best open source video players
Open-source video players are popular due to their flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and the ability for users to modify and enhance the software. Among the best open-source video players are VLC Media Player, MPV, and Kodi. These players support a wide range of video formats and offer robust features for an enhanced viewing experience.
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VLC Media Player is renowned for its versatility and extensive format support, making it a favorite among users. It is lightweight, regularly updated, and has a user-friendly interface. MPV, on the other hand, is praised for its high-quality video output and minimalistic design, which appeals to power users seeking customization through scripts and command-line options. Kodi, initially known as XBMC, stands out for its media center capabilities, allowing users to organize and stream various media content, including movies, TV shows, and music. Its rich repository of add-ons and plugins further extends its functionality, making it an excellent choice for users who want an all-in-one media solution. All these players have strong community support, ensuring continuous improvements and quick fixes for any issues.
VLC Media PlayerView AllVLC Media Player - Versatile, open-source media player for multiple formats.
KodiView AllKodi - Kodi: Versatile, open-source media player and entertainment hub.
MPVView AllMPV - Innovative, versatile, and eco-friendly multifaceted product solutions.
MPlayerView AllMPlayer - MPlayer: Versatile, open-source media player for multiple formats.
SMPlayerView AllSMPlayer - SMPlayer: Versatile, open-source media player with codec support.
PlexView AllPlex - Plex: Media server software for streaming and organizing content.
XBMCView AllXBMC - Open-source media player and entertainment hub software.
PotPlayerView AllPotPlayer - PotPlayer: Versatile, feature-rich multimedia playback software.
KMPlayerView AllKMPlayer - KMPlayer: versatile multimedia player supporting various formats.
GOM PlayerView AllGOM Player - Versatile, free media player with extensive format support.
best open source video players
1.
VLC Media Player
VLC Media Player is a versatile, open-source multimedia player developed by the VideoLAN project. Known for its robust performance and compatibility, it supports a wide range of audio and video formats without needing additional codecs. VLC is praised for its user-friendly interface, cross-platform availability, and powerful streaming capabilities. Its adaptability and extensive feature set make it a popular choice for both casual users and tech enthusiasts worldwide.
Pros
Free to use- Supports numerous file formats
- Lightweight
- Customizable
- No ads
Cons
Basic interface- Limited advanced editing features
- Occasional bugs
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Limited customer support
2.
Kodi
Kodi is a powerful, open-source media player and entertainment hub that allows users to play and view most videos, music, podcasts, and other digital media files across various devices. Initially developed as Xbox Media Center (XBMC), Kodi has evolved into a versatile platform that supports numerous add-ons and customization options. Available on multiple operating systems, it transforms any device into a fully functional media center, offering a seamless and user-friendly multimedia experience.
Pros
- Free and open-source
- Customizable interface
- Wide range of add-ons
- Supports multiple platforms
- Strong community support
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Risk of unofficial add-ons
- Requires manual updates
- Limited official support
- Potential security risks
3.
MPV
MPV, short for Multi-Purpose Vehicle, is a versatile automobile designed to transport passengers and cargo with ease. Renowned for its spacious interiors, flexible seating arrangements, and family-friendly features, MPVs cater to a variety of needs, from daily commutes to long road trips. Combining comfort with practicality, these vehicles often include advanced safety technologies and efficient performance, making them a popular choice for families and those requiring adaptable transportation solutions.
Pros
- spacious interior
- versatile seating
- good fuel efficiency
- advanced safety features
- reliable performance
Cons
- higher price point
- limited color options
- bulky size
- average acceleration
- expensive maintenance
4.
MPlayer
MPlayer is a versatile and open-source media player that supports a wide array of audio and video formats. Launched in 2000, it has gained popularity for its robust performance, extensive codec support, and compatibility with various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. MPlayer also offers advanced features like subtitle handling, video scaling, and streaming capabilities, making it a preferred choice among tech enthusiasts and users seeking a reliable, customizable media playback solution.
