In this simple instruction on how to download the HEVC codec for Windows 10 (and do it for free), as well as additional information that can be useful, for example, to play HEVC in previous versions of the OS. It can also be useful: how to open Heic (HEIF) files in Windows 10.
Free Download Codec HEVC from Windows Store
When you start video with HEVC codec in the built-in Windows 10 player, you will be offered to install paid extensions for this format. If you enter the Windows Store application store and search for the HEVC request, the codec is found under the name "HEVC video extensions", but Microsoft offers to buy it, that is, it is not available for free:
And this is not what suits everyone without exception to users. To our luck, in the Windows 10 application store there are free HEVC codecs that for some reason cannot be found through the search, but you can open, knowing the address.
- If we turn in the browser for this direct link https://www.microsoft.com/ru-ru/p/hevc-video-extensions-from-device-manufacturer/9n4wgh0z6vhq, we will get the result as in the screenshot below.
- In order to download the HEVC codec for free, it will stay to click "Get", the Windows Store store will open on the "Extensions for HEVC video from the device manufacturer." Click "Get" and download HEVC codec for free.
Video instruction
Just in case, remind you that many media players have their own built-in codecs to play HEVC (H.265) and work not only in Windows 10, but also in previous versions of the system. One of the players recommended by me - VLC, about it in the VLC review - more than just a media player.