People now prefer using antennas rather than cable TV to watch television. The leading reason is that it is more cost-effective. With an antenna, you can get access to more channels of premium quality at a lower price than a cable TV subscription.
However, to watch these channels, an antenna is not the only piece of equipment you need. Since broadcasted signals are received in digital form, some old versions of analog television are not capable of being compatible. Well, if you are having the same issue, you do not need to go out and purchase a new TV set altogether. Instead, you can buy a digital converter.
A digital converter box is an affordable method to watch channels using an antenna on a TV that does not support digital signals. Here is a detailed guide that will provide you all the information one should have when looking for the best digital converter box.
Table of Contents
7 Best Digital Converter Box Reviews
1. Mediasonic ATSC Digital Convertor Box with Recording/ Media Player/ TV Tuner Function (HW 130STB) – Best Overall
The Mediasonic ATSC digital converter box lets you convert the signals which are over-the-air, which is the ATSC Digital TV broadcast, to a digital or an analog TV.
It can also do the same to a projector or a computer monitor via HDMI cable. The converter supports quality up to 1080p. You can also record a program in real-time or schedule the recording of a program now with this device.
It is also important to note that this device is not a replacement for a cable box. An external antenna will also be required for proper functioning.
Why Is It Unique?
Some important features of this device make it stand out from the rest of its competition. It has an additional TV tuner function and comes as an aid to televisions that do not have built-in-tuners in them. It also has a 12-hour a.m. and p.m. display of time.
An electronic program guide gives you all the information you need about the upcoming programs of a particular channel or a group of channels. You can also add your most liked channels to a favorite channel list.
It also has a parental control function making television viewing a family-friendly experience. Interestingly, it also has an emergency alert system that alerts the user of any urgent information that comes from the TV station.
Buyers Experience
The majority of the buyers are satisfied with the features of this converter. This converter can be installed and used easily, making it an ideal product for everyone. Some of the buyers felt that the converter does not last a long time.
Best Fit For
It is a perfect fit for your personal and professional lives. It allows kids to watch cartoons of good quality. You can record shows of your preference while you are working so that you can watch them later.
Pros
Cons
- Receive Over-The-Air Digital Broadcast to your Analog and Digital TV, Projector, and Computer Monitor. Antenna Out...
- HDMI 1080P Output / Composite Out / Coaxial Output, Closed Caption, Auto Tuning, Timing Start Up & Shut Down.
- Real-Time Recording & Programmed Time Recording, recording require user to connect a USB 2.0 or 3.0 2.5" / 3.5" External...
- USB Multimedia function play back Video, Music, Photo from USB Drive
2. Mediasonic ATSC Digital Converter Box w/ TV Recording, USB Multimedia Player, and TV Tuner Function (HW-150PVR) – Best Choice
This digital tv tuner converter box can convert Air ATSC Digital broadcast to analog TV, computer and projector. It supports Dolby audio.
You can use an external hard drive to record your favorite shows and watch them later. This converter allows you to watch videos, movies, TV shows that are recorded and to play songs. You can connect it to your device via coaxial or HDMI port. You cannot use a USB to record the shows.
Why Is It Unique?
This converter performs the functions of a tuner if the television does not have one. It has an Emergency Alert System that alerts you about any emergency information from the TV station.
An external antenna has to be connected to this converter to receive signals. This converter supports a hard drive with space of up to 2 TB. One hour of recording takes up to 8 GB. Videos will be recorded in the MTS format.
Buyers Experience
Most of the buyers are satisfied with this converter as it provides pictures and videos of high quality. You can control the converter by using a remote control. The recording feature makes it preferable for a lot of people.
Best Fit For
It is a perfect companion if you like to watch TV shows and videos. If you are scared about missing your favorite shows, this converter can record your shows for you to watch later at your own pace.
Pros
Cons
- Converts Over-The-Air Digital Broadcast to your Analog TV, Antenna out Analog Pass Through, Favorite Channel List,...
