In 2014, a Gallup poll found that 58% of Americans still had a VHS player, but that number had dropped from 88% in 2005. The decrease is mainly because more people are using digital and streaming media instead.
Even though fewer people use VHS players, there’s still a group of folks who like them in 2024. Some keep VCRs for the memories, while others, especially younger people, collect VHS tapes.
The demand to convert old tapes to digital forms has surged in recent years. As technology advances and older media formats become obsolete, people are eager to preserve and revitalize their precious memories stored on VHS tapes.
To turn your beloved VHS memories into digital formats in 2024, check out the guide to discover the best options.
With that in mind, let’s look closer at each option to understand more about them and why they’re good for converting VHS to digital in 2024.
In a hurry? Here’s the quick rundown of the top 10 VHS to digital conversion options: Our top pick is iMemories for its convenience and affordability.
- 1. iMemories – (Most Convenient Choice)
- 2. Video Conversion Suite By Vidbox
- 3. Elgato Video Capture (Works on both Mac and PC)
- 4. Kodak Scanza
- 5. Roxio Easy Vhs To Dvd
- 6. Clearclick Video To Digital Converter
- 7. Record From Screen
- 8. Local Shop
- 9. Costco
- 10. Walmart
1. iMemories – (Most Convenient Choice)
iMemories is a company that started in 2005 in Arizona. They’re really good at turning old VHS tapes, photos, and films into digital versions, and they’ve been doing it for more than 15 years with over a million happy customers. They accept all sorts of old formats like VHS tapes, films, photos, and more.
What’s cool is that iMemories not only makes it easy for you to get digital copies of your old stuff but also offers some extra services.
They can fix up old photos, repair broken films and tapes, and even help you organize your digital files.
So, if you want to keep your old memories safe and sound, iMemories is a great choice!
5 Reasons Why We Like iMemories
Trusted By Millions: iMemories is a highly trusted digitizing company with a vast customer base.
All-in-one Conversion: They can convert every type of format, including various tapes, films, and photos, into digital versions.
Organization Made Easy: iMemories not only digitizes but also sorts and organizes your files for you.
Competitive Pricing: They offer competitive and fair pricing with no hidden fees for their services.
Fast Turnaround: iMemories boasts the industry’s fastest turnaround, completing orders in just 2-3 weeks.
Safe and Reliable: Your original files are returned, and iMemories ensures 100% safety and reliability.
Device Compatibility: Your digital memories can be easily shared and enjoyed on any device.
What is a SafeShip Kit?
Want to know about SafeKit? It’s a safe and easy way to send your memories to iMemories for digital conversion.
What’s in it? A strong box, waterproof bags, and bubble cushions to keep your memories safe during shipping.
Cost: The SafeShip KIt Costs $14.99 (50% OFF)
iMemories VS Other Digitization services
iMemories stands out as a superior choice among digitization services for several compelling reasons. Firstly, the company has earned a spot on Fast Company’s prestigious 2023 list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies.
Moreover, iMemories takes the lead in speed, offering a turnaround time of just 2-3 weeks for you to access your digitized memories through their user-friendly app, allowing you to swiftly share your moments with loved ones.
With an impressive 17 years of experience, iMemories boasts a dedicated team of over 200 digital restoration specialists who have garnered the trust of more than 1 million satisfied customers.
Click Here to Learn More About iMemories >
2. Vidbox’s Video Conversion Suite
Now, let’s explore Vidbox’s Video Conversion Suite, a practical tool for turning your old videos into digital formats. It’s straightforward – all you need is a VCR or camcorder and a PC or Mac.
The suite includes everything necessary to convert your videos to DVD or digital files, with simple step-by-step instructions supported by visuals.
Capture content from old VHS, Beta, 8mm, or camcorder tapes and easily convert them.
Once converted, you can watch the videos on your Mac using QuickTime, and if you want to make edits, Vidbox smoothly integrates with iMovie.
Additionally, you can conveniently watch and share your newly digitized videos on iOS devices. Vidbox offers a pragmatic solution for preserving and managing your old video content without unnecessary frills.
What’s Included in the Box
- USB video capture device
- Software Download Card
- USB cable
- RCA AV cable
- Quick Start Guide
What Do Customers Think About Vidbox?
