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Best DVD Recorders 2024

With so many alternatives on the market, finding the best DVD recorder might be challenging. But one thing is certain: they are significantly less expensive than cable and satellite boxes. Also, by turning stored media to a physical disc, several of our best options might help you free up space on your hard drive.

DVD recorders are optical disc recorders that save video to writable DVD medium. A 650 nm (red) laser is typically used to read and write DVDs. They allow users to customize their video libraries. You can also make copies of your favorite movies and shows. Furthermore, some recorders include the option of editing the program and deleting any ads before burning it to a CD. They are available in two varieties: standalone and computer or PC-based. Most computer systems now include DVD recorder drives that can read and write CD-R and CD-RW media. All major formats, including DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW, and DVD+R DL, are supported by the majority of standalone recorders. To boost convenience, some standalone recorders include a hard-disk based DVR (digital video recorder) as well as built-in DVD authoring software. However, not all recorders adhere to the same set of guidelines.

Best DVD Recorders

Magnavox MDR865H HD DVR/DVD Recorder with Digital Tuner

Magnavox MDR865H HD DVR/DVD Recorder with Digital...
  • HD Digital Single Tuner with 500GB hard drive
  • Record over air HD Broadcasting Program
  • Records up to 500 hours of HD content onto 500GB HDD

The Magnavox DVR/DVD recorder has the most memory on this list, with over 500 hours of recording footage and up to eight hours in HD. It has a 500GB hard drive and can record or export to DVD, making it a user-friendly product.

The MDR-867H/MDR868H are DVD/Hard Drive recorders with two tuners, allowing simultaneous recording of two channels (one on hard drive and one on DVD) as well as the ability to record one channel while watching a live channel. The built-in tuners, however, will only receive over-the-air digital and HD TV broadcasts and are not compatible with cable or satellite. It excludes the reception of analog television signals. On the other side, you can use the hard drive to record high-definition programming (DVD recordings will be in standard definition). Non-copy-protected recordings from the hard disk can be dubbed to DVD (HD recordings will convert to SD on DVD).

If the 1TB (867H) or 2TB (868H) hard drive storage capacity is insufficient, either machine can be expanded by a suitable USB hard drive. The Seagate Expansion and Backup Plus Series, as well as Western Digital’s My Passport and My Book Series, are recommended by Magnavox. The incorporation of both Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity is another unique feature.

Using a wireless home network and a free downloaded app, consumers may watch live TV or hard drive recordings received by the MDR867H/868H’s tuners, as well as download up to three recorded programs from the hard drive onto compatible smartphones and tablets. Despite its network connectivity, the MDR868H does not support online streaming services like Netflix.

The MDR868H can record (DVD-R/-RW, CD, CD-R/-RW) and play (DVD-R/-RW, CD, CD-R/-RW) discs HDMI and Digital Optical audio outputs are included, as well as a set of composite video/analog audio outputs for connecting to older TVs. The MDR868H has two sets of Composite video inputs, as well as analog stereo RCA inputs (one set on the front panel/one set on the back panel) and a front panel S-Video input for analog recording (very rare these days). This is the Best DVD Recorder in 2023.

Toshiba DR430 DVD Recorder

Toshiba DR430 DVD Recorder
  • Video Resolution 1080p
  • Video Progressive Scan 3:2 Pulldown
  • Audio WMA & MP3 Playback MP3 Only

This is a low-cost DVD recorder with useful features. The Toshiba DR430 has Auto Finalization for DVD-R/-RW and +R/+RW format recording, a front-panel DV-input for attaching digital camcorders, and HDMI output with 1080p upscaling. In addition to normal audio CDs, the DR430 can play MP3-CDs. However, because the DR-430 lacks a built-in tuner, it is necessary to record television programs using an additional cable or satellite box. This DVD recorder may be a suitable fit for your entertainment setup if you have cable or satellite, utilize a box, and have an HDTV to access the 430’s 1080p upscaling video output functionality. This is the Best DVD Recorders in 2023.