- Auto Tuning, HDMI 1080P Output / YPbPr output / Coaxial Output, Closed Caption,
- Real-Time Recording & Programmed Time Recording, Auto, 16:9 Pillar Box, 16:9 Pan G Scan, 4:3 Letter Box, 4:3 Pan G Scan,...
- Real-Time Recording & Programmed Time Recording, Auto, 16:9 Pillar Box, 16:9 Pan G Scan, 4:3 Letter Box, 4:3 Pan G Scan,...
3. View TV ATSC Digital Convertor box for TV, HDMI Cable Recording PVR Function Output USB LED Timer display AT -163 – Best Picture Quality
This latest product from View TV lets you convert digital broadcast to your analog TV. It helps you watch television with no consideration to the TV you are using, be it an old one or a fat one.
In short, this device works on any TV. It also helps you play media from an external source like a USB flash drive, hard drive, etc. This device also becomes compatible with monitors or projectors via an HDMI cable. However, it is essential to note that it is not a replacement for a cable box.
Why Is It Unique?
This converter box can receive HD channels up to 1080p with an antenna. It has some exciting features like auto-tuning and a program guide to help you navigate through the menus.
It is also a recording PVR which means that you can now skip through the commercials of a program that you have recorded. It also contains a favorite channel list with included parental control function.
Buyers Experience
Most of the customers are satisfied with this product. They liked the picture quality and the quality of the materials used to manufacture the converter. The remote control allows you to control the converter from wherever you are sitting.
Best Fit For
This converter can be a perfect addition to your house. If you are a working person, this converter allows you to record your favorite shows and watch them ad-free by forwarding the advertisements. This converter guarantees a good customer experience.
Pros
Cons
- Convert Digital Broadcasts to Analog TV - Ready to cut out the cable? ViewTV digital converter box allows you to record...
- Our Modern TV Tuner Has it All - We updated our TV tuner box with hdmi output, auto tuning, electronic programming...
- Record Your Favorite Shows - With our DVR recorder for TV, you can pre-record and record, pause, and rewind live TV....
- Tons of Free to Air Channels to Choose From - Unlike outdated DVR recorders for TV, ViewTV AT-163 DTV box is easy to set...
4. View TV ATSC Digital Converter Box for TV, HDMI Cable Recording PVR Function Output USB LED Timer Display AT – 263 – Best Featured
This new converter from View TV lets you convert the digital TV broadcast that is available on air to an analog TV. This device can also be used as a personal recorder.
The device is compatible with formats of HD TV up to 1080p, and it can also be connected to a monitor or a projector with the help of an HDMI cable.
However, it is to be noted that it does not come as a replacement for cable boxes. The device is compact and can fit anywhere in your entertainment space.
Why Is It Unique?
This device works well for all types of TV, be it old, new, slim, or fat. It gives you the same output on whichever TV that you are using. It has a USB port at the front, making it easy to plug in accessories. A Bright LED display upfront makes the device visible from anywhere in one’s living room. The device has an auto-tuning feature and also comes with a program guide and closed caption.
As mentioned above, the device is also a recording PVR and helps you record programs and watch them whenever you want. You can also select a few particular channels and add them to a favorite channel list. The device also comes with the Parental Control function.
Buyers Experience
This converter had a lot of satisfied customers across the country. They have given good ratings and reviews for this converter.
They like the picture quality and the remote control feature that comes along. Buyers have given negative comments about the materials used to build the converter is not up to the mark.
Best Fit For
This converter can be an ideal part of your house. It acts as a tuner if your television does not come with one. You can watch your favorite shows in HD quality. This is a must buy for your houses.
Pros
Cons
- Small enough to fit in any sized entertainment space
- Bright LED display is visible from anywhere in the room
- We make it easy to access your USB port by placing it right on the front of the unit
- Also compatible for HD TVs or monitors and projectors via HDMI and not a replacement for your cable box
5. Digital Converter, Ematic Digital TV Converter Box with Recording, Playback, & Parental Controls [AT103B] – Best Performance
The Ematic Digital TV converter box lets you convert digital broadcast on-air into analog signals to your TV. An interesting highlight is that it does not require any digital tuners to do the same.
