CyberLink PowerDVD

PowerDVD is a powerful and highly versatile media player that works with DVD and Blu-ray discs, video and audio files in a variety of different formats and photos.

It comes packed with features that let you enhance your viewing experience by optimizing audio and video output, whether you're watching movies on a laptop with a small display, a standard PC or the big screen TV in your living room. PowerDVD even supports the newest Ultra HD Blu-ray format, letting you watch movies in 4K UHD quality. Despite its powerful features, it's still very easy to use and doesn't require you to adjust complex settings or understand technical terms to get the best possible playback experience.

Perfect Quality on All Devices

PowerDVD lets you choose between a PC mode and TV mode when you open the program. This allows it to automatically adjust some playback settings depending on the hardware you'll be using. For example, it will optimize the sound output depending on whether you're using headphones, standard PC stereo speakers or a complete surround sound system.

Compared to many other media player programs, PowerDVD does a fantastic job at giving you an excellent entertainment experience when you hook up your PC to a big screen TV. Its TrueTheater® enhancements result in brighter, more vivid colors, smoother motion and a richer audio environment.

PowerDVD now supports media casting to Roku, Apple TV and Chromecast devices. This makes it easier to enjoy your favorite movies on the big screen, as it eliminates the need to connect your PC to your home entertainment system through a cable.

For those who want to experience next-generation entertainment in the most immersive way possible, it works with Oculus Rift and HTC Vive headsets too. Combined with its support for 3D-360 video, this lets you watch videos while feeling like you're actually at the center of the action.

Neat Interface and Simple Controls

PowerDVD's main interface not only looks great, but is also laid out in a way that lets you quickly get access to the media you need. You can instantly see the videos, audio and pictures in your media library, browse for content on your PC or watch YouTube videos without leaving the program. The latest version comes with the ability to "pin" YouTube videos, essentially saving them on your PC so you can watch them later. You can even choose to just take the audio track and save it in your music library.

Playback controls are very simple, with the "Play/Pause" and volume control buttons being easy to get to at the center. There's a settings button that lets you access more advanced options. Various hotkeys, which are explained in the help section, can be used during playback too.

Free Version Is Just a Trial

Unfortunately, the free version of PowerDVD is time-limited trial that can only be used for 30 days. To keep using the software beyond that, you'll need to buy the full version. Keep an eye on the messages offering the upgrade, especially towards the end of the trial, as you can sometimes get a unique offer for a big discount off the regular price.