How to Copy VHS Tapes to DVD Without a Computer

By Shawn Farner

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For those who grew up in the era of VHS, many fond memories may be stored on these analog video cassettes. Now that formats like DVD, Blu-ray and digital video files are popular, it's tough to even find a VCR to play VHS cassettes. Fortunately, devices exist that can record VHS footage to DVD without the need for a PC, so you can back up your VHS recordings and play them on your DVD player anytime you want to peek into the past.

Step 1

Purchase a DVD Recorder & VHS Recorder combination device. A few models include the Toshiba DVR620, the Magnavox ZV427MG9 and the Panasonic DMR-EZ48VK. If you purchase a different model, make sure the device includes "two-way dubbing." This means that you can record VHS to DVD, and vice versa.

Step 2

Insert your VHS cassette tape into the cassette deck and then insert a blank DVD-R disc into the DVD drive on the device.

Step 3

Enable two-way dubbing mode. You may need to consult your specific device's user guide for information on how to set this up. Set the dubbing to record from VHS to DVD.

Step 4

Press the "Dubbing" button on your device. The VHS tape begins to play and the DVD drive records the footage from the VHS tape to your blank DVD. A DVD can store many more hours of video than a VHS tape, and some DVD/VCR recorder combos will allow you to press "Stop," insert a new tape and then press the "Dubbing" button to continue recording VHS footage to a DVD. Check your specific device's user guide to see if it has this feature available.

Step 5

Press the "Stop" button on your device when finished. Eject both the VHS tape and the recorded DVD from the DVD drive.

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