Trying to watch old tapes? Here’s how to connect a VCR/VHS player to a TV—whether your TV has HDMI only or legacy ports. If it’s a faff, consider VHS to digital so you can stream from MP4 or plug in a USB stick.

Check Your TV’s Ports

• HDMI only: you’ll need an AV/SCART to HDMI converter (search “HDMI VHS” or “VHS player HDMI”).
• SCART/AV present: use a SCART or composite cable from your VCR.

Picture Troubleshooting

• Rolling picture or wobbles? Some adapters don’t like VHS timing—another reason VHS to digital is often cleaner.
• Muted colours? Try a different converter or cable.

When to Convert Instead

If your player is unreliable, it’s usually cheaper—and far nicer—to convert VHS to digital and watch an MP4 file via TV USB. We also offer VHS to DVD for easy gifting.

Tip: Keep your tapes in a cool, dry place; see BFI preservation advice at bfi.org.uk.