MPC-BE 1.8.9 Final
MPC-BE (Media Player Classic - Black Edition) is the preferred media player for Windows users seeking a lightweight, yet powerful multimedia experience.
Download MPC-BE 1.8.9 Free | Get Portable Version
Need a media player that handles every file format without installing codec packs?
MPC-BE is an open-source, lightweight media player for Windows that plays MKV, MP4, AVI, HEVC, and AV1 files out of the box - often handling files that VLC Media Player struggles with.
Why Download MPC-BE Over VLC and Windows Media Player?
Universal Format Support: MPC-BE plays MP4, AVI, MKV, VP9, H.264, H.265/HEVC, AV1, and ProRes using integrated LAV Filters. No need to download the K-Lite Codec Pack separately.
Hardware Acceleration: Uses DXVA2, NVIDIA CUVID, and Intel QuickSync to leverage your GPU for smooth 4K and HDR playback - even on older systems. For optimal configuration, check out our guide on Transform Your Media Player with LAV Filters.
Modern Interface: MPC-BE maintains the simplicity of the original Media Player Classic interface while adding a polished design that feels modern.
Audio Boost & Filter Options: Includes internal audio renderer with WASAPI/ASIO support and Dolby AC-4 decoding capabilities.
→ Read: MPC-BE vs MPC-HC: Which Media Player is Right for You?
MPC-BE vs Other Media Players
Media Player Comparison
| Player | Status | Codecs | HDR | Portable | HW Accel | Get |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MPC-BE★ Best
|
Active | Native | Yes | D3D11 | ↓ Get | |
|
MPC-HC
|
Community | Limited | Yes | DXVA2 | ↓ Get | |
|
VLC
|
Active | Native | Yes | Auto | ↓ Get | |
|
PotPlayer
|
Active | Native | Yes | CUDA | ↓ Get | |
|
mpv
|
Active | Native | Yes | Vulkan | ↓ Get | |
|
KMPlayer
|
Active | Limited | No | DXVA | ↓ Get |
Who Should Download MPC-BE?
- Video enthusiasts who need reliable 4K/HDR playback without stuttering.
- Anime fans requiring advanced subtitle support with xy-VSFilter compatibility (SRT, ASS, SSA).
- Power users who want granular audio/video controls and customization.
- System admins needing portable media players that require no installation.
Key Features That Matter
Portable Version Available: Portable builds (~17 MB) work on both 32-bit and 64-bit systems - perfect for USB drives or restricted systems.
Superior Subtitle Handling: Advanced subtitle engine with auto-downloading, multiple language support, and timing synchronization. Works seamlessly with DirectVobSub for external subtitle files.
Highly Customizable: Choose video renderers like MadVR or MPC Video Renderer, apply custom shaders, and configure system-wide hotkeys.
→ See: How to Use MPC Video Renderer
Regular Updates: MPC-BE receives frequent releases and nightly builds, keeping compatibility with newer codecs like dav1d AV1 decoder.
How to Configure MP4 Splitter for Optimal Playback
For smooth MP4 playback in MPC-BE, configuring the internal MP4 Splitter ensures better compatibility with complex streams and modern formats like HEVC, AV1, and multi-audio tracks.
→ Full guide: How to Configure MP4 Splitter for Optimal Playback
Latest Changes (v1.8.9)
- Added experimental support for Dolby AC-4 audio decoding
- Improved TrueHD + Dolby Atmos transmission via HDMI Passthrough
- Fixed crash when converting NV12 to YV12 with D3D11cb, D3D12cb, or NVDEC decoders
- Fixed default format selection (VP9 720p + OPUS) after settings reset
- Updated MPC Video Renderer to 0.9.13
The MpcVideoRenderer 0.9.12.2447; is the Gesso on the canvas.
As 3rd Party Elements improve, then the Player itself, will improve.
Codecs can be added and adjusted.
A thing of quality and ease of use.
The best of freeware!
Offers you a quality interaction with any media.
User Interface is very friendly.
The Team that produces it, also offers the MpcVideoRenderer 0.9.10.2438, which Compliments the Player, so use it.
All, is easy to put on your PC or Laptop!
