Best Players for HEVC Files

HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding), also known as H.265, offers superior video quality at lower bitrates compared to its predecessor, H.264 - learn more in Is AVC/H.264 Making Way for New Video Encoding Stars?

However, not all media players support HEVC playback efficiently.

 

Best HEVC Players


Here’s a list of some of the best players for HEVC files:
 

1. VLC Media Player

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Pros:
- Free and open-source
- Supports a wide range of formats
- Regularly updated
Cons:
- May struggle with high-bitrate HEVC files on older hardware

Download VLC Media Player
 

2. MPC-HC (Media Player Classic - Home Cinema)

Platforms: Windows
Pros:
- Lightweight and fast
- Highly customizable
Cons:
- Limited official support; community-driven updates

Download MPC-HC
 

3. PotPlayer

Platforms: Windows
Pros:
- High performance with HEVC files
- Extensive customization options
Cons:
Only available for Windows; interface may feel complex for beginners

Download PotPlayer
 

4. Kodi

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Pros:
- Versatile media center with extensive plugin support
- Great for organizing media libraries
Cons:
- Can be resource-intensive; setup may be complicated for some users

Download Kodi Player
 

5. MPV Player

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Pros:
- Lightweight and powerful
- Supports high-quality playback
Cons:
- Minimalist interface may not appeal to all users

Download MPV Player
 

6. Windows Media Player (with codecs)

Platforms: Windows
Pros:
- Familiar interface for Windows users
Cons:
- Requires additional codecs for HEVC support (e.g., HEVC Video Extensions)

Download Windows Media Player
 

7. MPC-BE (Media Player Classic - Black Edition)

Platforms: Windows
Pros:
- Built on the MPC-HC foundation with additional features
- Improved support for modern video formats and subtitles
Cons:
- Similar to MPC-HC.

Download MPC-BE

 

For most users, VLC Media Player (check also Playing HEVC Files on VLC Media Player) is the most accessible and reliable choice for HEVC playback.

If you prefer a more lightweight or customizable option, MPC-HC/MPC-BE or PotPlayer (see How to Play HEVC/H.265 Files with PotPlayer) are excellent alternatives. For media organization and streaming, consider Kodi.

Ultimately, the best player will depend on your specific needs and system capabilities.

Reviews & Comments
Be the First to Write a COMMENT!
Verification Code
Click the image or refresh button to get a new code.
Quick heads up: Reviews & comments get a fast check before posting - no spam allowed.