be a little time-consuming.

You will first have to record the VHS tapes on your computer's hard drive. Once you have done this, you can transfer it to an empty DVD. You can also use the PC's DVD writer or third-party DVD writer programs for this purpose.

The video capture device usually includes analog video/audio inputs and a USB output. You can use the input to connect it to the VCR and the output to the DVD.

The device may come with integrated software to make it easier to transfer VHS tapes to DVD. With some devices, you also get additional features like video editing, extraction of subtitles, brightness adjustment, and incorporation of chapters.

2. Steps to Use a VHS to DVD Converter

In either case, you can purchase the VHS to DVD converter device and make the necessary recordings. The steps involved in installing and using converters are pretty much the same for all devices:

• Step 1: Connect the composite video output to the corresponding input on your DVD.
• Step 2: Connect the RCA Analog Stereo of the VCR to the DVD.
• Step 3: Choose the video inputs (if more than one is available) to start the transfer and conversion.
• Step 4: If you want to copy a VHS tape, select the input or set it on the DVD recorder.
• Step 5: Put a DVD that is functional in the recorder.
• Step 6: Launch the function for DVD recording and press "Play" on the VCR.

3. How to Choose the Best VHS to DVD Converter

If you are buying a VHS to DVD converter for the first time, you need to first know how many tapes you are going to convert.

Some converters are available with very basic features, and they may not be ideal if you are an advanced or professional user. Therefore, check all aspects of the converter before you buy.

Here's a guide to choosing the best VHS to DVD converter.

• Find a VCR Compatible with VHS to DVD Converter

To convert the VHS tapes to DVDs, you will need to play them on a VCR. Since VCRs are not easy to find nowadays, finding one in working conditions may be challenging.

You can either buy a new one or ask your friends or family members if they have an old one. You can also look for refurbished VCRs.

Once you find a reliable VCR, check if it is compatible with a standard VHS to DVD converter. Usually, converters are suitable for all VCRs, but it is always good to be sure.

• Ensure That the Picture and Audio Quality Will be Good

The picture and audio quality can deteriorate when you convert VHS tapes to DVD using a converter. It would be best to ensure that the converter does not compromise the quality in the process.

Some VHS to DVD converters degrades the picture quality during conversion. You might end up with worthless DVDs that have grainy and blurred pictures.

At times, converters might also distort audio quality. The audio may lag, which will affect your viewing experience.

Apart from this, if you need compressed digital files for your mobile device, you need to make sure that the quality will remain the same.

The best way to avoid all this is to look closely at user reviews and, if possible, test a few VHS to DVD converters before choosing one.

• Get VCR Compatible Cables

Once you get the VCR, check what cables you need. The VCR is likely to support both RCA and S-Video connections for VHS to DVD conversion, so you need to get cables compatible with both or either connection.

If you do not have the right cables, the device will not work, and you will not be able to convert your VHS tapes to DVD.

• Find Converters Within Budget

If you buy a converter for VHS transfer to DVD, you need to look at the price. Many converters are available, but all may not be within your budget. Typically converter cards sell from anywhere between $10 - $50.

If you are not looking for high-end features, you can opt for converters in the $15 - $30 range. However, if you want to use your VHS to DVD converter for video editing and advanced features, you will probably have to look at something in a higher bracket than this.

Before buying, check the features available and then compare the cost of all the converters. This will allow you to find the most suitable converter.

• Choose Converters with In-Built Software

To successfully convert your VHS tapes to DVD, you need proper software. Now you can use the third-party software, but it will be easier to convert the files if you get a converter with integrated software.

So look for VHS to DVD converters that have in-built conversion and playing software. However, make sure they work fast and do not lag after converting a few tapes.

Some affordable VHS to DVD converters come with only basic software and do not include editing and other features. So, if you want to use the converter for editing purposes, you will need to get software that includes such features.

• Check the Format of the Converted Digital Files

After converting VHS to DVD, the digital files will likely be in H.264 format. You will then have to convert it to MP4 or other convenient formats if you want to use the file in a variety of places.

Check if the conversion is easy and whether your device will support the new format. It is best to buy converters that support different formats to choose which will be more convenient for you, especially if you decide to store and view on a personal device like a PC or mobile phone.

• Research Carefully

If you buy a VHS to DVD converter online, please check the reviews. You can also email your queries to the brand. Research each product thoroughly to choose one that is ideal for you.

If you have a good VHS to DVD converter, you will be able to convert multiple tapes and store all those precious memories and moments as digital files on your computer or phone.

4. Best VHS to DVD Converters

If you search for a VHS to DVD converter, you will find many options available in the market. So many choices might confuse you.

That's why we decided to put up a few top picks of our own. You can choose a VHS to DVD converter from the list below; they are all reliable converters and offer good service.

Check the pros and cons, and find the best converter for you.

#1. Roxio Easy VHS to DVD: Inexpensive VHS to DVD Converter Card

If you are an amateur and want to convert VHS to DVD, the Roxio Easy VHS to DVD is a good option, and it does not involve any complex procedure.

The VHS to DVD converter comes with a digital capture device unit and a Roxio Adaptor. The adaptor has a USB connector, composite connectors, and audio and S-video connectors, and you can easily attach them to the S-Video.

Pros

• This VHS to DVD converter is very easy to use.
• The RCA cable can connect to the Roxio Adaptor's audio and video ports.
• It comes with S-Video connections.
• You can easily extract subtitles using additional software.
• It is affordable compared to other similar devices.

Cons

• It does not come with any software, and you will need to buy third-party software.
• This is an old model, and there is no updated version available.
• The length of the cable is very short and may cause problems.

#2. ClearClick Video to Digital: High-End VHS to DVD Converter Card

The ClearClick Video to Digital is a VHS to DVD converter machine that helps to convert old tapes and directly record videos. The converted files and the recorded footage are automatically stored on a USB drive or SD card.

You can store all your old VHS tapes as MP4 files and view them on your computer or mobile phone. The device also has a small display, and this is for previewing the converted or recorded content.

Pros

• The device is very easy to use as it can easily connect to a VCR.
• It comes with an SD Card and a USB drive.
• The recording and conversion process can be automated with the help of a timer and the button for "AUTOSTOP."
• This device maintains the original picture quality after converting the tapes to digital files.
• It comes with a power adaptor.
• There is no need to invest in third-party software for this VHS to DVD converter.
• The manufacturer offers a year's warranty with this device.

Cons

• It does not come with a battery and needs to be plugged in for charging.
• It is more suitable for those with some technical skills than for amateurs.

#3. Funai Combination Recorder: Best VCR and DVD Combo

The Funai Combination Recorder is a good option if you are looking for a VHS to DVD converter with standard features. You can use this to watch a few old VHS tapes or burn them onto DVDs to store and enjoy them later.

This device is ideal for those who have VHS tapes but not a VCR. Since reliable VCRs are difficult to find now, this system will work really well.

Pros

• It does not need any compatible cables or a personal computer.
• You can convert tapes and record them without additional software support.
• You can easily convert videos up to 1080p.
• The original audio quality of the files will be preserved after conversion.
• It offers a reliable VHS to DVD conversion service for an affordable rate.
• The device is compatible with DVD-RW and DVD-R formats.

Cons

• You cannot use this converter with copy-protected video content.
• The system does not come with any video editing features, and you will need additional software for those features.

To Summarize…

All of the converters mentioned above are good options, and you can buy any one of them. But if you are looking for the best VHS to DVD converter, you might find the ClearClick Video to Digital suitable.

However, you can also look for other options and follow the buying guide. So choose the most convenient VHS to DVD converter and enjoy watching the old VHS tapes with your friends and family.