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In 2024, FCPX Video Editing How to Crop and Resize Images Like a Pro
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FCPX Video Editing: How to Crop and Resize Images Like a Pro
Final Cut Pro X: How to Crop an Image
Benjamin Arango
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
Cropping an image means to remove a portion of the image, either to hide something you don’t want the audience to see or emphasize different elements within the image. Just as Photoshop allows us to crop still images, Final Cut Pro X allows us to crop moving video clips, as you’ll learn in this article.
This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.
Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )
How to Crop an Image in Final Cut Pro X
However, before I show how this is done, I need to explain one really important fact about video: all video uses what’s called “fixed resolution.” Fixed resolution means that high-definition video is always displayed at one of two sizes:
You May Also Like: How to Crop GIF Images >>
- 1920 x 1080 pixels
- 1920 x 1080 pixels
Unlike still images which can be thousands of pixels on a side, video clips are locked into one of these two sizes. This means that if you crop a video clip, to remove something you don’t like, the remaining pixels are often enlarged to fill the frame. Crop too much and your video clip will look blurry, blocky, and edges will look stair-stepped.
I’ll show you two ways to crop a video clip in this article, one that maintains a high image quality but reduces the size of the frame (called “trimming”) and the other that fills the frame with the image but reduces image quality (called “cropping”). You get to pick which one works the best for you.
TRIMMING
Trimming is the process of removing portions of a video clip without changing the size of the clip. This retains the highest amount of image quality.
For instance, here an image - courtesy of Pond5 (<www.pond5.com>). Let’s say that we want to emphasize the barn and not the sky.
The easiest way to do this is to click the icon in the lower left corner of the Viewer and choose “Crop.”
This displays the cropping tools in the Viewer.
Click the Trim button to turn on Trim mode. (This article discusses Trim and Crop. I’ll cover the Ken Burns effect in a future article.)
Grab one of the blue dots and drag to hide portions of the frame. I generally grab a corner, but any blue dot will do.
NOTE: Press and hold the Option key while dragging to drag opposite edges or corners. Press and hold the Shift key to constrain the trim to the same aspect ratio as the frame.
Drag other corners or edges to further trim the image.
When you have trimmed the image the way you want, click the “Done” button in the top right corner to exit trimming mode.
If no other clip is below the trimmed clip, the background will be black.
But, it actually isn’t black, it’s transparent. If you put another clip below it, you’ll see the lower clip underneath the trimmed image.
Trimming allows us to hide portions of a video clip, without changing the image quality of the clip that remains. However, trimming always creates transparent sections within an image.
CROPPING
Cropping allows us to select just a portion of a video clip, without creating any transparent sections, BUT, it degrades image quality.
There are several ways we can choose to crop an image:
- Click the Crop icon, as we illustrated above
- Right-mouse click (or Control-click) inside the Viewer and choose
- Type Shift+C
* In the Inspector > Video tab > Crop (this option provides the most precision, but is the least intuitive to use)
If you selected any option except the Inspector, click the Crop button in the Viewer.
Now, drag a blue button in one of the corners. Because cropping, unlike trimming, fills the frame with the portion of the image we select, we can only move corners and the image is always sized to match the aspect ratio of our sequence.
Final Cut displays numbers at the top of the Viewer indicating how much the image has been cropped.
Reposition the frame by grabbing inside the rectangle and dragging.
When you are happy with the results, click the Done button in the top right corner.
Notice that the selected portion of the image now fills the frame. Even though there is a clip below our cropped clip, we don’t see it.
And, if you look closely, you’ll see that the cropped image is softer (blurrier) than the original and edges are more likely to be stair-stepped.
RESET
To reset a cropped image back to its default settings, open the Inspector and click the small curved arrow to the right of the word “Crop.”
SUMMARY
Trimming is used to hide portions of an image and superimpose it over another image.
Cropping is used to reframe an image, say from a medium shot to a close-up, but runs the risk of overly softening an image. The general rule is that cropping a little is OK, but don’t crop too much.
I use both these techniques frequently in my own editing.
Benjamin Arango
Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Benjamin Arango
Benjamin Arango
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
Cropping an image means to remove a portion of the image, either to hide something you don’t want the audience to see or emphasize different elements within the image. Just as Photoshop allows us to crop still images, Final Cut Pro X allows us to crop moving video clips, as you’ll learn in this article.
This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.
Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )
How to Crop an Image in Final Cut Pro X
However, before I show how this is done, I need to explain one really important fact about video: all video uses what’s called “fixed resolution.” Fixed resolution means that high-definition video is always displayed at one of two sizes:
You May Also Like: How to Crop GIF Images >>
- 1920 x 1080 pixels
- 1920 x 1080 pixels
Unlike still images which can be thousands of pixels on a side, video clips are locked into one of these two sizes. This means that if you crop a video clip, to remove something you don’t like, the remaining pixels are often enlarged to fill the frame. Crop too much and your video clip will look blurry, blocky, and edges will look stair-stepped.
I’ll show you two ways to crop a video clip in this article, one that maintains a high image quality but reduces the size of the frame (called “trimming”) and the other that fills the frame with the image but reduces image quality (called “cropping”). You get to pick which one works the best for you.
TRIMMING
Trimming is the process of removing portions of a video clip without changing the size of the clip. This retains the highest amount of image quality.
For instance, here an image - courtesy of Pond5 (<www.pond5.com>). Let’s say that we want to emphasize the barn and not the sky.
The easiest way to do this is to click the icon in the lower left corner of the Viewer and choose “Crop.”
This displays the cropping tools in the Viewer.
Click the Trim button to turn on Trim mode. (This article discusses Trim and Crop. I’ll cover the Ken Burns effect in a future article.)
Grab one of the blue dots and drag to hide portions of the frame. I generally grab a corner, but any blue dot will do.
NOTE: Press and hold the Option key while dragging to drag opposite edges or corners. Press and hold the Shift key to constrain the trim to the same aspect ratio as the frame.
Drag other corners or edges to further trim the image.
When you have trimmed the image the way you want, click the “Done” button in the top right corner to exit trimming mode.
If no other clip is below the trimmed clip, the background will be black.
But, it actually isn’t black, it’s transparent. If you put another clip below it, you’ll see the lower clip underneath the trimmed image.
Trimming allows us to hide portions of a video clip, without changing the image quality of the clip that remains. However, trimming always creates transparent sections within an image.
CROPPING
Cropping allows us to select just a portion of a video clip, without creating any transparent sections, BUT, it degrades image quality.
There are several ways we can choose to crop an image:
- Click the Crop icon, as we illustrated above
- Right-mouse click (or Control-click) inside the Viewer and choose
- Type Shift+C
* In the Inspector > Video tab > Crop (this option provides the most precision, but is the least intuitive to use)
If you selected any option except the Inspector, click the Crop button in the Viewer.
Now, drag a blue button in one of the corners. Because cropping, unlike trimming, fills the frame with the portion of the image we select, we can only move corners and the image is always sized to match the aspect ratio of our sequence.
Final Cut displays numbers at the top of the Viewer indicating how much the image has been cropped.
Reposition the frame by grabbing inside the rectangle and dragging.
When you are happy with the results, click the Done button in the top right corner.
Notice that the selected portion of the image now fills the frame. Even though there is a clip below our cropped clip, we don’t see it.
And, if you look closely, you’ll see that the cropped image is softer (blurrier) than the original and edges are more likely to be stair-stepped.
RESET
To reset a cropped image back to its default settings, open the Inspector and click the small curved arrow to the right of the word “Crop.”
SUMMARY
Trimming is used to hide portions of an image and superimpose it over another image.
Cropping is used to reframe an image, say from a medium shot to a close-up, but runs the risk of overly softening an image. The general rule is that cropping a little is OK, but don’t crop too much.
I use both these techniques frequently in my own editing.
Benjamin Arango
Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Benjamin Arango
Benjamin Arango
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
Cropping an image means to remove a portion of the image, either to hide something you don’t want the audience to see or emphasize different elements within the image. Just as Photoshop allows us to crop still images, Final Cut Pro X allows us to crop moving video clips, as you’ll learn in this article.
This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.
Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )
How to Crop an Image in Final Cut Pro X
However, before I show how this is done, I need to explain one really important fact about video: all video uses what’s called “fixed resolution.” Fixed resolution means that high-definition video is always displayed at one of two sizes:
You May Also Like: How to Crop GIF Images >>
- 1920 x 1080 pixels
- 1920 x 1080 pixels
Unlike still images which can be thousands of pixels on a side, video clips are locked into one of these two sizes. This means that if you crop a video clip, to remove something you don’t like, the remaining pixels are often enlarged to fill the frame. Crop too much and your video clip will look blurry, blocky, and edges will look stair-stepped.
I’ll show you two ways to crop a video clip in this article, one that maintains a high image quality but reduces the size of the frame (called “trimming”) and the other that fills the frame with the image but reduces image quality (called “cropping”). You get to pick which one works the best for you.
TRIMMING
Trimming is the process of removing portions of a video clip without changing the size of the clip. This retains the highest amount of image quality.
For instance, here an image - courtesy of Pond5 (<www.pond5.com>). Let’s say that we want to emphasize the barn and not the sky.
The easiest way to do this is to click the icon in the lower left corner of the Viewer and choose “Crop.”
This displays the cropping tools in the Viewer.
Click the Trim button to turn on Trim mode. (This article discusses Trim and Crop. I’ll cover the Ken Burns effect in a future article.)
Grab one of the blue dots and drag to hide portions of the frame. I generally grab a corner, but any blue dot will do.
NOTE: Press and hold the Option key while dragging to drag opposite edges or corners. Press and hold the Shift key to constrain the trim to the same aspect ratio as the frame.
Drag other corners or edges to further trim the image.
When you have trimmed the image the way you want, click the “Done” button in the top right corner to exit trimming mode.
If no other clip is below the trimmed clip, the background will be black.
But, it actually isn’t black, it’s transparent. If you put another clip below it, you’ll see the lower clip underneath the trimmed image.
Trimming allows us to hide portions of a video clip, without changing the image quality of the clip that remains. However, trimming always creates transparent sections within an image.
CROPPING
Cropping allows us to select just a portion of a video clip, without creating any transparent sections, BUT, it degrades image quality.
There are several ways we can choose to crop an image:
- Click the Crop icon, as we illustrated above
- Right-mouse click (or Control-click) inside the Viewer and choose
- Type Shift+C
* In the Inspector > Video tab > Crop (this option provides the most precision, but is the least intuitive to use)
If you selected any option except the Inspector, click the Crop button in the Viewer.
Now, drag a blue button in one of the corners. Because cropping, unlike trimming, fills the frame with the portion of the image we select, we can only move corners and the image is always sized to match the aspect ratio of our sequence.
Final Cut displays numbers at the top of the Viewer indicating how much the image has been cropped.
Reposition the frame by grabbing inside the rectangle and dragging.
When you are happy with the results, click the Done button in the top right corner.
Notice that the selected portion of the image now fills the frame. Even though there is a clip below our cropped clip, we don’t see it.
And, if you look closely, you’ll see that the cropped image is softer (blurrier) than the original and edges are more likely to be stair-stepped.
RESET
To reset a cropped image back to its default settings, open the Inspector and click the small curved arrow to the right of the word “Crop.”
SUMMARY
Trimming is used to hide portions of an image and superimpose it over another image.
