The HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding) codec has become an essential component for playing back high-definition videos on Windows 10 devices. However, the codec is not natively supported by the operating system, and users are often prompted to purchase it from the Microsoft Store. In this article, we will explore the ways to obtain a free HEVC codec for Windows 10, ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite videos without breaking the bank.
Understanding HEVC Codec And Its Importance
The HEVC codec is a video compression standard that offers superior video quality at lower bitrates compared to its predecessor, H.264. This results in faster video playback, reduced buffering, and a more seamless viewing experience. With the increasing popularity of 4K and HDR content, the demand for HEVC support has grown significantly.
Why Do You Need An HEVC Codec For Windows 10?
Windows 10 does not come with a built-in HEVC codec, which means that you cannot play back HEVC-encoded videos without installing a third-party codec. This can be frustrating, especially if you have a large collection of HEVC videos or if you want to stream content from services that use the HEVC codec.
Methods To Get A Free HEVC Codec For Windows 10
Fortunately, there are several ways to obtain a free HEVC codec for Windows 10. Here are a few methods you can try:
Method 1: Install The Microsoft HEVC Video Extensions
Microsoft offers a free HEVC video extension that can be installed from the Microsoft Store. This extension allows you to play back HEVC-encoded videos in the Movies & TV app and other media players that support the codec.
To install the Microsoft HEVC Video Extensions, follow these steps:
- Open the Microsoft Store app on your Windows 10 device.
- Search for “HEVC Video Extensions” in the search bar.
- Click on the “HEVC Video Extensions” result to open its page.
- Click the “Install” button to download and install the extension.
Method 2: Use The VLC Media Player
VLC Media Player is a popular media player that supports a wide range of video codecs, including HEVC. By installing VLC Media Player, you can play back HEVC-encoded videos without the need for a separate codec.
To install VLC Media Player, follow these steps:
- Open a web browser and navigate to the VLC Media Player website.
- Click on the “Download VLC” button to download the installer.
- Run the installer and follow the prompts to install VLC Media Player.
- Once installed, you can play back HEVC-encoded videos using VLC Media Player.
Method 3: Install The K-Lite Codec Pack
The K-Lite Codec Pack is a collection of codecs and tools that can be used to play back a wide range of video and audio formats, including HEVC. By installing the K-Lite Codec Pack, you can play back HEVC-encoded videos in any media player that supports the codec.
To install the K-Lite Codec Pack, follow these steps:
- Open a web browser and navigate to the K-Lite Codec Pack website.
- Click on the “Download” button to download the installer.
- Run the installer and follow the prompts to install the K-Lite Codec Pack.
- Once installed, you can play back HEVC-encoded videos using any media player that supports the codec.
Comparison Of Free HEVC Codecs For Windows 10
| Codec | Compatibility | Features |
| — | — | — |
| Microsoft HEVC Video Extensions | Limited to Movies & TV app and other supported media players | Basic HEVC playback support |
| VLC Media Player | Wide range of media players and devices | Advanced HEVC playback support, including 4K and HDR |
| K-Lite Codec Pack | Wide range of media players and devices | Advanced HEVC playback support, including 4K and HDR, plus additional codecs and tools |
Troubleshooting Common Issues With Free HEVC Codecs
While the methods outlined above can help you obtain a free HEVC codec for Windows 10, you may encounter some common issues during installation or playback. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you resolve these issues:
Issue 1: HEVC Codec Not Detected
If your media player is not detecting the HEVC codec, try the following:
- Ensure that the codec is installed correctly and that the media player is configured to use the codec.
- Try reinstalling the codec or media player.
- Check for any software updates that may resolve the issue.
Issue 2: Poor Video Playback Quality
If you experience poor video playback quality, try the following:
- Ensure that your device meets the minimum system requirements for HEVC playback.
- Adjust the video playback settings in your media player to optimize performance.
- Try updating your graphics drivers to the latest version.
Conclusion
Obtaining a free HEVC codec for Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can be achieved through various methods. By installing the Microsoft HEVC Video Extensions, VLC Media Player, or the K-Lite Codec Pack, you can enjoy seamless playback of HEVC-encoded videos on your Windows 10 device. Remember to troubleshoot any common issues that may arise during installation or playback, and don’t hesitate to seek further assistance if needed.
