Two Great OTA DVRs: Tablo and AirTV - Which One is Right for You?

As a long-time cord-cutter, I've had the opportunity to test and use a variety of over-the-air (OTA) DVR solutions. Two of the most popular options are Tablo and AirTV, and I've spent considerable time with both. Today, I'm going to share my experiences and help you decide which one might be the best fit for your cord-cutting setup.

My Experience: Reliability and Signal Strength

Living roughly 40 miles from the major network broadcast towers, signal strength and reliability are crucial for me. I'm happy to report that both Tablo and AirTV have performed admirably. Both devices have consistently delivered clear, reliable recordings, and I haven’t experienced any significant signal issues. I do use a signal booster, but have used it for both devices, making it a level playing field. In short, both are reliable.

Interface and User Experience: A Wash

While the user interfaces of Tablo and AirTV are different, I've found them both to be equally user-friendly. Finding and recording shows is a breeze on both platforms, and the grid-style program guides are intuitive and easy to navigate. The main difference is that AirTV integrates with the Sling TV Freestream interface, meaning that if you use Freestream, you will see it all in one place. If you select the "Locals" filter, you will only see your antenna channels.

AirTV's Unique Advantage: Freestream Integration

One of AirTV's standout features is its seamless integration with Sling TV Freestream. This means you can access your local OTA channels and Freestream's free content all within a single interface. If you're already a Freestream user, this integration is a major convenience. You can select to view only your antenna channels, or all of the content.

My Personal Preference: Out-of-Home Viewing (with a Clarification)

For those that, like me, want to view their local channels away from home on streaming devices like Roku, Fire TV, Google TV, or Apple TV, AirTV is the only option of the two. While both Tablo and AirTV offer out-of-home viewing via their mobile apps for phones and tablets, AirTV is unique in its ability to extend that functionality to the 'Big Four' streaming platforms. This isn't a feature everyone needs, but it's a valuable bonus for those who travel or want to stay connected to local news and sports while on the go across all their devices.

Recommendations: Choosing the Right Device for You

So, which device should you choose? Here's a simple breakdown:

• If you use Freestream, AirTV is the clear winner. The unified interface provides a seamless viewing experience.
• If out-of-home viewing on streaming devices (Roku, Fire TV, Google TV, Apple TV) is a must-have, AirTV is the only option.
• For mobile out-of-home viewing (phones/tablets), both Tablo and AirTV are equally capable.
• For all other users, both Tablo and AirTV are excellent choices. You really can't go wrong with either device.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts

Both Tablo and AirTV are reliable and effective OTA DVR solutions. Your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value Freestream integration or out-of-home viewing on streaming devices, AirTV is the way to go. Otherwise, you can confidently choose either device and enjoy the benefits of free, over-the-air television. My Streaming Life has benefited from the use of both devices, and they have been a key part of my cord cutting journey.