K-Lite Codec Pack - The Complete Media Playback Solution for Windows

K-Lite Codec Pack is the world's most popular and trusted codec pack for Windows. This comprehensive collection of DirectShow filters, VFW/ACM codecs, and media tools enables you to play virtually any audio or video file format on your Windows computer. Whether you're watching movies, listening to music, or streaming video content, K-Lite Codec Pack provides seamless playback with excellent quality and performance.

Latest Update - K-Lite Codec Pack 19.2.9

Released: October 25th, 2025

The latest version of K-Lite Codec Pack includes updated components for enhanced performance and compatibility. This release features newer versions of MPC-HC (Media Player Classic Home Cinema) and MPC Video Renderer, providing improved video playback quality, better HDR support, and enhanced stability. Download the latest version now to enjoy the best media playback experience on Windows 11 and Windows 10.

Comprehensive Features and Capabilities

K-Lite Codec Pack offers an extensive range of features designed to meet all your multimedia playback needs. From basic video playback to advanced HDR and 4K content, this codec pack has you covered.

Advanced Installer Features

The K-Lite Codec Pack installer is designed with both novice and expert users in mind. It offers complete customization options, allowing you to select exactly which components you want to install. The intelligent installer automatically detects your Windows version and existing codec installations, ensuring optimal compatibility and preventing conflicts.

• Fully Customizable Installation: Choose exactly which codecs, filters, and tools to install based on your specific needs and preferences.
• Unattended Deployment Support: Perfect for system administrators who need to deploy codec packs across multiple computers using silent installation parameters.
• Automatic Codec Detection and Repair: The installer scans your system for broken, outdated, or conflicting codecs and offers to fix these issues automatically, ensuring stable and reliable media playback.
• Compatibility Checking: Automatically detects and removes problematic codec packs that may cause conflicts, leaving you with only the best and most compatible components.

Universal Codec Support

K-Lite Codec Pack provides comprehensive support for virtually all popular audio and video formats used today. The included LAV Filters (LAV Video, LAV Audio, and LAV Splitter) are among the best DirectShow filters available, offering excellent quality, performance, and compatibility.

• Full DirectShow Compatibility: Works seamlessly with all DirectShow-compatible media players including Windows Media Player, Media Player Classic, VLC (with DirectShow), PotPlayer, KMPlayer, and many others.
• Essential Codecs Only: Includes only the best and most essential codecs - no bloatware or unnecessary components that could slow down your system or cause conflicts.
• Play Everything: From common formats like MP4 and AVI to specialized formats like MKV with HEVC, FLAC audio, and more - K-Lite Codec Pack handles them all.
• Hardware Acceleration: Supports hardware-accelerated video decoding (DXVA, Quick Sync, CUDA) for H.264, HEVC, and other formats on compatible graphics cards, reducing CPU usage and enabling smooth 4K video playback.
• Supported Video Container Formats: MKV, WebM, MP4, MOV, AVI, OGM, M2TS, TS, MPG, MPEG, 3GP, WMV, ASF, MXF, FLV, RM, RMVB, DV, and many more container formats.
• Supported Audio Formats: MP3, FLAC, M4A, AAC, OGG, WAV, WMA, WV (Wavpack), APE (Monkey's Audio), MKA, Opus, MPC (Musepack), TAK, ALAC, AMR, OFR, TTA, RA (RealAudio), SPX (Speex), and numerous other audio codecs.
• Video Codec Support: H.264 (AVC), H.265 (HEVC), VP8, VP9, AV1, VC-1, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4 (ASP), H.263, Theora, MJPEG, ProRes, Huffyuv, Cineform HD, Indeo, Lagarith, DNxHD, and many other video codecs.
• Audio Codec Support: AC3 (Dolby Digital), DTS, AAC, MP3, DTS-HD Master Audio, TrueHD, E-AC3 (Dolby Digital Plus), Dolby Atmos, Vorbis, FLAC, WMA, Atrac, ADPCM, TrueAudio, Wavpack, APE, OptimFrog, RealAudio, G.711, G.726, G.729, Speex, Tracker formats, and many others.

