$99.95
Since its release in late 2022, the Tablo 4th Gen has established itself as a compelling option for cord-cutters looking to record and stream over-the-air TV. At $100, it represents a significant evolution from previous Tablo models, with built-in storage and improved streaming capabilities that make it easier than ever to cut the cord without sacrificing DVR functionality.
The heart of this DVR is its dual-tuner system, which lets you record two shows simultaneously - think recording the big game while the kids watch their favorite show. The built-in 128GB storage (that's about 50 hours of HD content) is a game-changer compared to previous models that required external storage from day one. When you need more space, you can easily add an external USB drive up to 8TB.
What's particularly clever is how the Tablo handles video processing. It records in MPEG2 (the format used by broadcast TV) but then converts recordings to MPEG4 for storage, giving you better quality for the file size. During our testing, this resulted in crisp, clear playback that looked virtually identical to the original broadcast.
The dual-band Wi-Fi with MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) technology proved reliable in our whole-home testing. Even when streaming to multiple devices simultaneously, we saw minimal buffering - a significant improvement over previous generations. The built-in 11dB antenna amplifier helps maintain strong signal reception, though you'll want to disable this if you're using an amplified antenna to avoid signal overload.
One limitation worth noting is the 100Mbps Ethernet port. While adequate for most uses, a gigabit port would have been nice for future-proofing, especially in home theater setups where wired connections are preferred.
In practical terms, the Tablo 4th Gen shines in daily use. The interface is intuitive - much more so than traditional cable DVRs. You can schedule recordings from the program guide (which provides 14 days of data without subscription fees), and the system handles conflict resolution intelligently when you try to record overlapping shows.
A particularly useful feature is the integration of FAST (Free Ad-Supported Television) channels. Beyond your local broadcasts, you get access to over 60 streaming channels. During our testing, this effectively doubled our available content without any additional cost.
For home theater enthusiasts, the Tablo supports pass-through of 5.1 surround sound when available from broadcasts. While it won't compete with high-end media servers, it integrates well with existing setups. We tested it with various streaming devices including Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV, finding consistent performance across platforms.
Comparing this to previous generations, several key improvements stand out:
It's important to note what the Tablo 4th Gen doesn't do:
This DVR is ideal for:
It might not be the best choice for:
At $100, the value proposition is compelling. Consider that traditional cable DVR rental fees often exceed $10 monthly - this unit pays for itself within a year. The inclusion of FAST channels and the subscription-free guide further enhance the value.
Setup is straightforward: connect your antenna, plug in power and ethernet (or use Wi-Fi), and follow the guided setup. The built-in amplifier means you might get better reception than with direct antenna connections, though results vary based on your location and antenna quality.
The Tablo 4th Gen 2-Tuner DVR represents a sweet spot in the current OTA DVR market. It combines essential features with thoughtful improvements that make cord-cutting more accessible than ever. While it's not perfect - the lack of out-of-home streaming and commercial skipping being notable omissions - it delivers where it matters most: reliable recording, good quality playback, and straightforward operation.
For most users looking to cut the cord while maintaining DVR functionality, this represents one of the most compelling options available. The combination of built-in storage, dual tuners, and FAST channel integration, all without subscription fees, makes it hard to beat at this price point. While power users might want more features, for the average household, this hits the right balance of functionality and value.
The Tablo 4th Gen 2-Tuner Over-The-Air DVR is worth it for cord-cutters who want to record broadcast TV without monthly fees. At $100 with built-in storage and dual tuners, it offers excellent value, especially considering it includes access to 60+ streaming channels and a free program guide.
The Tablo 4th Gen comes with 128GB built-in storage, allowing for 50+ hours of HD recording. You can expand this to up to 8TB with an external drive, providing approximately 1,000 hours of HD storage.
Yes, the device supports 5.1 surround sound pass-through and works well with home theater setups. It's compatible with popular streaming devices like Roku, Apple TV, and Fire TV, making it easy to integrate into existing systems.
With two tuners, the Tablo 4th Gen can record two different channels simultaneously, or record one while watching another. This is sufficient for most households but might be limiting for power users.
No, unlike previous models, the 4th Gen includes a 14-day program guide with no subscription required. This makes it a truly subscription-free solution for cord-cutters.
