
If you’ve already got a streaming box, you’ve got this need covered.
Do you own a streaming box? Some DVRs pull double duty as both DVRs and streaming boxes, so you can watch your recordings or movies from streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime all on the same platform. If it’s a lot - like more than 50 to 100 shows - consider a DVR with more storage or one with USB ports for adding expandable storage. Think about how many shows you typically keep around on your DVR at any given point in time.
How many TV shows do you want to keep on your DVR at once? One of the factors that can drive up costs is storage space - the more you need, the more you pay. If you are a cord-cutter looking to record live TV or shows from local broadcasts, make sure to consider how you will connect your antenna to the DVR. If you are looking for a DVR to use with your cable TV subscription, look for models that expressly state that they’re CableCARD™-compatible. Will you be recording shows with an over-the-air antenna or from a cable provider? This question is really important because DVRs are usually made for one scenario or the other but not both.
Not sure what to look for in a DVR or how to narrow down your search? Start by asking yourself the following questions: This will give you a sense of what channels you can expect to receive and which direction to point your antenna. If you would like to join the “cord-cutter” revolution but are not sure what TV channels you would receive at home with a TV antenna, go online and search for local broadcast towers.