How do USB digital TV tuners work?

USB TV tuners act as antennas for your monitor, PC, or laptop, letting you watch free TV channels on devices even if you don't have a cable provider. The process of getting it to work is pretty simple, all you need to do is plug into a USB port and you'll be watching TV before you know it.

Can you use a USB TV tuner with a monitor?

Unfortunately, it's not possible to use a TV tuner without a monitor. A TV tuner isn't a streaming device like a Chromecast. Even if your monitor has a USB port, you'll still need to put your laptop or PC in order to make it work.

What USB TV tuners work with NextPVR?

NextPVR is a personal video recorder program for Windows, Linux, and Mac. It allows you to watch and record live TV. If you want to use it with a USB TV tuner, it's just a matter of getting it properly installed and configured , then using the TV tuner of your choice. As long as your USB TV tuner works with your laptop or PC, it should work alright with NextPVR.

Best Products > Computer Components

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The 3 Best USB TV Tuners of 2023

Watch free TV on your computer

By

David Beren

Updated on March 6, 2023

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Computer Components

The best USB TV tuners allow you to watch television on your computer for free. You can easily watch TV on the go or bounce from room to room without missing a second of your favorite programs.

The Rundown

Best Overall:

AVerMedia Volar Hybrid Q USB TV Tuner at Amazon

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Best for Multitasking:

Hauppauge WinTV-DualHD Dual USB 2.0 HD TV Tuner at Amazon

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Best for Tablets & Phones:

ATSC TV Tuner at Walmart

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Amazon

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The AVerMedia AVerTV Volar Hybrid Q USB TV tuner is a standout option that supports Windows computers and Android TVs. Compatible with ClearQAM, analog, OTA FM Radio, and ATSC, the AVerTV is a feature-rich choice that doesn't cost a fortune.

With intelligent features such as picture-in-picture, smart channel grouping, time shift, closed captioning, and an available electronic program guide, the AVerTV has everything you need to duplicate traditional cable. The extendable High Gain antenna is powerful enough to allow for smooth streaming of digital TV channels and strong FM radio reception.

Connecting your analog devices through a composite cable or S-Video input allows for even more videos with alternative digital formatting. It hooks up to the PC via USB and adds DVR software directly onto Android and iOS devices with the downloadable app (no file conversion required). The intuitive user interface makes navigating channels, adjusting volume, or selecting live TV a breeze.

Hauppauge-wintv-dualhd-dual-usb-20-hd-tv-tuner

Amazon

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Plugging directly into the USB port on your Windows computer, the Hauppauge WinTV-DualHD USB TV tuner is an excellent choice for viewers who want to enjoy multiple channels simultaneously. The Dual TV lets users select one channel to watch and allows them to record another at the same time. Another possibility is having two simultaneous streams open simultaneously, thanks to picture-in-picture.

A portable TV antenna for increased signal reception and remote control, a USB extension cable, and an activation code for the WinTV Windows application are included. Once installed, buyers can enjoy over-the-air ATSC HDTV and ClearQAM digital cable TV in full HD quality (even in full screen). You also can schedule to record digital programming. It's compatible with Plex Media Server software, meaning users can also upload shows to Linux and Android devices, including the NVIDIA Shield.

Walmart

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The ATSC Android Digital TV tuner is a rare breed. It's built to work with Android devices, turning them into standalone portable TVs. It can work with smartphones and tablets as long as they run Android 5.1 and newer. The tuner connects to an antenna so you can watch broadcast TV shows on your device without paying for a streaming service. The included antenna offers solid reception and doesn't require an additional power supply or battery.

FAQ

How do USB digital TV tuners work?

USB TV tuners act as antennas for your monitor, PC, or laptop, letting you watch free TV channels on devices even if you don't have a cable provider. The process of getting it to work is pretty simple, all you need to do is plug into a USB port and you'll be watching TV before you know it.
Can you use a USB TV tuner with a monitor?

Unfortunately, it's not possible to use a TV tuner without a monitor. A TV tuner isn't a streaming device like a Chromecast. Even if your monitor has a USB port, you'll still need to put your laptop or PC in order to make it work.
What USB TV tuners work with NextPVR?

NextPVR is a personal video recorder program for Windows, Linux, and Mac. It allows you to watch and record live TV. If you want to use it with a USB TV tuner, it's just a matter of getting it properly installed and configured, then using the TV tuner of your choice. As long as your USB TV tuner works with your laptop or PC, it should work alright with NextPVR.