How to Copy Camcorder Tapes to VHS or DVD
Copying your camcorder tapes to a more current format preserves your footage more reliably and allows you to edit it. For additional tips, consult your camcorder, VCR, or DVD recorder user guide. There should be a page on how copying tapes from a camcorder, copying from one VCR to another, or from a VCR to a DVD recorder.
Copy Tapes to DVD Using a PC or Laptop
In 2016, the production of new VCRs was officially discontinued. Also, DVD Recorders are very rare. However, some DVD Recorders and DVD Recorder/VHS VCR Combinations may still be available (new or used). Another alternative is to make copies of your tapes on DVD using a PC or Laptop. This is done by connecting the camcorder to an analog-to-digital video converter, which, in turn, connects to a PC (usually via USB).
What to Do If You No Longer Have an 8mm or Hi8 Camcorder
Unfortunately, you can’t buy an adapter to play your 8mm or Hi8 tapes in a VCR. Instead, consider the following options:
How to Watch Your Tapes
If you have a working 8mm/Hi8 camcorder, watch your tapes by plugging its AV output connections into the corresponding TV inputs. Then, select the correct input on the TV and press play on your camcorder.