Media Player Classic Home Cinema (MPC-HC)

The Standard, Full, and Mega variants of K-Lite Codec Pack include Media Player Classic Home Cinema (MPC-HC), a powerful and lightweight media player specifically designed for high-quality video playback. MPC-HC is the preferred choice of many video enthusiasts due to its excellent quality, performance, and extensive customization options.

• Video Preview on Seekbar: Hover over the playback seekbar to see thumbnail previews of video frames, making it easy to navigate through your video files.
• Modern Dark Theme: Includes a sleek dark theme that's easy on the eyes, especially when watching content in dimly lit environments.
• HDR Video Support: Full support for HDR (High Dynamic Range) video playback when using the included MPC Video Renderer or MadVR, ensuring accurate color reproduction and brightness levels for HDR content.
• Dolby Vision Support: Advanced support for Dolby Vision (DoVi) video format when using the included MPC Video Renderer, providing the highest quality HDR viewing experience.
• 3D Video Playback: Supports 3D video formats (including H.264 MVC) when using MadVR (included in Full/Mega variants) with compatible graphics drivers and displays.
• High-Quality Video Upscaling: MadVR integration (Full/Mega variants) provides advanced video upscaling algorithms that deliver superior image quality when upscaling lower resolution content to higher resolutions.
• Blu-ray Disc Playback: Play commercial Blu-ray discs directly (menu support requires additional tools). Note: AACS decryption tools like Passkey Lite or AnyDVD HD may be required for protected discs.
• Online Video Streaming: Stream videos directly from YouTube, Twitch, and many other popular video sharing websites. Simply place the yt-dlp.exe file in the MPC-HC folder to enable this feature.
• Subtitle Support: Comprehensive subtitle support with automatic loading, multiple subtitle tracks, and extensive customization options for fonts, colors, and positioning.
• Advanced Playback Controls: Extensive keyboard shortcuts, frame-by-frame navigation, speed control, and audio delay adjustment for perfect synchronization.

Additional Powerful Features

• Fast Video Thumbnail Generation: Generate thumbnails for all your video files directly in Windows Explorer, making it easy to visually identify your video collection without opening each file.
• Codec Tweak Tool: Comprehensive utility for configuring, managing, and troubleshooting all installed codecs and DirectShow filters. Includes tools for viewing active filters, testing codecs, and resolving conflicts.
• MediaInfo Integration: View detailed information about your media files including codec details, bitrates, resolution, audio channels, and more (included in Standard/Full/Mega variants).
• Icaros Shell Extensions: Enhanced Windows Explorer integration with video thumbnail generation and detailed file property display for formats like MKV and FLV.
• Regular Updates: Frequent updates ensure you always have the latest codec versions, bug fixes, and performance improvements. The development team is actively maintaining and improving the codec pack.
• Excellent Support: Active community forum with experienced users and developers ready to help with any questions or issues you may encounter.

System Requirements and Compatibility

K-Lite Codec Pack is designed to work efficiently on a wide range of Windows systems. The codec pack supports all modern versions of Windows, ensuring compatibility with virtually any Windows computer.

• Operating Systems: Windows 11, Windows 10 (all editions), Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7 (SP1 and later). Older versions also support Windows Vista and Windows XP.
• Architecture Support: Full support for both 32-bit (x86) and 64-bit (x64) versions of Windows. The installer automatically detects your system architecture and installs the appropriate codecs.
• Minimum Requirements: Works on systems with as little as 512 MB RAM, though 1 GB or more is recommended for optimal performance. No specific CPU requirements - works on all modern processors.
• Disk Space: Basic variant requires approximately 20-30 MB. Standard variant requires 50-70 MB. Full variant requires 80-120 MB. Mega variant requires 150-200 MB depending on selected components.
• Graphics Cards: Hardware acceleration features work best with DirectX 9.0c compatible graphics cards or later. Supports NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel integrated graphics for hardware-accelerated video decoding.
• Media Players: Compatible with all DirectShow-compatible media players including Windows Media Player, Media Player Classic, PotPlayer, KMPlayer, GOM Player, BSPlayer, and many others.

