DivX Software for Windows

Short summary

DivX Software for Windows is the official media suite from the makers of the DivX format. It combines a polished player, codec components and conversion tools so you can play MKV and HEVC files (including up to 4K for HEVC) and create DivX-compatible videos. The package also bundles several optional plug-ins and short trials for extra functionality.

What the package contains

• DivX Player (desktop) for playback and basic media controls
• DivX Codec Pack to ensure proper decoding and encoding of DivX files
• DivX Web Player and a browser extension for in-browser playback
• A complimentary 15-day trial of DivX Plus Converter for file conversion
• A DLNA media server component for streaming to compatible devices

Playback capabilities and device compatibility

DivX handles common container and codec types such as MKV and HEVC and supports resolutions ranging from standard definition up to 4K (when using the HEVC plug-in). Playback features include:

• Full support for subtitles, alternate audio tracks and DVD-style scene/menu navigation
• A built-in download manager that can queue multiple videos for download
• Tools to transfer media to other hardware — for example, PS3, Blu-ray players and standalone DVD players

Converting and creating video

If you want to produce DivX files, the included DivX Plus Converter can export videos up to 1920×1080 (HD) in either interlaced or progressive formats. An optional DivX HEVC Plug-in (included free) enables both playback and conversion of HEVC content at resolutions up to 4K; enabling the HEVC plug-in during installation activates that capability. Note that HEVC is still less common than older codecs, but it delivers noticeably higher compression efficiency and picture quality.

Bundled extras and plug-ins

• DFX Audio Plug-in and other audio enhancements to improve soundtrack quality
• MPEG-2 / DVD Plug-in trial that adds broader MPEG-2 handling to the converter
• Additional trial plug-ins and extensions for specialty workflows

Speed, licensing and alternatives

Conversion performance has improved compared with older releases — conversions are quicker now than they used to be — but the converter reverts to paid status after the 15-day trial expires. If you prefer different tools or a fully free option, consider alternatives such as ImTOO DVD Creator, VSO ConvertXtoDVD or BPS Video Converter.

Final assessment

As the official suite from the DivX team, this software is a reliable choice for playing DivX/MKV/HEVC content and for creating DivX-compatible files. Being an official release reduces the chance of codec-related playback issues, and the included trials and plug-ins let you expand functionality before committing to purchases.