Can I Record TV Shows Without a DVR? How?

Honestly, DVR is the one of the best solutions to record live TV programs. But if you don't have one, there are several ways to record TV shows without a DVR. 

Way 1. Use a USB Stick.

Most TV models from main manufacturers (like Samsung, Sony, Hisense etc.,) add the USB recording feature. Make sure that your TV supports recording programs via USB, and follow the steps to set up USB recording.

1. Connect the USB stick to your TV.
2. Format the USB stick to a supported file system if required.
3. Follow the on-screen menu and use your TV remote to find the TV show you want to record.
4. Simply press the Record button on your remote to record TV shows or use the timer function for schedule recording.

Way 2. Use Streaming Services with Cloud DVR

Nowadays, some streaming services with built-in cloud DVR functionality offer the app for smart TVs, for example, YouTube TV, Hulu with Live TV, Sling TV. Using them, you can easily record live TVs shows without DVR.

1. Install compatible streaming services that offer Cloud DVR on your TV.
2. Subscribe a plan to access the recording feature.
3. Launch the app and follow the instruction to search and record the desired TV shows.

Way 3. Use MediaPortal for PC

MediaPortal is an open-source media center and TV recorder for Windows. It allows you to watch, schedule and record live TV on a PC.

1. Download and install MediaPortal on your PC.
2. Go to TV Server Configuration to set up a TV tuner card or USB Stick.
3. Search the program you want to record. Select Record to record the program immediately.
4. Otherwise, select Record series or Schedule recording to record a TV show at a specific time.

Alternative Way. Use Screen Recorder for PC

Besides TV, you can watch live TV programs and sports with streaming services. A reliable free screen recorder offers the most cost-effective solution to save favorite TV shows from any streaming service. iTop Screen Recorder is one the most recommended choice that can help you record any TV show while keeping original quality for FREE.

1. Download and install iTop Screen Recorder on your PC.

Free Screen Recorder for PC

Record screen, webcam, audio and gameplay with ease. Create high-quality screen recordings with no lags and fps drops.

Free Download For Windows 7 and later

2. Go to Record > Screen. Select recording area and turn on Speaker. 

3. Open the program you want to record in browser or app. Press CTRL and click REC button at the same time to record the TV show without black screen.

4. Click Done button to stop recording. The recorded video is saved to Files > Video. From here, you can play or edit it to get better viewing experience.