Overview

The Hauppauge WinTV-DualHD 1595 is a dual USB 2.0 HD TV tuner designed for Windows PCs. This compact, plug-and-play device offers a simple way to watch and record TV directly on your computer. With support for both ATSC and unencrypted QAM TV signals, this TV tuner allows you to access a wide range of free live TV channels. It’s compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, and Vista, and doesn’t require additional power, making it an ideal choice for users seeking an easy setup. Dual tuners provide enhanced functionality for watching and recording TV at the same time.

Features & Benefits

This dual HD tuner is packed with useful features for both casual and power users. The dual tuners enable you to watch one channel while recording another, or even use the picture-in-picture mode for multi-channel viewing. It also integrates seamlessly with Plex, allowing you to stream live TV to multiple devices. Along with the included remote control, portable antenna, and USB extension cable, it offers everything needed for a smooth experience. With its compact design, it’s an excellent option for those with limited space or who need portability.

Best For

This TV tuner is perfect for Windows PC users who want a simple way to watch and record TV without needing a bulky setup. It's especially great for cord-cutters looking for an over-the-air TV solution. Additionally, its Plex compatibility makes it ideal for users who wish to integrate live TV streaming into their Plex Media Server. If you're someone with a small workspace or a laptop, this compact and lightweight device is well-suited to your needs. It’s also an excellent choice for those seeking to enhance their media center setup.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the Hauppauge WinTV-DualHD 1595 for its easy installation and quick setup. Many appreciate the dual tuner functionality, which allows multitasking without interrupting their TV experience. However, some users have reported occasional signal reception issues, particularly in areas with weaker antenna signals. Despite this, the ability to stream live TV via Plex is highly regarded by those who want a multi-device setup. Overall, the included remote control and portable antenna are a big hit, though a few feel that signal strength could be more consistent in certain regions.

Pros

  • Dual tuners allow for multitasking, enabling users to watch one channel while recording another.
  • Plug-and-play setup makes it easy to install, even for beginners or casual users.
  • Compact design works well in small spaces, making it ideal for laptop or tablet users.
  • Plex integration lets users stream live TV across multiple devices, enhancing viewing flexibility.
  • The inclusion of a remote control and portable antenna adds convenience for on-the-go use.
  • Affordable option for cord-cutters looking for a simple over-the-air TV solution.

Cons

  • Signal reception can be weak in rural areas or locations far from broadcast towers.
  • Some users report occasional signal dropouts or poor picture quality in certain conditions.
  • Plex setup might be challenging for users unfamiliar with the platform or TV tuners.
  • May not offer enough customization or advanced features for users with specific needs.
  • Build quality may not feel as sturdy as higher-end alternatives, raising concerns for long-term durability.
  • Limited compatibility with encrypted TV signals, which may be a drawback for some users.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback from various countries and platforms, including multiple languages, the scores for the Hauppauge WinTV-DualHD 1595 reflect both strengths and areas for improvement. We filtered out spam, bot-generated, incentivized, duplicated, off-topic, and exaggerated reviews to ensure only high-quality, authentic insights contributed to the results. Users generally praise its dual tuner functionality and ease of use, while some signal reception issues in certain areas were noted.