Performance Benefits and Optimization

K-Lite Codec Pack is optimized for performance, offering significant benefits over manually installed codecs or alternative solutions.

• Hardware Acceleration: Leverages your graphics card's hardware decoding capabilities (DXVA, Quick Sync, CUDA) to reduce CPU usage by up to 80%, enabling smooth playback of 4K and high-bitrate video content on systems that would otherwise struggle.
• Efficient Memory Usage: Carefully optimized codecs minimize memory footprint, allowing smooth playback even on systems with limited RAM. The codec pack is designed to be lightweight and efficient.
• Fast Playback Startup: Optimized filter chain ensures quick video file loading and playback startup times. MPC-HC, included in Standard/Full/Mega variants, loads significantly faster than many other media players.
• Low System Impact: Unlike many codec packs that include unnecessary components, K-Lite Codec Pack includes only essential codecs, resulting in minimal system resource usage and no performance degradation when not playing media.
• Multi-format Efficiency: LAV Filters, included in all variants, are among the fastest and most efficient DirectShow filters available, providing excellent performance across all supported formats.

Use Cases and Target Audiences

K-Lite Codec Pack serves a wide variety of users, from casual media consumers to professional video editors and system administrators.

• Casual Users: Perfect for everyday users who want to play videos and music without worrying about codec compatibility. The Standard variant provides an excellent out-of-the-box experience with sensible defaults.
• Video Enthusiasts: The Full variant, with MadVR integration, offers the best video quality for users who demand superior image quality and advanced video processing features.
• Video Editors and Professionals: The Mega variant includes VFW/ACM codecs essential for video editing applications like VirtualDub, making it ideal for content creators and video professionals.
• System Administrators: Unattended installation support and deployment features make K-Lite Codec Pack perfect for enterprise environments where codecs need to be deployed across multiple computers.
• Gamers: The codec pack's compatibility features and blacklist system ensure that codecs won't interfere with games, making it safe for gaming systems.
• Media Center Users: Excellent compatibility with Windows Media Center and other media center applications, providing seamless integration for home theater setups.

Technical Excellence and Code Quality

K-Lite Codec Pack is built on a foundation of technical excellence, using only the highest quality components and following industry best practices.

• Expert-Curated Components: All codecs and filters are selected by experienced codec developers based on quality, performance, stability, and compatibility. No experimental or unstable codecs are included.
• Active Development: All included components are actively maintained by their respective developers, ensuring regular bug fixes, security updates, and performance improvements.
• Compatibility Testing: Extensive testing ensures compatibility with all supported Windows versions and popular media players. The codec pack is tested on clean systems and systems with existing codec installations.
• Clean Installation: The installer uses best practices to avoid system conflicts and registry pollution. All components are properly registered and configured for optimal compatibility.
• Professional Support: Active community forums with experienced users and developers provide professional-grade support for troubleshooting and configuration questions.

Download K-Lite Codec Pack - Choose Your Version

K-Lite Codec Pack is available in four different variants, each designed to meet specific needs and preferences. Choose the variant that best suits your requirements - from a minimal installation with only essential codecs to a comprehensive package with advanced features for video editing and encoding.

Standard Variant - Recommended for Most Users

The Standard variant is the recommended choice for most users. It includes Media Player Classic Home Cinema (MPC-HC), LAV Filters, DirectVobSub for subtitles, MPC Video Renderer, and essential tools. This variant provides everything you need to play all common audio and video formats with excellent quality and performance.

Key Features: MPC-HC player, LAV Video/Audio decoders, LAV Splitter, DirectVobSub, MPC Video Renderer, HDR support, hardware acceleration, subtitle support, video thumbnails in Explorer, and more.

