MPC-HC
Use MPC-HC to play video and audio on Windows, with support for third-party filters in this free, open-source project.
About MPC-HC
MPC-HC (Media Player Classic - Home Cinema) is a free and open-source video and audio player for Windows, distributed through a GitHub repository. It is a DirectShow-based player, which lets it use third-party filters for added flexibility and extensibility, and its internal codecs come from the external LAV Filters project, so the player is updated periodically with the latest codecs. The project describes itself as mature and stable; the maintainer states that new feature requests are not currently accepted, though development and improvements continue.
Key features
- Plays HEVC (H.265), VVC (H.266), AV1 video and AC4 audio
- DirectShow architecture supports third-party filters
- Modern dark or light interface theme
- Video preview shown on the seekbar
- Subtitle search, libass rendering and WebVTT support
- Playback speed control, A-B repeat and resume position
Best for: Windows users who want a free, open-source media player that can be extended with DirectShow filters.
Good for
- Free and open-source, with publicly available source code
- Extensible through third-party DirectShow filters
- Codecs come from the actively maintained LAV Filters project
Watch out for
- Runs only on Windows
- Maintainer currently does not accept new feature requests
- HDR playback requires MPC Video Renderer (included) or madVR
MPC-HC at a glance
- Website
- github.com/clsid2/mpc-hc
- Category
- Software & Utilities › Media Players & Servers
- Type
- Open-source project
- Pricing
- Not confirmed. Check the site
- Platforms
- Windows
- Open source
- Yes · Source code
- Language
- English
- Last checked
- Oct 6, 2026 · Online when checked
- Listed
- Oct 5, 2026
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MPC-HC FAQ
What do I need to play HDR video?
HDR playback requires MPC Video Renderer, which is included, or madVR. Either can be selected under Options > Playback > Output.
Does the developer accept new feature requests?
No. The maintainer states that new feature requests are not currently accepted, although improvements to the player continue.
How can I search for subtitles?
Press D for a manual subtitle search, or enable automatic search under Options > Subtitles > Misc.
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