While the Tablo 4th Gen doesn't have automatic commercial skipping, you can manually fast-forward through commercials during playback.
The device supports up to 1080i resolution (the maximum for current ATSC 1.0 broadcasts). It doesn't support 4K or ATSC 3.0 (NextGen TV) broadcasts.
Currently, the Tablo 4th Gen doesn't support out-of-home streaming. All viewing must be done within your home network.
The main improvements include built-in storage, no subscription requirement for guide data, improved Wi-Fi performance, and access to FAST streaming channels.
The Tablo 4th Gen supports up to 6 concurrent streams within your home network, meaning multiple TVs and devices can watch different recorded or live content simultaneously.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research has used advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: bestbuy.com - us-store.tablotv.com - bestbuy.com - cnet.com - youtube.com - us-store.tablotv.com - channelmaster.com - vipoutlet.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - community.tablotv.com - vipoutlet.com
The $29.99 Roku Streaming Stick 4K approaches TV viewing from a pure streaming perspective, offering immediate access to virtually every streaming service available. Its standout features include 4K HDR playback with Dolby Vision support, a voice-controlled remote that can manage your TV's basic functions, and an incredibly simple plug-and-play setup process. While it doesn't offer any recording capabilities, its strength lies in providing a seamless, high-quality streaming experience with support for the latest picture and sound formats, all in a compact stick that disappears behind your TV.
Where the Tablo focuses on broadcast TV recording, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K excels at delivering streaming content with minimal fuss. Its $29.99 price point makes it an exceptionally good value, though users need to factor in the cost of streaming service subscriptions. The device's regular software updates ensure compatibility with new services and features, and its integration with smart home systems like Alexa and Google Assistant adds convenience for tech-savvy users. Many households actually benefit from using both devices - the Roku handling streaming services while the Tablo manages broadcast TV recording, creating a comprehensive cord-cutting solution.
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๐Roku Streaming Stick 4K Streaming Device Details
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The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max ($39.99) takes a completely different approach to cord-cutting, focusing exclusively on streaming content rather than OTA recording. Its standout features include support for 4K HDR with Dolby Vision, Wi-Fi 6E connectivity for faster streaming, and a powerful quad-core processor that makes navigation noticeably snappy. The device excels at providing access to virtually every streaming service available, with excellent picture quality and Dolby Atmos audio support that particularly shines in home theater setups. The new ambient experience feature adds value by turning your TV into a smart display when not in use, showing weather updates, calendars, and other useful information.
While the Fire TV Stick 4K Max can't record or access OTA channels like the Tablo, it offers a more streamlined, plug-and-play solution for those primarily interested in streaming services. The lower initial cost is appealing, though users should factor in monthly streaming service subscriptions. For many households, these devices actually complement each other well - the Tablo handling local channels and DVR duties, while the Fire TV Stick provides superior streaming capabilities and smart home integration through Alexa. The combination delivers a comprehensive cord-cutting solution, though either device alone might be sufficient depending on your viewing preferences.
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๐Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max Streaming Device Details
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The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K ($27.99) takes a fundamentally different approach to TV viewing, focusing exclusively on streaming services rather than over-the-air content. Its standout features include 4K HDR streaming with Dolby Vision support, Alexa voice control integration, and access to virtually every streaming platform available. The device's recent upgrade brings Wi-Fi 6 support and improved processing power, making navigation and app loading noticeably smoother than previous generations. For home theater enthusiasts, its support for Dolby Atmos audio and advanced HDR formats makes it a compelling choice for high-end setups.
While the Fire TV Stick 4K can't record shows or access over-the-air channels like the Tablo, it excels at providing instant access to on-demand content and live streaming services. The lower upfront cost makes it an attractive option, though users should factor in the ongoing costs of streaming subscriptions. Many cord-cutters find that using both devices provides the most complete solution - leveraging the Fire TV Stick's streaming capabilities alongside the Tablo's OTA recording features. This combination effectively covers all viewing needs, from local news and sports to the latest streaming content in 4K HDR quality.
