A Comparison of TiVO & DVRs

by Cynthia Tucker, Demand Media

TiVo users can upload photos to Photobucket and view them on their TV screen.

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A TiVo is a type of Digital Video Recorder, and was one of the first of its type available to consumers. Cable companies began offering a scaled down version of the TiVo, which are known simply as DVRs. A DVR from the cable company replaces your cable box. TiVo has all the functions of a cable DVR box, with additional features available that turn it into a multimedia center.

Web

TiVo and most DVR services allow scheduling recordings online. If you forget to schedule a program before you leave the house, you can schedule it anywhere you have Internet access. In addition, TiVo also provides access to YouTube, where you can watch the videos directly on your TV. TiVo allows access to Web-based photo services such as Photobucket and Picasa. DVRs don't have these additional functions.

Music

Both TiVo and DVRs allow users to listen to music on cable channels. TiVo also allows access to streaming music services. Streaming services include Pandora, Rhapsody and Live365. TiVo also allows users to play the music from their computer library by using TiVo desktop software. Using your TVs speakers can provide a more pleasurable listening experience.

Live TV

Users can record live TV in high definition using both TiVo and a DVR. Both generally allow the control of live TV using the fast-forward, rewind and pause functions. Users can often record two shows at once on a TV. DVRs allow users to watch one program and record another.

Movies

DVRs provide access to Movies On Demand, but the selection is limited. TiVo provides more options by allowing access to Movies on Demand as well as movies and TV shows from services such as Blockbuster, Netflix, Hulu Plus and Amazon. Netflix and Hulu Plus services require a subscription. Users can purchase or rent movies or TV shows from Blockbuster or Amazon without a subscription.

Cost

Most cable companies rent DVRs to their customers for less than $10 a month. Users must purchase a TiVo, which can run anywhere from $99 to $299, plus a monthly service fee for $19.99 a month, at the time of publication. Users can avoid the monthly fee by purchasing a lifetime service for $499. The lifetime service is only good for the life of the TiVo box, not the life of the subscriber.

References

  • TiVo: Features
  • TiVo: Pricing
  • Def Efx: TiVo Vs Cable Company DVR

About the Author

Cynthia Tucker has been writing since 1999. She owns a company that specializes in ghostwriting and editing services. She writes on topics such as finance, fitness, relationships, self-help, and spirituality. Tucker holds a Master of Arts in Biblical studies from Saint Pete Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of South Florida.

Photo Credits

  • Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images