4 Best Alternatives to Costco's VHS to DVD Transfer Service in 2025

Got home videos and VHS tapes gathering dust? Digitizing them is a great way to preserve cherished memories. Many used Costco's DVD transfer service for its convenience and affordability, but it ended in early 2023. Don't worry — we've got 4 top alternatives offering better flexibility, faster turnaround, and no membership required!

What is Costco's DVD Transfer Service?

Costco DVD Transfer Service, also called Costco Video Transfer Service, is a trusted, professional service designed to preserve home videos. It specializes in digitizing old media formats, such as VHS, VHS-C, DV, and DVCAM etc., and then converting them to DVDs or digital files. The service includes basic editing and returns the original media along with the DVD or digital copy. Typically, processing takes a few weeks. Its convenience makes it the go-to choice for converting their home tapes. 

Why Do You Need Alternatives?

Recently, in January 2023, Costco transitioned its photo center services to Shutterfly. This marks the end of its in-house photo printing operations. As a result, its previous video conversion is no longer available. 
Apart from that, there are many other reasons compelling users to switch to viable alternatives.  

• Costco membership required: Non-members must pay an additional US$60 for a membership before accessing services.
• Video transfer services are no longer directly offered by Costco (as of the Shutterfly transition).
• Limited flexibility and speed: Processing times can vary and may be delayed due to retailer involvement.
• Potential for inconsistent customer support: Some customers reported issues with DVD quality or the handling of tapes.
• Retail complications: Dealing with Costco may interfere with the otherwise fast and secure service offered directly by YesVideo/Capture.
• Unnecessary in-store purchases: You might end up spending more than planned due to Costco's "treasure hunt" shopping experience.

4 Alternatives to Costco Video Transfer Service

Considering the current limitations of Costco's Video Service, we compiled four reliable solutions to replace Costco in VHS to DVD burning, and compared them from the perspective of required tools, speed, price, quality and what kind of users they're suitable for. Let's delve into it.

A Quick Comparison of 4 Alternatives to Costco's VHS to DVD Transfer Service

Before explaining the 4 alternatives in detail, we display a quick-reference comparison table highlighting key factors to help you decide. You can find which one you're interested in and read relevant details below.

Alternative 1: VHS Conversion Devices

Suitable for Whom: Home users with moderate tech skills; Low-budget and value-conscious users; have bulk VHS tapes

Price: US$20+ to US$200+

Requirements:

Here we offer two solutions, depending mainly on whether you have a VCR. Of course, in both methods, a computer, blank discs, and a disc drive are essential.

→ If you have a working VCR: use a video capture device + DVD burner
    Recommended products: Elgato Video Capture + DVDneXtCOPT DVD Creator, Roxio Easy VHS to DVD, Honestech VHS to DVD

→ If you don't have VCR: use a VHS converter + DVD burner
    Recommended products: ClearClick Video to Digital Converter + DVDneXtCOPY DVD Creator

The method for converting VHS tapes primarily involves two key steps. First, transfer the content from VHS tapes into a digital format — this can be done using a video capture device if you have a working VCR, or a standalone VHS converter if you don't. Second, take the resulting digital files and burn them onto a DVD, which requires a reliable DVD burner. In short, this can be the best method to replace Costco's DVD Transfer Service if you don't mind spending some time to handle the technical steps involved.

VCR + Video Capture Device + DVD Burner

This is the most common method used by people who want to burn their VHS tapes to DVD themselves. Essentially, it involves connecting a VCR to your computer using a USB capture card, digitizing the video played on the VCR, and saving the digitized file on your computer. Then, use a DVD burner to write the digital video onto a disc. We suggest you try Elgato Video Capture to digitzie VHS tapes and use DVDneXtCOPY DVD Creator to burn DVDs.

Recommended Video Capture Device: Elgato Video Capture

With Elgato Video Capture, you can transfer high-quality H.264 files from your VCR, DVR, camcorder, or other analog sources directly to your Mac or PC. Elgato Video Capture makes the process simple — from connecting your device and recording, to trimming and sharing your video. You can easily add videos to iTunes or Windows Media Player, sync them to your iPhone or iPad, or upload directly to YouTube.

We recommend Elgato because it includes dedicated video capture software for both Mac and Windows. Of course, if you're on a budget, a standard USB capture card with free software like OBS Studio is a cheaper alternative — though it takes more time and technical know-how.

