Parole
Parole: A capable Linux-only player for local media, discs, streams, subtitles, and playlists. Ranked #15 of 42 in Video Player Software by our editors (7.8/10); pricing: Free plan; best for linux users wanting a basic free player.
At a glance
- Editor score7.8 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forLinux users wanting a basic free player
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Supported platformsLinux
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open source with no paid tier
- Supports local files, DVDs, audio CDs, and live streams
- Offers playlists, plugins, hardware output, and command-line controls
Where it doesn't
- Support is limited to Linux
- Designed around the Xfce desktop environment
- Does not include AI features
Our verdict on Parole
Parole is a free, open-source video player based on GStreamer and designed for the Xfce desktop. It suits Linux users who want a straightforward application for playing local media, DVDs, audio CDs, and live streams. Subtitle and caption selection, fullscreen playback, aspect-ratio controls, audio controls, and DVD navigation cover common playback needs. Playlist management adds shuffle and repeat modes, while command-line controls support playback and playlist actions outside the main interface.
Pricing is direct: Parole is available as free open-source software, with no paid plans or tiered feature gates described. Its feature set is broad for a basic desktop player, covering local and disc playback alongside live streams. Hardware-accelerated video output options are included, and the plugin system can add functions such as system-tray access and MPRIS2 control. This gives the application useful flexibility without shifting to a subscription model.
The main fit consideration is platform scope. Parole supports Linux and is designed for the Xfce desktop, so it is a natural choice for users in that environment but a poor match for people seeking a cross-platform player. Its ecosystem includes MPRIS2 integration, plugin support, and command-line operation, which can suit Linux desktop workflows and automation. Choose Parole for free, focused playback with practical controls; choose an alternative if you need support beyond Linux, a broader platform focus, or features outside its media-player scope.
Your product? Our editors can test Parole in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
Parole pricing
Parole fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | Linux |
| Codec support | Not verified |
| Subtitle formats | Not verified |
| Hardware acceleration | Yes |
| Maximum resolution | Not verified |
| Playback speed control | Not verified |
| Portable version | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Linux |
| Support | Docs, Community |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 1 integrations: MPRIS2 |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | docs.xfce.org |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Parole integrations
Parole lists 1 integrations on its own site.
- MPRIS2
Alternatives to Parole
- 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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The editor score above is our own research. What this page doesn't have yet is a reader's view — what you used Parole for, what worked and what didn't. No stars are seeded and no review is paid for; an editor reads every one before it appears.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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