Cropping is used to reframe an image, say from a medium shot to a close-up, but runs the risk of overly softening an image. The general rule is that cropping a little is OK, but don’t crop too much.
I use both these techniques frequently in my own editing.
Benjamin Arango
Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Benjamin Arango
Benjamin Arango
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
Cropping an image means to remove a portion of the image, either to hide something you don’t want the audience to see or emphasize different elements within the image. Just as Photoshop allows us to crop still images, Final Cut Pro X allows us to crop moving video clips, as you’ll learn in this article.
This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.
Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )
How to Crop an Image in Final Cut Pro X
However, before I show how this is done, I need to explain one really important fact about video: all video uses what’s called “fixed resolution.” Fixed resolution means that high-definition video is always displayed at one of two sizes:
You May Also Like: How to Crop GIF Images >>
- 1920 x 1080 pixels
- 1920 x 1080 pixels
Unlike still images which can be thousands of pixels on a side, video clips are locked into one of these two sizes. This means that if you crop a video clip, to remove something you don’t like, the remaining pixels are often enlarged to fill the frame. Crop too much and your video clip will look blurry, blocky, and edges will look stair-stepped.
I’ll show you two ways to crop a video clip in this article, one that maintains a high image quality but reduces the size of the frame (called “trimming”) and the other that fills the frame with the image but reduces image quality (called “cropping”). You get to pick which one works the best for you.
TRIMMING
Trimming is the process of removing portions of a video clip without changing the size of the clip. This retains the highest amount of image quality.
For instance, here an image - courtesy of Pond5 (<www.pond5.com>). Let’s say that we want to emphasize the barn and not the sky.
The easiest way to do this is to click the icon in the lower left corner of the Viewer and choose “Crop.”
This displays the cropping tools in the Viewer.
Click the Trim button to turn on Trim mode. (This article discusses Trim and Crop. I’ll cover the Ken Burns effect in a future article.)
Grab one of the blue dots and drag to hide portions of the frame. I generally grab a corner, but any blue dot will do.
NOTE: Press and hold the Option key while dragging to drag opposite edges or corners. Press and hold the Shift key to constrain the trim to the same aspect ratio as the frame.
Drag other corners or edges to further trim the image.
When you have trimmed the image the way you want, click the “Done” button in the top right corner to exit trimming mode.
If no other clip is below the trimmed clip, the background will be black.
But, it actually isn’t black, it’s transparent. If you put another clip below it, you’ll see the lower clip underneath the trimmed image.
Trimming allows us to hide portions of a video clip, without changing the image quality of the clip that remains. However, trimming always creates transparent sections within an image.
CROPPING
Cropping allows us to select just a portion of a video clip, without creating any transparent sections, BUT, it degrades image quality.
There are several ways we can choose to crop an image:
- Click the Crop icon, as we illustrated above
- Right-mouse click (or Control-click) inside the Viewer and choose
- Type Shift+C
* In the Inspector > Video tab > Crop (this option provides the most precision, but is the least intuitive to use)
If you selected any option except the Inspector, click the Crop button in the Viewer.
Now, drag a blue button in one of the corners. Because cropping, unlike trimming, fills the frame with the portion of the image we select, we can only move corners and the image is always sized to match the aspect ratio of our sequence.
Final Cut displays numbers at the top of the Viewer indicating how much the image has been cropped.
Reposition the frame by grabbing inside the rectangle and dragging.
When you are happy with the results, click the Done button in the top right corner.
Notice that the selected portion of the image now fills the frame. Even though there is a clip below our cropped clip, we don’t see it.
And, if you look closely, you’ll see that the cropped image is softer (blurrier) than the original and edges are more likely to be stair-stepped.
RESET
To reset a cropped image back to its default settings, open the Inspector and click the small curved arrow to the right of the word “Crop.”
SUMMARY
Trimming is used to hide portions of an image and superimpose it over another image.
Cropping is used to reframe an image, say from a medium shot to a close-up, but runs the risk of overly softening an image. The general rule is that cropping a little is OK, but don’t crop too much.
I use both these techniques frequently in my own editing.
Benjamin Arango
Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Benjamin Arango
Best Free DVD Playback Options for Windows 10 (Updated 2023)
10 Best Free DVD Players for Windows 10
Ollie Mattison
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
As it is now the second decade of the 21st century, data carriers like DVDs are slowly becoming obsolete. A growing number of laptop and desktop PCs no longer feature optical disc drives, while the discontinuation of the Windows Media Center marked the end of an era in which Windows OS offered a built-in DVD player.
The Windows 10 doesn’t have a native app that enables you to play movies or music from DVD and Blu-ray discs, and you must install a third-party DVDvideo player if you want to view content from these sources. Luckily there is no shortage of media players that are compatible with Windows 10, so in this article, we are going to take you through some of the best free DVD players on the market and help you choose the one that meets all your needs.
Best Free DVD Players for Windows 10
Before you opt for one DVD player or the other you must first check which audio and video file formats they support or find out if you can use them to play Blu-ray discs. You should also check a player’s compatibility with the operating system you have installed on your computer and that you have all the codecs necessary to play ISO and other image, audio and video file format. So let’s take a look at ten best free DVD players for Windows 10.
1. VLC Media Player by VideoLan
Over the course of the last two decades, VLC has established itself as one of the most versatile media players ever created. This cross-platform app can be used on Macs, PCs, Linux computers and Smartphones to play different types of audio, image and video files. In fact, VLC is probably the most reliable DVD player you can find, as it allows you to play DVD and Blu-ray discs effortlessly. However, if you want to watch videos in 4K or 8K resolution, you must install the VLC 3.0 Vetinari update of the media player.
What’s more, playing a DVD or a Blu-ray with VLC is a simple task you can complete in just a few clicks. The Open Disc option that is located in the player’s Media menu enables you to choose if you would like to open a DVD, VCD, Audio CD or Blu-ray disc. Moreover, you won’t need to install additional or MPEG-4 codecs, since VLC can play the vast majority of video files regardless of the codec they are using.
Pros
- Available to all PC and Mac users for free
- The most versatile media player on the market
- Offers basic video editing options
- Powerful subtitle syncing tools
Cons
- The playback of 4K or 8K video files can be choppy
2. PotPlayer
If you are looking for a DVD player that is compatible with all versions of Windows that were released since Windows Vista, PotPlayer might be one of your best options. Besides providing support for all commonly used video file formats and allowing you to play DVDs, Blu-rays or audio CDs, PotPlayer also offers support for different types of 3D glasses. This Windows-based media player is equipped with enhanced H/W Acceleration technology that enables the software to assist the CPU and GPU during the playback of demanding video files.
PotPlayer has all the codecs that are required for the playback of various types of multimedia files, so you don’t have to waste time searching for the codec packs that make possible playing video and audio content that is stored on DVDs or Blu-rays. The media player lets you choose a sound card in case you have more just than one and it supports SRT and SMI, VOB and Blu-ray subtitles.
Pros
- Full OpenCodec support
- Provides a unique 3D viewing experience
- Enables users to bookmark chapters
- Compatible with TV, DVD and HDTV devices
Cons
- Audio playback options could be better
3. BlazeDVD
This is a powerful multimedia player that enables you to watch even region coded and CSS-encrypted DVDs. However, the free version of BlazeDVD doesn’t allow you to open region coded DVDs and Blu-rays or add subtitles to your files. So if you want to gain access to all the features this DVD player has to offer, you must make a one-time payment of $49.96 and upgrade to its Pro version. Both versions of BlazeDVD let you play DVDs, VCDs or SVCDs and allow you to choose between different playback modes.
The Surround Sound support enhances the audio playback and provides a theater-like experience to the viewers. Moreover, you can choose between ten audio filters you can apply to media files you open with BlazeDVD or use the Parental Control feature if you want to restrict the access to violent content to your children. Creating slideshows from still images or recording videos in an MPEG2 file format are also among the options you are going to have at your disposal if you opt for the paid version of BlazeDVD.
Pros
- Excellent audio playback capabilities
- Features a learning mode
- Equipped with the Smart Stretch technology
- Multi-core CPU acceleration features enhance the video and audio playback
Cons
- The free version of BlazeDVD offers only limited DVD and Blu-ray playback options
4. 5KPlayer
In case you are looking for a perfect DVD player for your home theater, 5KPlayer is probably one of the best options you can find on the market. PC and Mac users can install this DVD player on their devices for free and even use it to capture screens in 4K resolution. The AirPlay technology enables mirroring, while you can also use 5KPlayer to download videos from more than 300 websites including platforms like YouTube or Vimeo.
This media player offers a smooth playback of 4K, Full HD and 360° videos, and it enables you to stream audio and video via its DLNA and AirPlay features. Its DXVA2 hardware acceleration helps render HDR 4K and 8K videos in MTS, MKV or VR 360° formats. What’s more 5KPlayer can detect and play stereo, Dolby or DTS multichannel surround sound in MP3, WMA or FLAC file formats. This cross-platform multimedia player is equipped with a built-in radio player and it supports all common subtitle file formats.
Pros
- Offers support for a broad range of audio and video files
- Excellent screen capturing tools
- Enables users to download video content from Facebook, Dailymotion, YouTube or Vimeo
- Amazing streaming capabilities
Cons
- No Blu-ray support
5. GOM Media Player
Over the years, GOM has emerged as one of the most versatile DVD players for Windows 10 and all other earlier versions of the OS. Its video playback features are nothing short of amazing since GOM enables you to play videos in various resolutions and file formats. However, if you would like to use this media player to open Blu-ray discs you must ensure that you have the necessary codecs. Even so, GOM features a variety of built-in codecs such as Vobris, H263, MP42 or XVID that ensure you can open almost all types of video files.
Besides stunning video playback capabilities that even allow you to view 360° VR videos, GOM also features an extensive subtitle library. The media player searches for subtitles automatically and if it finds a subtitle for a particular video it adds them automatically. Upgrading to the paid version of the GOM media player can be a good idea if you want to get rid of ads or make sure that the playback of 4K UHD video files is smooth.
Pros
- Quick and easy installation process
- A rich subtitle library
- Supports a broad range of audio and video files
- Low system requirements
Cons
- Additional codecs are required for the playback of Blu-ray discs
6. MPC-HC (Media Player Classic Home Cinema)
Even though it has been more than two years since the last and probably the final version of MPC-HC has been released, this media player is still one of the best ways to play DVDs and Blu-rays on Windows 10. The video and audio playback tools MPC-HC has to offer cannot be compared to those provided by VLC or even GOM media player as it only features the basic options you need to play a DVD or a Blu-ray disc. Moreover, the process of playing a DVD with MPC-HC is quite technical as you must adjust the media player’s settings in order to play content from that source.
The codecs you will have to install on your PC depends on the type of content you would like to watch. MPC-HC provides support for or codecs, but it is better to install a full codec pack and ensure that you have all the codecs you need to play audio and video files. Furthermore, playing videos in 4K resolution with MPC-HC is not possible, but you can use it as a DVB player if you want to broadcast videos from your PC to other devices.
Pros
- Ad-free
- Smooth playback of Blu-ray and DVD discs
- Supports all common audio and video file formats
- Different toolbar skins are available
Cons
- Basic audio and video playback options
7. KMPlayer
This modernly and elegantly designed media player lets you watch 3D, 4K or UHD videos regardless of the format in which they are saved. The KMPlayer features all codecs it needs to play different types of audio and video files, so you don’t have to look for codecs you need to open a particular media file. You can choose between 32-bit and 64-bit PC versions of KMPlayer, or opt to use this media player on an Android or iPhone device.
