Cutting the cord can be simple with a capable digital converter box. This guide highlights top converter boxes that receive over-the-air (OTA) broadcasts, provide HDMI or AV outputs, and offer features like recording, USB multimedia, and parental controls. Each option below is chosen for compatibility with American TV setups, easy setup, and value. Explore how these devices transform an old or modern TV into a free-to-air channel hub, compatible with TVs, projectors, and computer monitors.
| Product | Brand | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Digital TV Converter Box, ATSC TV Tuner – ZJBOX | ZJBOX | 1080p HDMI, USB media playback, recording, time timer, parental control |
| Mediasonic HW135STB | Mediasonic | Clear QAM, 1080P HDMI, USB HDD support up to 4TB, remote display |
| Mediasonic HW250STB | Mediasonic | 1080P HDMI, front display, USB drive support, 4TB HDD |
| Ematic AT103B | Ematic | Recording, playback from USB, parental controls |
| Ematic AT103B (Non-Retail) | Ematic | Analog conversion, USB playback, timers for recording |
Note: All devices here use OTA ATSC broadcasts and can connect to older or newer displays. They provide a variety of USB and HDMI options to fit your home theater setup while avoiding monthly cable charges.
Digital TV Converter Box, ATSC TV Tuner With Recording
The ZJBOX ATSC digital converter box receives over-the-air broadcasts and outputs to Analog and Digital TV, Projector, or Computer Monitor. It supports recording and playback via USB storage, offers a Favorite Channel List, and includes parental controls. The 1080p output ensures full HD viewing, and features like Auto Tuning, timing start/shut down, and on-device media playback (photos, MP3s, videos) add flexibility for OTA viewing without cable.
TaiHuai HDMI To RCA Converter For Older TVs
This HDMI to RCA converter enables connecting modern HDMI devices (like Fire Stick, Roku, Apple TV, or Android TV boxes) to older TVs with RCA inputs. It supports PAL/NTSC output formats and is designed for quick plug-and-play use. If a TV shows black-and-white output, switching between NTSC and PAL via the N/P switch can help. A USB power supply (5V/1A) is typically required for operation.
Mediasonic HW135STB Digital TV Converter Box
The HW135STB from Mediasonic adds 1080p HDMI output, Clear QAM, and real-time recording capabilities. It includes a large remote control, a 3 ft HDMI cable, a front display panel, and compatibility with external hard drives up to 4TB via USB. This model emphasizes reliable reception, convenient scheduling, and the ability to watch unscrambled cable channels through Clear QAM.
Mediasonic HW250STB Digital Converter Box
The HW250STB is designed for a robust home theater setup with a front display, 1080p HDMI output, and support for external hard drives up to 4TB. It has improved remote control and includes a 5 ft HDMI cable. It also supports Clear QAM for watching unscrambled cable channels and provides multiple outputs (HDMI, Component, and Coaxial) for flexible connections.
Ematic Digital TV Converter Box With Recording, AT103B
The Ematic AT103B offers recording and playback from USB drives, with Parental Controls and a simple USB multimedia experience. It converts digital broadcasts to analog TVs, supports real-time recording or timer-based recording, and can play videos, music, and view photos from USB storage. This model focuses on ease of use and family-friendly features.
Ematic Digital TV Converter Box With Recording
Another Ematic model emphasizes converting digital broadcasts to analog, with built-in recording, and USB-based media playback. Users can watch saved programs from USB drives, and the device enables set timers to record programs. The non-retail packaging is common for bulk shipments and refurbishments, while maintaining core functionality.
Ematic Digital TV Converter Box With Recording And Parental Controls
This Ematic model combines recording, playback from USB, and parental controls. It converts digital broadcasts to analog, supports time-shift features for pausing live TV, and provides a straightforward interface for families seeking safe, offline viewing without cable subscriptions.
Buying Guide
- OTA reception quality: Look for devices with strong tuners and reliable auto-tuning features to lock in free broadcasts from local stations.
- Output options: HDMI is ideal for modern TVs, but RCA/AV outputs help older sets. Ensure the device supports the inputs you have (HDMI, RCA, Coaxial).
- Recording and storage: If you want to save programs, choose models with USB media support or external HDD compatibility and verify maximum drive size and file formats.
- TV compatibility: Consider Clear QAM support if you plan to view unscrambled cable channels; this widens content options beyond OTA only.
- Remote and interface: A responsive remote, on-screen display, and easy channel management improve daily use, especially for households with multiple viewers.
- Parental controls: For families, ensure the device offers channel restrictions and password protection.
- Power and setup: Check USB-powered vs. external adapters, and whether the device auto-tunes channels to minimize manual searching.
- Size and aesthetics: If placing near a TV or in a media cabinet, consider the device’s footprint and footprint-friendly design.