If you’re like me, you probably have some old VHS tapes lying around that you want to save before they get ruined. I decided to convert mine to digital so I could keep the memories safe. Here are some local places that can help you do the same.
1. Costco Photo Center
I started by checking out Costco’s Photo Center, and I’m glad I did! They offer VHS-to-digital conversion for a good price. You drop off your tapes, and they transfer them to a DVD or a digital file for you. It costs about $20 per tape, but the price can vary depending on where you live. The turnaround time is usually around 2 weeks, which isn’t bad.
Pros:
- Reliable and easy to use.
- Good prices for the service.
- You can get the digital copy on a DVD or a digital file.
Cons:
- Takes around 2 weeks for the conversion.
- Only available to Costco members (you need a membership to use this service).
2. Walmart
Walmart is another option that’s both affordable and convenient. They let you mail in your VHS tapes for conversion. The price is similar to Costco’s, and you can pick up the digital files on a USB drive or DVD. I liked how easy it was to order online and just drop off the tapes at the store, saving me a trip to a bigger center.
Pros:
- Convenient – you can drop off your tapes at the store.
- Good pricing, similar to Costco.
- Can get the digital files on a USB drive or DVD.
Cons:
- You have to mail in the tapes, which can be a hassle.
- It may take a couple of weeks for your tapes to be converted.
3. CVS
CVS also offers VHS-to-digital services through a partnership with iMemories. You drop off your tapes at CVS, and they’ll send them off for conversion. It takes about 3-4 weeks, but it’s easy to track your order online. The prices are a bit higher than Costco or Walmart, but they often have deals, so it’s worth checking out.
Pros:
- Easy to drop off the tapes at a nearby store.
- They work with a company called iMemories, which is known for good quality.
Cons:
- It takes 3 to 4 weeks for the conversion to be done.
- Prices can be a bit higher than others.
4. Walgreens
Walgreens has a similar service to CVS, working with YesVideo for VHS conversions. You can drop off your tapes at the store, and they’ll handle the rest. The price is a little higher than others, but the convenience of picking it up locally made it worth considering. They offer digital formats like DVD or online access.
Pros:
- Convenient drop-off at your local store.
- You can track your order online.
Cons:
- More expensive than places like Walmart and Costco.
- Takes a little longer to get the tapes back.
5. Local Photo Shops
If you have a local photo shop or a smaller store nearby, ask if they offer VHS-to-digital services. I found a small shop near me that did it for about $15 per tape, which was cheaper than the big chains. The personal service was great too.
Pros:
- Often cheaper than the big chains.
- You can usually talk directly to the person doing the work, which can be nice for questions.
Cons:
- Limited availability; not every small shop offers this service.
- May take a little longer depending on the shop.
Final Thoughts
When converting your VHS tapes, it’s all about convenience and price. Costco, Walmart, CVS, and Walgreens all offer reliable services with different costs and wait times. If you’re looking for something quick and easy, these are the places to go. And don’t forget to check with local shops too; they may offer better prices.
When choosing where to take your VHS tapes, you should think about how much you’re willing to spend and how quickly you need the conversion done.
- Best price: Local photo shops or Costco (if you’re a member).
- Most convenient: Walmart or Walgreens (if you want to drop off your tapes locally).
- Best service: CVS and Walgreens, though they tend to be more expensive.
Each place has its pros and cons, so it’s about finding what works best for you
If you’re still unsure about sending your tapes out, you can also consider doing it yourself (I’ll talk about that in another post). But for now, these local places are a great way to start saving your old memories!