Looking for a company service that will convert your old VHS to digital format? We cover the best ones based on their customer reviews, features, etc.
Top 5 Services for Digitizing VHS Tapes, Films, Videos, and Photos in 2024
- Last Update - May, 2024
Do you have a bunch of old VHS tapes lying around with videos from your wedding, family trips, or other things you’ve filmed?
These old tapes have our special memories on them, but they can get ruined over time. Plus, it’s getting harder to find something to play them on.
A good solution is to turn these VHS tapes into digital files. But doing this yourself can be tricky, and you might need to buy special equipment.
An easier way is to have a company service do it for you. But how do you know which company is the best?
That’s where we can help. We’ve looked at the 5 best VHS to digital services out there and figured out which one is the best, so you don’t have to do all that work yourself.
So, let’s dive in and get started!
Summary of Our Top Picks
EDITOR’S PICK
iMemories
They provide their customers with a free quote, free image enhancements, free UPS shipping, excellent prices and many more.
Get Up To 50% Off
RUNNER UP
Legacybox
They are almost as good as iMemories when it comes to turning VHS into digital files, but they’re not quite there.
BEST PHOTOS & VIDEOS BACKUP DEVICE
ThePhotoStick Omni
Omni is the ultimate all-in-one backup device. The software is easy to use, and it works with all devices.
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Comparison of the Best Photo Sticks
When evaluating the best services for digitizing VHS tapes, films, videos, and photos, consider these key features to guide your selection:
Range of Formats Supported: A top-tier service should be able to handle a wide variety of media formats, from old VHS tapes and film reels to slides and photographs, ensuring all your memories can be preserved, regardless of their original format.
Digitization Quality: Look for services that offer high-resolution digitization, capturing the detail and color accuracy of your originals. This includes professional-grade equipment and techniques that can enhance and restore your media to its former glory.
Storage and Accessibility Options: The best services provide flexible storage solutions, such as cloud storage for easy access and sharing, as well as physical options like DVDs or thumb drives for those who prefer tangible copies or wish to gift them.
Simplicity and Convenience: The service process should be user-friendly, from sending in your media to receiving your digitized content. Services that offer straightforward, hassle-free experiences are often more reliable and customer-centric.
Safety and Security: Given the irreplaceable nature of personal media, a service must prioritize the secure handling and return of original materials. This includes careful shipping, tracking, and handling procedures to ensure your memories are protected throughout the process.
Additional Services: Features like image enhancement, color correction, digital restoration, and customizable organization options add value, offering a more personalized and refined outcome.
Customer Service and Support: Responsive and helpful customer support is crucial, providing peace of mind and assistance throughout the digitization process, from initial inquiries to receiving your digitized media.
Evaluating these features will help you choose a digitization service that not only meets your needs but also ensures your cherished memories are preserved with the care and quality they deserve.
Comparison Table
Dive into our detailed comparison table below, designed to streamline your decision-making process when selecting the best service for digitizing VHS tapes. This table lays out the key attributes and offerings of various digitization services side by side, enabling you to assess and pick the option that best suits your requirements for preserving your cherished memories.
| Service |
iMemories |
Legacybox | Southtree | Walgreens | ScanMyPhotos |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Where to buy |
|||||
|
Shipping kit (box) |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
|
Free repairs (splicing) |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
Average turnaround time |
2-3 weeks |
10-12 weeks |
10-12 weeks |
3-4 weeks |
4-8 weeks |
|
|
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
||
|
|
3.6 |
n/a |
2.3 |
||
|
|
n/a |
2.6 |
n/a |
3.5 |
|
|
Video tapes |
Betamax, VHS, VHS-C, 8mm, Hi8, Digital 8, MiniDV, MicroMini, DVDs, MiniDVDs |
VHS, VHS-C, Mini-DV, Hi8, Digital 8, MicroMV, Betamax, 8mm Video Cassette |
VHS, VHS-C, MiniDV, Hi8, Digital 8, MicroMV, Beta, PAL to NTSC |
Betamax, VHS, VHS-C, 8mm, Hi8, Digital 8, MiniDV, MicroMini, DVDs, MiniDVDs |
VHS, mini VHS, VHS-C, Hi8 NTSC format tapes |
|
Film |
8mm, 16mm, Super 8 |
16mm, 8mm, Super 8, Regular 8 |
16mm, 8mm, Super 8 |
8mm, Super 8mm, 16mm |
8mm, 16mm, Super8 |
|
Photos |
Photos, Negatives, Slides |
Prints, 35mm Negatives, 35mm/126 slides |
Prints, Slides, Negatives |
Photos, Negatives, Slides |
Photos, slides, negatives |
|
Audio |
N/A |
Reel to Reel, Audio Cassette, Micro-Cassette |
Cassette, Reel to Reel |
N/A |
N/A |
Note: Legacybox charges $5.99 for digital file download while iMemories does not.
