iMemories vs. Legacybox 2024: Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Digitizing Service
- Last Update - May 2024
Discover the Ideal Solution for Your Memories: In-Depth Comparison and Expert Insights on iMemories and Legacybox
In our quest to preserve cherished memories from the past, we often face the challenge of outdated formats and obsolete equipment. In today’s fast-paced world, finding functional devices compatible with older media formats is not only difficult but also risky, as they can potentially damage irreplaceable memories. Understanding the importance of safeguarding these precious moments, we delve into a comprehensive analysis of the leading solutions in content preservation. The vulnerability of physical media over time is a concern for many, yet the prospect of securely backing up these memories brings a sense of relief.
Acknowledging this concern, I embarked on a mission to identify the most reliable service for converting old media into newer, more durable digital formats. This journey led me to iMemories and Legacybox, two renowned names in the digitization industry. To assist you in making an informed decision, I have crafted a detailed comparison guide between these two services, spotlighting their strengths and differences to simplify your choice in preserving your treasured memories.”
iMemories and Legacybox Comparison Table
| iMemories | Legacybox | |
|---|---|---|
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Where to buy |
OFFICIAL WEBSITE |
OFFICIAL WEBSITE |
|
Videotape conversion |
VHS, MiniDV, Digital 8, 8mm, MicroMini, Hi8, VHS-C, Betamax |
VHS, 8mm Video Cassette, Betamax, Hi8, Digital 8, MicroMV, Mini-DV, VHS-C |
|
Film conversion |
8mm, Super 8, 16mm |
16mm, 8mm, Super 8, Regular 8 |
|
Photo conversion |
Photo prints, slides, negatives |
35mm/126 slides, prints, 35mm negatives |
|
Audio conversion |
n/a |
Reel to Reel, Micro-cassette, Audio cassette |
|
DVD transfer |
DVDs, MiniDVD |
N/a |
|
What you receive back |
DVDs, Blu-ray, Portable Hard Drive, USB Flash Drive, iMemories Cloud, Digital Download |
USB Drive, Digital Download, DVD |
|
Price |
Videotapes = $14.99 per tape |
2 item starter = $59.99 |
|
Originals return |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Trustpilot |
||
|
Sitejabber |
||
|
Yelp |
N/a |
|
|
|
n/a |
|
|
Shipping kit (box) |
Yes |
Yes |
|
iOS and Android app |
Yes |
No |
|
Free media repair and enhancement |
Yes |
No |
|
Easy edit and organize |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Shipping time |
3 to 5 days |
3 to 6 days |
|
How long does it take to digitize (turnaround time) |
2 to 3 weeks |
6 - 8 weeks |
|
Note: Legacybox charges $5.99 for digital file download while iMemories does not. |
Up Next: In-Depth Evaluations of iMemories and Legacybox
In the following sections, we delve deep into detailed assessments of both iMemories and Legacybox. These evaluations are designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of what each service offers, helping you determine which is best suited to your digitization needs. Stay tuned for an insightful and thorough exploration of both iMemories and Legacybox.
iMemories
Editor’s Rating: 4.6 /5
Convert Your Home Movies & Photos To Digital
WHAT WE LIKE
- You can mail-in in your box or order their SafeShip kit
- They accept a wide range of analog media, including digital media such as DVDs and MiniDVDs
- They include enhancements and repairs for specific media
- Plenty of options for digital copies
- Fast turnaround time
- Service prices are affordable
- Highly rated among customers
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- Some customers report the iMemories shipping kit being too small for bigger orders.
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
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.
If you have reels and boxes of old family photographs or videos stashed away, iMemories is an ideal option for bringing those memories into the digital age.
Were your parents keen on documenting family holidays and vacations? Reliving these moments through iMemories’ services offers a powerful way to reminisce about the past with family members or to reconnect with loved ones no longer with us.
While there are other services available, iMemories stands out with its trustworthy positive reviews. The company provides a convenient and easy method to send your cherished memories, specify your digitization preferences, and have them returned to you in a modern digital format. iMemories is a top choice for many, including:
+ Those who lack technical equipment or skills to convert old films into a digital format,
+ Parents who need to keep their memories for the future generation,
+ Those who want to preserve their family history,
+ Those who do not want to lose their old films or photos, and
+ Children with fun gift ideas for their parents.
