Windows 11 supports playing many media files, but to play HEVC videos, you need to install the HEVC video extension first. This article will show you how to get this codec for free. In addition, you can also convert HEVC videos to Windows-supported formats for smooth playback. Download this video converter to try it out: https://www.videoconverterfactory.com/download/hd-video-converter.exe hd-video-converter.exe
Michelle Michelle | Updated on Nov 17, 2023

Does Windows 11 Support HEVC?

Windows 11 does not ship with the HEVC codec. When you open an HEVC movie in Media Player or other built-in player/editor apps, you will receive an error message "To play this video, you need a new codec" along with the required HEVC video extension.

You can download this video extension to play HEVC files instantly. This official plug-in requires payment, but there are also free ones available. Below, I’ll show you in detail how to get the HEVC codec for free on Windows 11. Additionally, if you are unable to install the HEVC codec, you can also convert this video to a Windows supported format. Please read on.

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Convert HEVC to H264, MPEG4, WMV, AVI and other Windows-friendly formats with WonderFox Free HD Video Converter Factory. Then, you can play the converted files smoothly on Windows 11. If you feel that installing the HEVC video extension is not suitable for your situation, then this video converter will be a good choice.

How to Install HEVC Codec on Windows 11?

1. Install HEVC Video Extensions from the Microsoft Store (Official)

HEVC Video Extensions Windows 11 Official

The Microsoft Store provides HEVC video extensions that help media players on Windows decode and play HEVC files smoothly. Just visit this link https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/hevc-video-extensions/9NMZLZ57R3T7 and get the extension you need for $0.99.


2. Install Free HEVC Video Extensions from Device Manufacturer

HEVC Video Extensions Windows 11 Free Download

The HEVC Video Extensions from Device Manufacturer is the same HEVC codec available in the Microsoft Store and can help you play H265 videos on your Windows 11. It is provided free of charge. You can get this extension by copying this link and pasting it into your browser:

ms-windows-store://pdp/?ProductId=9n4wgh0z6vhq

Press the "Enter" key and let it open the Microsoft Store. You can then click "Install" to get the HEVC codec for free.

Note: Regions outside of the USA may not have access to this extension.


3. Install Free HEVC Codec from K-Lite Codec Pack

Install Free HEVC Codec for Windows 11

In addition to installing HEVC codecs from the Microsoft Store, you can also get free HEVC codecs from external sources. The famous K-Lite Codec Pack provides a wide variety of codecs including HEVC, H264, MPEG, WMV, Xvid, etc., which means it can not only help you get HEVC codec support on Windows 11, but can also handle other format compatibility issues. You just need to visit https://codecguide.com/download_kl.htm and download the K-Lite Codec Pack according to your own needs. Then run the .exe file and follow the prompts to complete the installation. Next, you can test whether HEVC support is restored in Windows 11.

Besides K-Lite Codec Pack, you can also get free HEVC codec from Media Player Codec Pack, libde265, and more.

Extra Tips to Play HEVC Videos on Windows 11

Convert HEVC for Playback on Windows 11

You don't necessarily need to install the HEVC codec if you're concerned that the codec might mess up your system. Instead, you can change HEVC videos to formats accepted by Windows 11 for smooth playback.

WonderFox Free HD Video Converter Factory is a professional and easy-to-use video converter that can convert HEVC to various formats in just a few clicks. Here's how to convert HEVC files for playback on Windows 11:

* Please download download WonderFox Free HD Video Converter Factory and install it on your PC.

Convert HEVC Files to Play on Windows 11

Step 1. Start the software and open “Converter”.

step 2. Click "Add Files" to add the unsupported movie to the program.

Step 3. Open the right-side output format list and choose "WMV" or “H264” as the output profile.

Step 4. Finally, click the ▼ icon to select the output folder and press “Run” to start conversion.


Use a Third-party Media Player

Apart from the above methods, you can also use a third-party media player that supports HEVC to play HEVC files on Windows 11.

Your best option is VLC media player, a free and open-source video player that supports almost all video and audio formats. It does not require additional codec or plug-in installation to play HEVC videos. Just drop your file into the player window and it will start playing immediately. You can get VLC from https://www.videolan.org/.

Other HEVC players include MPC-HC, MPV, GOM Player, PotPlayer, and DivX Player.

Wrap-up

The HEVC codec is essential for playing HEVC files on Windows 11. You can get the HEVC Video Extensions or install a free HEVC codec to enable HEVC playback. Additionally, you can convert HEVC files or play HEVC movies using an external video player. Hope these suggestions help solve your problem. Thank you for reading to the end. Have a nice day!

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