#1 Best Rated Memories Digitizing Services
iMemories
Pros:
- Our #1 Most Popular Choice
- The Original Digitizing Company Trusted By Millions
- Convert EVERY Type Of Format to Digital
- Free Restores Dull, Faded, Discolored and Degraded Film and Photos
- Sort And Organize Everything For You! Free Enhancements
- Fastest in the Industry, Order Completed in 2-3 Weeks
- Free Quote, Free Shipping, Free Repairs & Scene Edits
- 100% Safe & Reliable. All Original Files Returned
- Protects Your Memories Security and Privacy
- Fair and Reasonable with No Hidden Fees
- Share & Enjoy Your Digital Memories On Any Device
- Competitive, Fair Pricing & Never Any Hidden Fees
Cons:
- Some customers report the iMemories shipping kit being too small for bigger orders.
Convert Your Home Movies & Photos To Digital!
Get ready to enjoy your most cherished memories like never before! We professionally convert all of your home movies and photos into a digital format so you can easily view, share, and enjoy them on every device.
1,000,000+ Happy Customers
“OUTSTANDING”
9.7
I did this!! I was so nervous to send the only video I had of my son that had tragically died 14 yrs ago. But I really wanted a better way to preserve them than on an old vcr tape. The process was safe and fast. Every step of the way I knew where my tapes were and it gave me peace of mind. Even when they mailed it back. I highly recommend iMemories. I will be using them again soon.
Jessica Aragon
Verified Purchase
Exclusive Discount: 50% Off
LegacyBox
Pros:
- Professionally Digitize Tapes, Photos, Reels & Audios
- Converts VHS, Betamax, Mini DV, Hi8, 8mm Video Cassettes
- Converts Photo Prints, Negatives And More
- Has Four Pricing Options
- Digital Files On DVD, Thumb Drive, Or Download Link
- Real-Time Customized Digitizing Updates
Cons:
- Approximately 10 - 12 Week Turnaround Time
- Expensive
- No Free Repair Service
Like iMemories, Legacybox stands out as a mail-in digitization service with over a decade of experience in transforming old memories into future-proof digital formats. They are dedicated to professional digitization, where every item is meticulously hand-digitized by a skilled team of over 200 employees.
“GREAT”
9.1
Great memories came alive! Great job!
Taylor B.
Verified Purchase
ScanMyPhotos
Pros:
- Offers individual photos, videotapes and old film digitization and also conversion box options
- Ideal for photo scanning and photo restoration
- Easy online ordering process
- Positive customer reviews and ratings
Cons:
- Main Business is Photo Scanning
- Extra charge for additional items
- Approximately 2 - 8 Week Turnaround Time
ScanMyPhotos shines as the go-to expert in digitizing photos, slides, and negatives.
“EXCELLENT”
9.0
I've used this company in the past for photo scanning and they were great. Recently, I made an error on my order and they took great care of me.
June
Verified Purchase
SouthTree Digitizing
Pros:
- Tapes: VHS, VHS-C, MiniDV, Hi8, Digital 8, MicroMV, Beta, Pal to NTSC.
- Detailed digitizing process with various storage options
- Ensures safety of originals
- 10 years of experience
Cons:
- Approximately 10 - 12 Week Turnaround Time
- Pricing is higher compared to some alternative services
Southtree has been turning old memories into digital files for more than 10 years. They have over 200 trained people who carefully transfer your VHS tapes and pictures into digital form.
Walgreens
Pros:
- Preview Online and Direct to DVD or Blu-ray.
