(1302 products available)
An MKV player for TV is a media player that allows users to play MKV files on their televisions. An MKV file is a video format supported by many devices and has features such as multiple video, audio, and subtitle tracks. There are different types of MKV players for TV, as discussed below.
Streaming Devices
Streaming devices such as Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV are popular MKV players. They connect to the TV's HDMI port and offer streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. Users can download additional apps such as Kodi and VLC to play MKV files for their TVs. The devices also support various MKV codecs.
Smart TVs
Smart TVs can directly play MKV files. The files can be accessed through USB drives or home networks. For enhanced compatibility, users can install media player apps like Plex or VLC.
Blu-ray Players
Blu-ray players can also play MKV files. Users can also update the Blu-ray players firmware to enhance MKV compatibility.
Game Consoles
Game consoles such as Xbox and PlayStation are also capable of playing MKV files. Users can access the files through USB drives or home networks. For enhanced compatibility, users can install media player apps like Plex or VLC.
Dedicated Media Players
Devices such as Western Digital TV Live and Nvidia Shield TV are designed for media playback and are therefore excellent at playing MKV files. The devices also support various MKV codecs.
Network-Attached Storage (NAS)
Some NAS devices support media files. Users can store MKV files in the NAS and stream them on the TV over home networks.
Specifications of MKV players are the most important factors to consider when purchasing a TV set with this media player. Below are the key specifications of an MKV player for TV.
Codec support
Codec support refers to the type of video and audio files that the MKV player can play. An MKV file player supports various codecs, including H.264, H.265, VP9 for video, and AAC, TrueHD, DTS, DTS-HD MA, and LPCM for audio. The codec supported by the MKV player determines the quality and compatibility of media files in the device.
Resolution
Resolution is the maximum output resolution supported by the MKV player. High resolutions offer quality videos and immersive experiences. An MKV player supports various resolutions, including 4K Ultra HD, Full HD 1080p, and HD 720p.
Frame rate
Frame rate is the number of frames rendered in a second by the MKV player. Higher frame rates offer smoother and more responsive videos, especially for action content. The supported frame rates are 60, 120, and 240 FPS.
HDR support
The MKV player supports HDR formats such as HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG. HDR improves video quality by increasing brightness and contrast.
Audio channels
The MKV player supports various audio channels, including stereo 2.0, surround sound 5.1, and object-based audio channels 7.1 and Atmos. The supported audio channels offer an immersive audio experience.
Network connectivity
Network connectivity involves the type of network connections supported by the MKV player, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet. These connections allow users to stream content online and access media files on local networks.
Storage capacity
Storage capacity is the internal storage and external storage supported by the MKV player, including USB drives and external hard drives. This feature allows users to store media files and expand the TV's storage capacity.
Below are the maintenance tips for the MKV player.
Keep the player clean
Dust and debris in the MKV player can interfere with its performance. Thus, regularly clean the player using a soft cloth and a dry brush to remove any dust.
Use the right power supply
Always use the recommended power supply for the MKV player. Using the wrong power supply can damage the device.
Update firmware regularly
Manufacturers offer updates to fix bugs and improve performance. Thus, users should update their MKV players regularly to improve performance and stability.
Avoid overheating
Overheating can damage the internal components of the MKV player. Therefore, keep the device away from direct sunlight and ensure proper ventilation.
Handle the player with care
Always handle the MKV player carefully to avoid physical damage. Keep the device away from liquids to prevent damage from spills.
Choosing an MKV player for TV requires consideration of several factors to ensure compatible hardware and software for seamless playback of MKV files.
When the MKV files won’t play on the TV, users can follow these steps to troubleshoot and replace the MKV player:
Q1: Does the TV need to support HDMI ARC for an MKV file to be played via HDMI?
A1: No, HDMI ARC is not required to play MKV files over HDMI. All modern TVs with HDMI ports can access MKV files. However, ARC enables features like audio return channel for high-quality audio formats.
Q2: Can I play MKV files on a TV without a USB port?
A2: Yes, connecting through other options like HDMI or using a network router to access files over a local network can enable playing MKV files on TVs without USB ports.
Q3: Are there any free media players that support MKV files?
A3: Yes, VLC, MPC-HC, and PotPlayer are all free media players that support MKV files. They can handle virtually any MKV codec or configuration without additional cost.
Q4: Can I convert an MKV file to a format that is easier to play on my TV?
A4: Yes, there are many free and paid tools available for converting MKV files to MP4 or other formats. HandBrake, Any Video Converter, and FFmpeg are popular conversion solutions.
Q5: Are MKV files compatible with streaming devices like Roku and Fire TV?
A5: Yes, MKV files can be played on streaming devices through channels/apps like Plex, Emby, or Kodi that support MKV. Local files can be streamed over a network using these services.