The High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) codec is a widely used video compression standard that offers better compression efficiency than its predecessors. VLC media player supports HEVC playback, but sometimes, you might need to ensure that your system has the necessary codecs installed for smooth playback. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install the HEVC codec for VLC exclusive use:
[Tools] ➔ [Preferences] ➔ [Input / Codecs] ➔ [Hardware-accelerated decoding] ➔ Change to DXVA2.0 or Disable Step 3: Increase VLC's File Caching
If you are streaming the HEVC file over a local network, change to 2000 . Click Save and restart VLC. install hevc codec for vlc exclusive
Device manufacturers often bundle this extension for free. Open your web browser and enter the following link into your address bar to open a hidden, free Microsoft Store portal: ms-windows-store://pdp/?ProductId=9n4wgh0z6vhq . Click Install . For macOS Users
| | VLC | Windows Media Player | QuickTime (Mac) | |---|---|---|---| | Native HEVC Support | ✅ Yes (built-in) | ❌ Needs paid extension | ❌ Very limited | | Cost | Free | $0.99 for extension | Free but limited | | Hardware Acceleration | ✅ (Windows/Mac/Linux) | ✅ (with extension) | ❌ | | 10-bit HEVC Support | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No | | 4K/8K Playback | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Limited | ❌ No | | Customizable | ✅ Highly | ❌ Minimal | ❌ No | | Cross-Platform | ✅ Windows/Mac/Linux | ❌ Windows only | ❌ Mac only | The High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) codec is
This allows VLC to use your GPU, which is critical for smooth 4K HEVC playback. Navigate to (or press Ctrl + P ). Select the Input / Codecs tab. Set Hardware-accelerated decoding to Automatic . Click Save and restart VLC. 3. Adjust Advanced FFmpeg Settings
When asked to select a preferred media player, choose . Click Save and restart VLC
Open VLC → → Codec Information . Under “Codec” for an HEVC file, if you see hevc with “failed to decode”, proceed.
: Open the Microsoft Store link: ms-windows-store://pdp/?ProductId=9n4wgh0z6vhq Only works if your PC manufacturer pre-licensed HEVC.
VLC Media Player usually includes HEVC (H.265) support natively, so you don't typically need to install an external codec. However, if you are seeing errors or experiencing choppy playback, follow these steps to ensure HEVC is optimized specifically for VLC: 1. Update VLC to the Latest Version
Are you tired of struggling to play HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding) files on VLC media player? Do you want to enjoy seamless playback of 4K and 8K videos, as well as other high-quality content, without any hiccups or crashes? Look no further! In this article, we'll walk you through the process of installing the HEVC codec for VLC, ensuring that you can play HEVC files exclusively and effortlessly.