Playing MKV Files on Windows 10
If you’ve ever tried to play an MKV file on your Windows 10 computer, you might have noticed that it doesn’t work automatically. Don’t worry—it’s actually pretty simple to get them running smoothly. This guide will walk you through the steps to make sure your MKV files play without a hitch.
How to play MKV files on Windows 10
This tutorial will show you how to play MKV files on your Windows 10 computer by using a third-party media player. We’ll use VLC Media Player, a free program that supports a wide range of file formats, including MKV files.
Step 1: Download VLC Media Player
First, go to the VLC Media Player website and download the installer.
VLC Media Player is a free, open-source media player known for its ability to play almost any video file format. To get started, visit videolan.org and click on the download button for VLC Media Player.
Step 2: Install VLC Media Player
Run the installer you just downloaded to install VLC Media Player on your computer.
Once the installer file is downloaded, open it. Follow the prompts to install VLC Media Player on your Windows 10 PC. It’s a straightforward process—just click "Next" a few times, agree to the terms, and then click "Install."
Step 3: Open VLC Media Player
Launch VLC Media Player from your desktop or start menu.
After installation, you can find VLC Media Player in your start menu or on your desktop. Double-click the icon to open the program.
Step 4: Open your MKV file in VLC Media Player
Click ‘Media’ in the top-left corner of VLC, then select ‘Open File…’ to choose your MKV file.
Inside VLC Media Player, navigate to the top-left corner and click on "Media." From the dropdown menu, select "Open File…" and browse to locate your MKV file. Select it and click "Open."
Step 5: Enjoy your video
Your MKV file should now play smoothly in VLC Media Player.
Once you’ve completed the steps above, your MKV file will start playing in VLC Media Player. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy your video without any further fuss.
After you’ve completed the action, VLC Media Player will become your go-to app for playing MKV files. You’ll find that it supports a wide range of formats, making it a versatile tool for all your media needs.
Tips for Playing MKV Files on Windows 10
- Keep VLC updated: Always ensure you have the latest version of VLC Media Player for the best performance and new features.
- Explore VLC settings: Customize the player settings to enhance your viewing experience. You can adjust subtitles, audio, and video playback settings.
- Use keyboard shortcuts: Learn useful VLC shortcuts to control playback more efficiently. For example, press the spacebar to pause or play.
- Try other players: If VLC doesn’t meet your needs, consider other media players like MPC-HC or PotPlayer, which also support MKV files.
- Check file integrity: Ensure your MKV file is not corrupted. If it doesn’t play, try downloading it again or using a file repair tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an MKV file?
An MKV file is a multimedia container format that can hold multiple video, audio, and subtitle tracks in one file.
Why doesn’t Windows 10 play MKV files natively?
Windows Media Player doesn’t support MKV files out of the box, hence the need for a third-party player like VLC.
Can I convert MKV files to another format?
Yes, you can use video conversion software like HandBrake or VLC itself to convert MKV files to other formats like MP4.
Is VLC Media Player safe to download?
Yes, VLC Media Player is safe to download from its official website (videolan.org). Always avoid downloading from third-party sites.
Are there any alternatives to VLC Media Player?
Yes, alternatives include MPC-HC, PotPlayer, and KMPlayer, all of which support MKV files.
Summary
- Download VLC Media Player.
- Install VLC Media Player.
- Open VLC Media Player.
- Open your MKV file in VLC Media Player.
- Enjoy your video.
Conclusion
Congrats! Now you know how to play MKV files on Windows 10. By using VLC Media Player, you’ve unlocked the ability to watch a broader range of video formats without any headaches. VLC’s versatility and ease of use make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to play MKV files and other media. Don’t forget to keep your player updated and explore its many features to get the most out of your viewing experience.
If you’re interested in digging deeper, consider exploring other media players or even converting your MKV files for broader compatibility. There’s a whole world of media out there, and now you’ve got the tools to enjoy it all on your Windows 10 PC.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.