The TiVo and Dish systems have integrated satellite receivers, eliminating the need for two set-top boxes. They can record up to 35 hours of programming and are designed for use with DirecTV and Dish satellite TV, respectively. Combining the PVR with satellite makes the experience more seamless and is particularly attractive to first-time satellite subscribers. The TiVo can also be purchased as a stand-alone unit with a variety of recording capacities ($199-$499).

The brand-new ReplayTV 5000 from Sonicblue will work with any cable or satellite system and, depending on the model, will hold anywhere from 40 hours to 320 hours of content. This is the best-looking and best-built set-top box here and is the only one to include component video out.