MPC-HC
MPC-HC: A capable Windows player for modern codecs, subtitles, HDR, and detailed playback control. Ranked #26 of 42 in Video Player Software by our editors (6.7/10); pricing: Free plan; best for windows users with modern codec needs.
At a glance
- Editor score6.7 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forWindows users with modern codec needs
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Supported platformsWindows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Supports HEVC, VVC, AV1, and AC4 playback
- Offers HDR playback with MPC Video Renderer or madVR
- Includes subtitle search, resume, speed control, and yt-dlp support
Where it doesn't
- Runs on Windows only
- Blu-ray playback does not include Blu-ray menus
- Web video features depend on yt-dlp integration
Our verdict on MPC-HC
MPC-HC is a free, open-source desktop video and audio player for Windows. It suits viewers who want broad modern codec support, detailed playback controls, subtitle tools, and a traditional desktop player. Supported Windows versions include Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11. The project is distributed under the GPL v3 license, with internal codecs, DirectShow-based extensibility, playlist support, and playback-position history with resume.
Codec coverage is a central strength. MPC-HC supports HEVC/H.265, VVC/H.266, AV1, and AC4, along with hardware acceleration and HDR playback through MPC Video Renderer or madVR. Its playback controls extend beyond basic play and pause: viewers can adjust speed, repeat an A-B section, pan and scan video, and work with WebVTT and SRT subtitles. Subtitle search and automatic subtitle search add useful support for files that need matching captions. Blu-ray playback is also available, although without Blu-ray menus.
The open-source pricing model keeps the player free, while its ecosystem adds optional functionality through yt-dlp, ffmpeg, and OpenSubtitles. yt-dlp enables website streaming and downloads, giving MPC-HC a broader role than a local-file player when that integration is configured. The trade-off is platform scope: MPC-HC is for Windows, not a cross-platform media setup. Choose it if you want a free Windows player with modern codec support, HDR options, subtitle features, and granular playback controls. Choose an alternative if you need another operating system or full Blu-ray menu navigation.
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MPC-HC pricing
MPC-HC fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11 |
| Codec support | HEVC/H.265, VVC/H.266, AV1, AC4 |
| Subtitle formats | WebVTT, SRT |
| Hardware acceleration | Yes |
| Maximum resolution | Not verified |
| Playback speed control | Yes |
| Portable version | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows |
| Support | Community |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 3 integrations: yt-dlp, ffmpeg, OpenSubtitles |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
MPC-HC integrations
MPC-HC lists 3 integrations on its own site.
- yt-dlp
- ffmpeg
- OpenSubtitles
Alternatives to MPC-HC
- VLC media playerA broad, free player for local media, network playback, subtitles, and major platforms.9.4
- KodiA free, flexible choice for organizing and playing media across five platforms.9.2
- mpvA highly configurable free player for users who value scripting and control.9.0
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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