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MKV Playerfor Windows

2.1.36

8

Play MKV and more

For older versions of Windows, MKV player could be a solution to a problem. But if you’re on Windows 7 and later, this software is virtually useless to you.

Useful in the aughts, not so much now

Now that Windows can play MKV files as well, where does this player stand?

The big selling point for MKV Player is that you can watch your .mkv videos. This was a big deal back when Windows Media Player didn’t support the MKV format. Now, the story has changed and it’s not a problem that most people encounter.

The visual design dates back to programs you’d see on Windows XP. A single window includes all the buttons and your playback timeline. Rather than using symbols, the buttons have text that corresponds to their functions. It makes it clear what each button does, but it still looks unattractive.

One big advantage that MKV player has is some of the adjustments you can make during playback. There’s a hand “audio delay” tool that lets you adjust the audio sync with the video. If the sound is coming in earlier than the corresponding visuals, you can make the change on the fly. These same controls can affect the subtitle timing as well.

All in all, though, MKV Player is disappointing. None of the visuals hold up, Windows’ built-in video playback covers most functions, and its few unique points don’t justify the download and installation.

Where can you run this program?

MKV Player is compatible with all versions of Windows.

Is there a better alternative?

Yes. If you’re looking for third-party software, VLC is the way to go. However, Windows’ native video player already has most of the tools you’d need. There’s no reason to get this program.

Our take

While this program would have received high praise at the turn of the millennium, the fact is that it’s obsolete. It shines in exactly one place: the audio and subtitle timing controls. However, that’s not enough to make it useful for most people or situations.

Should you download it?

No. There’s no need. Nearly every function here is fulfilled by the Windows default video viewer. Anything else can be supplemented with better programs like VLC or QuickTime.

Highs

  • Lightweight
  • Simple functionality
  • Audio timing controls

Lows

  • Limited configuration
  • Look of program lacks appeal
  • Obsolete in the face of modern players

Program available in other languages

MKV Playerfor Windows

2.1.36

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