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๐Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Streaming Device Details
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The $69.99 Roku Streambar SE takes a different approach to cord-cutting by combining audio enhancement with streaming capabilities. While it can't record live TV like the Tablo, it excels at improving TV sound quality through its built-in 2.0 channel speaker system with multiple audio modes. The Streambar's standout feature is its seamless integration of Roku's streaming platform, providing access to thousands of apps and streaming services through a simple, user-friendly interface. Its compact design and straightforward setup make it particularly appealing for those wanting to upgrade their TV viewing experience without dealing with multiple devices or complex configurations.
Where the Streambar SE really shines is in its versatility and value proposition. At under $70, you're getting both a capable streaming device and audio upgrade in one package. While it won't match the audio quality of higher-end soundbars, it provides notably better sound than most built-in TV speakers, especially for dialogue clarity. The Streambar SE is particularly well-suited for smaller rooms or secondary TVs where a full home theater setup isn't practical. However, users primarily interested in recording live TV should still consider the Tablo, as the Streambar doesn't offer any DVR functionality or ability to capture over-the-air broadcasts.
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๐Roku Streambar SE Soundbar Details
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The Google TV Streamer 4K ($99.99) takes a fundamentally different approach to cord-cutting, focusing on streaming services rather than OTA content. Its standout features include 4K HDR streaming with Dolby Vision and Atmos support, making it an excellent choice for home theater enthusiasts. The device's AI-powered content recommendations work across multiple streaming services, while its voice remote and smart home integration offer convenience that the Tablo can't match. The latest processor upgrade provides smooth navigation and quick app switching, making it feel more refined in daily use.
However, unlike the Tablo, the Google TV requires ongoing streaming service subscriptions and lacks any built-in recording capabilities. While it can access live TV through services like YouTube TV or Sling, these add significant monthly costs compared to the Tablo's one-time purchase model. For users primarily interested in network TV or local sports, the Google TV would need to be paired with an additional OTA solution to match the Tablo's functionality. That said, its broader content access and superior audio-video capabilities make it a compelling choice for viewers who primarily consume streaming content and want the best possible picture quality.
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๐Google TV Streamer 4K Details
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The Roku Ultra 2024 takes a different approach to TV viewing, focusing on streaming services rather than OTA content. Its standout features include support for all major HDR formats (Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG), HDMI 2.1 with Quick Media Switching, and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. The device delivers exceptional 4K streaming performance and includes a premium voice remote with programmable buttons and backlit keys. For home theater enthusiasts, the Dolby Atmos support and superior video processing make it a compelling choice for high-end setups.
While both devices cost around $99, the Roku Ultra requires no additional hardware beyond your TV and internet connection. However, it doesn't offer any DVR capabilities or local channel access without additional services. The Roku excels at what it's designed for - delivering streaming content with excellent picture quality and minimal buffering. Its interface is more polished and responsive, and regular software updates continue to add features and improve performance. For those primarily interested in streaming services rather than recording broadcast TV, the Roku Ultra represents better value, especially when paired with a 4K HDR television.
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๐Roku Ultra 2024 4K Streaming Device Details
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For those exploring alternatives, the Amazon Fire TV Cube ($139) takes a different approach to home entertainment, focusing on streaming services and smart home integration rather than DVR functionality. Its standout features include powerful 4K streaming capabilities with Dolby Vision and Atmos support, plus comprehensive voice control that can manage your entire entertainment system. The latest generation includes Wi-Fi 6E support and an octa-core processor that makes navigation notably faster than previous streaming devices, ensuring smooth playback even with demanding 4K HDR content.
While the Tablo excels at recording broadcast TV, the Fire TV Cube shines in creating a premium streaming experience with smart home convenience. Its hands-free Alexa integration allows you to control everything from your TV to your lighting without reaching for a remote, and its HDMI input lets you connect and control cable boxes or game consoles through voice commands. However, it's worth noting that you'll need subscriptions to streaming services to make the most of the device, and it lacks any recording capabilities. The two devices can work well together in a home theater setup - using the Fire TV Cube for streaming services and smart home control while relying on the Tablo for local broadcasts and DVR functionality.
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๐Amazon Fire TV Cube 3rd Gen Streaming Media Player Details
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The Apple TV 4K ($129) represents a premium approach to streaming media, powered by the same A15 Bionic chip found in recent iPhones. Unlike the Tablo's focused DVR functionality, it serves as a comprehensive entertainment hub, delivering 4K HDR content with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support across virtually every streaming service. Its polished interface and seamless integration with other Apple devices make it exceptionally user-friendly, while its gaming capabilities and smart home features through HomeKit extend its utility beyond simple media playback.
