CyberLink PowerDVD 18 Ultra is back and better than ever, bringing a true cinematic vibe right to your PC. It’s a major upgrade from version 17, with improved 4K UHD playback, lag-free streaming, and support for even more video and audio formats. The software can come in handy for an avid shutterbug showing off their latest photo slideshows or a filmmaker evaluating the quality of HD footage.
Being a member of the FixThePhoto team, I often participate in different tests. We evaluate the quality of modern digital tools for various tasks. This time, we focused on PowerDVD 18 Ultra. We used the software to check out HDR photos, tweak Blu-ray footage, and stream straight to smart TVs using the new TV Mode.
Surely, we used earlier program versions and quickly noticed the difference. This one delivers punchier colors and smoother performance. Besides, it offers a more intuitive media library layout that integrates with cloud storage. Moreover, you can watch YouTube 360° videos right from the software.
Once I finished my deep testing, it was clear that PowerDVD 18 Ultra isn’t only built for binge-watchers. To my mind, this is a serious tool for people professionally engaged in video production and seeking complete control over the viewing experience. The program supports Dolby and DTS audio, 3D movie playback, and media access from just about anywhere.
|
File name:
|
PowerDVD_Downloader (cyberlink.com)
|
|
File size:
|
5.49MB
|
|
File name:
|
PowerDVD_Downloader (cyberlink.com)
|
|
File size:
|
6.12MB
|
|
File name:
|
PowerDVD_Downloader (cyberlink.com)
|
|
File size:
|
4.95MB
|
|
File name:
|
PowerDVD_Downloader (cyberlink.com)
|
|
File size:
|
5.75MB
|
|
File name:
|
PowerDVD_Downloader (cyberlink.com)
|
|
File size:
|
5.15MB
|
I’m generally pleased with CyberLink PowerDVD 18, but there are certain aspects that call for improvement:
More integration with editing tools. Unfortunately, this free video player can’t smoothly integrate with Premiere or Lightroom. Therefore, it would be easier and faster to preview your projects and fulfill related tasks.
Better subtitle and metadata handling. PowerDVD 18 Ultra handles subtitles, but it can’t properly work with third-party SRT files or edit metadata across huge libraries. This may be an issue for people, who want a simple way to batch tag and sync subtitles.
Enhanced remote control functionality. I often use the PowerDVD Remote app, but it is suitable for basic tasks only. For example, it lacks advanced controls for playing videos and music, browsing through an entire file collection, and making custom playlists. I hope the developers will improve it.
You don't have to spend lots of money to get a good media player. There are several free PowerDVD alternatives that can do many of the same things as this software.
For example, you can use them to play different video formats, watch high-resolution content, stream movies, and organize your files. Though they don’t have special features of PowerDVD 18 Ultra, e.g., Blu-ray support, 4K optimization, and CyberLink cloud integration, they will satisfy most users.
One of the most well-liked programs you can download is VLC Media Player. The program is totally free and lets you watch lots of popular video and audio formats. In fact, you can even open HEVC and Blu-ray files. I tested this software with various videos. Most of all I like its intuitive interface. Besides, the program is quick, lightweight, and customizable. Keep in mind that you can download VLC Media Player for Mac, which is out of the question with CyberLink PowerDVD 18.
I also recommend you download KMPlayer if you are searching for a powerful replacement for PowerDVD 18 Ultra. It supports 4K, 8K, and 3D playback, and has embedded codes. It demonstrated good results during my tests, even when I uploaded large 4K files.
If needed, you can adjust subtitles and playback speed. As for disadvantages, there are annoying ads. Besides, updates could be more frequent. Still, it is a reliable tool for undemanding users, who don’t want to spend much. Plus, you can download KMPlayer for Mac, unlike PowerDVD 18 Ultra.
One of the underestimated titles you can download is PotPlayer . It is a fast and customizable video editor, available for free. The software has a neat interface and support for hardware acceleration. The customization is stunning. You can adjust both audio and video settings to your liking. Generally, it is a suitable option for everyday playback and performance tuning, if you are OK with the lack of Blu-ray menu and streaming support.
Media Player Classic – Home Cinema (MPC-HC) is worth considering if you need a lightweight video player without frills. It brags about stability and speed, though they come at a cost of streaming possibilities. I often resort to this solution for a quick playback when I have my hands full of tasks. Unfortunately, it works flawlessly only with older formats.
Plex, with its free plan, is a great alternative for PowerDVD 18 Ultra. In fact, it isn’t a traditional player, but a media server. Still, you can use it to arrange collections, stream videos, etc. I tested Plex with my home network, looking through video and photo libraries. The process was understandable and quick thanks to an intuitive interface. Still, to access premium features, namely, offline mode and mobile synchronization, you have to pay.