Which Media Can You Send to iMemories?
If you’re looking to preserve your old memories in a digital format, iMemories can help. 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
Most customers send in old videotapes from the 1980s and 1990s, but you can also send in any film or photograph to add to your collection which matches the format that we stated above. With iMemories, you can have peace of mind that your precious memories will be preserved and ready to view for years to come.
What Can You Get Back with iMemories?
With iMemories, the return of your newly digitized memories comes with a variety of format options. You can choose to have them in DVD, USB, digital download, or accessible via the cloud. Furthermore, iMemories enhances your experience with several add-on options, such as extra DVD copies, Blu-ray, and a portable hard drive featuring a 1TB storage capacity. Opting for iMemories means not only receiving your original media back but also enjoying the flexibility to select your preferred methods for accessing and storing these precious, digitized memories.
How Much Does the iMemories Charge?
The cost of digitizing your media with iMemories varies depending on the type of format you are sending. To provide clarity and ease, they offer a free, no-obligation quote after evaluating your media, ensuring you know exactly what the costs will be. Currently, iMemories features a limited-time offer allowing you to save up to 50% on digital conversion. You can explore this offer by Click Here.
For videotapes, the pricing is straightforward – iMemories charges a flat rate of $14.99 per tape, regardless of the tape’s length. This means whether your video runs for 80 minutes or longer, the rate remains constant.
When it comes to film reels, the pricing structure changes. It costs $14.99 for every 50 feet of film tape. Additionally, the charge for each photo, slide, or negative is just $0.49. With these competitive rates, iMemories makes preserving your precious memories both affordable and convenient.
How Does iMemories Work?
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
Rest assured, your treasured memories are handled with care at iMemories.
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.
Content iMemories Does Not Accept
Some of the content that iMemories will not work on are:
Damaged and Broken Content
- Commercial footage,
- Adult content,
- Footage that violates the law, and
- Footage with illegal activities.
Handling Damaged Media A common concern is the deteriorating condition of old videos and photos. iMemories addresses this by accepting even damaged or broken media. The initial step involves a thorough cleaning process, where high-tech equipment is used to remove dingy spots and dust layers. Specialists ensure each piece of content is clear and clean before proceeding to digitization.
Repair and Combination Services For damaged movies, iMemories offers a splicing service to seamlessly reconnect broken segments. They also possess the capability to merge multiple films into a single, cohesive video. Moreover, iMemories provides free services for the most common types of media damage.
Digital Transformation and Storage Options Post-restoration, iMemories will digitally transform your old videos or pictures. You have the choice of receiving copies on DVDs or Blu-Ray discs. iMemories is dedicated to equipping you with all the necessary tools to preserve important memories.
Modern Storage Solutions In addition to digitizing and restoring old recordings, iMemories offers a contemporary storage solution for analog images. You can safely store your memories in the iMemories Cloud, accessible from anywhere in the world. This option allows you to use any smart device to access the member database, saving time when searching for specific videos or images. With iMemories, you have the freedom to select which videos and images to view at your convenience.
Legacybox
WHAT WE LIKE
- Accepts a variety of analog media, including old audio formats
- Shipping box kit included with a prepaid shipping label
- Suitable for large and small orders
- They use barcodes sticker for better monitoring of your media
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- They don't offer restoration, enhancement, or editing offered
- Higher prices compared to other services
- Longer turnaround time (around 6-8 weeks)
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.
Legacybox prides itself on its expansive 8-acre, 100,000-square-foot production facility, which they fondly refer to as “the world’s largest temple to all things analog”. This impressive space is a testament to their commitment to preserving the past through careful and professional digitization.
Which Media Type Can You Send to Legacybox?
Legacybox distinguishes itself by accepting a wide range of analog media, including various audio formats. This capability sets Legacybox apart from many digitizing services that might not accommodate audio media.
Here’s a breakdown of the specific media types you can send to Legacybox for digitization:
+ Videotapes: Including formats like VHS, VHS-C, Mini-DV, Hi8, Digital 8, MicroMV, Betamax, and 8mm Video Cassette.
+ Old Films: Covering 8mm, Super8, Regular 8, and 16mm formats.
+ Photos: Encompassing Prints, 35mm negatives, and 35mm/126 slides.
