best video player software for windows
When it comes to video player software for Windows, VLC Media Player stands out as the best choice. It's a free and open-source player that supports a wide range of audio and video formats without needing additional codecs. VLC is known for its versatility and robust performance, making it a favorite among users.
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Delving deeper into VLC Media Player's features, it's evident why it holds the top spot. The software supports almost every video format imaginable, including obscure and less common ones. This eliminates the frustration of having to download additional codec packs. VLC also offers advanced playback controls, allowing users to adjust playback speed, sync subtitles, and even apply video and audio filters in real-time. Its interface is user-friendly, but it also offers more advanced options for power users. Another significant advantage is its ability to stream content from the internet, making it a versatile tool for not just playing local files but also for online media consumption. Additionally, VLC is frequently updated by its developers, ensuring that it stays compatible with new formats and offers improved functionality over time.
VLC Media PlayerView AllVLC Media Player - Versatile, open-source media player for multiple formats.
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.
Media Player Classic - Home Cinema (MPC-HC)View AllMedia Player Classic - Home Cinema (MPC-HC) - Lightweight, open-source media player for Windows.
DivX PlayerView AllDivX Player - High-quality digital video playback software.
PlexView AllPlex - Plex: Media server software for streaming and organizing content.
KodiView AllKodi - Kodi: Versatile, open-source media player and entertainment hub.
RealPlayerView AllRealPlayer - RealPlayer: Media player for streaming and playback.
Windows Media PlayerView AllWindows Media Player - Microsoft's multimedia playback and library management software.
best video player software for windows
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.
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
3.
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
4.
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.
5.
Media Player Classic - Home Cinema (MPC-HC)
Media Player Classic - Home Cinema (MPC-HC) is a free, open-source media player for Windows. It offers a lightweight, user-friendly interface while supporting a wide range of audio and video formats. Designed to be a powerful, customizable alternative to mainstream media players, MPC-HC includes features like subtitle support, playback enhancements, and hardware acceleration. Though development ceased in 2017, it remains popular due to its stability, low resource usage, and extensive codec support.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Free and open-source
- Supports numerous formats
- No adware
- Customizable interface
Cons
- Outdated user interface
- Limited development
- Lacks modern streaming features
- No official macOS support
- Sometimes unstable with large files
6.
DivX Player
DivX Player is a multimedia software application developed by DivX, LLC, designed for high-quality video playback. Known for supporting a wide range of video formats, including the proprietary DivX codec, it offers features like HD and 4K playback, streaming capabilities, and advanced audio options. The player also includes tools for organizing media libraries and casting content to various devices. With its user-friendly interface and robust performance, DivX Player is popular among users seeking versatile and reliable video playback solutions.
Pros
- High-quality video playback
- Wide format support
- User-friendly interface
- Free version available
- Regular updates
Cons
- Ads in free version
- Limited advanced features
- Premium version costs money
- High resource usage
- Occasional stability issues
7.
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
8.
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
9.
RealPlayer
RealPlayer is a digital media player developed by RealNetworks, first launched in 1995. It is renowned for its ability to stream audio and video over the internet, supporting a wide range of multimedia formats. RealPlayer offers features like video downloading, file conversion, and media management, making it a versatile tool for both casual and avid media consumers. Its innovative streaming capabilities were particularly influential during the early days of internet media consumption.
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Wide format support
- Integrated media library
- Cross-platform availability
- Streaming capabilities
Cons
- Outdated design
- Heavy on system resources
- Frequent ads
- Limited advanced features
- Occasional playback issues
10.
Windows Media Player
Windows Media Player is a versatile media application developed by Microsoft for playing audio, video, and viewing images on personal computers running the Windows operating system. First introduced in 1991, it features a user-friendly interface, supports a wide variety of media formats, and offers media library management, CD ripping and burning, and synchronization capabilities with portable devices. Over the years, it has become an integral part of the Windows ecosystem, providing robust media playback and organizational tools for users.
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Supports various media formats
- Integrated with Windows OS
- Free to use
- Customizable skins
Cons
- Limited codec support
- Less advanced features
- Slower updates
- DRM restrictions
- Not cross-platform