- Ensures safety of originals
- High customer satisfaction
- 30 days of free online
Cons:
- No Free Repair Service
- Pricing is higher compared to some alternative services
Walgreens will digitize videotapes, movie film, photos, slides, and negatives. They will also transfer already digitized media from an SD card or USB drive to DVDs or Blu-ray discs for easy viewing on your TV.
ThePhotoStick Omni
Pros:
- HUGE storage capacity - Holds up to 102,400 photos and videos (32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB)
- User friendly - Super easy to use and works with FREE app
- USB 3.0 interface for up to 4.8 Gbps transfer rate
- It finds your data automatically even if you forget where exactly on earth its placed
- Don’t worry about monthly fees because there are none
- The compact design and universal adaptor make it perfect for taking photos on the go
- Compatible with all devices like PC, Mac, iPhone/iPad, and Android
- One-click backup. Organizes your files neatly into folders so they're easy to find
- Risk-free - Offers 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
Cons:
- You can only buy this from the company’s official website because it’s not sold in stores
- Must Download ThePhotoStick Omni App Before Using On Mobile Devices
Find & Protect ALL Your Memories In ONE Click!
The PhotoStick® OMNI automatically finds, sorts, and saves up to 60,000 photos and videos across all your devices with just ONE click.
Over 1.5 Million People Use ThePhotoStick® OMNI
“OUTSTANDING”
9.5
I have tried other flash drives to store my pictures. None of them worked. Or I should say, I could not figure out how to get them to work. The Omni PhotoStick is easy to use and stores lots of photos. I like that it is portable and I can use it anywhere I go. This makes it nice to share numerous photos with family and friends. It is also handy in copying photos to family or friends phones or computers for their enjoyment. This is a product you should have.
Michael K.
Verified Purchase
Exclusive Discount: 40% Off
iMemories
Best Memories Digitizing Services
- Our #1 Most Popular Choice
- The Original Digitizing Company Trusted By Millions
- Convert EVERY Type Of Format to Digital
- Free Restores Dull, Faded, Discolored and Degraded Film and Photos
- Sort And Organize Everything For You! Free Enhancements
- Fastest in the Industry, Order Completed in 2-3 Weeks
- Free Quote, Free Shipping, Free Repairs & Scene Edits
- 100% Safe & Reliable. All Original Files Returned
- Protects Your Memories Security and Privacy
- Fair and Reasonable with No Hidden Fees
- Share & Enjoy Your Digital Memories On Any Device
- Competitive, Fair Pricing & Never Any Hidden Fees
Committed To Quality
Imemories digitized over 100 million memories over the past 17 years and have never lost or damaged one. They control every step of the process to ensure your physical memories are handled with care and make it back to you safely.
World Class Customer Support
They’re real humans, they’re quick to help you, and they really enjoy talking to you. Over 7000+ / Verified 5-star Reviews
Professionally Digitized
The iMemories team skillfully restores your memories, ensuring they look as good as new. Their easy-to-use interface simplifies file management, and the iMemories app offers instant access for downloading and sharing your memories in excellent quality.
What Makes iMemories Our Number One Pick?
For those seeking a reliable service to convert treasured analog memories into digital formats, iMemories, with its 15 years of expertise, emerges as a prominent choice. Specializing in the digitization of a wide array of media types, iMemories has established itself as a trusted name in the industry.
Prioritizing the safety of your valuable media, iMemories introduces its SafeShip kit – a robust, crush-proof container complete with protective packaging and a prepaid shipping label, ensuring your memories are transported securely. Alternatively, customers have the flexibility to use their own shipping containers.
The scope of iMemories’ services is broad, encompassing the conversion of various formats such as VHS tapes, vintage films, photos, slides, negatives, DVDs, and MiniDVDs. What sets iMemories apart is their commitment to not only preserving but also enhancing your media. They offer specialized restoration services, capable of rejuvenating and repairing media, including mending broken video tapes and aged films, without any loss of footage. This attention to detail and care in handling delicate media is a standout feature that distinguishes iMemories in the realm of digitization services.
After trying out their services, it was clear to us that this company will take the top spot on our list.
In addition, iMemories is on Fast Company’s 2023 list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies! This means their service is world-class and you can be assured that you’ll get the best experience choosing iMemories to “foreverize” your memories.
Comprehensive Services Offered
iMemories can digitize virtually any format of old media, including VHS tapes, film reels, photographs, and slides. Their ability to handle such a diverse array of media types ensures that all your cherished memories can be preserved in digital form.
