Alternative to the DirecTV DVR

If you are fond of using a satellite television company, an easy alternative to DirecTV's service is Dish Network, which uses similar technology to deliver television programming into your home. Dish Network's DVR service has five recorder box options, VIP 922 DVR, DuoDVR 625, DuoDVR VIP 722k, Solo DVR VIP 612 and Solo DVR VIP 612 (SD/DVR). Each of the five options allow the basic DVR functions (recording, scanning, saving) as well as hardware specific functions based on your needs. For example, DuoDVR systems allow you to have DVR functions on two independent TV's.

Your local cable TV provider is another alternative to DirecTV DVR. The primary difference between DVR offered by a cable company and DirecTV is the technology used to deliver television programming to your home. Cable uses physical lines that carry a television signal as opposed to the over-the-air signals sent by DirecTV's satellites. Cable technology is less expensive than satellite, which means lower subscription fees. Cable DVR functions just like DirecTV DVR, allowing you to record, scan and save shows for viewing at any time.

Internet TV is a rising form of home entertainment that uses the widening availability of television programming and movies available online to offer the benefits of cable and satellite TV through the Internet. Television programming isn't broadcast on the Internet but is offered "on demand" like shows recorded with DirecTV DVR, which makes it convenient to watch at your leisure. There are two primary ways to access Internet TV: with bundled media hardware such as Apple TV and Google TV or with a computer connected to a Internet enabled computer or laptop.

TiVo is a third-party company that provides digital television technology to its customers. The core of TiVo is the web-enabled TiVo DVR box that combines recording and saving features with Internet TV. TiVo works as a stand alone service (purchase of TiVo box and service subscription required) or as an addition to your cable or DirecTV service. TiVo's DVR features work with HuluPlus, Netflix and the television programming provided by your cable or satellite TV provider.