Come posso ottenere il codec HEVC gratuito?
Windows 11 in 2025 does not include native support for the HEVC (H.265) video codec. To play or edit HEVC video files with default Windows apps, you must install the codec separately—either by purchasing the official HEVC Video Extensions from the Microsoft Store for $0.99, or by installing a trusted third-party codec pack or compatible video player [1] [2] [5] [6].
Key options to add or enable HEVC playback on Windows 11 in 2025:
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Microsoft Store: HEVC Video Extensions
The official Microsoft codec, available for purchase for $0.99, allows built-in apps (Movies & TV, Windows Media Player, Photos, etc.) to play HEVC files. It also leverages hardware acceleration if available [1] [2]. -
HEVC Video Extensions from Device Manufacturer
Some device manufacturers pre-install a free variant of the extension on new PCs. This can sometimes be downloaded and installed independently, offering HEVC decoding support for Windows apps [3]. -
Third-party codec packs
- K-Lite Codec Pack (latest version: July 2025) includes HEVC/H.265 support and works with Windows Media Player, Media Player Classic, and other DirectShow players [6].
- Media Player Codec Pack Plus also adds HEVC support and works with Windows Media Player and compatible DirectShow apps [2].
- Libde265 is an open-source decoder; can be used with VLC or as a DirectShow filter [2].
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Alternative Players
- VLC Media Player and similar apps have built-in HEVC/H.265 codecs: you do not need to install anything extra to play HEVC files in VLC on Windows 11 [2].
Caveats:
- Some unofficial or free codecs may bundle unwanted software—use trusted sources and decline extra offers during installation [2].
- Not all codec packs work perfectly with every app; built-in Windows players typically work best with Microsoft’s own extension.
- Hardware support varies: for smooth 4K+ playback, modern CPU/GPU hardware acceleration is helpful [1] [2] [3].
In summary, HEVC support is NOT built-in on Windows 11 as of mid-2025. Reliable playback requires either the paid extension from Microsoft, pre-installed manufacturer versions, free third-party codec packs (like K-Lite), or using robust third-party media players like VLC [1] [2] [3] [6].