Adding subtitles to a video in KMPlayer is an effortless process that won’t take more than a couple of clicks. Besides the remarkable video playback options, KMPlayer also allows you to listen to music through its music player and enables you to download videos from Instagram, Daily Motion or YouTube. The media player also lets you capture audio and video files and save them in virtually any format you want.
Pros
- Displays high-resolution files accurately and without delay
- Performs well on older PC configurations
- Easy subtitle setup
- Offers basic screen capturing options
Cons
- No stereo sound support
8. PowerDVD 19
PowerDVD is arguably the best DVD player for Windows ever created, and it is no surprise that its latest version offers a wide range of audio and video playback options. PowerDVD 19 is available in Standard, Pro and Ultra versions that are all differently priced and provide different video and audio playback features. The Standard version of PowerDVD 19 can run on Windows 8.1 or Windows 7, but you can only play 4K videos with this media player if you have Windows 10 installed on your PC.
In addition to playing DVD and Blu-ray discs you can also use PowerDVD 19 to download videos, 360° VR videos, audio or image files and stream videos from PowerDVD to your television set. This iconic media player offers HDR support and it is True Theater technology enhances the colors in videos you play with it. However, if you would like to watch 8K or HDR content with PowerDVD 19 you must purchase its Ultra version.
Pros
- Full codec support
- Excellent screencasting capabilities
- Smooth playback of HDR, 8K and 4K videos
- Powerful audio playback features
Cons
- PowerDVD 19 cannot be used for free
9. Leawo Blue-ray player
If you are looking for a media player that can open both Blu-ray and DVD discs, you should look no further, because Leawo Blu-ray player is equipped with a plethora of features that make every home theater experience more enjoyable. The player lets you open DVD files, DVD folders, as well as DVD ISO and IFO files, however, you cannot use it to play videos in resolutions larger than 1080p.
Leawo Blu-ray player enables you to watch or listen to the content from Blu-ray discs on Windows 10 and all other versions of the OS up to Windows Vista. Adding subtitles or selecting the audio track of a video file is easy and optionally you can search through the DVD player’s subtitle library if the original video doesn’t have built-in subtitles. More advanced video playback options like screencasting or screen capturing are not available, which means that you can only watch the videos that are stored on DVDs or Blu-rays from your computer.
Pros
- Allows users to load multiple files simultaneously
- Compatible with all versions of Windows OS since Windows Vista
- Intuitive media control menu
- Excellent audio decoding options
Cons
- No advanced video and audio playback options
10. Macgo Windows Blu-ray
Even though this media player is primarily designed for macOS, the manufacturer announced that the Windows version of the app is going to become available soon. The Macgo Windows Blu-ray player is expected to offer support for a broad range of Blu-ray file formats and video files, which should enable its users to watch or listen to content without any restrictions. The media player can also display a variety of photo file formats, including CR2 files, and its users can utilize it to browse through their photo collections and ever view RAW files.
The current Mac-based versions of the software offer support for Dolby TrueHD Audio DTS-HD Master Audio and DTS 5.1 codecs that ensure you can hear every sound in a video accurately. Macgo Windows Blu-ray should also be equipped with a range of subtitle options that allow you to customize the color, size or the font of a video’s subtitles.
Pros
- Supports nearly all Blu-ray and video file formats
- Powerful audio playback features
- Displays image files
- Offers online video playback options
Cons
- This Blu-ray and DVD player is still in Beta stage
Conclusion
Even though Windows 10 doesn’t have a native DVD or Blu-ray players, finding a media player that enables you to watch video and audio content from Blu-ray or DVD discs shouldn’t be too difficult. Media players like Pot Player or VLC are powerful enough to provide smooth playback of all audio and video files for free, while DVD players like PowerDVD or KMPlayer are a better option if you are looking for a true home theater experience. Which DVD player for Windows 10 are you going to choose? Leave a comment and let us know.
Ollie Mattison
Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Ollie Mattison
Ollie Mattison
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
As it is now the second decade of the 21st century, data carriers like DVDs are slowly becoming obsolete. A growing number of laptop and desktop PCs no longer feature optical disc drives, while the discontinuation of the Windows Media Center marked the end of an era in which Windows OS offered a built-in DVD player.
The Windows 10 doesn’t have a native app that enables you to play movies or music from DVD and Blu-ray discs, and you must install a third-party DVDvideo player if you want to view content from these sources. Luckily there is no shortage of media players that are compatible with Windows 10, so in this article, we are going to take you through some of the best free DVD players on the market and help you choose the one that meets all your needs.
Best Free DVD Players for Windows 10
Before you opt for one DVD player or the other you must first check which audio and video file formats they support or find out if you can use them to play Blu-ray discs. You should also check a player’s compatibility with the operating system you have installed on your computer and that you have all the codecs necessary to play ISO and other image, audio and video file format. So let’s take a look at ten best free DVD players for Windows 10.
1. VLC Media Player by VideoLan
Over the course of the last two decades, VLC has established itself as one of the most versatile media players ever created. This cross-platform app can be used on Macs, PCs, Linux computers and Smartphones to play different types of audio, image and video files. In fact, VLC is probably the most reliable DVD player you can find, as it allows you to play DVD and Blu-ray discs effortlessly. However, if you want to watch videos in 4K or 8K resolution, you must install the VLC 3.0 Vetinari update of the media player.
What’s more, playing a DVD or a Blu-ray with VLC is a simple task you can complete in just a few clicks. The Open Disc option that is located in the player’s Media menu enables you to choose if you would like to open a DVD, VCD, Audio CD or Blu-ray disc. Moreover, you won’t need to install additional or MPEG-4 codecs, since VLC can play the vast majority of video files regardless of the codec they are using.
Pros
- Available to all PC and Mac users for free
- The most versatile media player on the market
- Offers basic video editing options
- Powerful subtitle syncing tools
Cons
- The playback of 4K or 8K video files can be choppy
2. PotPlayer
If you are looking for a DVD player that is compatible with all versions of Windows that were released since Windows Vista, PotPlayer might be one of your best options. Besides providing support for all commonly used video file formats and allowing you to play DVDs, Blu-rays or audio CDs, PotPlayer also offers support for different types of 3D glasses. This Windows-based media player is equipped with enhanced H/W Acceleration technology that enables the software to assist the CPU and GPU during the playback of demanding video files.
PotPlayer has all the codecs that are required for the playback of various types of multimedia files, so you don’t have to waste time searching for the codec packs that make possible playing video and audio content that is stored on DVDs or Blu-rays. The media player lets you choose a sound card in case you have more just than one and it supports SRT and SMI, VOB and Blu-ray subtitles.
Pros
- Full OpenCodec support
- Provides a unique 3D viewing experience
- Enables users to bookmark chapters
- Compatible with TV, DVD and HDTV devices
Cons
- Audio playback options could be better
3. BlazeDVD
This is a powerful multimedia player that enables you to watch even region coded and CSS-encrypted DVDs. However, the free version of BlazeDVD doesn’t allow you to open region coded DVDs and Blu-rays or add subtitles to your files. So if you want to gain access to all the features this DVD player has to offer, you must make a one-time payment of $49.96 and upgrade to its Pro version. Both versions of BlazeDVD let you play DVDs, VCDs or SVCDs and allow you to choose between different playback modes.
The Surround Sound support enhances the audio playback and provides a theater-like experience to the viewers. Moreover, you can choose between ten audio filters you can apply to media files you open with BlazeDVD or use the Parental Control feature if you want to restrict the access to violent content to your children. Creating slideshows from still images or recording videos in an MPEG2 file format are also among the options you are going to have at your disposal if you opt for the paid version of BlazeDVD.
Pros
- Excellent audio playback capabilities
- Features a learning mode
- Equipped with the Smart Stretch technology
- Multi-core CPU acceleration features enhance the video and audio playback
Cons
- The free version of BlazeDVD offers only limited DVD and Blu-ray playback options
4. 5KPlayer
In case you are looking for a perfect DVD player for your home theater, 5KPlayer is probably one of the best options you can find on the market. PC and Mac users can install this DVD player on their devices for free and even use it to capture screens in 4K resolution. The AirPlay technology enables mirroring, while you can also use 5KPlayer to download videos from more than 300 websites including platforms like YouTube or Vimeo.
This media player offers a smooth playback of 4K, Full HD and 360° videos, and it enables you to stream audio and video via its DLNA and AirPlay features. Its DXVA2 hardware acceleration helps render HDR 4K and 8K videos in MTS, MKV or VR 360° formats. What’s more 5KPlayer can detect and play stereo, Dolby or DTS multichannel surround sound in MP3, WMA or FLAC file formats. This cross-platform multimedia player is equipped with a built-in radio player and it supports all common subtitle file formats.
Pros
- Offers support for a broad range of audio and video files
- Excellent screen capturing tools
- Enables users to download video content from Facebook, Dailymotion, YouTube or Vimeo
- Amazing streaming capabilities
Cons
- No Blu-ray support
5. GOM Media Player
Over the years, GOM has emerged as one of the most versatile DVD players for Windows 10 and all other earlier versions of the OS. Its video playback features are nothing short of amazing since GOM enables you to play videos in various resolutions and file formats. However, if you would like to use this media player to open Blu-ray discs you must ensure that you have the necessary codecs. Even so, GOM features a variety of built-in codecs such as Vobris, H263, MP42 or XVID that ensure you can open almost all types of video files.
Besides stunning video playback capabilities that even allow you to view 360° VR videos, GOM also features an extensive subtitle library. The media player searches for subtitles automatically and if it finds a subtitle for a particular video it adds them automatically. Upgrading to the paid version of the GOM media player can be a good idea if you want to get rid of ads or make sure that the playback of 4K UHD video files is smooth.
Pros
- Quick and easy installation process
- A rich subtitle library
- Supports a broad range of audio and video files
- Low system requirements
Cons
- Additional codecs are required for the playback of Blu-ray discs
6. MPC-HC (Media Player Classic Home Cinema)
Even though it has been more than two years since the last and probably the final version of MPC-HC has been released, this media player is still one of the best ways to play DVDs and Blu-rays on Windows 10. The video and audio playback tools MPC-HC has to offer cannot be compared to those provided by VLC or even GOM media player as it only features the basic options you need to play a DVD or a Blu-ray disc. Moreover, the process of playing a DVD with MPC-HC is quite technical as you must adjust the media player’s settings in order to play content from that source.
The codecs you will have to install on your PC depends on the type of content you would like to watch. MPC-HC provides support for or codecs, but it is better to install a full codec pack and ensure that you have all the codecs you need to play audio and video files. Furthermore, playing videos in 4K resolution with MPC-HC is not possible, but you can use it as a DVB player if you want to broadcast videos from your PC to other devices.
Pros
- Ad-free
- Smooth playback of Blu-ray and DVD discs
- Supports all common audio and video file formats
- Different toolbar skins are available
Cons
- Basic audio and video playback options
7. KMPlayer
This modernly and elegantly designed media player lets you watch 3D, 4K or UHD videos regardless of the format in which they are saved. The KMPlayer features all codecs it needs to play different types of audio and video files, so you don’t have to look for codecs you need to open a particular media file. You can choose between 32-bit and 64-bit PC versions of KMPlayer, or opt to use this media player on an Android or iPhone device.
