


- #Easiest method to convert vhs tapes to digital videos mp4
- #Easiest method to convert vhs tapes to digital videos professional

You can see how attempting to convert a large number of 8mm tapes to digital yourself could easily chew up days, or even weeks of your time.Īttempting to digitize camcorder tapes yourself can also have some unforeseen consequences. Since these tapes have to be converted in real-time, the time to convert just one will take as long as the footage stored on it. While having just a few tapes can be a simple weekend project, a larger collection of old camcorder tapes will chew up a large portion of your time that you may not be willing to give up.Ĩmm camcorder tapes can hold up to about 2 hours of footage each. Not only that but there’s no guarantee that you will be able to find the most important piece of equipment needed: an old camcorder still in working condition! If you do not already own the required equipment (camcorder, cables, video capture software, analog-to-digital video converter, etc.), then you will have to incur some initial setup costs before you can even begin the process of converting your old camcorder tapes.ĭepending on the type of equipment you choose to purchase, these costs can easily pile up to be hundreds of dollars. Already having the needed equipment, cables, and patience should make the overall process relatively painless. The DIY Methodįor the tech-savvy individual, converting old camcorder tapes to DVDs and/or digital files at home is a viable option.

#Easiest method to convert vhs tapes to digital videos professional
Once you are ready to preserve the memories on your aging camcorder tapes, it is next time to decide which method you will choose: the DIY approach or handing the project off to a professional video transfer service. Options For Converting Camcorder Tapes to Digital You can think of the whole process as future-proofing your memories. You can save and view digital files on all of your modern digital devices: phones, tablets, computers, and you can watch them on your home smart televisions.Ĭonverting camcorder tapes to digital also gives you the option to edit your home movies on your home computer if you choose, or, simply take them with you on the go with the help of a USB thumb drive.
#Easiest method to convert vhs tapes to digital videos mp4
This is no longer an issue when you convert your tapes into digital formats such as MP4 video.ĭigital video files are extremely versatile, and make viewing and sharing your old 8mm camcorder tapes a breeze. If you don’t have one, or the one you do still have is no longer functional, then you will find it difficult to obtain one in proper working order. The main drawback of having a large collection of old camcorder tapes is that they can only be viewed on an old camcorder. While you can still find old camcorders second-hand, you may find that a large portion of these are simply being sold for parts and are not in working order. Not only that, but the last camcorders to support the Hi8 and Digital8 video formats were discontinued in 2007. Just like camcorder tapes, camcorders themselves degrade over time. By waiting to convert your camcorder tapes to digital, you run the risk of your tapes becoming unplayable, making it impossible to preserve the family memories stored on them. Even if they have been stored in optimal conditions (a cool and dry environment), these tapes naturally degrade over time causing issues such as video signal loss, shedding, and tape wear. While recording on these new 8mm tapes were more convenient than recording on VHS or Betacam, these revolutionary tape formats were never meant to last.Ĩmm camcorder tapes have a limited lifespan. Because you could now hold this video camera in the palm of your hand, it made it much easier to capture videos in and outside of the home. When Sony introduced the Handycam video camera in 1985, 8mm camcorder tapes became wildly popular in the consumer market. Another reason why it is so important to preserve these aging video cassette tapes before it is too late! Why Convert Camcorder Tapes to Digital? Even with the correct equipment, you run the risk of damaging these old videotapes by attempting to play them in just an old camcorder you may have laying around your house.Ĭamcorder tapes become brittle and deteriorate over time, increasing the chance of tearing after sitting dormant for years. Unless you still have a working camcorder and the correct cables to connect it to your television, you’ll find it difficult to view these memories on your own. By converting camcorder tapes to digital, you can preserve these memories for future generations all while sharing and viewing them with friends and family. Wouldn’t it be great to relive these priceless family memories? The good news is that you can. Years of birthdays, family vacations, and weddings with no way to view them in today’s digital age. If you were recording any home videos in the ’80s or ’90s, chances are you have a collection of old camcorder tapes gathering dust somewhere in your home.
