The best DVD Recorder/VHS VCR combinations offer seamless media conversions while saving space.
Here are our recommendations for making the process simple and painless.
Note: Prices are subject to change.
Physical media continues to decline, so most of our recommendations are only available used or refurbished.
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TL;DR: For the best overall DVD recorder/VCR combo experience, we recommend the Sanyo FWZV475F.
Why We Recommend It
If you want a DVD recorder/VCR combo unit that’s easy to use and won’t empty your pockets, the Sanyo FWZV475F is a compelling option even in certified refurbished condition.
It’s compatible with DVD-R and DVD-RW disc formats (playable on most DVD players) and can record and play VHS tapes.
You can also dub from VHS to DVD or DVD to VHS—provided the dubbed content is not copy-protected.
The FWZV475F is compatible with DVDs, CDs, and Kodak CD Picture Discs for additional playback flexibility. Inputs include both composite and S-video (along with analog stereo audio).
In terms of video output capability, progressive scan is accommodated via the component video outputs and HDMI, and 1080p video upscaling via HDMI is possible when connected to a 1080p TV (720p upscaling is also possible for 720p TVs).
However, the FWZV475F doesn’t have a built-in tuner. You must connect a cable/satellite or DTV converter box to record TV programs.
Amazon purchasers give the Sanyo FWZV475F4.2 stars out of 5, and 66 percent of buyers give it a perfect 5-star rating.
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TL;DR: This combo device offers the most straightforward experience out of the box to get you up and running quickly.
Why We Recommend It
At a time when DVD recorder/VCR combos are getting harder to find, the Funai ZV427FX4 DVD Recorder/VCR Combo continues to be highly reliable and easy-to-use option for everyone.
It’s straightforward to use, so converting your family’s VHS home videos to DVDs won’t take a lot of effort.
Pros
HDMI output
Simple to use
HD upscaling facility
The only thing to be aware of is that it lacks a tuner, so you’ll need to connect an external tuner, such as a cable or satellite box, to the unit’s AV line inputs if you want to record TV shows to either DVD or VHS.
For simple VHS-to-DVD conversion, though, you can’t go wrong with the ZV427FX4.
It records to only DVD-R (rather than DVD+R), which means it’s compatible with playback on most DVD players, so you won’t have to worry about any issues when watching them.
The ZV427FX4 can also meet all your playback needs; it’s compatible with DVDs, CDs, Kodak CD Picture Discs, and VHS tapes.
It also offers progressive scans via the component video outputs and HDMI and 1080p video scaling via HDMI. The ZV427FX4 covers all the bases, is built to last, and is affordable for all its features.
Overall, Amazon shoppers are satisfied with the Funai ZV427FX4 and award it an average 4.2 out of 5 stars.
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TL;DR: Though it’s not the most modern unit (and availably only used), this Magnavox combo offers capable upscaling for high-resolution conversions.
Why We Recommend It
The Magnavox ZV427MG9 has genuinely useful features for all your VHS and DVD needs.
Its best feature is the ability to upscale thanks to its 1080p up-conversion functionality, so you can automatically convert your videos to a higher resolution.
There’s also two-way conversion, so you can convert DVDs and VCR tapes into both formats—something not all DVD recorder/VHS VCR combos offer.
Alongside all that is HDMI output, although it’s not quite perfect. You must purchase a separate tuner to record shows directly off your TV as they air.
Despite that drawback and its dated design, the device is relatively progressive in its offerings, easy to use, and upscaling is sure to be particularly helpful.
This product earns a global average of 4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, and 60 perrcent of reviewers give it 5 stars.
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TL;DR: This model includes a built-in tuner, wide format compatibility, and upscaling too.
Why We Recommend It
While the Panasonic DMR-EZ48VK DVD recorder/VCR combo is only available used, it can record most DVD formats and play most DVD and CD formats, including MP3 and Divx files.
Pros
Compact
Slick form factor
Full HD conversion
In addition, using the VCR section, you can record directly to VHS or dub non-copy-protected video content from VHS to DVD or DVD to VHS.
Panasonic’s enhanced four-hour recording mode allows you to record sporting events and longer movies onto DVD with the same video quality as the two-hour recording mode.
Incorporating HDMI and video upscaling makes the EZ48VK a good match for an HDTV, and the SD card slot, USB input for digital image and music file playback, and an ATSC tuner add to the flexibility of this device.
Purchasers on Amazon give the Panasonic EZ48VK 4.1 out of 5 stars.
What to Look For
For a good-quality DVD recorder/VHS VCR combination, you can expect more than just the basic facilities.
Many allow you to upscale your media, meaning you can change anything previously recorded in a lower resolution to fit modern TVs more accurately.
Besides helping you slim down your existing media library, you can migrate any media from VHS to a writable blank DVD, allowing you to access your beloved videos easily.
Here’s a brief rundown of what you should remember before buying any of these DVD recorder/VHS combos.
Getting hold of a new DVD Recorder/VHS combo is becoming increasingly trickier, so you’ll often need to buy a refurbished or second-hand unit. That doesn’t mean you should expect to make too many concessions in exchange for the privilege.
Built-in Tuner
A built-in tuner lets you record TV programs, which many people find handy in DVD recorder/VHS VCR combo devices.
Without a built-in tuner, you’ll have to connect a cable/satellite or DTV converter box.
Only some units listed here have a built-in tuner, so you’ll need to budget (and find the room) for a separate unit to reap the full benefits.
Price
If you’re on a budget, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a low-cost DVD Recorder/VHS VCR combo device.
Since supply is shrinking, prices of remaining units (some of which can be nearly a decade old) are getting expensive.
Some sell for as much as two to three times higher than their original selling prices. Look out for used units, which can be cheaper but still functional.
Upscaling Support
If you’re converting and transferring video footage between VHS and DVD (or DVD to VHS), it’s helpful to upscale what you already have.
Most DVD Recorders/VHS combos on our list support upscaling, and it’s worth the extra expense if you want your home videos to look better than before.
Compatibility
Different DVD Recorder/VHS Combos offer various levels of support for the kind of discs they’ll accept.
If you already have a supply of recordable DVDs, it makes sense to be sure you can use them on your new device.
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