10 Best Digital Converter Boxes 2025 in the United States

The Mediasonic HW250STB digital converter box is a solid choice for anyone looking to access ATSC digital broadcasts and enhance their TV viewing experience. One of its greatest strengths is the ability to record and pause live TV, which is a fantastic feature for those who want to catch their favorite shows without interruptions. The support for up to 4TB external hard drives for recording adds significant flexibility, allowing users to store plenty of content.

The USB multimedia function is another highlight, enabling playback of photos, music, and videos directly from a USB drive or external hard drive. The included large remote control and the clear front display make it user-friendly, especially for those not very tech-savvy. Additionally, the converter box supports 1080P HDMI output and Dolby Digital audio, ensuring a good quality viewing experience.

There are some drawbacks worth noting. The box does not support ATSC 3.0, which may limit its future-proofing as broadcasting standards evolve. Users should also be aware that a USB flash drive is not recommended for recording, which could be a limitation for some. While the Clear QAM function is beneficial for watching unscrambled cable channels, it may not appeal to everyone, especially those who primarily rely on streaming services. The Mediasonic HW250STB is best suited for those who want an efficient and functional way to convert digital signals, record content, and enjoy multimedia playback.

The Mediasonic HomeWorx HW135STB digital TV converter box is a robust option for anyone looking to convert digital signals for their analog and digital TVs, projectors, or computer monitors. Key strengths include its signal compatibility with Over-The-Air ATSC Digital Broadcast and Clear QAM for unscrambled cable channels, making it versatile for various signal types. The box supports 1080P HDMI output and Dolby Digital Audio, ensuring high-quality video and sound output. It also includes a large remote control for ease of use and a display panel that shows channel and sub-channel numbers, enhancing user experience.

The recording capability allows you to record and pause live TV, although it requires an external USB 2.0 or 3.0 hard drive, and the USB flash drive is not recommended for this purpose. This feature, combined with the USB multimedia function for playing back photos, music, and videos, adds great value. However, there are some drawbacks. The device does not include a 5V charger or AAA batteries for the remote, which means you will need to use your TV’s USB port or purchase a separate power adapter.

Additionally, it doesn't work as a TV tuner or recorder when connected directly to a computer. While it offers parental controls and firmware updates, these features are less highlighted. The absence of an included power adapter and batteries might be inconvenient for some users. The Mediasonic HomeWorx HW135STB is particularly suitable for users who want to enhance their TV viewing experience with high-quality video and audio, as well as recording and multimedia playback capabilities.

The ZJBOX Digital Converter Box is a solid choice for anyone looking to convert ATSC broadcast signals for their TV, especially if you have a wall-mounted setup. With its HDMI output and support for 1080P HD, it delivers good picture quality, and the included HDMI and 3RCA cables mean you won’t need to buy extras. Its compact design allows it to be discreetly placed behind your TV, which is a nice touch for maintaining a tidy appearance.

The two-in-one remote is another standout feature, as it simplifies control by allowing you to manage both the converter box and your TV with a single device. The programmable buttons are a convenient way to customize your viewing experience, although it does require some initial setup.

Recording capabilities are impressive, enabling you to schedule recordings and save your favorite shows or movies on external drives, making it a great option for binge-watchers. It supports external hard drives of up to 4TB, which is quite generous. The electronic program guide (EPG) adds further convenience by helping you navigate shows easily. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The reliance on infrared for remote control may limit usability if there are obstructions between the remote and the box. Additionally, while the media playback feature is versatile, performance can vary depending on the file formats and sizes. Some users may experience compatibility issues with certain formats, so checking beforehand is advisable. Lastly, while the customer service is promising with a return policy and quality guarantee, some users might still prefer more extensive warranty coverage. The ZJBOX Digital Converter Box is well-suited for basic TV viewing and recording needs, making it ideal for casual viewers looking to upgrade their television setup.