Dual Tuner Performance
88%
Many users enjoy the ability to watch one channel while recording another, which is especially helpful for multitasking. The dual tuners are a major benefit for people who want to maximize their TV time and streamline viewing and recording activities.
However, some buyers report occasional signal interference when using both tuners simultaneously, particularly in areas with weak broadcast signals. This can sometimes affect the quality of the recording or viewing experience.
Ease of Setup
94%
Users frequently highlight the device's plug-and-play functionality, making installation quick and hassle-free. Many appreciate that it works seamlessly with Windows PCs without requiring additional drivers or complicated configurations.
On the downside, a few users did face initial confusion with installation, especially those who were not familiar with USB TV tuners. Some noted the setup guide could be clearer for first-time users.
Signal Reception
72%
28%
When it works well, the signal reception is solid, and many users enjoy a reliable TV viewing experience, especially in areas with good broadcast signals. The device supports both ATSC and QAM signals, which broadens its compatibility with various TV sources.
Unfortunately, some users experience issues with signal reception in areas with weaker over-the-air signals, leading to poor picture quality or dropped channels. This is a common complaint for users in more remote or rural locations.
Plex Integration
86%
Plex integration is a key selling point for many buyers. They appreciate being able to stream live TV to other compatible devices, adding significant versatility to the device. It enhances the overall viewing experience, especially for those with a Plex setup.
A few users found that Plex integration can sometimes be temperamental, with occasional connection issues when streaming to multiple devices. While generally functional, some noted delays or buffering during extended use.
Portability/Size
90%
The compact size is a standout feature, especially for users with limited space or those who need a portable solution. Its small form factor makes it easy to carry and set up anywhere, whether for home use or during travel.
However, a handful of buyers mentioned that the smaller size means it may lack some of the sturdiness found in larger, more robust units. While it's great for portability, it may feel less durable in certain situations.
User Interface/Remote Control
82%
18%
Many users are pleased with the included remote control, which allows for easy navigation and control of the device without needing to be close to the computer. The interface is generally straightforward, providing a user-friendly experience for basic operations.
Some users felt that the remote control could be more responsive and the interface could be a little more intuitive. A few buyers mentioned occasional lag or unresponsiveness when using the remote over longer distances.
Compatibility with Windows PCs
96%
The device excels in compatibility, working well with a variety of Windows versions, including Windows 7, 8, 10, and Vista. This makes it a reliable choice for a wide range of users without having to worry about system compatibility issues.
There are very few complaints in this area, but a small group of users on older versions of Windows, particularly Vista, reported occasional connectivity issues or minor glitches during installation.
Picture-in-Picture Functionality
84%
Picture-in-picture mode is a highly praised feature for users who like to watch multiple channels at once. This feature adds to the multitasking appeal, allowing users to monitor two channels at the same time without switching between them.
A few users found the picture-in-picture feature to be glitchy or not always functioning as expected, particularly when switching between different channels. Some also wished the feature could be more customizable for a better viewing experience.
Customer Support
78%
22%
Customers have noted that when they reach out to support, responses are generally helpful and timely. The support team is knowledgeable about troubleshooting and offers practical solutions for common issues.
On the flip side, a number of users mentioned long wait times when trying to reach customer service. Some also reported that initial responses from the support team weren't as detailed or comprehensive as they had hoped.
Value for Money
91%
The Hauppauge device offers solid value, especially for users seeking a budget-friendly TV tuner that delivers good performance. It provides useful features like dual tuners, Plex support, and easy installation at a reasonable price point.
Some users felt that, while it's an excellent device for casual use, it might not have the same level of advanced features as higher-end tuners. This could be a drawback for users who need more professional-grade functionality.
Included Accessories
80%
20%
The inclusion of a remote control, portable antenna, and USB extension cable provides added convenience, especially for users who want a complete setup out of the box. These accessories make the device more versatile and user-friendly.
However, a few buyers felt that the antenna included with the device could be of better quality, especially for those in areas with weaker signals. Some reported that they needed to purchase a stronger antenna separately for optimal performance.
Long-Term Durability
75%
25%
For the most part, this device holds up well under regular use. It's compact, with a design that allows for easy storage and handling, making it a good option for short-term and occasional TV watching.
However, some users have raised concerns about the durability of the product over time, particularly with extended use. Issues like wear and tear on the remote control or minor malfunctioning of the tuners were occasionally reported after months of use.

Suitable for:

This dual USB TV tuner is ideal for Windows PC users who want a simple and efficient solution for watching and recording TV. It is particularly well-suited for cord-cutters who rely on over-the-air ATSC or unencrypted QAM signals, offering an affordable alternative to cable subscriptions. Its dual tuners allow users to multitask by watching one channel while recording another, which makes it a great choice for people with limited time. The compact, plug-and-play design appeals to those with limited space or who need portability, such as apartment dwellers or students. Additionally, the integration with Plex for live TV streaming makes it a strong option for users who want to access their content on multiple devices around the home or on-the-go.

