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.

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