Download Standard Variant | View Details

Full Variant - Enhanced Video Quality

The Full variant includes everything from Standard plus MadVR (advanced video renderer) and 3D video support. This variant is ideal for video enthusiasts who want the best possible video quality, superior upscaling algorithms, and advanced video processing features.

Additional Features: MadVR video renderer with high-quality upscaling, 3D video playback support (H.264 MVC), enhanced color accuracy, and superior video quality for HDR content.

Download Full Variant | View Details

Mega Variant - Complete Solution

The Mega variant is the most comprehensive version, including everything from Full plus VFW/ACM codecs for video encoding and editing. This variant is perfect for video editors, content creators, and professionals who need comprehensive codec support for both playback and encoding tasks.

Additional Features: x264VFW, XviD, Lagarith, Huffyuv codecs, AC3ACM, Bass Audio Source, MPC Image Source, GraphStudioNext, and encoding tools for video editing applications.

Download Mega Variant | View Details

Basic Variant - Minimal and Essential

The Basic variant is the smallest and most lightweight version, containing only the most essential DirectShow filters. This variant does not include a media player and is designed to work with existing DirectShow-compatible players on your system.

Key Features: LAV Video/Audio decoders, LAV Splitter, DirectVobSub, Codec Tweak Tool, and Icaros shell extensions. Perfect for users who prefer a minimal installation or already have a preferred media player.

Download Basic Variant | View Details

System Compatibility: All variants are fully compatible with Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, and Windows 7. Both 32-bit (x86) and 64-bit (x64) versions are supported. The installer automatically detects your Windows version and architecture for optimal compatibility.

For detailed information about each variant's components and features, visit our complete download page or check the features page for comprehensive component lists.

Why Choose K-Lite Codec Pack?

K-Lite Codec Pack has been the trusted choice of millions of users worldwide for over two decades. It offers the perfect balance of comprehensive format support, ease of use, system stability, and performance optimization. Unlike other codec packs that may include unnecessary or conflicting components, K-Lite Codec Pack is carefully curated to include only the best and most reliable codecs and filters.

With over 20 years of development and refinement, K-Lite Codec Pack has evolved into the most mature, stable, and feature-rich codec pack available. The codec pack's longevity is a testament to its quality and the dedication of its development team to providing users with the best possible media playback experience.

Whether you're a casual user who just wants to play videos without hassle, an advanced user who needs extensive customization options, a professional who requires comprehensive format support, or a system administrator who needs reliable deployment solutions, K-Lite Codec Pack has a variant that's perfect for you. Download K-Lite Codec Pack today and experience why millions of users worldwide trust it as their media playback solution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about K-Lite Codec Pack:

What is K-Lite Codec Pack?

K-Lite Codec Pack is a comprehensive collection of codecs, DirectShow filters, and media tools for Windows that enables you to play virtually all audio and video file formats. It includes codecs for popular formats like MP4, AVI, MKV, FLAC, H.264, HEVC, and many others.

Is K-Lite Codec Pack free?

Yes, K-Lite Codec Pack is completely free and open-source software. There are no hidden costs, subscription fees, or premium versions. All variants (Basic, Standard, Full, and Mega) are available free of charge.

Which variant should I download?

For most users, we recommend the Standard variant, which includes MPC-HC player and all essential codecs. If you want the best video quality with advanced features, choose the Full variant. For video editing, choose the Mega variant. For minimal installation, choose the Basic variant.

Does K-Lite Codec Pack work with Windows 11?

Yes, K-Lite Codec Pack is fully compatible with Windows 11, as well as Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, and Windows 7. The installer automatically detects your Windows version and installs the appropriate components.

Can I use K-Lite Codec Pack with VLC Player?

VLC Player has its own built-in codecs, so K-Lite Codec Pack is not required for VLC. However, K-Lite Codec Pack can be used with other DirectShow-compatible players like Windows Media Player, PotPlayer, KMPlayer, and others. The codec pack includes MPC-HC, which is an excellent alternative to VLC.

Is K-Lite Codec Pack safe to install?