Not suitable for:

However, this TV tuner may not be the best choice for users in areas with weak signal reception. Some buyers reported experiencing intermittent issues with picture quality or dropped channels, particularly in rural areas or locations far from broadcast towers. Additionally, while setup is generally easy, users who are new to TV tuners might find some initial confusion during installation, especially if they are unfamiliar with Plex integration. Users looking for a highly durable or professional-grade device might also find the build quality and signal reliability less robust than higher-end alternatives. For those requiring advanced features, like support for encrypted signals or more customization options, this device may feel limiting.

Specifications

  • Tuner Type: Dual USB 2.0 HD TV tuner designed for Windows PCs, allowing for simultaneous TV viewing and recording.
  • Signal Compatibility: Supports ATSC (over-the-air HDTV broadcasts) and unencrypted QAM signals.
  • Simultaneous Viewing & Recording: Enables users to watch one channel while recording another thanks to its dual tuner functionality.
  • Plex Integration: Compatible with Plex Media Server, allowing live TV streaming to multiple devices on the same network.
  • Picture-in-Picture Mode: Supports picture-in-picture mode for multi-channel viewing, making it easy to view multiple channels at once.
  • USB Connection: Connects to your computer via USB 2.0, eliminating the need for external power.
  • Operating System Compatibility: Compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, and Vista, offering broad OS support.
  • Portability: Compact form factor, ideal for use with laptops, desktops, and tablets, making it portable and space-saving.
  • Accessories Included: Comes with a remote control, portable antenna, and a USB extension cable for improved convenience.
  • No External Power Required: Powered entirely through the USB connection, removing the need for an external power adapter.
  • Compatibility with Laptops & Desktops: Works seamlessly with both laptops and desktops, offering flexibility for various PC setups.
  • Signal Reception Range: Optimized for use in areas with strong signal reception, though performance may vary in remote or low-signal locations.
  • Setup & Installation: Features plug-and-play functionality, making installation simple without requiring complex setup.
  • TV Antenna: Includes a portable TV antenna to help with signal reception, especially for over-the-air broadcasts.
  • Remote Control: A remote control is included for convenient operation, allowing easy channel switching and settings adjustments.
  • Dual Tuner Support: Allows the user to record one channel while watching another, enhancing multi-tasking capabilities.
  • Space-Efficient Design: Its small and compact design makes it suitable for users with limited space.
  • Signal Type: Supports clear reception of both digital and unencrypted cable TV signals, providing a wide range of channel options.

FAQ

The Hauppauge WinTV-DualHD 1595 is a dual USB 2.0 HD TV tuner for Windows PCs. It allows you to watch and record live TV simultaneously, supporting both ATSC and unencrypted QAM signals. This compact device is plug-and-play, making it easy to install and use on laptops, desktops, and tablets.

Setting up this device is simple. Just plug it into a USB port on your Windows PC, install the included software, and connect an antenna or cable for signal reception. The device is compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, and Vista, and the installation process is typically quick and hassle-free.

This TV tuner supports ATSC (for over-the-air broadcast TV) and unencrypted QAM signals. It’s designed to capture free over-the-air HDTV broadcasts, so it won’t work with encrypted cable signals or satellite feeds.

Yes, thanks to its dual tuner feature, you can watch one channel while recording another. This is especially useful for multitasking and managing different TV content at the same time.

Yes, the Hauppauge WinTV-DualHD 1595 integrates with Plex, allowing you to stream live TV to compatible devices. This is a great feature for users who want to access their TV content on multiple devices around the house or while traveling.

The package includes the Hauppauge WinTV-DualHD 1595 tuner, a remote control, a portable TV antenna, and a USB extension cable. These accessories help you get started quickly and enhance the user experience.

No, the Hauppauge WinTV-DualHD 1595 operates entirely through your PC’s USB port, so it doesn’t require any external power source. This makes it very portable and convenient for on-the-go use.

Yes, this TV tuner works well with laptops, desktops, and tablets. Its compact design and plug-and-play functionality make it easy to set up on mobile devices, perfect for users with limited space.

Some users have reported occasional signal reception issues, especially in areas far from broadcast towers. These problems can sometimes lead to a weak or inconsistent signal, particularly in rural locations.

Yes, the Hauppauge WinTV-DualHD 1595 is praised for its easy installation and setup process. The device is plug-and-play, meaning no complicated software or hardware installation is required, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced users.