What Is HEVC Codec And Why Do I Need It?
HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding) codec is a video compression standard that offers better compression efficiency than its predecessor, H.264. It is designed to provide high-quality video at lower bitrates, making it ideal for streaming and storing 4K and Ultra HD videos. You need the HEVC codec to play back videos encoded with this standard, which is becoming increasingly popular.
Without the HEVC codec, you may not be able to play back certain videos on your Windows 10 device. This can be frustrating, especially if you have purchased or downloaded videos that use this codec. By installing the HEVC codec, you can ensure that you can play back all your videos smoothly and without any issues.
Is The HEVC Codec Free For Windows 10 Users?
The HEVC codec is not free for all Windows 10 users. While Microsoft offers the codec as a paid download from the Microsoft Store, there are some exceptions. For example, if you have a device that came with Windows 10 pre-installed, you may already have the HEVC codec installed. Additionally, some video playback software may include the HEVC codec, so you may not need to download it separately.
However, if you need to download the HEVC codec, you can do so from the Microsoft Store. The cost is relatively low, and you can purchase it as a one-time download. Alternatively, you can follow the guide in this article to unlock the free HEVC codec for Windows 10.
How Do I Check If I Already Have The HEVC Codec Installed?
To check if you already have the HEVC codec installed, you can follow a few simple steps. First, open the Settings app on your Windows 10 device and go to the “Apps” section. Then, click on “Optional features” and search for “HEVC”. If you see “HEVC Video Extensions” in the list, it means you already have the codec installed.
If you don’t see the HEVC codec in the list, you can also try playing back a video that uses the HEVC codec. If the video plays back smoothly, it means you already have the codec installed. However, if you encounter any errors or issues, it’s likely that you need to download and install the HEVC codec.
Can I Use Third-Party Software To Play Back HEVC Videos?
Yes, you can use third-party software to play back HEVC videos. There are several video playback software that support the HEVC codec, such as VLC Media Player, KMPlayer, and PotPlayer. These software can play back HEVC videos without requiring you to download and install the codec separately.
However, using third-party software may not always be the best solution. For example, some software may not provide the best video quality or may have compatibility issues with certain devices. Additionally, some software may include additional features or ads that you may not want. By installing the HEVC codec, you can ensure that you can play back all your videos smoothly and without any issues.
Is It Safe To Download And Install The HEVC Codec From The Internet?
It’s generally not recommended to download and install the HEVC codec from unknown sources on the internet. This is because some websites may offer fake or malicious versions of the codec that can harm your device. Additionally, some websites may bundle the codec with additional software or malware that you may not want.
To ensure your safety, it’s recommended to download the HEVC codec from the Microsoft Store or from other trusted sources. You can also follow the guide in this article to unlock the free HEVC codec for Windows 10. By following these steps, you can ensure that you can download and install the codec safely and without any issues.
Will Installing The HEVC Codec Affect My Device’s Performance?
Installing the HEVC codec should not significantly affect your device’s performance. The codec is designed to be efficient and lightweight, and it should not consume too much system resources. However, if you have an older device or a device with limited resources, you may experience some performance issues.
To minimize any potential performance issues, it’s recommended to close any unnecessary applications or background processes before installing the codec. You can also restart your device after installing the codec to ensure that it’s running smoothly. By following these steps, you can ensure that you can install the HEVC codec without any issues.
Can I Uninstall The HEVC Codec If I No Longer Need It?
Yes, you can uninstall the HEVC codec if you no longer need it. To uninstall the codec, you can go to the “Apps” section in the Settings app and search for “HEVC”. Then, click on “HEVC Video Extensions” and select “Uninstall”. Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation process.
Alternatively, you can also uninstall the codec from the Microsoft Store. To do this, go to the Microsoft Store and search for “HEVC”. Then, click on the “HEVC Video Extensions” app and select “Uninstall”. Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation process. By uninstalling the codec, you can free up system resources and remove any unnecessary software from your device.