VHS digitisation prices in 2026: updated guide

1. Factors that determine the price

The final price of digitisation depends on several factors worth understanding before requesting a quote:

• •Tape duration: this is the main factor. Most laboratories set brackets: up to 60 min, up to 90 min, up to 120 min, up to 180 min. The longer the duration, the higher the price, because the process requires more machine time and review.
• •Tape format: a standard VHS and a MiniDV have similar prices, but professional formats such as Betacam SP, DVCAM, or DVCPRO usually have a higher cost as they require specialised equipment.
• •Tape condition: tapes with mould, breaks, or deformations may require prior treatment, which increases the cost.
• •Volume: many laboratories offer progressive discounts for large batches. If you have a large collection, it is worth enquiring.
• •Additional services: AI remastering, USB drive delivery, editing, cataloguing, or transcription are extras that add value but also cost.

2. Indicative price table by format

These are the typical price ranges at professional laboratories in 2026 (VAT included, online download delivery):

* Indicative prices based on professional laboratory rates in 2026. May vary depending on the service.

3. Additional services and their cost

Beyond basic digitisation, laboratories offer services that add value to the result:

• •AI Remastering (+50% on base price): upscaling up to 4K, analogue noise removal, colour enhancement, and image stabilisation. This is the service that most transforms the final result, turning a blurry 1990s recording into a sharp, stable video.
• •USB drive (5 € – 10 €): for those who prefer a physical medium in addition to the online download.
• •Home pickup (variable): some laboratories include courier pickup in the service or offer it as a reduced-cost option.
• •Editing and assembly: cutting black sections, merging several tapes into a single file, or adding titles. Quoted per project.

4. Value for money: cheap can be costly

There are very economical options on the market (below 8 € per tape) that should be analysed with caution. Generally, a very low price implies:

• •No TBC, resulting in captures with visible defects.
• •Consumer-grade (not broadcast) players, with lower image quality.
• •No prior tape inspection, which can cause damage during playback.
• •Excessive compression of the resulting file, losing detail.

VHS tapes can only be played a limited number of times before deteriorating. A poor digitisation means wasting one of those plays. It is worth investing in a professional service that guarantees the best possible capture first time.

5. How to calculate your quote

To calculate the total cost of digitising your collection:

1. 1.Count the number of tapes and classify them by format (VHS, Hi8, MiniDV, etc.).
2. 2.Estimate the duration of each tape. If you do not know, assume the maximum capacity of the format (e.g.: VHS E-180 = up to 180 min).
3. 3.Decide whether you want AI remastering (adds 50% to the base price).
4. 4.Consider the delivery medium: online download is usually included; the USB drive has a small additional cost.

Videoconversion Digital Lab offers an online price calculator that provides an instant indicative quote, allowing you to select the number of tapes per format and the desired additional services. Reference rates: VHS up to 90 min from 12 € and up to 180 min from 15 € (VAT included), with free online download and optional USB drive for 5 €.