InputStream FFmpeg Direct review
A free Kodi media source for stream playback, catch-up, and live timeshifting.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
InputStream FFmpeg Direct is a free, open-source Kodi inputstream add-on for IPTV users who want to play compatible streams, including catch-up content or live broadcasts with timeshifting. It opens streams through FFmpeg libavformat or Kodi cURL, with support for TS, HLS, non-DRM DASH, and other formats those components can handle. For services with a replay window, it can play archive or catch-up streams. Live timeshifting adds pause, rewind, and fast-forward controls.
Its strongest fit is playback flexibility rather than a broad entertainment catalog. Settings include FFmpeg HTTP proxy configuration, an HLS bandwidth limit, and controls for the timeshift buffer path and maximum length. Additional options cover teletext, FPS probing, FFmpeg logging, and faster manifest opening. These controls may suit users who need to adjust stream handling, but the add-on depends on compatible streams and services; it does not make DRM-protected DASH streams playable.
Installation is a practical consideration: the add-on is distributed through manual download and build/install steps, and platform-specific support differences apply across Linux, macOS, and Windows. It integrates with Kodi and IPTV Simple Client, and community channels are the listed support route. Choose it if you are comfortable with manual installation and specifically need catch-up or timeshift playback in Kodi. If you want a guided setup or a general-purpose streaming library, this add-on is a narrower fit.
InputStream FFmpeg Direct pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Plays TS, HLS, and non-DRM DASH streams
- Supports catch-up playback and live pause, rewind, and fast-forward
- Offers configurable buffering, proxy, and HLS bandwidth settings
- Where it doesn't
- Installation requires manual download and build steps
- Platform-specific support differences apply, including on Windows
- Playback is limited to compatible streams and services
InputStream FFmpeg Direct fact sheet, pricing and score →
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