Can you record on a smart TV? If this question crossed your mind, then you may have already missed an episode or two of your favourite programme.
Don’t worry because this problem happens to many people.
We often get caught up in our daily lives that we forget tuning into our awaited shows.
But now, smart TVs have transformed the way we live with their ability to save TV programmes.
Below, we will discuss some of the must-know facts for setting up your smart TV. We will also teach you how to record shows with our step-by-step tutorial.
Can You Record On A Smart TV: The Must-Know Facts
When answering the question, can you record programmes on a smart TV?, we must be aware of its available features.
On top of that, we must also know the requirements needed to save a show successfully.
Can Smart TVs Record Programmes?
Aside from its ability to download applications through the internet, smart TVs also have built-in recorders. Generally, LG televisions call their recording function as Time Machine.
Meanwhile, Samsung refers to theirs as TimeShift. But no matter what their names are, these two programmes function similarly.
With this high-end function, you can now save any show at your convenience. You can also pause and rewind your recordings anytime you want.
But what if you still don’t have enough time to record your awaited programmes manually? Don’t worry because smart TVs also give you the option to schedule your recordings.
What to Consider Before Recording?
Before recording your awaited shows, make sure to consider the following factors.
Doing so will allow you to get the most out of your smart TV.
Disk Storage
Most smart TVs come with limited memory. On average, the boxes sold in the market only have as much as 8 GB.
So, recording an episode or two of your awaited programme is best done with an external recording device.
External Storage Devices
When it comes to recording your awaited programmes, you would need to use any of the following external devices:
1. USB Flash Drive
USB flash drives are the most popular recording device. They are often the most affordable and allow you to record as much as 32 GB.
But to successfully use these USBs, you would need to reformat them before you can save a programme.
2. External Hard Drive
If you are looking for more storage for your recordings, you can go for an external hard drive. A regular smart TV allows you to record 2 TB worth of shows with this device.
3. Personal/Digital Video Recorder (PVR or DVR)
Generally, USB flash drives and external hard drives only store your recordings temporarily. So, if you want more permanent storage, you can purchase a PVR. However, this device is often expensive in the market.
4. DVD Player
Although DVD players have long been gone, they can record up to 4.7 GB worth of data to a DVD. So, if you have a spare one at home, don’t throw it out yet because that may come in handy.
Programmes You Can Record
Smart TVs allow you to record a ton of programmes. Whether it be live shows, sports programmes, or movies, you no longer have to worry about missing an episode or two.
However, some applications like Netflix and YouTube prohibit you from recording
How Can I Record TV Shows To Watch Later
Recording your favourite programmes allows you to perform your daily activities without worrying about missing an episode.
Here, we will teach you how to save shows on four of the most popular smart TVs.
But before we go into the specifics, make sure to check whether your television supports this function.
Look out for a USB port and a REC button on your remote control. If you have these two features, then we are good to go.
How to Record on LG Smart TV
Are you wondering how to record on LG smart TV? Then check out the steps below to find out:
- Insert your USB drive to your television.
- Afterwards, press the Q. Menu button on your magic remote control.
- On the Screen Remote menu, click on the Timer button. You should see the Progress Bar by now.
- Select Options, and then go to the Time Machine settings.
- Click on the USB Device Initialization menu and follow the instructions.
- Once completed, press the REC button on your remote.
To watch your recordings, you can go to the SmartShare menu. Look for the Recordings list on the Devices option and click on your recorded shows.
How to Record on Panasonic TV
If you are a Panasonic user, make sure to follow the step-by-step guide below:
- Insert your USB drive to your television.
- Afterwards, press the Menu button on your remote and select Set-Up.
- Click the USB Device Set-Up option and format your USB drive by following the instructions.
- Next, press the Guide button on your remote control.
- Select a programme on the list and press OK.
- Once you see the Time Listing menu, press OK again and confirm. You should see an orange light on your television to know whether your recording is in progress.
While your recording is in progress, you can switch channels and even turn off your television.
If you want to watch your saved shows, click on the APPS button on your remote control. Select Media Player, then Recorded TV to see a list of your recordings.
How to Record on Sony TV
For Sony users, you can record programmes to your external storage by following these steps:
- Insert your USB drive to your television.
- Press HOME on your remote control and go to System Settings.
- Choose the Recording Set-Up option and then select HDD Registration.
- Once completed, go to any programme and press the REC button on your remote control.
To watch your recordings, click on the Title List button on your remote control. You will then see all your saved programmes.
How To Record On Samsung TV
Samsung also follows a pretty straightforward way of recording programmes.
The steps are as follows:
- Insert your USB drive to your television.
- Go to the programme you want to record and press the REC button.
- Select Proceed on the performance test.
- Your recording will then start automatically.
If you want to watch your recordings, press the Source button on your remote control and choose your USB drive. You will then see your available recordings.
Can You Record On A Smart TV: Our Verdict
Recording shows on your smart TV allows you to go about your daily activities without any worries.
Now, you can even program your television to save your awaited programs on particular hours of the day. But to do so, you would need external storage.
Whether you use a flash drive or a handy hard drive, recording shows is pretty straightforward. You only need to insert your USB and then press record on your remote.
If you want a long term solution for your TV recordings, we recommend to purchase a PVR . Nonetheless, whatever your choice is, make sure to consider your device’s storage and price.
Read Next: Check out our guide on recording on your Freeview.
Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites.