Play MP4 - Here's how
In this practical tip, we will show you how to play a video in MP4 file format.
Install MP4-compatible media players
The "Windows Media Player" is normally automatically installed on your Windows computer. However, it cannot play MP4 files by default. You should therefore resort to an alternative:
- VLC Player (32-bit and 64-bit): The VLC media player can play many video files. It is also open source and works on Windows, Linux and OS X.
- Quicktime: Apple's media player is already installed on all Macs. You can also install the player on your Windows PC. In addition to many other formats, the player can also play MP4.
- SMPlayer is another open source player for Linux and Windows. You can also play MP4 videos with the SMPlayer.
Play with Windows Media Player MP4
If you don't want to resort to an alternative, you can make the pre-installed Windows Media Player MP4-compatible:
- Find out if you have a 32 or 64 bit system installed.
- Download the codec pack suitable for your system: 32-bit or 64-bit.
- Start the downloaded installer and follow the instructions. If you are asked which codecs you want to install, you can put all the hooks. The tick at MP4 is of course particularly important.
- Once the codecs have been installed, you can play MP4 video files with Windows Media Player. If it doesn't work right away, restart your PC.
Also read how to set the VLC buffer to prevent possible stutters.