Adding subtitles to a video in KMPlayer is an effortless process that won’t take more than a couple of clicks. Besides the remarkable video playback options, KMPlayer also allows you to listen to music through its music player and enables you to download videos from Instagram, Daily Motion or YouTube. The media player also lets you capture audio and video files and save them in virtually any format you want.
Pros
- Displays high-resolution files accurately and without delay
- Performs well on older PC configurations
- Easy subtitle setup
- Offers basic screen capturing options
Cons
- No stereo sound support
8. PowerDVD 19
PowerDVD is arguably the best DVD player for Windows ever created, and it is no surprise that its latest version offers a wide range of audio and video playback options. PowerDVD 19 is available in Standard, Pro and Ultra versions that are all differently priced and provide different video and audio playback features. The Standard version of PowerDVD 19 can run on Windows 8.1 or Windows 7, but you can only play 4K videos with this media player if you have Windows 10 installed on your PC.
In addition to playing DVD and Blu-ray discs you can also use PowerDVD 19 to download videos, 360° VR videos, audio or image files and stream videos from PowerDVD to your television set. This iconic media player offers HDR support and it is True Theater technology enhances the colors in videos you play with it. However, if you would like to watch 8K or HDR content with PowerDVD 19 you must purchase its Ultra version.
Pros
- Full codec support
- Excellent screencasting capabilities
- Smooth playback of HDR, 8K and 4K videos
- Powerful audio playback features
Cons
- PowerDVD 19 cannot be used for free
9. Leawo Blue-ray player
If you are looking for a media player that can open both Blu-ray and DVD discs, you should look no further, because Leawo Blu-ray player is equipped with a plethora of features that make every home theater experience more enjoyable. The player lets you open DVD files, DVD folders, as well as DVD ISO and IFO files, however, you cannot use it to play videos in resolutions larger than 1080p.
Leawo Blu-ray player enables you to watch or listen to the content from Blu-ray discs on Windows 10 and all other versions of the OS up to Windows Vista. Adding subtitles or selecting the audio track of a video file is easy and optionally you can search through the DVD player’s subtitle library if the original video doesn’t have built-in subtitles. More advanced video playback options like screencasting or screen capturing are not available, which means that you can only watch the videos that are stored on DVDs or Blu-rays from your computer.
Pros
- Allows users to load multiple files simultaneously
- Compatible with all versions of Windows OS since Windows Vista
- Intuitive media control menu
- Excellent audio decoding options
Cons
- No advanced video and audio playback options
10. Macgo Windows Blu-ray
Even though this media player is primarily designed for macOS, the manufacturer announced that the Windows version of the app is going to become available soon. The Macgo Windows Blu-ray player is expected to offer support for a broad range of Blu-ray file formats and video files, which should enable its users to watch or listen to content without any restrictions. The media player can also display a variety of photo file formats, including CR2 files, and its users can utilize it to browse through their photo collections and ever view RAW files.
The current Mac-based versions of the software offer support for Dolby TrueHD Audio DTS-HD Master Audio and DTS 5.1 codecs that ensure you can hear every sound in a video accurately. Macgo Windows Blu-ray should also be equipped with a range of subtitle options that allow you to customize the color, size or the font of a video’s subtitles.
Pros
- Supports nearly all Blu-ray and video file formats
- Powerful audio playback features
- Displays image files
- Offers online video playback options
Cons
- This Blu-ray and DVD player is still in Beta stage
Conclusion
Even though Windows 10 doesn’t have a native DVD or Blu-ray players, finding a media player that enables you to watch video and audio content from Blu-ray or DVD discs shouldn’t be too difficult. Media players like Pot Player or VLC are powerful enough to provide smooth playback of all audio and video files for free, while DVD players like PowerDVD or KMPlayer are a better option if you are looking for a true home theater experience. Which DVD player for Windows 10 are you going to choose? Leave a comment and let us know.
Ollie Mattison
Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Ollie Mattison
Ollie Mattison
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
As it is now the second decade of the 21st century, data carriers like DVDs are slowly becoming obsolete. A growing number of laptop and desktop PCs no longer feature optical disc drives, while the discontinuation of the Windows Media Center marked the end of an era in which Windows OS offered a built-in DVD player.
The Windows 10 doesn’t have a native app that enables you to play movies or music from DVD and Blu-ray discs, and you must install a third-party DVDvideo player if you want to view content from these sources. Luckily there is no shortage of media players that are compatible with Windows 10, so in this article, we are going to take you through some of the best free DVD players on the market and help you choose the one that meets all your needs.
Best Free DVD Players for Windows 10
Before you opt for one DVD player or the other you must first check which audio and video file formats they support or find out if you can use them to play Blu-ray discs. You should also check a player’s compatibility with the operating system you have installed on your computer and that you have all the codecs necessary to play ISO and other image, audio and video file format. So let’s take a look at ten best free DVD players for Windows 10.
1. VLC Media Player by VideoLan
Over the course of the last two decades, VLC has established itself as one of the most versatile media players ever created. This cross-platform app can be used on Macs, PCs, Linux computers and Smartphones to play different types of audio, image and video files. In fact, VLC is probably the most reliable DVD player you can find, as it allows you to play DVD and Blu-ray discs effortlessly. However, if you want to watch videos in 4K or 8K resolution, you must install the VLC 3.0 Vetinari update of the media player.
What’s more, playing a DVD or a Blu-ray with VLC is a simple task you can complete in just a few clicks. The Open Disc option that is located in the player’s Media menu enables you to choose if you would like to open a DVD, VCD, Audio CD or Blu-ray disc. Moreover, you won’t need to install additional or MPEG-4 codecs, since VLC can play the vast majority of video files regardless of the codec they are using.
Pros
- Available to all PC and Mac users for free
- The most versatile media player on the market
- Offers basic video editing options
- Powerful subtitle syncing tools
Cons
- The playback of 4K or 8K video files can be choppy
2. PotPlayer
If you are looking for a DVD player that is compatible with all versions of Windows that were released since Windows Vista, PotPlayer might be one of your best options. Besides providing support for all commonly used video file formats and allowing you to play DVDs, Blu-rays or audio CDs, PotPlayer also offers support for different types of 3D glasses. This Windows-based media player is equipped with enhanced H/W Acceleration technology that enables the software to assist the CPU and GPU during the playback of demanding video files.
PotPlayer has all the codecs that are required for the playback of various types of multimedia files, so you don’t have to waste time searching for the codec packs that make possible playing video and audio content that is stored on DVDs or Blu-rays. The media player lets you choose a sound card in case you have more just than one and it supports SRT and SMI, VOB and Blu-ray subtitles.
Pros
- Full OpenCodec support
- Provides a unique 3D viewing experience
- Enables users to bookmark chapters
- Compatible with TV, DVD and HDTV devices
Cons
- Audio playback options could be better
3. BlazeDVD
This is a powerful multimedia player that enables you to watch even region coded and CSS-encrypted DVDs. However, the free version of BlazeDVD doesn’t allow you to open region coded DVDs and Blu-rays or add subtitles to your files. So if you want to gain access to all the features this DVD player has to offer, you must make a one-time payment of $49.96 and upgrade to its Pro version. Both versions of BlazeDVD let you play DVDs, VCDs or SVCDs and allow you to choose between different playback modes.
The Surround Sound support enhances the audio playback and provides a theater-like experience to the viewers. Moreover, you can choose between ten audio filters you can apply to media files you open with BlazeDVD or use the Parental Control feature if you want to restrict the access to violent content to your children. Creating slideshows from still images or recording videos in an MPEG2 file format are also among the options you are going to have at your disposal if you opt for the paid version of BlazeDVD.
Pros
- Excellent audio playback capabilities
- Features a learning mode
- Equipped with the Smart Stretch technology
- Multi-core CPU acceleration features enhance the video and audio playback
Cons
- The free version of BlazeDVD offers only limited DVD and Blu-ray playback options
4. 5KPlayer
In case you are looking for a perfect DVD player for your home theater, 5KPlayer is probably one of the best options you can find on the market. PC and Mac users can install this DVD player on their devices for free and even use it to capture screens in 4K resolution. The AirPlay technology enables mirroring, while you can also use 5KPlayer to download videos from more than 300 websites including platforms like YouTube or Vimeo.
This media player offers a smooth playback of 4K, Full HD and 360° videos, and it enables you to stream audio and video via its DLNA and AirPlay features. Its DXVA2 hardware acceleration helps render HDR 4K and 8K videos in MTS, MKV or VR 360° formats. What’s more 5KPlayer can detect and play stereo, Dolby or DTS multichannel surround sound in MP3, WMA or FLAC file formats. This cross-platform multimedia player is equipped with a built-in radio player and it supports all common subtitle file formats.
Pros
- Offers support for a broad range of audio and video files
- Excellent screen capturing tools
- Enables users to download video content from Facebook, Dailymotion, YouTube or Vimeo
- Amazing streaming capabilities
Cons
- No Blu-ray support
5. GOM Media Player
Over the years, GOM has emerged as one of the most versatile DVD players for Windows 10 and all other earlier versions of the OS. Its video playback features are nothing short of amazing since GOM enables you to play videos in various resolutions and file formats. However, if you would like to use this media player to open Blu-ray discs you must ensure that you have the necessary codecs. Even so, GOM features a variety of built-in codecs such as Vobris, H263, MP42 or XVID that ensure you can open almost all types of video files.
Besides stunning video playback capabilities that even allow you to view 360° VR videos, GOM also features an extensive subtitle library. The media player searches for subtitles automatically and if it finds a subtitle for a particular video it adds them automatically. Upgrading to the paid version of the GOM media player can be a good idea if you want to get rid of ads or make sure that the playback of 4K UHD video files is smooth.
Pros
- Quick and easy installation process
- A rich subtitle library
- Supports a broad range of audio and video files
- Low system requirements
Cons
- Additional codecs are required for the playback of Blu-ray discs
6. MPC-HC (Media Player Classic Home Cinema)
Even though it has been more than two years since the last and probably the final version of MPC-HC has been released, this media player is still one of the best ways to play DVDs and Blu-rays on Windows 10. The video and audio playback tools MPC-HC has to offer cannot be compared to those provided by VLC or even GOM media player as it only features the basic options you need to play a DVD or a Blu-ray disc. Moreover, the process of playing a DVD with MPC-HC is quite technical as you must adjust the media player’s settings in order to play content from that source.
The codecs you will have to install on your PC depends on the type of content you would like to watch. MPC-HC provides support for or codecs, but it is better to install a full codec pack and ensure that you have all the codecs you need to play audio and video files. Furthermore, playing videos in 4K resolution with MPC-HC is not possible, but you can use it as a DVB player if you want to broadcast videos from your PC to other devices.
Pros
- Ad-free
- Smooth playback of Blu-ray and DVD discs
- Supports all common audio and video file formats
- Different toolbar skins are available
Cons
- Basic audio and video playback options
7. KMPlayer
This modernly and elegantly designed media player lets you watch 3D, 4K or UHD videos regardless of the format in which they are saved. The KMPlayer features all codecs it needs to play different types of audio and video files, so you don’t have to look for codecs you need to open a particular media file. You can choose between 32-bit and 64-bit PC versions of KMPlayer, or opt to use this media player on an Android or iPhone device.
