Now we have modern computers, smartphones that can record high-quality videos, and many ways to store videos. However, a few decades ago, we used simple cameras with which we captured the most important moments in our lives.
We didn’t have millions of clips on our phones and we didn’t film everything on cameras. Each video was dedicated to truly valuable moments in our lives. We captured weddings, children’s first steps, birthdays, and other memorable events.
We have a huge number of VHS cassettes that have preserved the memory of the old days. Many people store them in garages and closets, forgetting that cassettes can deteriorate. Every year their condition worsens, and therefore, if you do not want your precious videos to sink into oblivion, then you need to take action.
To save them, you have the opportunity to convert records to many formats. After you convert them, you can choose where to store them so you never lose them.
Many people turn to various companies to do this. However, you can do everything yourself in your home. We will cover what you need and how to convert old tapes to digital ones.
What you may need
Video cassette recorder
The first step is one of the most difficult. Most families got rid of VCRs a long time ago due to their uselessness. People switched to DVD players, and then even abandoned them altogether since now everything is available online.
VCRs are no longer manufactured, so you won’t be able to buy a new one from the store. You need to do some research to find a working option that is second-hand.
There are many online places where you can try to buy it. They are available on eBay, Amazon, and Walmart. If you’re lucky, you might even try to find a new one that’s safe and sound in the box.
Since the chance to find a new one is rare, you will most likely have to purchase a used one. However, before you choose a seller, you need to make sure that you can return the product and get your money back.
Very often sellers sell broken VCRs. If you buy a broken item, you may lose your tapes forever. Because of this, negotiate with buyers and also make sure you buy a working recorder.
USB video capture adapter
Since you will be performing the process using your computer or laptop, you will need to connect your VCR. This can be done using a USB video capture adapter.
You won’t have a problem finding one, as they are more common than older VCRs. You just need to enter a query into Google, and you will find a lot of electronic equipment stores where you can purchase a cable. In addition, many online stores sell them, so you can easily order delivery and get the adapter in the shortest possible time.
Software
Once you’ve got everything you need, it’s time to find software that will help you bring your old videos back to life. You need a tool that is easy to use and with which you can convert tapes to many formats. Here are some you can look out for:
Vidbox Video Conversion Suite
Using VIDBOX products, you get not only software. You get everything you might need for the whole process, except for the VCR. You need to take care of this yourself.
When you buy a kit, you will receive a guide on what you need to do. You will be able to quickly and easily install the necessary drivers as well as software. The software is simple and easy to use, as it is intended for ordinary users.
The convenience is that you can convert your VHS tapes to DVDs. However, apart from that, you can also choose MP4 if that suits you better. The whole process does not take much time, so you can quickly convert all your tapes.
Easy VHS to DVD 3 Plus
This is another great package by Roxio. Compared to the first option, you will not receive cables in the kit, so you will need to purchase them.
You will be able to quickly make conversions, and the conversion can include burning not only to DVD, but you can also burn your VHS tapes to digital, which is convenient because you can store them on your computer or in the cloud.
The big advantage of this package is that you will be able to edit your motion pictures as well. Package by VIDBOX also offers this option, but the editing tools are limited.
Movavi Video Editor Plus
If you have all the necessary equipment, then it makes no sense for you to buy expensive packages. You can invest in a high-quality video editor which is also a VHS to digital converter.
This is the ideal solution for you if you plan to not only digitize your tapes but also edit them. You can use this tool in the future if you like to shoot videos and publish them on social platforms. It offers a wide range of features for bringing your motion pictures to perfection.
After you download and install the software, you will receive a step-by-step guide to help you quickly convert. All recommendations will be shown on your screen, so this is a great option for those who have never worked with video editors.
Storage
Depending on how many tapes you have, you may need a place to store them. If you will convert them to digital format, then you can use your computer or an external hard drive. However, you also have the option to take advantage of cloud storage so that you always have access to your videos.
By choosing cloud storage, you can be sure that your valuable videos will be safe and will never be lost. You can use Dropbox to instantly access your clips, regardless of time or location.
Conclusion
If you don’t want to lose your precious videos from your youth recorded on a VHS camera, then you have the opportunity to convert old tapes. All you need is some hardware and software to be able to do everything at home. After that, you can burn them to DVDs, or convert them to digital format.