Do You Need a DVR?

The tradition of gathering around the TV set for a prime-time must-see program is fading into obscurity: instead, Americans now expect on-demand entertainment. Technology has evolved around this expectation, hence the advent of the digital video recorder (DVR). DVRs work in conjunction with set-top boxes to build a hard drive full of viewable content.

Digital video recorders (DVRs) are essentially computers that store content recorded directly from the television provider. Companies like TiVo first invented separate units designed to work with set-top boxes.

Today, most cable and satellite providers offer set-top boxes that include DVRs as a premium add-on for customers, although a handful of companies still offer stand-alone units. You can record multiple shows at once and watch another show at the same time, or set recordings ahead of time. Even better, Wi-Fi isn’t necessary to use the technology, so you don’t have to worry about your Internet cutting out in the middle of recording a show.

The main selling point of DVR service is the flexibility and convenience. With so many networks airing so many quality shows or movies at the same time, it’s often tough to know what to watch. DVRs let you record shows that conflict with other programming so you don’t have to choose.

DVR service allows you to preset recordings so you’ll never miss an episode of your favorite drama or comedy. Most cable and satellite service providers allow you to set recordings from your computers, smartphones, and tablets, making scheduling even more convenient. Sports fans love this feature as they can record any games they miss but still watch the highlights from the comfort of their living rooms.

One of the main disadvantages of DVR service is the additional cost. Cable and satellite providers typically charge a monthly fee for DVR service, as well as a higher rental fee for the set-top box component. You can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $30 more per month for DVR service, depending on the type of service and your location. However, with demand for DVRs going up, many providers offer a discounted rate for the equipment and service when customers sign up.

Another disadvantage of DVR service is that hard drive space is limited. This means that shows may not record or previous recordings could be lost if the DVR is full. Many stand-alone DVR set-top boxes offer more storage space, but at a higher overall cost. And while many DVRs allow simultaneous recording, the number of shows you can record at once is limited. This becomes more problematic when more than one person is recording content, and a war over DVR space erupts.

Still not sure if you need a DVR? Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I/my family watch a lot of TV?
• Do I/my family like a lot of different programing?
• Is it in my budget to have additional service fees?
• Is DVR service available through my television provider?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may want to consider buying or leasing a DVR. The convenience and practicality of the service is impeccable as it gives control back to customers. The ability to record future programming or even pause live TV is convenient, saving time and ensuring you don’t miss a second of your favorite show. Keep in mind that there is an investment that goes into both buying and leasing DVR units that needs to be justified, so you’ll want to be sure you’ll actually use it. Overall, most people who have DVR service love it and couldn’t imagine watching TV any other way.

Do you love or loathe your DVR? Let us know what you think in the comments below.