Panasonic DMR-EZ28K DVD Recorder with 1080p Upconversion

Panasonic DMR-EZ28K DVD Recorder with 1080p...
  • SD card slot
  • Built In ATSC Tuner
  • Multi Format playback: DVD, DivX, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, DVD-RW, CD, CD-R, CD-RW

The Panasonic DMR-EZ28K is a great budget-friendly DVD recorder with an ATSC tuner. The Panasonic DMR-EZ28K DVD recorder has the most advanced recording mode on this list, with a high-resolution four-hour recording mode and a New Picture Processor with noise Reduction. The DVD recorder also generates high-quality film with a 1080p image quality that produces crisp lines, making it suitable for high-quality audio and video.

DVD, DivX, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, DVD-RW, CD, CD-R, and CD-RW are among the formats supported by this DVD recorder. The product also includes a VIERA Link feature that allows you to watch TV while recording footage. You can also use the Link screen to control playback and set timer recordings to record shows when you won’t be home.

Panasonic focuses on sound quality as well, giving 384Kbps to produce crisp tones, making it ideal for recording symphonic performances. You may also utilize the SD card port to transfer any recorded film to your laptop and reuse the discs. You can record a total of 14 hours of footage using the dual-layer discs, however this is in low-quality EP mode.

Sony RDR-GX300 DVD Recorder

Sony RDR-GX300 DVD Recorder
  • Universal DVD-R/DVD-RW, DVD+R/+RW recorder and player
  • Records up to 5 hours of audio/video content per single-sided 4.7 GB DVD
  • Precision Cinema Progressive with Pixel-by-Pixel I/P Conversion produces...

The Sony RDR-GX300 DVD recorder has a five-hour recording time and six recording modes to change the recording quality and enlarge the memory on your disc. This DVD recorder also includes an Electronic Programme Guide that makes it simple to choose a show to record, making the device extremely user-friendly.

You may reuse your discs with this DVD recorder because it has several recording sources, including DVD RW and DVD-RW recording. The device also has a Video Recording mode, which allows you to do things like make a playlist, change the original title, and remove commercials. You can also record and replay at the same time, allowing everyone in the house to enjoy TV at the same time.

The unit’s six recording modes are a standout feature, as you can pick between the highest-quality HQ recording mode and a low-quality recording mode to save memory. On a 4.7GB CD, you can record for up to one hour if you choose the highest quality HQ.

Lite-ON Black Premium 16X SATA Internal CD/DVD/RW DVD DL Dual Layer Optical Disc Drive Burner Recorder

Lite-On Black Premium 16X SATA Internal CD/DVD/RW...
  • DVD Family: DVD-/+R (16X* maximum) DVD-/+R DL (8X maximum) DVD-/+RW (6X...
  • CD Family: CD-R (48X maximum) CD-ROM (48X maximum) CD-RW (24X maximum)...
  • PC Required: 1GHz or faster CPU recommended. Windows 8 requires SSE2, PAE...

The Lite-ON burner recorder has 1GB of RAM and can record up to eight hours of video. It also generates distortion-free audio. This recorder also allows desktop computer owners to back up images and videos and convert digital material to a hard-disc format at a low cost.

Thanks to Smart-X technology, the Lite-ON burner recorder is whisper silent when recording. It also adjusts the maximum data read speed settings automatically based on the amount of footage you’re capturing and the quality of the disc. As a consequence, you receive the best possible footage. When you connect the device to your PC, it works with most Windows laptops but not with Apple devices.

This product includes both DVD-R and DVD+R discs, you can improve the speed of your recordings. Because the gadget is equipped with an ABS system that prevents vibration and noise when recording, you can use it in peaceful places or late at night.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right DVD Recorder

With many different DVD recorder models available from a range of brands, it can get confusing picking the right one for your needs. Follow this buying guide to identify the ideal DVD recorder for your home theater setup and budget.

