K-Lite Codec Pack
v20.1.0 (Standard)FreeReleased 18 Oct 2026
Codec bundle that lets Windows apps play almost any format. By Codec Guide
- Windows
By the ToolsBharat teamUpdated 18 Oct 2026How we check
Quick answer
K-Lite Codec Pack is free software for Windows from Codec Guide. Codec bundle that lets Windows apps play almost any format. Download it only from codecguide.com. The latest version we track is 20.1.0 (Standard) (18 Oct 2026). The developer publishes a SHA-256 hash for the installer, shown on our download page. ToolsBharat links straight to the publisher's own download page, with no bundled offers.
- Latest version:
- 20.1.0 (Standard) (18 Oct 2026)
- Publisher:
- Codec Guide
- Official site:
- codecguide.com
- Licence:
- Free — Freeware
- Requirements:
- Windows 7 or later
Our verdict
K-Lite adds DirectShow decoders so Windows Media Player and other apps can open MKV, HEVC, FLAC and more; the Standard edition also includes MPC-HC. It is well maintained and publishes hashes. If you already use VLC, PotPlayer or MPC-HC, you don't need it.
Key features
- Basic, Standard, Full and Mega editions
- Standard includes MPC-HC and LAV Filters
- Codec tweak tool for fixing settings
Pros
- Pro: Well maintained with SHA-256 published
- Pro: Lets older apps play modern formats
Cons
- Con: Unnecessary if your player has built-in decoders
- Con: Installing several codec packs together can cause conflicts
What's new in 20.1.0 (Standard)
See what changed in 20.1.0 (Standard) in the official release notes
Version history
Version 20.1.0 (Standard)Latest
18 Oct 2026 · 41.3 MB- SHA-256
- 1093c408…e6542c31(published by the developer)
- Source
- Release notes
Requirements
- OS
- Windows 7 or later
- Architecture
- 32-bit and 64-bit codecs included
Licence
- Type
- Free
- Licence
- Freeware
- Publisher
- codecguide.com
Where these facts come from
Checked 30 Oct 2026
FAQ
Do I need K-Lite if I use VLC?
No. VLC, PotPlayer and MPC-HC include their own decoders. K-Lite is mainly useful for Windows Media Player and editing apps that rely on system codecs.
User reviews
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Used K-Lite Codec Pack? Reviews appear after moderation; we never import or invent ratings.
Alternatives
- VLC media player3.0.24 · Open sourcePlays almost any video or audio file without extra codec packs. Official Developer SHA-256 No bundlesAvailable on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
- PotPlayer261021 · FreeFeature-packed Windows video player with deep tuning options. Official No bundles
- MPC-HC (Media Player Classic – Home Cinema)2.8.4 · Open sourceLightweight classic-style player that opens instantly. Official No bundles
K-Lite Codec Pack
20.1.0 (Standard) · 41.3 MB