An additional timeshift function also lets you pause live TV. Parental Control available in the device can help you restrict certain channels, making the device family-friendly.
The device lets you record your favorite shoes to a USB drive which can be viewed at any given time. You can also use a USB drive to play media and the format of MP3, AAC, AVI, MPG, DAT, etc.
Why Is It Unique?
The parental controls are quite strong and let you block inappropriate channels by using a password. You can do the same with the help of the parental guidance rating available for the programs.
The time shift function lets you pause, record, and move ahead in live TV. It lets you skip through commercials and get back to your show at ease. An electronic program guide present gives you all information about the program you need.
Buyers Experience
While most of the buyers have given satisfactory reviews for the products, some of the customers are unhappy with the durability of the converter. The picture quality is good, and the user interface is a good feature as well.
Best Fit For
This is an ideal converter for your house. It allows you to record your shows and watch them later anytime you want. The picture quality and the user interface are good. It is very easy to use once you read the manual.
Pros
Cons
- Converts digital broadcasts to your analog TV
- Record TV in real time or set timers, you'll never miss your favortie shows
- Watch videos and movies, play music, or view photos from a USB drive
- The timeshift function allows you to pause live TV
6. Leelbox Convertor Box, 1080p ATSC Digital Tuner Box for Analog TV, Supports Recording PVR, Live TV Shows, Multimedia Playback, H.265 Video Decoding, IR Search, Free Local TV – Most Durable
This 2019 edition Leelbox digital converter is a device that helps you convert digital broadcast to analog signals directly into your TV.
It lets you do the same to a projector or a computer monitor via an HDMI cable. The IR search function is much more powerful than the ordinary tuning systems and lets you get more free local TV channels.
You can use the remote control in this device to choose between RF 3/4 output. The F6 ATC controller box lets you record TV shows using a USB external hard drive which you can use for playback on both TV and computer.
Why Is It Unique?
You can either record real-time or schedule the recordings of your favorite shoes. The converter box also comes with an additional TV tuner, which comes as an aid if your TV initially didn’t have any tuna on its own.
The Leelbox convertor gives you video quality up to 1080p with Dolby audio sound system. It also has a multimedia player function that lets you play your media files through a USB flash drive or an external hard disk.
Buyers Experience
This converter allows you to watch videos in 1080p. Most of the customers are satisfied with the quality of the video offered by the converter. They liked the user interface feature, and this converter is easy to use so that it can be used by everyone.
Best Fit For
If you want to have a good viewing experience, then this is a converter you should consider buying. It comes with a remote control which allows you to access the converter without getting up from your seat.
Pros
Cons
7. IVIEW-3500STBII, Digital Converter Box with Recording and Media Player, Analog to Digital, QAM Tuner, Channel 3/4, HDMI, USB – Easy To Use
This converter converts digital signals to your analog TV. This converter supports over the air and comes with Quadrature Amplitude Modulation built-in.
The converter can also load some of the encrypted digital cable channels and let you watch them on your television. You do not have to pay any subscription fees, and it does not require any additional set top box.
You can record all your favorite shows and watch them at your pace. This converter allows you to watch your favorite shows in HD quality.
Why Is It Unique?
This converter is a universal media player and can automatically recognize the most popular videos and audio formats. The converter comes with a parental control option that allows parents to control the converter.
You can watch videos of 720p, 1080p, 1080i and even 576p. You can connect this converter to your television with an HDMI cable. You do not have to purchase another video player if you have this converter.
Buyers Experience
Most of the buyers have liked this converter, and they are happy with the features offered by this converter. Some of the customers weren’t pleased with the value of this converter.
Best Fit For
This is one of the best digital tv converter boxes available in the market. It is an ideal converter for your house. The converter is quite durable, which makes it fit your house perfectly. The picture quality is good and gives a good viewing experience.
Pros
Cons
- [DIGITAL CONVERTER BOX] The digital TV converter box, converts digital air channels to your analog TVs. Allow you to...
- [ATSC BOX] The tuner box is programmed to receive local over-the-air (OTA) channels through ATSC signals for you to...