Users on Amazon generally appreciate Vidbox’s Video Conversion Suite, highlighting its user-friendly interface, extensive options, and the reliability of the included device.
They find the software easy to navigate and effective for transforming videos into digital files, often considering it a worthwhile investment.
However, few users mention concerns about video quality and device durability.
Opinions vary on its compatibility with other devices, with some users finding it satisfactory and others encountering challenges.
Despite the overall positive sentiment on Amazon, potential buyers should consider factors such as video quality and device durability before making a decision.
Find the Best Price For Vidbox >
3. Elgato Video Capture
Taking a closer look at our third option, Elgato Video Capture proves to be a user-friendly solution for transferring videos to your Mac or PC from analog devices like VCRs, DVRs, or camcorders.
The process is seamless, thanks to its easy-to-use software assistant that walks you through every step, from connecting your analog device to capturing the video and deciding how you want to watch and share it.
Elgato Video Capture stands out for its simplicity, offering a straightforward tool to trim the beginning and end of your captured video.
In just one click, you can add the video to iTunes or your Windows Media Player library, play it back on your computer, sync it with your iPad or iPhone, upload it directly to YouTube, or start editing in iMovie or Windows Live Movie Maker.
This product’s user-friendly design and versatile features make it a convenient choice for digitizing and managing your analog videos effortlessly.
What Do Customers Think About Elgato?
Looking at what people are saying on Amazon, many customers find Elgato Video Capture easy to use and effective. They say it’s simple to connect to the computer, and the software is easy to understand.
However, there are mixed opinions on sound quality, video quality, recording, and whether it’s worth the money.
Overall, it seems like Elgato Video Capture is seen positively for its user-friendly design and performance, but there are varying views on certain aspects.
Find the Best Price on Elgato >
4. Kodak Scanza
Turn your old films into digital JPEG files in just seconds with the powerful KODAK Film Scanner. It works well for 35mm, 126, 110, Super 8, and 8mm negatives and slides.
The scanner has a big and bright 3.5-inch color screen that’s super clear. You can adjust how bright it is and tilt it for easy use. It comes with lots of adapters for different kinds of films, making it really fast and easy to use.
Included in the package are all the necessary cables for both Mac and PC compatibility. You’ll receive a USB power cable, HDMI cable, AC adapter, video cable, and a bonus free film cleaning brush.
Use the brush to keep everything clean and avoid marks on your scanned images. Overall, it’s a handy and easy-to-use tool for bringing your old memories to life.
What Do Customers Think About Kodak Scanza
Customers appreciate the value, speed, and overall performance of the scanner. They like its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. The user-friendly interface is another positive aspect mentioned by users.
However, some customers have different opinions about how good the scanner is in terms of quality, color balance, and image quality.
5. Roxio Easy VHS to DVD 3 Plus
Let’s explore our fifth option on the list: the Roxio Easy VHS to DVD 3 Plus. This product offers a straightforward and effective solution for giving a new life to your old videos by converting them into a digital format.
Once the device is connected, playing your video on a camcorder or VCR allows you to easily capture and convert it into a digital format.
The versatility extends beyond video conversion; it also accommodates the conversion of analog LPs and cassettes into audio CDs or MP3s, catering to various media preservation needs.
What sets this device apart is its editing and enhancement features. Beyond being a video converter, it provides tools to make quick edits, trim and cut video clips, stabilize shaky footage, and enhance color balance and lighting.
In conclusion, Roxio Easy VHS to DVD 3 Plus offers a simple and effective solution to keep your home movies in top condition.
This software goes beyond being just a VHS to DVD converter; it provides all the necessary tools to enhance your older videos.
What Do Customers Think About Roxio
Customers have shared concerns about the adapter’s value and quality, expressing dissatisfaction and considering it a poor investment.
They also note issues with the software’s functionality. Opinions on ease of use and performance are varied among customers.
Find the Best Price Online For Roxio >
6. Clearclick Video To Digital Converter
The ClearClick Video To Digital Converter 2.0 is super easy to use – just press a button to turn your old VHS videos into digital files.
Here’s the best part: No Computer or Software Required. Just hook it up, start recording, and it saves videos directly onto a USB Flash Drive or SD Card.