Adding subtitles to a video in KMPlayer is an effortless process that won’t take more than a couple of clicks. Besides the remarkable video playback options, KMPlayer also allows you to listen to music through its music player and enables you to download videos from Instagram, Daily Motion or YouTube. The media player also lets you capture audio and video files and save them in virtually any format you want.
Pros
- Displays high-resolution files accurately and without delay
- Performs well on older PC configurations
- Easy subtitle setup
- Offers basic screen capturing options
Cons
- No stereo sound support
8. PowerDVD 19
PowerDVD is arguably the best DVD player for Windows ever created, and it is no surprise that its latest version offers a wide range of audio and video playback options. PowerDVD 19 is available in Standard, Pro and Ultra versions that are all differently priced and provide different video and audio playback features. The Standard version of PowerDVD 19 can run on Windows 8.1 or Windows 7, but you can only play 4K videos with this media player if you have Windows 10 installed on your PC.
In addition to playing DVD and Blu-ray discs you can also use PowerDVD 19 to download videos, 360° VR videos, audio or image files and stream videos from PowerDVD to your television set. This iconic media player offers HDR support and it is True Theater technology enhances the colors in videos you play with it. However, if you would like to watch 8K or HDR content with PowerDVD 19 you must purchase its Ultra version.
Pros
- Full codec support
- Excellent screencasting capabilities
- Smooth playback of HDR, 8K and 4K videos
- Powerful audio playback features
Cons
- PowerDVD 19 cannot be used for free
9. Leawo Blue-ray player
If you are looking for a media player that can open both Blu-ray and DVD discs, you should look no further, because Leawo Blu-ray player is equipped with a plethora of features that make every home theater experience more enjoyable. The player lets you open DVD files, DVD folders, as well as DVD ISO and IFO files, however, you cannot use it to play videos in resolutions larger than 1080p.
Leawo Blu-ray player enables you to watch or listen to the content from Blu-ray discs on Windows 10 and all other versions of the OS up to Windows Vista. Adding subtitles or selecting the audio track of a video file is easy and optionally you can search through the DVD player’s subtitle library if the original video doesn’t have built-in subtitles. More advanced video playback options like screencasting or screen capturing are not available, which means that you can only watch the videos that are stored on DVDs or Blu-rays from your computer.
Pros
- Allows users to load multiple files simultaneously
- Compatible with all versions of Windows OS since Windows Vista
- Intuitive media control menu
- Excellent audio decoding options
Cons
- No advanced video and audio playback options
10. Macgo Windows Blu-ray
Even though this media player is primarily designed for macOS, the manufacturer announced that the Windows version of the app is going to become available soon. The Macgo Windows Blu-ray player is expected to offer support for a broad range of Blu-ray file formats and video files, which should enable its users to watch or listen to content without any restrictions. The media player can also display a variety of photo file formats, including CR2 files, and its users can utilize it to browse through their photo collections and ever view RAW files.
The current Mac-based versions of the software offer support for Dolby TrueHD Audio DTS-HD Master Audio and DTS 5.1 codecs that ensure you can hear every sound in a video accurately. Macgo Windows Blu-ray should also be equipped with a range of subtitle options that allow you to customize the color, size or the font of a video’s subtitles.
Pros
- Supports nearly all Blu-ray and video file formats
- Powerful audio playback features
- Displays image files
- Offers online video playback options
Cons
- This Blu-ray and DVD player is still in Beta stage
Conclusion
Even though Windows 10 doesn’t have a native DVD or Blu-ray players, finding a media player that enables you to watch video and audio content from Blu-ray or DVD discs shouldn’t be too difficult. Media players like Pot Player or VLC are powerful enough to provide smooth playback of all audio and video files for free, while DVD players like PowerDVD or KMPlayer are a better option if you are looking for a true home theater experience. Which DVD player for Windows 10 are you going to choose? Leave a comment and let us know.
Ollie Mattison
Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Ollie Mattison
Ollie Mattison
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
As it is now the second decade of the 21st century, data carriers like DVDs are slowly becoming obsolete. A growing number of laptop and desktop PCs no longer feature optical disc drives, while the discontinuation of the Windows Media Center marked the end of an era in which Windows OS offered a built-in DVD player.
The Windows 10 doesn’t have a native app that enables you to play movies or music from DVD and Blu-ray discs, and you must install a third-party DVDvideo player if you want to view content from these sources. Luckily there is no shortage of media players that are compatible with Windows 10, so in this article, we are going to take you through some of the best free DVD players on the market and help you choose the one that meets all your needs.
Best Free DVD Players for Windows 10
Before you opt for one DVD player or the other you must first check which audio and video file formats they support or find out if you can use them to play Blu-ray discs. You should also check a player’s compatibility with the operating system you have installed on your computer and that you have all the codecs necessary to play ISO and other image, audio and video file format. So let’s take a look at ten best free DVD players for Windows 10.
1. VLC Media Player by VideoLan
Over the course of the last two decades, VLC has established itself as one of the most versatile media players ever created. This cross-platform app can be used on Macs, PCs, Linux computers and Smartphones to play different types of audio, image and video files. In fact, VLC is probably the most reliable DVD player you can find, as it allows you to play DVD and Blu-ray discs effortlessly. However, if you want to watch videos in 4K or 8K resolution, you must install the VLC 3.0 Vetinari update of the media player.
What’s more, playing a DVD or a Blu-ray with VLC is a simple task you can complete in just a few clicks. The Open Disc option that is located in the player’s Media menu enables you to choose if you would like to open a DVD, VCD, Audio CD or Blu-ray disc. Moreover, you won’t need to install additional or MPEG-4 codecs, since VLC can play the vast majority of video files regardless of the codec they are using.
Pros
- Available to all PC and Mac users for free
- The most versatile media player on the market
- Offers basic video editing options
- Powerful subtitle syncing tools
Cons
- The playback of 4K or 8K video files can be choppy
2. PotPlayer
If you are looking for a DVD player that is compatible with all versions of Windows that were released since Windows Vista, PotPlayer might be one of your best options. Besides providing support for all commonly used video file formats and allowing you to play DVDs, Blu-rays or audio CDs, PotPlayer also offers support for different types of 3D glasses. This Windows-based media player is equipped with enhanced H/W Acceleration technology that enables the software to assist the CPU and GPU during the playback of demanding video files.
PotPlayer has all the codecs that are required for the playback of various types of multimedia files, so you don’t have to waste time searching for the codec packs that make possible playing video and audio content that is stored on DVDs or Blu-rays. The media player lets you choose a sound card in case you have more just than one and it supports SRT and SMI, VOB and Blu-ray subtitles.
Pros
- Full OpenCodec support
- Provides a unique 3D viewing experience
- Enables users to bookmark chapters
- Compatible with TV, DVD and HDTV devices
Cons
- Audio playback options could be better
3. BlazeDVD
This is a powerful multimedia player that enables you to watch even region coded and CSS-encrypted DVDs. However, the free version of BlazeDVD doesn’t allow you to open region coded DVDs and Blu-rays or add subtitles to your files. So if you want to gain access to all the features this DVD player has to offer, you must make a one-time payment of $49.96 and upgrade to its Pro version. Both versions of BlazeDVD let you play DVDs, VCDs or SVCDs and allow you to choose between different playback modes.
The Surround Sound support enhances the audio playback and provides a theater-like experience to the viewers. Moreover, you can choose between ten audio filters you can apply to media files you open with BlazeDVD or use the Parental Control feature if you want to restrict the access to violent content to your children. Creating slideshows from still images or recording videos in an MPEG2 file format are also among the options you are going to have at your disposal if you opt for the paid version of BlazeDVD.
Pros
- Excellent audio playback capabilities
- Features a learning mode
- Equipped with the Smart Stretch technology
- Multi-core CPU acceleration features enhance the video and audio playback
Cons
- The free version of BlazeDVD offers only limited DVD and Blu-ray playback options
4. 5KPlayer
In case you are looking for a perfect DVD player for your home theater, 5KPlayer is probably one of the best options you can find on the market. PC and Mac users can install this DVD player on their devices for free and even use it to capture screens in 4K resolution. The AirPlay technology enables mirroring, while you can also use 5KPlayer to download videos from more than 300 websites including platforms like YouTube or Vimeo.
This media player offers a smooth playback of 4K, Full HD and 360° videos, and it enables you to stream audio and video via its DLNA and AirPlay features. Its DXVA2 hardware acceleration helps render HDR 4K and 8K videos in MTS, MKV or VR 360° formats. What’s more 5KPlayer can detect and play stereo, Dolby or DTS multichannel surround sound in MP3, WMA or FLAC file formats. This cross-platform multimedia player is equipped with a built-in radio player and it supports all common subtitle file formats.
Pros
- Offers support for a broad range of audio and video files
- Excellent screen capturing tools
- Enables users to download video content from Facebook, Dailymotion, YouTube or Vimeo
- Amazing streaming capabilities
Cons
- No Blu-ray support
5. GOM Media Player
Over the years, GOM has emerged as one of the most versatile DVD players for Windows 10 and all other earlier versions of the OS. Its video playback features are nothing short of amazing since GOM enables you to play videos in various resolutions and file formats. However, if you would like to use this media player to open Blu-ray discs you must ensure that you have the necessary codecs. Even so, GOM features a variety of built-in codecs such as Vobris, H263, MP42 or XVID that ensure you can open almost all types of video files.
Besides stunning video playback capabilities that even allow you to view 360° VR videos, GOM also features an extensive subtitle library. The media player searches for subtitles automatically and if it finds a subtitle for a particular video it adds them automatically. Upgrading to the paid version of the GOM media player can be a good idea if you want to get rid of ads or make sure that the playback of 4K UHD video files is smooth.
Pros
- Quick and easy installation process
- A rich subtitle library
- Supports a broad range of audio and video files
- Low system requirements
Cons
- Additional codecs are required for the playback of Blu-ray discs
6. MPC-HC (Media Player Classic Home Cinema)
Even though it has been more than two years since the last and probably the final version of MPC-HC has been released, this media player is still one of the best ways to play DVDs and Blu-rays on Windows 10. The video and audio playback tools MPC-HC has to offer cannot be compared to those provided by VLC or even GOM media player as it only features the basic options you need to play a DVD or a Blu-ray disc. Moreover, the process of playing a DVD with MPC-HC is quite technical as you must adjust the media player’s settings in order to play content from that source.
The codecs you will have to install on your PC depends on the type of content you would like to watch. MPC-HC provides support for or codecs, but it is better to install a full codec pack and ensure that you have all the codecs you need to play audio and video files. Furthermore, playing videos in 4K resolution with MPC-HC is not possible, but you can use it as a DVB player if you want to broadcast videos from your PC to other devices.
Pros
- Ad-free
- Smooth playback of Blu-ray and DVD discs
- Supports all common audio and video file formats
- Different toolbar skins are available
Cons
- Basic audio and video playback options
7. KMPlayer
This modernly and elegantly designed media player lets you watch 3D, 4K or UHD videos regardless of the format in which they are saved. The KMPlayer features all codecs it needs to play different types of audio and video files, so you don’t have to look for codecs you need to open a particular media file. You can choose between 32-bit and 64-bit PC versions of KMPlayer, or opt to use this media player on an Android or iPhone device.
