SMPlayer review
A capable free desktop player for broad-format playback, streaming, subtitles, and YouTube.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
SMPlayer is a free, open-source desktop media player and graphical interface for MPlayer and mpv. It supports Windows, Linux, and macOS, making it a fit for users who want one playback tool across common desktop operating systems. Built-in codecs cover formats including AVI, MP4, MKV, MPEG, MOV, DivX, H.264, MP3, AAC, AC3, DTS, and more. The player also supports 4K playback, subtitles, network streams, YouTube playback, and Chromecast output.
Playback depth is the main reason to consider SMPlayer. Users can select and download subtitles, resume media with remembered settings, apply audio and video filters, adjust playback speed, and change audio or subtitle delay. Network playback covers HTTP/FTP, RTP/RTSP, MMS/MMST, MPST, and SDP. Video thumbnail generation and video equalization add further control for people who want more than basic play, pause, and seek functions.
Its strongest fit is desktop playback for users who value format coverage, open-source licensing, and control over subtitles and playback behavior without a paid plan. The trade-off is its desktop focus: the listed platforms are Windows, Linux, and macOS. Hardware acceleration is included in the category specifications, while the related support information uses deprecated terminology, so users evaluating graphics configuration should approach that detail carefully. Choose SMPlayer for broad local and network playback with customization; look elsewhere if mobile availability is central to the buying decision.
SMPlayer pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Built-in codecs support a broad range of audio and video formats
- Streams network media and supports YouTube and Chromecast playback
- Remembers playback settings and offers subtitle and speed controls
- Where it doesn't
- Focused on desktop platforms rather than mobile playback
- Hardware-acceleration information reflects older support terminology
- Advanced features may require navigating a broad settings set
SMPlayer fact sheet, pricing and score →
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