Yes, K-Lite Codec Pack is completely safe to install. It is malware-free, adware-free, and spyware-free. The codec pack has been used by millions of users worldwide for over 20 years without any security issues. Always download from the official website to ensure you get the genuine, safe version.

For more questions and detailed answers, visit our complete FAQ page.

Installation Guide

Installing K-Lite Codec Pack is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to get started:

Step 1: Download the Codec Pack

Visit our download page and choose the variant that best suits your needs. For most users, we recommend the Standard variant.

Step 2: Run the Installer

Double-click the downloaded installer file to start the installation process. You may need administrator privileges to install the codec pack.

Step 3: Choose Installation Options

The installation wizard will guide you through the process. You can choose which components to install, configure file associations, and select your preferred settings. The default settings work well for most users.

Step 4: Complete Installation

Follow the installation wizard to completion. The installer will automatically detect and configure your system for optimal compatibility.

Step 5: Restart Media Players

After installation, close and restart any media players to ensure the new codecs are properly loaded. You can then start playing your media files.

For detailed installation instructions and troubleshooting tips, visit our FAQ page or check the about page for more information.

Supported File Formats

K-Lite Codec Pack supports an extensive range of audio and video file formats. Here's a comprehensive list of supported formats:

Video Container Formats

Popular Formats: MP4, AVI, MKV, MOV, WMV, FLV, WebM, OGM, M2TS, TS, MPG, MPEG, 3GP, ASF, MXF, RM, RMVB, DV

Video Codecs

Modern Codecs: H.264 (AVC), H.265 (HEVC), VP8, VP9, AV1, VC-1

Legacy Codecs: MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4 (ASP), H.263, Theora, MJPEG, ProRes, Huffyuv, Cineform HD, Indeo, Lagarith, DNxHD

Audio Formats

Popular Audio: MP3, AAC, FLAC, M4A, OGG, WAV, WMA, Opus, MPC (Musepack), TAK, ALAC, AMR

High-Quality Audio: DTS, DTS-HD Master Audio, TrueHD, Dolby Digital (AC3), Dolby Digital Plus (E-AC3), Dolby Atmos

Other Formats: WV (Wavpack), APE (Monkey's Audio), MKA, OFR, TTA, RA (RealAudio), SPX (Speex), Tracker formats

Subtitle Formats

SRT, ASS, SSA, SUB, VOB, IDX, PGS, and embedded subtitles in MKV, MP4, and other container formats.

Variant Comparison

Here's a quick comparison of the four K-Lite Codec Pack variants to help you choose the right one:

For detailed information about each variant's components, visit our features page or check the download page for more details.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter issues with K-Lite Codec Pack, here are some common troubleshooting tips:

Video Won't Play

If a video file won't play, first make sure you've installed the Standard or Full variant, which includes the most comprehensive codec support. Try playing the file with MPC-HC (included in Standard/Full variants) for better error messages and compatibility.

Audio/Video Sync Issues

If you experience audio/video synchronization problems, try adjusting the audio delay in MPC-HC (use '+' or '-' keys) or configure the audio codec settings. Also, try using a different video renderer or decoder.

Subtitles Not Showing

Ensure DirectVobSub is installed and enabled. Check the DirectVobSub configuration (accessible via system tray icon or Control Panel). Make sure subtitle files have the same name as the video file (e.g., video.avi and video.srt).

Codec Conflicts

If you experience codec conflicts or playback issues, use the Codec Tweak Tool (included in all variants) to diagnose and resolve conflicts. The installer can also detect and fix broken codecs automatically.

Performance Issues

For better performance, enable hardware acceleration in the codec settings if your graphics card supports it. Update your graphics drivers for optimal hardware acceleration support.

For more troubleshooting help, visit our FAQ page or check the support forums for assistance from experienced users.

Getting Started

Getting started with K-Lite Codec Pack is simple and straightforward. Visit our download page to choose the variant that best suits your needs, then follow the installation wizard. For detailed information about each variant's features and components, check our features page. If you have questions or need help, visit our FAQ section or check the about page for comprehensive information about the codec pack's capabilities and advantages.