Where the Tablo excels at broadcast TV recording, the Apple TV 4K shines in delivering premium streaming experiences. While it costs more upfront and can't record over-the-air broadcasts, it offers significantly more processing power, better video quality, and a more responsive interface. For home theater enthusiasts, its support for advanced audio formats and high-quality video processing make it a more compelling choice for a dedicated media room. However, users who prioritize broadcast TV recording will need to either rely on streaming apps with DVR functionality or consider adding a Tablo to their setup for complete content coverage.
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๐Apple TV 4K 64GB 3rd Generation Wi-Fi Details
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The $29.99 Fire TV Stick Lite offers a simpler, more straightforward approach to TV entertainment, focusing exclusively on streaming content from popular services like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+. Its standout features include seamless Alexa voice control, an incredibly compact design that plugs directly into any HDMI port, and immediate access to virtually every streaming platform available. While it can't record content like the Tablo, its plug-and-play simplicity and portable design make it an attractive option for those primarily interested in streaming services.
The Fire TV Stick Lite excels in its ease of use and affordability, though it does require ongoing streaming subscriptions for content access. Its 1080p resolution provides good picture quality for most viewing scenarios, and the device's responsiveness makes navigation between apps quick and intuitive. The ability to easily move it between TVs or take it traveling adds significant versatility, though it lacks the Tablo's whole-home viewing capabilities. For streaming-focused users who don't need DVR functionality or access to free broadcast TV, it represents excellent value, particularly when paired with existing streaming subscriptions.
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๐Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite Streaming Device Details
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While the Tablo excels at OTA recording, the $39.99 Roku Express 4K+ takes a different approach to cord-cutting by focusing exclusively on streaming services. The Roku's standout feature is its superior 4K HDR streaming capability, offering access to virtually every streaming platform available, from Netflix to smaller niche services. Its voice-enabled remote and straightforward interface make it incredibly user-friendly, and recent software updates have added features like Apple AirPlay support and improved HDR performance. The Roku platform remains notably neutral, not favoring any particular streaming service, which helps users find the best prices and availability for content across all services.
For those primarily interested in streaming services, the $39.99 Roku Express 4K+ offers exceptional value, especially considering its 4K HDR capabilities and polished user experience. However, unlike the Tablo, it can't record content or pause live TV, and it requires ongoing streaming service subscriptions to access most content. The two devices serve different purposes in a cord-cutting setup - while the Tablo handles broadcast TV recording and playback, the Roku provides a comprehensive streaming platform. For many users, combining both devices creates an ideal solution, with the Roku handling streaming services while the Tablo manages local broadcast content.
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๐Roku Express 4K+ Streaming Device Details
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The Roku Streambar ($129.99) takes a distinctly different approach to enhancing your TV experience by combining streaming capabilities with audio improvement in a single device. Its standout feature is the integration of a compact yet capable soundbar with built-in 4K HDR streaming, offering an elegant solution for both picture and sound quality. The device's four internal speakers deliver surprisingly rich audio with Dolby support, while the streaming platform provides access to virtually every major streaming service. For those seeking simplicity and improved audio without multiple devices or complex setup, it's an attractive all-in-one solution.
Where the Tablo excels at OTA recording and whole-home distribution, the Roku Streambar focuses on enhancing the experience in a single room. It's particularly well-suited for secondary TVs or smaller spaces where both audio improvement and streaming capabilities are desired. While it can't record broadcast television or distribute content to multiple rooms, its plug-and-play simplicity and dual functionality make it a compelling value proposition for streaming-focused households. The built-in voice control, Bluetooth capability for music streaming, and regular platform updates add to its versatility, though users will need to factor in streaming service subscriptions for content access.
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๐Roku Streambar 4K Streaming Media Player with Premium Audio Soundbar Details
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The Roku Express represents a fundamentally different approach to home entertainment, focusing purely on streaming rather than recording. Where the Tablo offers comprehensive live TV capture, the Roku provides access to an extensive ecosystem of internet-based content services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and hundreds of niche channels. At just $29.99, it's an incredibly affordable entry point for anyone wanting to transform a traditional TV into a smart streaming device. Its dual-band WiFi and upgraded internal storage ensure smoother app loading and more reliable streaming performance, though it maxes out at 1080p resolution.
