Play Blu Ray with Windows 8 - Here's how
Many Windows 8 users try in vain to start a BluRay on their PC. We'll show you how it works.
Windows 8: Play BluRays
Windows delivers its operating system Windows 8 without any software with which you can play BluRays. The reason is very simple: a decoder is required for playback and this costs money.
- Windows 8: Under Windows 8 you can buy the "Windows 8 Media Center Pack" for 9.99 euros. This enables your computer to play BluRays. The decoder is already integrated in Windows 8 Pro.
- Windows 8.1: Under Windows 8.1, the decoder can usually no longer be bought as easily. If the option is not displayed, it is necessary to purchase the "Windows 8.1 Pro Pack". However, that costs a mere 159.99 euros.
- VLC player: The free VLC media player can unfortunately only play BluRays without copy protection. This is only the case if a BluRay has been burned itself. Purchased BluRays cannot be played here.
- PowerDVD: The paid software PowerDVD already comes with the decoder for BluRays. The program costs around 40 euros and offers you a full-fledged media player. Tip: You can also watch BluRays in the 30-day test phase.
In the next practical tip, we will show you how to convert a BluRay to MKV format.