4.0 / 5 - 833 Votes

File Size: 1.11MB

Developer: CyberLink

Editors Review:

CyberLink PowerDVD can not only process traditional DVDs and Blu-ray, but it also supports digital video formats such as MKV, H.264, 3D , and even 4k. This new build, version 15, also supports online video from providers like YouTube and Vimeo, or you can upload your own on CyberLink Cloud. The suite, although pricey, offers a home-theater experience for those who consume a lot of media on the go.

Optimized media: CyberLink PowerDVD's TrueTheater Smart Enhancement can automatically optimize your video and audio quality. Skin tones appear more lifelike, and movies' black levels are richer, thanks to customized adjustments in hue and saturation from TrueTheater Color. Video noise reduction removes the haziness effect of compression found in many online videos, delivering a more vibrant picture. Video enhancement works on movies under 2,048 pixels x 1,152 pixels, making it compatible with most FullHD sources.

Auto-tune your audio: TrueTheater Sound applies smart tweaks to give your audio a boost. The enhancements bring a deeper bass level, immersive ambient sound, better vocals, and captivating surround-sound effects. The optimization is more noticeable on audio headsets but can improve audio quality on standard speakers, too.

The Swiss Army Knife player: PowerDVD 15 can process a large amount of video, audio, and image formats. Using your hardware memory, the player churns out 4k video without stutter. PowerDVD also allows you to view high frame-rate videos (from 120 frames per second, up to 240 fps), like those made by the new iPhone 6 or GoPro without Apple iMovie. We appreciate the direct NAS playback and DLNA support.

Watch longer using less power: PowerDVD performs admirably without wasting system resources. Better power consumption means longer battery life for your devices.

A DVR for online streams: Download YouTube or Vimeo movies to watch offline at your convenience. Hear a song that you like? PowerDVD can rip audio tracks for later listening. CyberLink Cloud allows you to store videos, sync music, make playlists, and stream them directly wherever you are. TrueTheater enhancements are also available for online videos.

Buying a ticket to your own show: With so many free options out there, it can be hard to justify paying for a media player. Cineastes will want to pony up for the premium version, as PowerDVD greatly enhances your entertainment when hardware is limited to your laptop and a mobile device. PowerDVD Standard is pretty minimal, missing many important features like Blu-Ray playback. It's more cost-effective to splurge for the Pro or even Ultra option.

Bare-bones Web search: PowerDVD may support YouTube and Vimeo, but search functionality leaves much to be desired. Keywords bring up video thumbnails without information, like dates and view counts. Unless you already know which video you would like to view, copying and pasting direct URLs from the services' respective Web searches was the best way to get to your content on PowerDVD. CyberLink also allows you to log in to your accounts, but managing them still requires a browser.

If you're in the market for a more sophisticated video watching experience, PowerDVD delivers. With its Smart Enhancement and TrueTheater technology, CyberLink delivers a cinematic experience without the expensive hardware.

Publisher Description:

From CyberLink: PowerDVD plays more than just DVD and Blu-ray discs. For video, audio, photos, VR 360 content and even YouTube or Vimeo, PowerDVD is your essential entertainment companion. Unlock the potential of your Ultra HD HDR TV and surround sound system, immerse yourself in virtual worlds with access to ever growing collections of 360 videos, or simply unwind wherever you are with unrivaled playback support and unique enhancements on your PC or laptop.

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