A DVR should be a big part of every cord cutter’s set up in order to get the most from cord cutting. Not only does a DVR allow you to record TV from your antenna, but it also helps you save data for anyone with a data cap.
There are three main DVRs for cord cutters: Tablo, Channel Master, and Tivo. Here is our quick overview of the pros and cons of each device.
Tablo
If you want a DVR that will stream both recorded shows and live TV to set-top boxes like Roku and Fire TV then the Tablo may be your device.
Pros
- Stream your content to any Roku or Fire TV in your house
- Stream your content to any connected laptops or tablets around the world
- Supports external hard drives for recording shows
Cons
- Must have an external hard drive to record shows
- No pass-through to your TV requires a Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, AppleTV (which uses AirPlay from an iPad), or a Chromecast dongle (casting from an Android device or Chrome browser)
Why Buy a Tablo DVR?
If you want all your streaming apps and TV on one device through a Roku, Fire TV, Android TV, etc., the Tablo may be the DVR for you. There is no need to switch sources between devices because live TV and your streamed content will come through one device.
Tablo DVR is also a great option for anyone who travels and wants to watch live TV or their recordings from home.
Related: Streaming video DVR explained
How to Build a Whole-Home IPTV DVR
Channel Master
The Channel Master DVR+ combines a streaming set-top box and DVR in one device. With built-in YouTube, Vudu, and Pandora, it offers several options in addition to live TV.
Pros
- No subscription fee with 14 days of free channel information
- No additional device needed
- Supports several streaming services
Cons
- Netflix and other popular streaming servers are not supported
Why Buy a Channel Master DVR?
If you really want a DVR without paying a monthly fee for your channel guide or a life-time subscription the Channel Master may be the DVR for you.
Tivo
Tivo is the granddaddy of all DVRs. The new Bolt or older Roamio boxes both work great for cord cutters because they both support over-the-air recording.
Pros
- Great user interface
- Easy to use with excellent features
- Can stream to other rooms in the house
Cons
- Monthly fee or high life-time bill
Why Buy a Tivo DVR?
If you really want something simple to use that will look and feel a lot like your old cable DVR a Tivo may be the right device for you.
Top 5 DVRs for Cord Cutters
If you’ve cut the cord with your cable company (or planning to), you need a way to record your favorite TV shows so you can watch them at your convenience. In this video, I cover the pros and cons of five popular over-the-air DVR solutions.
FAQ
What is a DVR on TV?
A DVR (Digital-Video-Recorder) is a set-top box with a built-in hard drive for recording your favorite television shows and movies. Unlike a VCR, a DVR set-top box can record programs in HD (High-Definition), schedule series recordings, and record multiple programs at once.
How do you cut the cord off a DVR?
The TiVo Bolt is one-sized fits all solution to cord-cutting. Not only does it perform the functions of a DVR, it also has a selection of apps such as Netflix and Amazon Prime. The compact box pairs perfectly with your antenna making it possible to record live TV.
Is there a DVR that works with streaming services?
PlayOn is the Streaming Video Recorder (SVR) that can record and download any streaming movie, show or video from sites like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO, Amazon Video, and more. Record titles even if they don’t have a download option from the provider. PlayOn records the streams and you can transfer the.
What is the best DVR recorder?
Best DVRs
- Best overall: DISH Hopper 3 DVR.
- Best third-party DVR: TiVo EDGE for Cable.
- Most storage: Cox Contour Record 24 DVR.
- Best included DVR: DIRECTV Genie HD DVR.
- Best OTA DVR: Amazon Fire TV Recast.
Is there a DVR for cord cutters?
There are four standout OTA DVR products to consider when buying a cord-cutting digital video recorder: the Amazon Fire TV Recast, the AirTV 2 and the TiVo Edge for antenna, and the Nuvyyo Tablo Quad.
Is there a DVR that works with streaming services?
PlayOn is the Streaming Video Recorder (SVR) that can record and download any streaming movie, show or video from sites like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO, Amazon Video, and more. Record titles even if they don’t have a download option from the provider. PlayOn records the streams and you can transfer the .
Conclusion
A DVR is a must have for all cord cutters. If you are not watching TV with an antenna and using a DVR, then you are missing out on a lot of great free content.
If you need help buying an antenna, check out our antenna buyer’s guide. Or head back to our buyer’s guide home page.
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