Recommended DVD Burner: DVDneXtCOPY DVD Creator

Most VHS capture software on the market does not include built-in DVD burning features. That's why having a reliable DVD burner is essential. It plays a major role in determining the final quality of your DVD output. We recommend using DVDneXtCOPY DVD Creator for this purpose. We offer you a very detailed guide for using this best DVD maker in the bonus part.

Recommended All-in-One VHS to DVD Suite

If you don't want to buy a capture card and DVD burning software separately or deal with the hassle, consider purchasing a VHS to DVD Suite. It includes the capture hardware you need and comes with built-in software that handles both video capture and DVD burning. Here are two ideal options.

Roxio Easy VHS to DVD: Roxio Easy VHS to DVD is an excellent alternative to Costco DVD transfer. It can convert VHS to DVD or digital and even capture videos from a camcorder. The best part is that, unlike other video capture devices, Roxio can burn videos to disc. You can make simple edits, trim videos, and even add transitions and titles. 

Honestech VHS to DVD: Honestech VHS to DVD is another excellent recommendation to preserve your best memories. It takes only a few clicks to convert your old VHS tapes into digital formats like DVDs. Besides supporting numerous input/output formats, it can also enhance video quality during conversion. The built-in editing tools also help with customization, making the video ready for direct upload to social media platforms. 

VHS converter + DVD Burner

If you don't have a working VCR, this method is ideal for you. It involves first using a standalone device to convert your tapes into a digital format, then importing the files into your computer to burn onto discs.
We recommend you try ClearClick Video to Digital Converter 3.0. It's a widely used machine to convert your old videotapes, camcorder tapes, and audio sources into a digital format. It can smoothly record and digitize video and audio from your VHS tapes, VCRs, DVRs, DVD Players, Camcorders, Hi8, cassette tapes, and much more. 

You must remember that the ClearClick Video to Digital Converter will help you with real-time recording only. It does not have a built-in DVD burner. Additionally, it lacks on-device editing and menu creation. Thereafter, you still need to use a reliable DVD burner (e.g., DVDneXtCOPT DVD Creator) to transfer the digital files on your PC and burn them to a DVD.

Alternative 2: VHS/DVD Combo Recorder

Suitable for Whom: Plug-and-play users with minimal setup; not good at computers but want to transfer by themselves; high-budget

Price: US$95 (refurbished) to US$800+ (depends on the specific device)

Requirements 

• VHS/DVD Combo Recorder
• Television/Monitor
• Blank DVDs
• Remote Control 
• Power Supply 
• Cables (optional)
• No software needed, as the hardware unit handles everything 

When discussing the go-to alternatives for Costco VHS to DVD service, we also considered VHS/DVD Combo recorders, which struck a chord in our minds. They were popular in earlier days, and you may still find them online. They combined video recording and playback technologies, eliminating the need for a computer. This is a simple method, but it can be too expensive for most users. They offer a cross-format recording, such as VHS to DVD dubbing, which enables users to copy old VHS tapes to DVDs in upgraded quality. Additionally, they can digitize old videotapes without conversion, allowing users to archive home videos and consolidate old and new media in one device. 

 
Recommended VHS/DVD Combo: LG VHS to DVD Recorder

LG VHS to DVD Recorder is a combo machine that handles VHS and DVD well. It can easily transfer VHS tapes to DVD with just a click. Home users can convert multiple videotapes into high-quality and digitize their best memories. It also includes blank DVDs so you can start recording immediately. It has a built-in Digital Tuner and also supports 2-way dubbing. LG VHS to DVD Recorder supports various DVD formats, including DVD-R/W, DVD+R/W, and DVD-RAM.

Alternative 3: Online Professional Transfer Services

Suitable for Whom: Users who want no hassle and high-quality digital output 

Price: US$14.50 to US$34.99 per tape(for starter packs)

Requirements: Minimal or none (just send in your videotapes)

Online professional transfer services are quite popular among casual users. They do not involve any technicalities and offer a simple solution to convert VHS tapes. As an alternative to Costco DVD transfer, they are best suited for users seeking quality results with minimal effort. Usually, they provide a prepaid box where users can pack and ship videotapes for digitization. The protective, crush-proof, and waterproof packaging keeps the original recording safe during transit. Most services offer real-time updates so users can stay updated throughout the order process. Additionally, you get an app facility to view your digital library in one place. 