Step 1: Determine Your Inputs and Outputs

First, audit the devices you want to connect and how you will interface with your TV:

What will be the video input sources? Cable box? Satellite receiver? Camcorder or VCR? Knowing the inputs needed like coaxial, composite, S-Video, component, or HDMI will help narrow down models.
Will you be connecting to a standard or HDTV? If using an HDTV, having an HDMI output would be ideal for digital video and audio. For standard TVs, composite, S-Video or component will work.
Do you need analog or digital audio outputs? Optical/SPDIF outputs allow connection to surround sound systems. RCA audio out can interface with basic stereo systems.
Do you need any special connections like DV inputs for camcorders or analog component outputs? Check that your model has the right ports.

Step 2: Determine Recording Needs

Next, think about your recording requirements:

Will you be time shifting and recording live TV or just copying home movies? If time shifting, look for models with hard drives and time shift buffering capabilities.
What types of discs will you use? Ensure your recorder is compatible with common recordable formats like DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW, and DVD+RW.
How much do you plan to record? Choose recorders with higher speeds (16X or faster) and optionally dual layer support to maximize disc capacity.
Will you want to edit recordings or create DVD menus? More advanced models allow chapter editing and custom disc authoring features.

Step 3: Set Your Budget

How much are you looking to spend?

$100 to $200 gets you solid DVD recorders good for basic recording needs from brands like Sony, LG, Philips, and more.
$200 to $400 provides larger hard drives, more connectivity, and better recording speeds. Look for name brands here.
$400+ delivers premium features like Blu-ray support, pro editing features, and maximum format support for home theater enthusiasts.

Step 4: Read Reviews and Compare Models

Once you have narrowed down recorder options based on your inputs, outputs, and price range, read reviews and compare the specific features of models you are considering. Focus on the following:

Format support – Ensure it handles all the disc types you need.
Recording time – More hours are better for time shifting.
Connections – Match ports to your input sources and TV.
Usability – Seek simple interfaces and programming.
Brand reputation – Stick with reliable, name brands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What DVD formats can I record to?

There are several recordable DVD formats, each of which is slightly different from the others. DVD-R and DVD-RW are the two most prevalent formats, with the main distinction being that DVD-RW may be deleted and rewritten whereas DVD-R can only be written and finished once.

Can I put more than one movie on a DVD?

While it depends heavily on the size of the movie file you’re burning, you can sometimes fit up to five movies on a single DVD-R. It’s worth noting, though, that when you burn a DVD, you just get the MKV file and not the bonus content, subtitles, or commentary tracks. When creating a DVD, you can include these extras, but everything you add takes up capacity that could be utilized for more video files.

What is the difference between DVD recorders and DVD burners?

DVD recorders are designed specifically for recording video onto recordable DVD media from external sources like camcorders or set top boxes. They encode video in real time as it records. DVD burners and writers are made primarily for burning data discs and do not support real-time encoding of video.

Can you still buy DVD recorders?

While the popularity of DVD recorders has declined, many major brands like Sony, Panasonic and LG still actively manufacture and sell them. Prices have also dropped significantly in recent years as demand has fallen. So DVD recorders remain accessible to buy new or refurbished.

Do I need an internet connection or monthly fees?

Nearly all DVD recorders work completely independently without any internet connection required. There are also no monthly service fees or subscriptions associated with them. Just the one time purchase price of the unit.

Can I edit videos after recording to disc?

In general, DVD recorders do no allow editing footage after burning to disc since DVD-R and DVD+R discs cannot be erased or modified. However, some more advanced models may offer limited editing of chapter points and scenes. For substantial editing, video should be captured to the internal hard drive first before burning to disc.

What connections do I need to my TV?

Most DVD recorders can simply connect to standard TVs using composite, component or S-Video cables. For full high definition output, recorders with HDMI connections are recommended to interface with HDTVs. Always match input and output connections from your video sources to your TV.