After converting, you can watch your videos on your computer, tablet, smartphone, or TV – whichever you prefer.
And here’s a bonus: it comes with a 1-Year Warranty and tech support from the manufacturer.
To sum it up, the ClearClick Video To Digital Converter 2.0 is a simple and effective way to make your old VHS tapes digital.
Plus, with the added warranty and support, it’s a safe bet for keeping and sharing your special family moments.
What Do Customers Think About ClearClick
Customers on Amazon have mostly praised the ClearClick Video To Digital Converter 2.0 for its performance, ease of use, compact size, and efficient transfer capabilities.
Many users highlight that it works well, and converts VHS format to digital format reliably.
People also think the product is a good deal for the money. That said, few users disagree on the video and sound quality.
Find the Best Price Online ClearClick >
7. Screen Recording To Digitize VHS Tapes
As we delve into our choices for VHS to digital conversion, it’s worth considering alternatives beyond VHS to digital converters. One such option is screen recording of VHS tapes. Let’s explore the pros and cons of this method.
Pros of Screen Recording:
Real-Time Capture: You can capture the content of your VHS tapes in real-time, preserving the original timing and pace.
No Additional Hardware: Unlike VHS to digital converters, screen recording may not require additional specialized hardware, potentially making it a cost-effective solution.
Customization: Screen recording allows for customization of settings such as resolution, frame rate, and file format, offering more control over the output.
Cons of Screen Recording:
Loss of Quality: Screen recording may result in a loss of video and audio quality compared to using dedicated VHS to digital converters.
Time Consuming: Since it captures in real-time, the process can be time-consuming, especially for longer VHS tapes.
8. Local Shops
Consider exploring local shops in your area that offer VHS to digital conversion services. While the convenience of local shops makes the process easy, it’s crucial to note that the quality and cost can vary among them.
Certain local shops may have extensive experience with digitizing VHS tapes, making them a viable option.
However, it’s important to consider the price, as these local services can often be more expensive compared to specialized digitization companies.
Some local shops may provide additional options, such as including your memories on a DVD-video, CD-ROM, SD card, or USB flash drive, aside from digital file formats.
This is beneficial if you wish to share physical copies or view the home movies on your DVD player or television
Pros of Local Shops
- Easy Access: Convenient drop-off and pick-up at a local shop.
- Physical Copies: Options for creating DVDs, CDs, or other physical copies.
Cons of Local Shops
- Cost: Local services may be pricier compared to specialized companies.
- Quality Varies: Quality of conversion can differ between local shops.
- Time: Local services might take more time than specialized companies.
- Limited Choices: Fewer options for customization like resolution and file formats
9. Costco Photo Center
Having covered local shops, let’s now shift our focus to the major retailers option for VHS to digital conversion.
Names such as Costco, Walmart, Sam’s Club, and CVS emerge as notable providers of these services
At Costco, turning your old VHS tapes into digital memories is easy. It can cost around $20 to $25 per tape, but the exact price might vary. This service is simple, affordable and convenient.
They’ll change your tapes into digital files, so you can watch them on your devices. Just remember, the cost might depend on how long your tape is and if you want any extra services.
10. Walmart Home Movie Transfer Service
Besides Costco, Walmart also provides services to convert your VHS tapes into digital formats. The cost typically starts at around $12.96 for the first 30 minutes of footage, making it a budget-friendly option.
This service includes transforming your tapes into digital files, allowing you to enjoy them on modern devices.
Keep in mind that the pricing may vary based on the length of your tape and any additional services you may choose.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering VHS to digitization services, various options are available to cater to different preferences and needs.
Online companies, such as iMemories and Legacybox, offer the convenience of sending your tapes through mail for professional digitization.
VHS to DVD converters, like Roxio Easy VHS to DVD 3 Plus, provide a hands-on approach for those who prefer managing the conversion at home.
For those seeking local accessibility, major retailers like Costco and Walmart present convenient and budget-friendly solutions.
Costco’s pricing, starting around $20 to $25 per tape, and Walmart’s starting at approximately $12.96 for the first 30 minutes, make them accessible choices.
Consider factors such as pricing, turnaround time, and additional services when making your decision.
Each option has its unique advantages, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your preferences and requirements.