Adding subtitles to a video in KMPlayer is an effortless process that won’t take more than a couple of clicks. Besides the remarkable video playback options, KMPlayer also allows you to listen to music through its music player and enables you to download videos from Instagram, Daily Motion or YouTube. The media player also lets you capture audio and video files and save them in virtually any format you want.
Pros
- Displays high-resolution files accurately and without delay
- Performs well on older PC configurations
- Easy subtitle setup
- Offers basic screen capturing options
Cons
- No stereo sound support
8. PowerDVD 19
PowerDVD is arguably the best DVD player for Windows ever created, and it is no surprise that its latest version offers a wide range of audio and video playback options. PowerDVD 19 is available in Standard, Pro and Ultra versions that are all differently priced and provide different video and audio playback features. The Standard version of PowerDVD 19 can run on Windows 8.1 or Windows 7, but you can only play 4K videos with this media player if you have Windows 10 installed on your PC.
In addition to playing DVD and Blu-ray discs you can also use PowerDVD 19 to download videos, 360° VR videos, audio or image files and stream videos from PowerDVD to your television set. This iconic media player offers HDR support and it is True Theater technology enhances the colors in videos you play with it. However, if you would like to watch 8K or HDR content with PowerDVD 19 you must purchase its Ultra version.
Pros
- Full codec support
- Excellent screencasting capabilities
- Smooth playback of HDR, 8K and 4K videos
- Powerful audio playback features
Cons
- PowerDVD 19 cannot be used for free
9. Leawo Blue-ray player
If you are looking for a media player that can open both Blu-ray and DVD discs, you should look no further, because Leawo Blu-ray player is equipped with a plethora of features that make every home theater experience more enjoyable. The player lets you open DVD files, DVD folders, as well as DVD ISO and IFO files, however, you cannot use it to play videos in resolutions larger than 1080p.
Leawo Blu-ray player enables you to watch or listen to the content from Blu-ray discs on Windows 10 and all other versions of the OS up to Windows Vista. Adding subtitles or selecting the audio track of a video file is easy and optionally you can search through the DVD player’s subtitle library if the original video doesn’t have built-in subtitles. More advanced video playback options like screencasting or screen capturing are not available, which means that you can only watch the videos that are stored on DVDs or Blu-rays from your computer.
Pros
- Allows users to load multiple files simultaneously
- Compatible with all versions of Windows OS since Windows Vista
- Intuitive media control menu
- Excellent audio decoding options
Cons
- No advanced video and audio playback options
10. Macgo Windows Blu-ray
Even though this media player is primarily designed for macOS, the manufacturer announced that the Windows version of the app is going to become available soon. The Macgo Windows Blu-ray player is expected to offer support for a broad range of Blu-ray file formats and video files, which should enable its users to watch or listen to content without any restrictions. The media player can also display a variety of photo file formats, including CR2 files, and its users can utilize it to browse through their photo collections and ever view RAW files.
The current Mac-based versions of the software offer support for Dolby TrueHD Audio DTS-HD Master Audio and DTS 5.1 codecs that ensure you can hear every sound in a video accurately. Macgo Windows Blu-ray should also be equipped with a range of subtitle options that allow you to customize the color, size or the font of a video’s subtitles.
Pros
- Supports nearly all Blu-ray and video file formats
- Powerful audio playback features
- Displays image files
- Offers online video playback options
Cons
- This Blu-ray and DVD player is still in Beta stage
Conclusion
Even though Windows 10 doesn’t have a native DVD or Blu-ray players, finding a media player that enables you to watch video and audio content from Blu-ray or DVD discs shouldn’t be too difficult. Media players like Pot Player or VLC are powerful enough to provide smooth playback of all audio and video files for free, while DVD players like PowerDVD or KMPlayer are a better option if you are looking for a true home theater experience. Which DVD player for Windows 10 are you going to choose? Leave a comment and let us know.
Ollie Mattison
Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Ollie Mattison
The Fastest Way to Change Video Dimensions
How to Change Ratio of Video in a Quick & Easy Way
An easy yet powerful editor
Numerous effects to choose from
Detailed tutorials provided by the official channel
It is important that how your video appears on the screen and for this aspect ratio is one of the most important factors. Several times, when your video appears awkward or cropped on a certain site or a device, it means that its aspect ratio is not correct and the best solution here is to change the aspect ratio. Using related software and programs this task can be done easily.
The article will throw more light on these tools that can change ratio of video.
In this article
01 [What is Aspect Ratio and Why Does It Matter?](#Part 1)
02 [Difference Between Aspect Ratio and Resolution](#Part 2)
Part 1 What is Aspect Ratio and Why Does It Matter?
Aspect ratio is the relationship between the width and the height of the video and it defines how your video will appear on the screen. The right aspect ratio is important to offer a pleasing viewing experience. With multiple social media sites supporting different aspect ratios, the need for changing them accordingly arises quite often.
The marketing, business, and all other activities have taken an online route and with this, the video content on several social media sites for promotion has also increased. So, if you upload a video with a certain aspect ratio on a different platform, they will look weird with cropped portions, black borders, and other issues that will lead to a negative viewing experience and impact.
Though there is no fixed or standard aspect ratio that can be considered as the best as different values are suitable for different platforms and sites. Some of the commonly used aspect ratios are as below.
● 16:9- This is one of the most widely used aspect ratios and appears in the form of a wide rectangle. The majority of the video players as well as capturing devices use this aspect ratio as their default settings. The best resolution that can be used with this aspect ratio is 3840 X 2160 pixels.
● 1:1- Originally this aspect ratio was used for square TV sets but now it is majorly used for the videos on Instagram and Facebook. A lot of cameras also support this setting.
● 9:16- The setting for this aspect ratio has become popular after the increased use of smartphones. Used for the tall videos, the setting can be seen in the videos posted as an Instagram story, Snapchat, and Facebook.
● 21:9 – This setting of the aspect ratio is used for cinematic widescreen or videos with the anamorphic format. The use of this aspect ratio is very particular and videos supporting this setting generally can be seen in theme parks, special theatres, and museums.
Regarding social media sites, below listed are the popularly used aspect ratio.
● Square (1:1) – Used for Facebook and Instagram feed videos.
● Vertical (9:16) – Best for Instagram story videos and snaps
● Horizontal (16:9) – Used for (9:16 YouTube videos
● Landscape (5:4) – Apt for landscape videos on Facebook and Twitter.
● Portrait (4:5) – Used for the portrait videos to be posted on Twitter and Facebook.
● For the Facebook cover video, 21:9 is the recommended aspect ratio.
Part 2 Difference Between Aspect Ratio and Resolution
Aspect ratio and resolution are interrelated and go hand-in-hand. For a certain aspect ratio, there is several counterparts’ resolution that can be used. While the aspect ratio defines the width and the height relationship, the resolution is the number of pixels on the screen.
To obtain the resolution of a video, you will multiply the height by the width while for the aspect ratio, width is divided by the height. When the height is multiplied by its width times, the results you get represent the square pixels of your screen and this number dented the quality of the video. The higher the pixels, the higher will be the video quality.
5 Quick Ways to Change Video Aspect Ratio on Windows and Mac
To make your videos suitable for different platforms and sites, you would need to change the aspect ratio, and to get this task done there are several windows and Mac-based tools available. Listed below are the top ones that will let process the videos quickly.
● VideoProc Converter
This is a Windows and Mac-based full-featured software that allows performing multiple tasks like changing the aspect ratio, editing videos, converting files, and more. Using the program, you can easily change the aspect ratio without any quality loss and without adding any black bars or video stretching. Further video customization as needed can also be done using the tool.
Steps to change the aspect ratio
Step 1. Download, install, and run the software on your system and select the Video option.
Step 2. To add the video, click on the + Video button. Next, choose the target format for the video.
Step 3. Next to change the aspect ratio of the video you can either resize the video or can crop it. While resizing the video, you will need to change the resolution from the Codec section. Alternatively, you can also use the Crop toolbar for selecting the desired aspect ratio from the supported options.
Step 4. Finally, choose the output folder and then click on the RUN button to start the file processing.
● AnyMP4 Video Converter Ultimate
This is a widely used video editing tool that supports multiple functions and features for video customization. Using this program on your Windows and Mac system you can change the aspect ratio of the videos using the pre-set options or manually. All popular video formats are supported by the software and the files are processed in lossless quality.
Steps to change the aspect ratio
Step 1. Run the installed software and add the video by clicking on the +Add Files button.
Step 2. Click on the Edit icon and a pop-up editing window will open. Go to the Crop section and expand the drop-down list at the Aspect Ratio. Choose the desired option. You can also change the aspect ratio manually by moving the crop box. Click on the OK button when selected.
Step 3. Next, choose the output folder, target format, and then finally click on the Convert All button to start the processing.
● MediaCoder
This is among the early transcoding tools and is known for its support of rich features for video customization. Several video parameters including aspect ratio can be adjusted using the tool and it also supports functions like conversion, disc ripping, video enhancement, and more. A wide range of formats for processing is supported by the software that is available for the Windows system.
Step to change the aspect ratio
Step 1. Launch the software and add the desired video from the File tab.
Step 2. After the video is added, choose the Picture tab at the bottom menu.
Step 3. At the Aspect Ratio section, pull the menu and choose from the available options. Other parameters can also be changed as needed.
Step 4. Choose the output folder and start processing the file.
● iMovie
To change the aspect ratio of a video on your Mac systems without installing any third-party software, iMovie works as the best tool. Using the program, you can even do basic editing simply and quickly. You can resize the videos in iMovie by simply cropping or exporting them using pre-set aspect ratio options.
Steps for iMovie aspect ratio change
Step 1. Open the iMovie on your system and tap on the Create New button at the top-left corner.
Step 2. Choose the Movie option from the drop-down menu.
Step 3. To add the video, click on the Import Media button and then tap on the Crop icon present on the top toolbar.
Step 4. Move the edges of the video and when done tap on the blue-tick icon present at the top-right corner.
Step 5. Next, click on the Share icon at the top-right corner and then the video can be saved to the desired location.
Using iMovie you can also change aspect ratio iphone video.
Wondershare Filmora Video Editor is an excellent Windows and Mac-based software for changing the aspect ratio of your videos and editing it using a variety of functions. The files can be processed in lossless quality using the tool and the interface is also user-friendly. There are multiple ways by which you can change the aspect ratio using the software and these include - changing it from the starting interface, under project settings, while editing, while exporting, and with the Auto reframe option.
Wondershare Filmora
Get started easily with Filmora’s powerful performance, intuitive interface, and countless effects!
Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >
The simplest of all ways is by changing the video aspect ratio from the starting interface and the steps for the same are enlisted below.
Step 1. Launch the installed software on your system.
Step 2. At the starting interface, you can choose the desired aspect ratio from the available options – 16:9, 4:3, 1:1, and 9:16.
Step 3. After the selection is done, you can add the video by clicking on the New Project and then edit the file as required using several features.
The above steps can be used to change aspect ratio MP4 as well as all other popular formats.
Step 4. After the video settings are done you can process it and save it at the desired location.
To edit the aspect ratio using other ways, you can check out the detailshere .
Key Takeaways from This Episode
● Aspect ratio defines how a video will appear on a different screen, social media sites, and platforms.
● To use the same video on multiple platforms, you need to change its aspect ratio and for this, good software is needed.
● An array of aspect ratio changer tools for Windows and Mac are available. Wondershare Filmora is one such feature-packed tool that can process your files in lossless quality with added features.
