OSMC
Free, open-source media center software for supported home-theater devices.
At a glance
- Editor scoreNot yet scored
- PricingFree plan
- Best forRaspberry Pi and dedicated media-center users
- Free planYes
- Paid fromNone
- Network playbackYes
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open source with Kodi playback and add-on support
- Plays network sources, streaming protocols, subtitles, and broad formats
- Automatic updates plus 4K HDR playback on Vero V
Where it doesn't
- Supports a narrower device range than general-purpose media players
- Apple TV support is limited to the first-generation model
- Playback capabilities depend on the supported device used
Our verdict on OSMC
OSMC is a free, open-source media center operating system built on Debian Linux and Kodi. It is intended for home-theater playback on supported Raspberry Pi models, OSMC Vero devices, and first-generation Apple TV hardware. The software suits people who want a dedicated media interface for local files, network media, streaming protocols, subtitles, and Kodi add-ons rather than a general-purpose desktop player. Installation uses official images or a device installer, with an OSMC App Store included for additional software.
OSMC’s main strength is its media playback scope within a focused ecosystem. It supports common video, audio, and container formats including MPEG-2, VC-1, H.264, H.265/HEVC, AV1, MKV, MP4, MOV, WMV, TS, M2TS, AAC, FLAC, MP3, OGG, Opus, WAV, and WMA. Network playback works with NAS and network shares, while AirPlay and Kodi add-ons extend how content can reach the media center. Subtitle controls include subtitle delay adjustment, and automatic software updates reduce the need for manual maintenance.
The software itself is free, while the vendor separately sells Vero hardware. Device choice matters: 4K HDR playback is available on Vero V, and other playback capabilities depend on the hardware in use. That makes OSMC a strong fit for Raspberry Pi owners, Vero buyers, and dedicated media-center setups that value open-source software and Kodi compatibility. It is less suitable for people seeking broad support across modern computers, phones, or a wide range of streaming platforms, or for Apple TV owners with models newer than the first generation.
OSMC pricing
OSMC fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | None |
| Supported platforms | Raspberry Pi, Vero, Apple TV |
| Network playback | Yes |
| Subtitle support | Yes |
| Format support | MPEG-2, VC-1, H.264, H.265/HEVC, AV1, MKV, MP4, MOV, WMV, TS, M2TS, AAC, FLAC, MP3, OGG, Opus, WAV, WMA |
| Hardware acceleration | Yes |
| 4K playback | Yes |
| License model | Free |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 3 integrations: Kodi add-ons, AirPlay, NAS and network shares |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | osmc.tv |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
OSMC integrations
OSMC lists 3 integrations on its own site.
- Kodi add-ons
- AirPlay
- NAS and network shares
Alternatives to OSMC
- VLC media playerA broad, capable free player for local, network, and streamed media across major platforms.—
- mpvA flexible, scriptable player for users who prefer control over convenience.—
- KMPlayerA broad media player with strong format, network, cloud, and casting support.—
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026
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