They can digitize a wide range of media formats, including:
+ Videotapes: VHS, MiniDV, Digital 8, 8mm, MicroMini, Hi8, VHS-C, Betamax
+ Movie Films: 8mm, Super 8, 16mm (with and without sound)
+ Photos: Photo prints, negatives, and slides
+ Digital Media: DVDs and MiniDVD
High-Quality Digitization Process
iMemories streamlines the digitization process, offering a hassle-free experience from start to finish. Their SafeShip kit, equipped with waterproof bags and shock-resistant cushions, ensures the safe and easy transport of your tapes and photos. With a prepaid FedEx label included, all you need to do is pack and send your items.
There’s no need for labeling or sorting; iMemories takes care of that. They provide multiple options for receiving your digitized memories: as a digital download, on a custom DVD, a USB drive, or via their cloud service. Plus, with a quick turnaround time of just two to three weeks, iMemories stands out for its efficiency in preserving your cherished moments.
Beyond basic digitization, iMemories offers additional features such as cloud storage, social media integration, and the ability to create custom slideshows, enhancing the overall experience of reliving your digitized memories.
How Does iMemories Work?
Using iMemories is incredibly easy and safe With 3 Steps — it’s a big part of the reason why they’ve become the leader in preserving photos and videos!
Step 1: Selection and Sending
Begin by gathering all your old memories and select the ones you want to digitize. Once your selection is made, create an account online with iMemories. You can then choose to order their SafeShip kit or use your own box to send your media.
Step 2: Quotation and Approval
Upon receiving your media, iMemories will conduct an inspection and provide a free, no-obligation quote. If you agree with the quoted price, approve it, and the iMemories team will commence the digitization process.
Step 3: Digitization and Updates
iMemories keeps you informed throughout the process. You can track your order’s progress on the Order Status page and receive email updates, notifying you when:
+ iMemories receives your movies and photos
+ You approve and pay for your order
+ The digitization process begins
+ Your digitization is completed
+ Your digitized DVDs, USBs, and original media are shipped back
+ Notifications regarding your iMemories Cloud access
Note on Turnaround Time Keep in mind that the entire digitization process with iMemories can take 2-3 weeks, from receiving your media to returning them in digital format. This wait ensures your precious memories are preserved with the utmost quality and care.
What We Love About iMemories
+ You’re Memories Are Safe – they’ve digitized 15 million memories and never lost or damaged one!
+ You Can View Your Memories Anywhere – enjoy your memories on every modern device (apple and android): TV, laptop, smartphone, tablet, and more.
+ They Give You a FREE No Obligation Quote – get a fixed price to convert all your memories before you buy!
+ They Retouch & Enhance for FREE – their expert technicians restore your memories to look as good as new!
+ They Label & Organize Everything for FREE – makes it so easy to navigate and manage your files.
+ You Can Share Your Memories – quickly and easily share your memories with family & friends by text, email, Facebook, and more!
+ All Originals Are Returned – after memories are digitized, they are safely & quickly shipped back to you!
iMemories Pricing And Where to Buy Imemories
As of time of writing this article, iMemories is offering a Limited Time Offer of 50% on digital conversion pricing.
Conversion of Videotapes normally costs $29.99 but now it’s only $14.99 per vhs tape and the same thing is with Movies films which is $14.99 per 50ft.
Photos are normally $0.99 but it’s now $0.49 per photo.
The Clear Winner: Best Services, Convenience, and Pricing!
If you want to save yourself hundreds of hours sorting and converting your family memories or if you’re seeking a safe way to preserve your photos, videos, and more from disaster, then we can’t recommend iMemories enough. No other service is nearly as easy, affordable, and reliable!
Get Your Memories Protected and Preserved Today!Best Deal: iMemories currently offers 50% OFF their special shipping box!
I hope this review of the Digitizing Services has helped you determine if this service for digitizing memories is the right option for you.
Written By Nick W.
Nick graduated with a degree in journalism and spent years building his writing career in the tech media field. An avid fan of gadgets and tech in general, Nick has spent years testing and reviewing a wide array of devices. He specializes in reviewing everything from laptops and smartphones to more niche items like smart home devices and security cameras.
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