For budget-conscious consumers or those primarily interested in subscription streaming services, the Roku Express delivers exceptional value. Its ultra-simple setup and universally compatible design mean virtually anyone can start streaming within minutes of unboxing. However, it lacks the advanced features of the Tablo, such as live TV recording, multi-tuner capabilities, and broadcast signal preservation. Where the Tablo serves cord-cutters seeking a comprehensive TV solution, the Roku is best suited for viewers who are comfortable with internet-only content and don't require local broadcast recording. The trade-off is clear: lower cost and simplicity versus more advanced functionality and live TV integration.
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๐Roku Express 2022 Streaming Media Player Details
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The Amazon Fire TV Stick HD ($19.99) takes a completely different approach to TV entertainment, focusing on streaming services rather than broadcast TV recording. Its standout features include comprehensive streaming app support, Alexa voice control integration, and a remarkably low price point that makes it accessible to almost anyone. While it can't record shows like the Tablo, it excels at providing instant access to vast content libraries from services like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+. The device's HD resolution support and HDR compatibility ensure good picture quality for most modern TVs, though you'll need stable internet speeds of at least 15Mbps for the best streaming experience.
When comparing value propositions, the Fire TV Stick HD requires minimal upfront investment but depends on streaming service subscriptions for content access. This makes it ideal for viewers who have already cut the cord and primarily watch streaming content. While it lacks the Tablo's ability to record broadcast TV or support multiple simultaneous viewers, its simple plug-and-play setup and regular software updates make it an excellent choice for basic streaming needs. The addition of Alexa voice control also provides convenient hands-free operation, though users should consider that accessing local channels would require additional streaming service subscriptions.
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๐Amazon Fire TV Stick HD Streaming Device Details
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The NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV ($149.99) represents a different class of entertainment device, focusing on premium streaming performance and gaming capabilities. Its Tegra X1+ processor delivers exceptional 4K HDR playback with AI upscaling that noticeably improves the quality of lower-resolution content. While it can't record broadcast TV like the Tablo, it excels at delivering streaming content with support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, making it particularly appealing for home theater enthusiasts. The SHIELD's gaming capabilities through GeForce Now and native Android games add significant entertainment value that the Tablo doesn't address.
For those considering both devices, the SHIELD TV can actually work in tandem with the Tablo, serving as a powerful streaming platform that can run the Tablo app alongside other streaming services. Its superior processing power ensures smooth playback of recorded content, and its regular software updates keep adding new features and improvements. While the SHIELD's higher price point reflects its premium positioning, its versatility and performance make it a worthwhile investment for users who want the best possible streaming experience and gaming capabilities. The main consideration is whether these additional features justify the price difference for your specific needs, as the SHIELD's core streaming capabilities can be found in less expensive devices if gaming and premium video processing aren't priorities.
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๐NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV 8GB 4K HDR Streaming Media Player Details
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The Apple TV 4K 32GB 2nd Generation ($152.99) takes a fundamentally different approach to home entertainment, focusing on delivering premium streaming content with exceptional quality. Its A12 Bionic processor and support for 4K/60fps, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos provide noticeably superior audiovisual performance compared to the Tablo. The polished tvOS interface offers seamless access to every major streaming service, while features like AirPlay and HomeKit integration make it a versatile hub for smart home control. Gaming capabilities and the refined Siri Remote add extra value, though you'll need to factor in ongoing subscription costs for streaming services.
While the Apple TV 4K excels at streaming, it can't match the Tablo's ability to record free broadcast television or its expandable storage options. For home theater enthusiasts who prioritize picture quality and don't mind paying for content, the Apple TV 4K's superior processing power and format support make it the better choice. However, many users find value in combining both devices - using the Apple TV for premium streaming content and gaming while relying on the Tablo for local broadcasts and DVR functionality. The higher price point of the Apple TV 4K is justified by its premium features and performance, but it serves a different primary purpose than the Tablo's focus on OTA recording.
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๐Apple TV 4K 32GB 2nd Generation Details
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Original price was: $5,997.99.$5,797.99Current price is: $5,797.99.