It is important that how your video appears on the screen and for this aspect ratio is one of the most important factors. Several times, when your video appears awkward or cropped on a certain site or a device, it means that its aspect ratio is not correct and the best solution here is to change the aspect ratio. Using related software and programs this task can be done easily.
The article will throw more light on these tools that can change ratio of video.
In this article
01 [What is Aspect Ratio and Why Does It Matter?](#Part 1)
02 [Difference Between Aspect Ratio and Resolution](#Part 2)
Part 1 What is Aspect Ratio and Why Does It Matter?
Aspect ratio is the relationship between the width and the height of the video and it defines how your video will appear on the screen. The right aspect ratio is important to offer a pleasing viewing experience. With multiple social media sites supporting different aspect ratios, the need for changing them accordingly arises quite often.
The marketing, business, and all other activities have taken an online route and with this, the video content on several social media sites for promotion has also increased. So, if you upload a video with a certain aspect ratio on a different platform, they will look weird with cropped portions, black borders, and other issues that will lead to a negative viewing experience and impact.
Though there is no fixed or standard aspect ratio that can be considered as the best as different values are suitable for different platforms and sites. Some of the commonly used aspect ratios are as below.
● 16:9- This is one of the most widely used aspect ratios and appears in the form of a wide rectangle. The majority of the video players as well as capturing devices use this aspect ratio as their default settings. The best resolution that can be used with this aspect ratio is 3840 X 2160 pixels.
● 1:1- Originally this aspect ratio was used for square TV sets but now it is majorly used for the videos on Instagram and Facebook. A lot of cameras also support this setting.
● 9:16- The setting for this aspect ratio has become popular after the increased use of smartphones. Used for the tall videos, the setting can be seen in the videos posted as an Instagram story, Snapchat, and Facebook.
● 21:9 – This setting of the aspect ratio is used for cinematic widescreen or videos with the anamorphic format. The use of this aspect ratio is very particular and videos supporting this setting generally can be seen in theme parks, special theatres, and museums.
Regarding social media sites, below listed are the popularly used aspect ratio.
● Square (1:1) – Used for Facebook and Instagram feed videos.
● Vertical (9:16) – Best for Instagram story videos and snaps
● Horizontal (16:9) – Used for (9:16 YouTube videos
● Landscape (5:4) – Apt for landscape videos on Facebook and Twitter.
● Portrait (4:5) – Used for the portrait videos to be posted on Twitter and Facebook.
● For the Facebook cover video, 21:9 is the recommended aspect ratio.
Part 2 Difference Between Aspect Ratio and Resolution
Aspect ratio and resolution are interrelated and go hand-in-hand. For a certain aspect ratio, there is several counterparts’ resolution that can be used. While the aspect ratio defines the width and the height relationship, the resolution is the number of pixels on the screen.
To obtain the resolution of a video, you will multiply the height by the width while for the aspect ratio, width is divided by the height. When the height is multiplied by its width times, the results you get represent the square pixels of your screen and this number dented the quality of the video. The higher the pixels, the higher will be the video quality.
5 Quick Ways to Change Video Aspect Ratio on Windows and Mac
To make your videos suitable for different platforms and sites, you would need to change the aspect ratio, and to get this task done there are several windows and Mac-based tools available. Listed below are the top ones that will let process the videos quickly.
● VideoProc Converter
This is a Windows and Mac-based full-featured software that allows performing multiple tasks like changing the aspect ratio, editing videos, converting files, and more. Using the program, you can easily change the aspect ratio without any quality loss and without adding any black bars or video stretching. Further video customization as needed can also be done using the tool.
Steps to change the aspect ratio
Step 1. Download, install, and run the software on your system and select the Video option.
Step 2. To add the video, click on the + Video button. Next, choose the target format for the video.
Step 3. Next to change the aspect ratio of the video you can either resize the video or can crop it. While resizing the video, you will need to change the resolution from the Codec section. Alternatively, you can also use the Crop toolbar for selecting the desired aspect ratio from the supported options.
Step 4. Finally, choose the output folder and then click on the RUN button to start the file processing.
● AnyMP4 Video Converter Ultimate
This is a widely used video editing tool that supports multiple functions and features for video customization. Using this program on your Windows and Mac system you can change the aspect ratio of the videos using the pre-set options or manually. All popular video formats are supported by the software and the files are processed in lossless quality.
Steps to change the aspect ratio
Step 1. Run the installed software and add the video by clicking on the +Add Files button.
Step 2. Click on the Edit icon and a pop-up editing window will open. Go to the Crop section and expand the drop-down list at the Aspect Ratio. Choose the desired option. You can also change the aspect ratio manually by moving the crop box. Click on the OK button when selected.
Step 3. Next, choose the output folder, target format, and then finally click on the Convert All button to start the processing.
● MediaCoder
This is among the early transcoding tools and is known for its support of rich features for video customization. Several video parameters including aspect ratio can be adjusted using the tool and it also supports functions like conversion, disc ripping, video enhancement, and more. A wide range of formats for processing is supported by the software that is available for the Windows system.
Step to change the aspect ratio
Step 1. Launch the software and add the desired video from the File tab.
Step 2. After the video is added, choose the Picture tab at the bottom menu.
Step 3. At the Aspect Ratio section, pull the menu and choose from the available options. Other parameters can also be changed as needed.
Step 4. Choose the output folder and start processing the file.
● iMovie
To change the aspect ratio of a video on your Mac systems without installing any third-party software, iMovie works as the best tool. Using the program, you can even do basic editing simply and quickly. You can resize the videos in iMovie by simply cropping or exporting them using pre-set aspect ratio options.
Steps for iMovie aspect ratio change
Step 1. Open the iMovie on your system and tap on the Create New button at the top-left corner.
Step 2. Choose the Movie option from the drop-down menu.
Step 3. To add the video, click on the Import Media button and then tap on the Crop icon present on the top toolbar.
Step 4. Move the edges of the video and when done tap on the blue-tick icon present at the top-right corner.
Step 5. Next, click on the Share icon at the top-right corner and then the video can be saved to the desired location.
Using iMovie you can also change aspect ratio iphone video.
Wondershare Filmora Video Editor is an excellent Windows and Mac-based software for changing the aspect ratio of your videos and editing it using a variety of functions. The files can be processed in lossless quality using the tool and the interface is also user-friendly. There are multiple ways by which you can change the aspect ratio using the software and these include - changing it from the starting interface, under project settings, while editing, while exporting, and with the Auto reframe option.
Wondershare Filmora
Get started easily with Filmora’s powerful performance, intuitive interface, and countless effects!
Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >
The simplest of all ways is by changing the video aspect ratio from the starting interface and the steps for the same are enlisted below.
Step 1. Launch the installed software on your system.
Step 2. At the starting interface, you can choose the desired aspect ratio from the available options – 16:9, 4:3, 1:1, and 9:16.
Step 3. After the selection is done, you can add the video by clicking on the New Project and then edit the file as required using several features.
The above steps can be used to change aspect ratio MP4 as well as all other popular formats.
Step 4. After the video settings are done you can process it and save it at the desired location.
To edit the aspect ratio using other ways, you can check out the detailshere .
Key Takeaways from This Episode
● Aspect ratio defines how a video will appear on a different screen, social media sites, and platforms.
● To use the same video on multiple platforms, you need to change its aspect ratio and for this, good software is needed.
● An array of aspect ratio changer tools for Windows and Mac are available. Wondershare Filmora is one such feature-packed tool that can process your files in lossless quality with added features.
It is important that how your video appears on the screen and for this aspect ratio is one of the most important factors. Several times, when your video appears awkward or cropped on a certain site or a device, it means that its aspect ratio is not correct and the best solution here is to change the aspect ratio. Using related software and programs this task can be done easily.
The article will throw more light on these tools that can change ratio of video.
In this article
01 [What is Aspect Ratio and Why Does It Matter?](#Part 1)
02 [Difference Between Aspect Ratio and Resolution](#Part 2)
Part 1 What is Aspect Ratio and Why Does It Matter?
Aspect ratio is the relationship between the width and the height of the video and it defines how your video will appear on the screen. The right aspect ratio is important to offer a pleasing viewing experience. With multiple social media sites supporting different aspect ratios, the need for changing them accordingly arises quite often.
The marketing, business, and all other activities have taken an online route and with this, the video content on several social media sites for promotion has also increased. So, if you upload a video with a certain aspect ratio on a different platform, they will look weird with cropped portions, black borders, and other issues that will lead to a negative viewing experience and impact.
Though there is no fixed or standard aspect ratio that can be considered as the best as different values are suitable for different platforms and sites. Some of the commonly used aspect ratios are as below.
● 16:9- This is one of the most widely used aspect ratios and appears in the form of a wide rectangle. The majority of the video players as well as capturing devices use this aspect ratio as their default settings. The best resolution that can be used with this aspect ratio is 3840 X 2160 pixels.
● 1:1- Originally this aspect ratio was used for square TV sets but now it is majorly used for the videos on Instagram and Facebook. A lot of cameras also support this setting.
● 9:16- The setting for this aspect ratio has become popular after the increased use of smartphones. Used for the tall videos, the setting can be seen in the videos posted as an Instagram story, Snapchat, and Facebook.
● 21:9 – This setting of the aspect ratio is used for cinematic widescreen or videos with the anamorphic format. The use of this aspect ratio is very particular and videos supporting this setting generally can be seen in theme parks, special theatres, and museums.
Regarding social media sites, below listed are the popularly used aspect ratio.
● Square (1:1) – Used for Facebook and Instagram feed videos.
● Vertical (9:16) – Best for Instagram story videos and snaps
● Horizontal (16:9) – Used for (9:16 YouTube videos
● Landscape (5:4) – Apt for landscape videos on Facebook and Twitter.
● Portrait (4:5) – Used for the portrait videos to be posted on Twitter and Facebook.
● For the Facebook cover video, 21:9 is the recommended aspect ratio.
Part 2 Difference Between Aspect Ratio and Resolution
Aspect ratio and resolution are interrelated and go hand-in-hand. For a certain aspect ratio, there is several counterparts’ resolution that can be used. While the aspect ratio defines the width and the height relationship, the resolution is the number of pixels on the screen.
To obtain the resolution of a video, you will multiply the height by the width while for the aspect ratio, width is divided by the height. When the height is multiplied by its width times, the results you get represent the square pixels of your screen and this number dented the quality of the video. The higher the pixels, the higher will be the video quality.
5 Quick Ways to Change Video Aspect Ratio on Windows and Mac
To make your videos suitable for different platforms and sites, you would need to change the aspect ratio, and to get this task done there are several windows and Mac-based tools available. Listed below are the top ones that will let process the videos quickly.
● VideoProc Converter
This is a Windows and Mac-based full-featured software that allows performing multiple tasks like changing the aspect ratio, editing videos, converting files, and more. Using the program, you can easily change the aspect ratio without any quality loss and without adding any black bars or video stretching. Further video customization as needed can also be done using the tool.
Steps to change the aspect ratio
Step 1. Download, install, and run the software on your system and select the Video option.
Step 2. To add the video, click on the + Video button. Next, choose the target format for the video.
Step 3. Next to change the aspect ratio of the video you can either resize the video or can crop it. While resizing the video, you will need to change the resolution from the Codec section. Alternatively, you can also use the Crop toolbar for selecting the desired aspect ratio from the supported options.