Pros
- Wide format support
- Customizable
- Lightweight
- Open-source
- Cross-platform compatibility
Cons
- Outdated interface
- Limited documentation
- Steeper learning curve
- Inconsistent updates
- Occasional stability issues
5.
SMPlayer
SMPlayer is a versatile, open-source media player available for Windows and Linux. It supports a wide range of audio and video formats without the need for external codecs. Featuring an intuitive interface, SMPlayer offers advanced functionalities like subtitle synchronization, video equalizer, and playback speed control. It also remembers the settings of all files you play, allowing you to resume from where you left off. SMPlayer is built on the powerful MPlayer engine, ensuring robust performance and high compatibility.
Pros
- Free and open-source
- Cross-platform
- Supports many formats
- Customizable interface
- Built-in codecs.
Cons
- Limited support
- Occasional bugs
- Outdated UI design
- Heavy resource usage
- Lacks advanced features.
6.
Plex
Plex is a media server and streaming platform that allows users to organize, manage, and stream their personal media collections, such as movies, TV shows, music, and photos, to various devices. Founded in 2009, Plex offers both free and premium subscription options, providing features like live TV, DVR capabilities, and access to a wide range of third-party content. Known for its user-friendly interface and cross-platform compatibility, Plex is popular among users seeking a centralized solution for their digital media needs.
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- supports multiple devices
- extensive media library
- remote access
- robust parental controls
Cons
- Subscription cost
- occasional bugs
- limited free features
- requires good internet
- complex setup for beginners
7.
XBMC
XBMC, originally known as Xbox Media Center, is an open-source media player and entertainment hub. Initially developed for the original Xbox, it has since evolved into a multi-platform application that supports various operating systems like Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android. XBMC allows users to play and view most videos, music, podcasts, and other digital media files from local and network storage media and the internet. It has since been rebranded as Kodi.
Pros
- Open-source
- Highly customizable
- Supports numerous add-ons
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Active community support
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Resource-intensive
- Potential legal issues with add-ons
- Complex setup for beginners
- Limited official support
8.
PotPlayer
PotPlayer is a versatile multimedia player developed by South Korean company Kakao. Known for its lightweight design and extensive support for a wide range of audio and video formats, PotPlayer offers a smooth playback experience with advanced features like hardware acceleration, customizable interface, and extensive subtitle support. It also includes tools for video editing, screen capture, and 3D viewing, making it a popular choice for both casual users and tech enthusiasts.
Pros
- Free
- Highly customizable
- Lightweight
- Supports many formats
- Advanced features
Cons
- Complex interface
- Windows only
- Occasional bugs
- Limited online support
- Frequent updates
9.
KMPlayer
KMPlayer is a versatile multimedia player renowned for its wide format support and user-friendly interface. Launched in 2002, it supports high-definition videos, 3D formats, and various subtitle formats. KMPlayer also offers advanced features like video capture, playback speed control, and customizable skins. Compatible with Windows, macOS, and mobile platforms, it caters to diverse multimedia needs, making it a popular choice for users seeking a reliable and feature-rich media player.
Pros
- Free to use
- Supports various formats
- Customizable interface
- Lightweight
- Advanced playback features
Cons
- Contains ads
- Occasionally crashes
- Limited customer support
- Potential security risks
- Resource-intensive
10.
GOM Player
GOM Player is a versatile multimedia player developed by South Korean company GOM & Company. Known for its wide format support, it can handle various audio and video file types without requiring additional codecs. The player offers advanced features like customizable skins, subtitles, screen capture, and 360-degree VR playback. Its user-friendly interface and robust functionality make it a popular choice for users seeking a comprehensive media playback solution. Additionally, GOM Player provides access to an extensive library of subtitles and other multimedia resources.
Pros
- Free to use
- Supports various formats
- Customizable interface
- Built-in subtitle search
- Screen capture feature.
Cons
- Contains ads
- Limited advanced features
- Occasional crashes
- No Mac version
- Slow updates.