+ Audio: Reel to reel, audio cassette, and micro-cassette.
This extensive array of accepted media positions Legacybox as a versatile and comprehensive option for digital preservation of memories.
Similar to iMemories, Legacybox adheres to copyright laws and will not convert any copyrighted media unless permission is obtained from the copyright owner before sending the media for digitization.
How Does LegacyBox Work?
Step 1: Kit Selection Based on Media Quantity
Legacybox offers a unique approach to ordering digitization services. The first step involves determining the number of items you wish to digitize. Legacybox provides variously sized kits, each designed to accommodate a specific number of items. For instance, a starter kit is suitable for up to 2 items, like videotapes. In the case of photos, each item equates to 25 photos, slides, or negatives.
Step 2: Receiving and Preparing Your Kit
After selecting and purchasing a kit, Legacybox sends a package containing barcode stickers, a guide for labeling your media, and a prepaid UPS shipping label. The process is designed for easy tracking, allowing you to monitor your package's journey back to you. You'll then pack your media into the provided box, apply the barcode stickers, and drop it off at a local UPS store.
Step 3: Digitization and Delivery of Media
Once Legacybox receives your media, they take utmost care in the digitization process. It's important to note that Legacybox does not perform restoration, enhancement, or editing; the digital file's quality will depend on the original media's condition.
As for receiving your digitized media, Legacybox offers a range of options, including DVD/CD set, USB, and digital download. Unlike iMemories, Legacybox utilizes Google Drive for digital file access, offering a different approach to cloud storage.
How Long Does It Take?
The journey to digitize your memories with Legacybox, while slightly more extended than some other services, ensures that your memories are preserved with the utmost care. On average, the process takes about 6-8 weeks from the moment you send in your box until the time you receive your digitized copies. It’s important to note that this timeline might extend, especially during holiday seasons. Therefore, if you have specific plans or deadlines, it’s advisable to factor in this potential delay when planning your digitization project with Legacybox.
How Much Do the Legacybox Charge Their Services?
Legacybox’s pricing is primarily determined by the number of media items you wish to digitize. The most basic package starts at $65.98, which typically covers up to 2 videotapes or 50 photo prints. For larger volumes, the pricing can go as high as $1,179.98 for a box that accommodates forty items.
While at first glance, these rates may appear higher compared to other digitizing services, it’s important to consider that Legacybox frequently offers various discounts. These deals can significantly reduce the overall cost, making it a more attractive option for those seeking quality digitization services. To check for any current deals and discounts, Click here.
iMemories and Legacybox Side by Side
Distinguishing themselves in unique ways, both iMemories and Legacybox offer specialized digitization services, yet they cater to different needs and preferences.
iMemories: Versatility and Accessibility iMemories stands out with its 30-day free digital download offering. Users can easily log in from various devices using their email and password, offering flexibility in viewing and adding new content. Furthermore, iMemories integrates with social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, allowing for easy sharing of memories. Another notable feature is the ability to create slideshows and enhance offline viewing, as users can download photos and videos for convenient, on-demand access.
iMemories excels in handling large volumes of old media, efficiently digitizing even orders that include over 100 videotapes, movie films, and up to 10,000 photos, making it ideal for those with extensive collections.
Legacybox: Inclusive of Audio Files Legacybox differentiates itself by accepting audio files for conversion, a service not offered by iMemories. This feature makes Legacybox the preferred choice for those needing to digitize audio-only media like audio cassettes.
Choosing the Right Service If your priority is professional digitization, quick turnaround, and competitive pricing, iMemories is the recommended service. However, for audio cassette conversion, Legacybox is the better fit.
Although iMemories and Legacybox are distinct in their offerings, they both strive to provide top-notch digitization services. Ultimately, the choice between them depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to safeguarding our cherished family memories, the choices vary. You could leave your old videos and photographs tucked away in an attic, or you could opt for a more proactive approach by entrusting them to a professional digitization company. It’s essential to review the features of these companies to understand what they offer and gauge their convenience for your needs.
While both Legacybox and iMemories are commendable options in the realm of memory preservation, iMemories tends to stand out in terms of convenience and content flexibility. This distinction might be a pivotal factor for those seeking a service that aligns with diverse digitization needs and offers ease of use.
Written By Nick W.
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