Step 4. Finally, choose the output folder and then click on the RUN button to start the file processing.
● AnyMP4 Video Converter Ultimate
This is a widely used video editing tool that supports multiple functions and features for video customization. Using this program on your Windows and Mac system you can change the aspect ratio of the videos using the pre-set options or manually. All popular video formats are supported by the software and the files are processed in lossless quality.
Steps to change the aspect ratio
Step 1. Run the installed software and add the video by clicking on the +Add Files button.
Step 2. Click on the Edit icon and a pop-up editing window will open. Go to the Crop section and expand the drop-down list at the Aspect Ratio. Choose the desired option. You can also change the aspect ratio manually by moving the crop box. Click on the OK button when selected.
Step 3. Next, choose the output folder, target format, and then finally click on the Convert All button to start the processing.
● MediaCoder
This is among the early transcoding tools and is known for its support of rich features for video customization. Several video parameters including aspect ratio can be adjusted using the tool and it also supports functions like conversion, disc ripping, video enhancement, and more. A wide range of formats for processing is supported by the software that is available for the Windows system.
Step to change the aspect ratio
Step 1. Launch the software and add the desired video from the File tab.
Step 2. After the video is added, choose the Picture tab at the bottom menu.
Step 3. At the Aspect Ratio section, pull the menu and choose from the available options. Other parameters can also be changed as needed.
Step 4. Choose the output folder and start processing the file.
● iMovie
To change the aspect ratio of a video on your Mac systems without installing any third-party software, iMovie works as the best tool. Using the program, you can even do basic editing simply and quickly. You can resize the videos in iMovie by simply cropping or exporting them using pre-set aspect ratio options.
Steps for iMovie aspect ratio change
Step 1. Open the iMovie on your system and tap on the Create New button at the top-left corner.
Step 2. Choose the Movie option from the drop-down menu.
Step 3. To add the video, click on the Import Media button and then tap on the Crop icon present on the top toolbar.
Step 4. Move the edges of the video and when done tap on the blue-tick icon present at the top-right corner.
Step 5. Next, click on the Share icon at the top-right corner and then the video can be saved to the desired location.
Using iMovie you can also change aspect ratio iphone video.
Wondershare Filmora Video Editor is an excellent Windows and Mac-based software for changing the aspect ratio of your videos and editing it using a variety of functions. The files can be processed in lossless quality using the tool and the interface is also user-friendly. There are multiple ways by which you can change the aspect ratio using the software and these include - changing it from the starting interface, under project settings, while editing, while exporting, and with the Auto reframe option.
Wondershare Filmora
Get started easily with Filmora’s powerful performance, intuitive interface, and countless effects!
Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >
The simplest of all ways is by changing the video aspect ratio from the starting interface and the steps for the same are enlisted below.
Step 1. Launch the installed software on your system.
Step 2. At the starting interface, you can choose the desired aspect ratio from the available options – 16:9, 4:3, 1:1, and 9:16.
Step 3. After the selection is done, you can add the video by clicking on the New Project and then edit the file as required using several features.
The above steps can be used to change aspect ratio MP4 as well as all other popular formats.
Step 4. After the video settings are done you can process it and save it at the desired location.
To edit the aspect ratio using other ways, you can check out the detailshere .
Key Takeaways from This Episode
● Aspect ratio defines how a video will appear on a different screen, social media sites, and platforms.
● To use the same video on multiple platforms, you need to change its aspect ratio and for this, good software is needed.
● An array of aspect ratio changer tools for Windows and Mac are available. Wondershare Filmora is one such feature-packed tool that can process your files in lossless quality with added features.
It is important that how your video appears on the screen and for this aspect ratio is one of the most important factors. Several times, when your video appears awkward or cropped on a certain site or a device, it means that its aspect ratio is not correct and the best solution here is to change the aspect ratio. Using related software and programs this task can be done easily.
The article will throw more light on these tools that can change ratio of video.
In this article
01 [What is Aspect Ratio and Why Does It Matter?](#Part 1)
02 [Difference Between Aspect Ratio and Resolution](#Part 2)
Part 1 What is Aspect Ratio and Why Does It Matter?
Aspect ratio is the relationship between the width and the height of the video and it defines how your video will appear on the screen. The right aspect ratio is important to offer a pleasing viewing experience. With multiple social media sites supporting different aspect ratios, the need for changing them accordingly arises quite often.
The marketing, business, and all other activities have taken an online route and with this, the video content on several social media sites for promotion has also increased. So, if you upload a video with a certain aspect ratio on a different platform, they will look weird with cropped portions, black borders, and other issues that will lead to a negative viewing experience and impact.
Though there is no fixed or standard aspect ratio that can be considered as the best as different values are suitable for different platforms and sites. Some of the commonly used aspect ratios are as below.
● 16:9- This is one of the most widely used aspect ratios and appears in the form of a wide rectangle. The majority of the video players as well as capturing devices use this aspect ratio as their default settings. The best resolution that can be used with this aspect ratio is 3840 X 2160 pixels.
● 1:1- Originally this aspect ratio was used for square TV sets but now it is majorly used for the videos on Instagram and Facebook. A lot of cameras also support this setting.
● 9:16- The setting for this aspect ratio has become popular after the increased use of smartphones. Used for the tall videos, the setting can be seen in the videos posted as an Instagram story, Snapchat, and Facebook.
● 21:9 – This setting of the aspect ratio is used for cinematic widescreen or videos with the anamorphic format. The use of this aspect ratio is very particular and videos supporting this setting generally can be seen in theme parks, special theatres, and museums.
Regarding social media sites, below listed are the popularly used aspect ratio.
● Square (1:1) – Used for Facebook and Instagram feed videos.
● Vertical (9:16) – Best for Instagram story videos and snaps
● Horizontal (16:9) – Used for (9:16 YouTube videos
● Landscape (5:4) – Apt for landscape videos on Facebook and Twitter.
● Portrait (4:5) – Used for the portrait videos to be posted on Twitter and Facebook.
● For the Facebook cover video, 21:9 is the recommended aspect ratio.
Part 2 Difference Between Aspect Ratio and Resolution
Aspect ratio and resolution are interrelated and go hand-in-hand. For a certain aspect ratio, there is several counterparts’ resolution that can be used. While the aspect ratio defines the width and the height relationship, the resolution is the number of pixels on the screen.
To obtain the resolution of a video, you will multiply the height by the width while for the aspect ratio, width is divided by the height. When the height is multiplied by its width times, the results you get represent the square pixels of your screen and this number dented the quality of the video. The higher the pixels, the higher will be the video quality.
5 Quick Ways to Change Video Aspect Ratio on Windows and Mac
To make your videos suitable for different platforms and sites, you would need to change the aspect ratio, and to get this task done there are several windows and Mac-based tools available. Listed below are the top ones that will let process the videos quickly.
● VideoProc Converter
This is a Windows and Mac-based full-featured software that allows performing multiple tasks like changing the aspect ratio, editing videos, converting files, and more. Using the program, you can easily change the aspect ratio without any quality loss and without adding any black bars or video stretching. Further video customization as needed can also be done using the tool.
Steps to change the aspect ratio
Step 1. Download, install, and run the software on your system and select the Video option.
Step 2. To add the video, click on the + Video button. Next, choose the target format for the video.
Step 3. Next to change the aspect ratio of the video you can either resize the video or can crop it. While resizing the video, you will need to change the resolution from the Codec section. Alternatively, you can also use the Crop toolbar for selecting the desired aspect ratio from the supported options.
Step 4. Finally, choose the output folder and then click on the RUN button to start the file processing.
● AnyMP4 Video Converter Ultimate
This is a widely used video editing tool that supports multiple functions and features for video customization. Using this program on your Windows and Mac system you can change the aspect ratio of the videos using the pre-set options or manually. All popular video formats are supported by the software and the files are processed in lossless quality.
Steps to change the aspect ratio
Step 1. Run the installed software and add the video by clicking on the +Add Files button.
Step 2. Click on the Edit icon and a pop-up editing window will open. Go to the Crop section and expand the drop-down list at the Aspect Ratio. Choose the desired option. You can also change the aspect ratio manually by moving the crop box. Click on the OK button when selected.
Step 3. Next, choose the output folder, target format, and then finally click on the Convert All button to start the processing.
● MediaCoder
This is among the early transcoding tools and is known for its support of rich features for video customization. Several video parameters including aspect ratio can be adjusted using the tool and it also supports functions like conversion, disc ripping, video enhancement, and more. A wide range of formats for processing is supported by the software that is available for the Windows system.
Step to change the aspect ratio
Step 1. Launch the software and add the desired video from the File tab.
Step 2. After the video is added, choose the Picture tab at the bottom menu.
Step 3. At the Aspect Ratio section, pull the menu and choose from the available options. Other parameters can also be changed as needed.
Step 4. Choose the output folder and start processing the file.
● iMovie
To change the aspect ratio of a video on your Mac systems without installing any third-party software, iMovie works as the best tool. Using the program, you can even do basic editing simply and quickly. You can resize the videos in iMovie by simply cropping or exporting them using pre-set aspect ratio options.
Steps for iMovie aspect ratio change
Step 1. Open the iMovie on your system and tap on the Create New button at the top-left corner.
Step 2. Choose the Movie option from the drop-down menu.
Step 3. To add the video, click on the Import Media button and then tap on the Crop icon present on the top toolbar.
Step 4. Move the edges of the video and when done tap on the blue-tick icon present at the top-right corner.
Step 5. Next, click on the Share icon at the top-right corner and then the video can be saved to the desired location.
Using iMovie you can also change aspect ratio iphone video.
Wondershare Filmora Video Editor is an excellent Windows and Mac-based software for changing the aspect ratio of your videos and editing it using a variety of functions. The files can be processed in lossless quality using the tool and the interface is also user-friendly. There are multiple ways by which you can change the aspect ratio using the software and these include - changing it from the starting interface, under project settings, while editing, while exporting, and with the Auto reframe option.
Wondershare Filmora
Get started easily with Filmora’s powerful performance, intuitive interface, and countless effects!
Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >
The simplest of all ways is by changing the video aspect ratio from the starting interface and the steps for the same are enlisted below.
Step 1. Launch the installed software on your system.
Step 2. At the starting interface, you can choose the desired aspect ratio from the available options – 16:9, 4:3, 1:1, and 9:16.
Step 3. After the selection is done, you can add the video by clicking on the New Project and then edit the file as required using several features.
The above steps can be used to change aspect ratio MP4 as well as all other popular formats.
Step 4. After the video settings are done you can process it and save it at the desired location.
To edit the aspect ratio using other ways, you can check out the detailshere .
Key Takeaways from This Episode
● Aspect ratio defines how a video will appear on a different screen, social media sites, and platforms.
● To use the same video on multiple platforms, you need to change its aspect ratio and for this, good software is needed.
● An array of aspect ratio changer tools for Windows and Mac are available. Wondershare Filmora is one such feature-packed tool that can process your files in lossless quality with added features.
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- Title: In 2024, FCPX Video Editing How to Crop and Resize Images Like a Pro
- Author: Emma
- Created at : 2024-05-19 05:47:42
- Updated at : 2024-05-20 05:47:42
- Link: https://video-ai-editor.techidaily.com/in-2024-fcpx-video-editing-how-to-crop-and-resize-images-like-a-pro/
- License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.