- [CLEARQAM COMPATIBLE] This converter box supports ClearQAM and can be used with a cable provider to watch unscrambled...
- [TV RECORDING] iView-3500STBIII digital converter box with clock function supports TV recording function. You may record...
Factors To Keep In Mind While Purchasing A Digital Converter Box For TV
The units listed above are undoubtedly one of the best DTV converter boxes. However, to really find out which one of these products is the most ideal for you, you should consider the buying guide. Here, we have given the primary factors that you should be considered in a digital converter to identify which one is the best as per your demands.
1. Output
HDMI is more commonly output seen in digital converter boxes. If you have a television set that also supports HDMI input, then check the digital converter box you are choosing has the same input. In case your TV supports any other input such as RCA or coaxial, then choose a digital converter box.
The bottom line is the digital converter box should have an output supported by your television for it to provide channels in the best quality possible. Without a compatible output option, the digital converter will not work with your TV, no matter how good its features are.
2. Resolution
Next important thing is the resolution a digital converter can provide. Higher resolution assures greater clarity and vividness in picture quality. Although many digital converters boxes have high resolutions, such as 1080p but buying such converters is futile unless your TV can also support the same resolution.
Hence, the resolution your converter box should have depends significantly on the TV you are using it with. For instance, if you have an old TV, then a 480p digital converter box might also work for you.
3. Additional features
A digital converter box with basic features is sufficient to enjoy your favorite channels in high quality. But there are some units which also offer some additional features. These units may cost more than the basic ones, but the additional features they have can be useful.
These additional features include features like Parental Control, Dolby Atmos, Program guide, Automatic Recording, and more. With additional features, the overall performance of the digital converter box will be enhanced. Thus, buying a digital converter box with advanced features if your budget allows is a great choice.
4. Budget
Last but not least, the digital converter box you buy largely depends on your budget. The first thing is to know what are the must-have features in a digital converter box, depending upon your choice. A digital converter you are choosing should include all such features.
Comparing different brands which offer the same features will provide you with a better insight about which unit provides good value for its price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Why is a digital converter box needed?
A1. A digital converter box converts digital signals pickup by an antenna into analog signals for the TV. It is needed when the broadcasted signals are in the digital form, which is not supported by the TV and needs to be converted into analog signals.
While now most of the new TV sets have an integrated converter, the older versions do not. Thus, anyone who is trying to watch channels on an old TV which only supports analog signals needs to buy a digital converter box. This is an inexpensive alternative to buying a new TV.
Q2. Can I reset my digital converter box without using the remote?
A2. A digital converter box is reset using a remote. However, in case you need to reset it but have lost the remote or the remote is dysfunctional, then you do not have to worry as you can reset it without the remote.
You have to simply plug out the digital converter and keep the TV switched off. Let the converter remain unplugged for around 30 seconds. When you will reconnect the digital box converter and switch on the TV, the box will reset itself.
Q3. What are the perks of using a digital converter box?
A3. There are several benefits of using a digital converter box than just its cost-effectiveness. First, a digital converter box enhances sound and picture quality. It is because this device minimizes the interference and distortion that accompany analog signals.
A digital signal occupies less bandwidth space compared to an analog one. Thus, a digital box converter allows you to access more stations. Hence, providing you with a greater range than an analog signal can provide.
Moreover, with a digital converter box, you can get access to some advanced features. One can record their favorite TV shows or movies to watch later. If you get a unit that has USB ports, then you can even view your pictures and videos on the TV. With parent control, you can monitor and filter the content watched by children.
Due to such outstanding features, this is a highly recommended product. It is a must-have product if you have an analog TV.
Conclusion
If you have an old analog TV and want to access channels on it without the need to buy a brand new TV, then a digital converter box is the only way to do so.
Besides being just a device that can make your TV compatible with digital signals, but also provide much more benefits. We hope our recommendations will help you find an excellent unit for you. Be sure to consider the buying guide to make your task simpler of choosing the best digital converter box.
Last update on 2024-07-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API