How to Record on a Samsung TV in 2025 [Full Guide]

When watching some episodes, TV shows, or live events on a Samsung smart TV, you may want to save missed content for later watching. But how to record on a Samsung TV? Where is record button on Samsung remote? Do you need a USB stick for Samsung TV recording? Check this post for all guidance on recording streaming TV on your Samsung.

Can I Record from My Samsung Smart TV?

Yes, Samsung Smart TVs come with a built-in PVR (Personal Video Recorder) feature that allows you to record live TV programs directly using your remote. To use it, simply connect a USB storage device to your TV. Once connected, you can record live shows, pause and rewind live TV, or even schedule recording future programs.

However, this PVR function only works for live broadcast channels. It does not support recording from streaming apps like Samsung TV Plus, Netflix, or Amazon Prime due to DRM (Digital Rights Management) protection.

If you want to save content from streaming apps for personal use only, a common workaround is to connect your Samsung TV to a computer using an HDMI capture card. Then, install a screen recorder on your Windows or Mac to capture the video on your computer.

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How to Record TV Programs on Smart TV with PVR Feature [Built-in]

Generally speaking, Samsung TVs have two built-in recording functions: instant recording and scheduled recording. However, not all Samsung TVs have the capability to record TV shows without a DVR or PVR using a USB stick. You can refer to the specific model's specifications to see if this feature is available.

✅What You Need:

• A Samsung smart TV with built-in PVR support
• A USB stick or external hard drive (preferably USB 3.0, 32GB+ recommended)
• Live TV signal (via antenna, cable, or satellite tuner)

🚩See how to record on a Samsung TV with a USB stick:

Part 1. Prepare Your USB Storage

Step 1. Plug your USB stick or external hard drive into a USB port on your Samsung TV.

Step 2. Your TV will detect the USB drive and may prompt you to format it.

Step 3. Once formatted, your TV will register it for PVR use.

Part 2. Start Instant Recording

Step 1. Tune in to the live TV channel you want to record.

Step 2. Press the Record or 123 icon button on your remote control. The Record button may vary depending on the type of remote.

Step 3. You will see a picture of your TV remote on the screen, and press the Select button with your remote. (Skip this step if there is no such picture on your Samsung TV model)

Step 4. Select the Record with your remote. A recording will begin immediately and be saved to your USB drive.

Part 3. Schedule a Recording

Step 1. Press the Home button on your remote and select Live TV. Then, press the Up button and choose Schedule Manager.

Step 2. On the Recording & Schedule Manager screen, go to the Schedules tab. Choose either Add Viewing (to set a reminder) or Add Recording (to record the program).

Step 3. Select the TV channel and the show you want to record. Under the Repeat option, choose whether to record Everyday, on Selected Days, or Only Once.

Step 4. When your scheduled program is about to start, a reminder message will pop up in the top-right corner of the screen.

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How to Record on a Samsung TV Without Limitations

Sometimes, however, the PVR feature on Samsung TV cannot meet your demands since it only allows recording for live TV via antenna or cable and you can't use PVR to record Netflix, Prime Video, Samsung TV Plus, or other on-demand content and apps.

Meanwhile, Samsung TV's PVR function is unavailable or disabled in your country or device model. You also need to save a copy of a limited-time stream or special live event for offline viewing.

In these cases, you need an external recording setup with software to record TV screen to computer.

✅What You Need:

• A Windows or Mac computer
• A video capture device (HDMI capture card)
• An HDMI cable
• EaseUS RecExperts screen recorder (free to download)

🚩See how to record TV programs on Samsung TV with a computer:

Part 1. Connect Samsung TV to Your Computer

Step 1. Plug one end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI OUT port on your Samsung TV.

Step 2. Plug the other end into the HDMI capture card, which is connected to your computer's USB port.

Step 3. Turn on the TV and select the video source you want to record.

Part 2. Start Recording Samsung TV with EaseUS RecExperts

Step 1. Launch EaseUS RecExperts. There are two modes for screen recording. Choose "Full Screen", this tool will capture the whole screen; choose "Region", you will need to select the recording area manually.

Step 2. After that, you can choose to record the webcam, system sound, or microphone as you like. Of course, you can turn them off if you only need to record the silent screen.

Step 3. Then, you can click the red "REC" button to start recording. Now you will see a menu bar on your screen. If you want to pause the recording, click on the white "Pause" button; to end the recording, click on the red "Stop" button.

Step 4. After recording, you will be led to the recording list interface. Here you can view or edit your recordings easily.

👉Why Choose EaseUS RecExperts?

• Bypass black screen issues from protected content
• Record in 4K/1080p HD with internal & external audio
• Auto-stop, task scheduler, and video editing built-in
• Easy to use, even for beginners

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Conclusion

This article elaborates on how to record on a Samsung TV and offer two options:

1️⃣Insert a USB stick and use the PVR Record feature built into the TV's remote control to perform an instant recording or schedule a recording from live TV channels.

2️⃣If the PVR function is not available on your Samsung TV or you need to capture content from streaming apps like Samsung Smart TV Plus or Netflix, consider using an HDMI capture card to connect your TV to your computer. Then, download EaseUS RecExperts on your PC to record anything from your smart TV.

Samsung Smart TV Recording Problems FAQs

1. Where is record button on Samsung remote?

On many Samsung Smart TV remotes, especially the Smart Remote or One Remote, there is no dedicated REC button.

To start recording, you typically: press the 123 button to bring up the virtual numeric pad on the screen.

On older or full-featured remotes, the Record button is typically represented by a red dot labeled "REC".

2. What are the best USB stick for Samsung TV recording?

For smooth recording, use high-speed, reliable USB drives that support USB 3.0 and have good read and write performance. Recommended options:

• SanDisk Ultra Flair USB 3.0 (64GB–128GB)
• Samsung BAR Plus USB 3.1
• Kingston DataTraveler Exodia
• PNY Turbo USB 3.0 Flash Drive

Always format the USB drive in your TV before use and ensure it supports recording, as not all drives are compatible.

3. What is the 123 button on the Samsung remote?

The 123 button opens the on-screen numeric keypad on Samsung Smart Remotes. It's especially useful when there are no physical number or record buttons on the remote. It allows you to:

• Enter channel numbers manually
• Access functions like Record, Info, Subtitles, and more
• Use hidden commands when needed (depending on the model)

4. What size USB stick for TV recording?

Samsung recommends using a USB stick of at least 32GB, but for longer or HD recordings. Larger USB drives must be formatted to a supported file system, typically exFAT or NTFS.

• Minimum: 32GB (short sessions or time-shift only)
• Ideal: 64GB–128GB (for scheduled or full-program recording)
• Best for 4K: 256GB or external USB 3.0 hard drives

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