Recommended Online Professional Transfer Services

Capture

Capture is a popular alternative to Costco DVD transfer services. It aids in the quick conversion of VHS tapes into digital formats to preserve your memories. Capture accepts several VHS formats to transform them into downloadable links, USBs, and DVDs. Their exclusive partnership with Google Photos eases the video conversion process. Plus, it includes videotape repair and case replacement to protect the original copies. Unlike other digital services, Capture is quick. It takes only up to 30 days to send your digital copies.

Legacybox 

Legacybox is also a beautiful solution that helps you digitally relive your home movies and photos online. You can instantly access, securely store, and readily share whenever needed. Legacybox has different pricing plans depending on the number of items to be converted. They send their customers a box to fill with their photos, home movies, or films. Once packed, you only need to drop the box off at a UPS location. Legacybox takes care of the rest!  The standard digitization process can take around 4 to 6 weeks.  

iMemories

iMemories has been in the industry for over 20 years, having catered to over 1 million happy customers. Its revolutionary AI enhancement can efficiently digitize home movies and photos for endless streaming. The custom AI removes imperfections and improves color accuracy to heighten every detail. Their expert team sort and enhances every moment to share it with your loved ones. You can run digitized content directly from your smart TV, tablet, smartphone, or laptop. iMemories help preserve the natural look and feel of your memories. 

Alternative 4: Other Offline Retailers

Suitable for Whom: Users who prefer in-person service nearby

Price: US$15.96 - US$34.99 per tape (varies for each digital transfer service)

Requirements: None (Service is handled entirely by the retailer or their partnered lab)

Offline retailers are also an excellent alternative to Costco Video Transfer. High-profile brands are available in the U.S. to offer these services without compromising the quality. Plus, unlike Costco, you need not spend extra on a membership. You can have convenience, physical communication, and good customer support services. However, the price and processing times may vary for each service. As retailers offer multiple services, they can get busy, slowing down digitization time. Usually, it may take 60 to 70 days to receive your digital copies. 

Recommended Offline VHS to DVD Retailers

Walmart

Walmart is a popular video transfer company. It can digitize the videotapes by turning them into the latest digital formats. Once digitized, they automatically transfer the results to your MemoryCloud Online account. You get 60 days to view or download it. Plus, you can order copies or even save them to Google Photos. 
While a digital copy is included with the order, you can also take a USB (an optional add-on). It will have your entire order. You can seamlessly view your digitized memories on devices with a USB port. Plus, you can store, duplicate, or back up your files for preservation. Walmart also enables people to add a DVD. It provides them with better customization and personalization through themes and titles. 

Sam's Club

Sam's Club Digital Transfer service is a renowned offline retail store operated by Lisa Kay (Sam's granddaughter). They have a team of experienced technicians offering digital services. They help convert photos, preserve slides, and transfer home videos to DVD/Flash Drives. They can also convert old 8mm and 16mm movies to DVD/Flash Drive to enjoy.
Sam's Club is dedicated to digitizing, managing, and preserving people's precious memories. As nothing is automated, human resources reviews individual images. They ensure the digital version is on par with or better than the original. Sam Digital Transfer services offer free pickup and delivery throughout Westchester County in New York and parts of Fairfield County, Connecticut.

CVS

CVS is another reliable digital transfer service. It can convert your old media into digital formats with accuracy. You just need to select your media types, such as video, film, photo, or slide. Then, customize the transfer options. Once the parameters are set, drop off your media on the CVS Photo website. Or, use a KODAK Picture Kiosk at your local CVS Photo. CVS digital services will create a digital copy that you can download or even add to Google Photos. CVS also lets you transfer your digitized memories to a USB drive and DVD. 

Bonus: Burn Digitized VHS to DVDs with DVDneXtCOPY DVD Creator

Step 1: Download and install DVDneXtCOPY DVD Creator. Launch the software and enter the Creator module from the left pane. Click the Add button to load your converted video file. Or, use the drag and drop functionality to drop your media directly into the interface. 

Step 2: Hit the Menu Settings tab. Then, select and edit a DVD menu template. You can also pick the disc type and output quality. Once done, choose a storage location and adjust other necessary settings.

Step 3: Finally, preview your video and check all the customized settings. If satisfied, press the Start button. Now, start the burning and video digitization process.