Overview

Anyone who has ever tried to watch media files (video, audio, etc.) on the computer has probably been confronted with deciding on one of the myriad of player programs available, each with its own specifications, advantages and setbacks. Without a doubt, the numerous players can definitely make the selection very confusing, especially if you are not familiar with the individual roles of different codecs, the effects of certain features on the rendering of the video file, the improvements a certain player can bring in terms of picture or sound quality and so on.

In addition, it is very tempting to opt for players that do not utilize codecs just so you do not have to update them constantly. However, even though Zoom Player Home Free is a codec based media player, it is also an incredibly capable and versatile utility and its innovative system will simplify codec updates and downloads a great deal.

Installation

Packed in a relatively small installation kit (8.1MB), the first step of the process entails, as usual, taking notice of the terms and agreements stipulated by the developer. Even though it is free, you are not allowed to modify the code or the documentation of the Zoom Player. Next, you will need to opt for either the standard installation (integrating the program in Windows’ app data directory, advisable for Vista with UAC or limited access X) or the Legacy installation (singular director, for older versions of Windows like 95, 98 or ME).

The full installation process entails including it in the Programs folder, placing a shortcut on the Desktop, adding the streaming database of the player’s radio station and integrating it in the right click menu requires 56MB. Be mindful that the program will ask you whether you want to install the Nitro PDF Reader before the installation proceeds. In addition, once it is on your computer, Zoom Player will search for missing components and codecs and will require you to download and install them (each component or codec can be uninstalled via the Install Center later on).

Interface

Refined edges, well-organized menus and sub-menus, Zoom Player Home Free can constitute a role model for many media players. The typical play, stop, pause buttons are located directly underneath the viewing window and, on their right side, users will find the equalizer and playlist buttons, accompanied by a third one that opens a more specific part of the menu in the upper section of the view screen. This button section permits users to connect to radio stations (an impressive selection), modify the skin of the player, the color settings of the video, organize the media, as well as many more functions.

Pros

The support for a wide variety of video and audio formats, from the H264 to DVD, FLAC and many others, the 10 band equalizer that also includes presets and pre-amplification capabilities, the incredibly high number of customization capabilities are just a few of the features that recommend Zoom Player as one of the ideal video and audio rendering utilities.

Also well worth mentioning are the support for DXVA, CUDA and Intel QuickSync hardware acceleration, support for Fullscreen Exclusive Mode video rendering for the smoothest image and highest quality scaling (Bicubic, Lanczos & Spline) and the friendly fullscreen navigation menus suited for Home Theater PC setups.

Cons

Requires downloading quite a few codecs in order to function at optimal capacity.

Alternatives

Other similar media players include Media Player Classic, GOM Player, VLC and more.

Conclusion

The Zoom Player Home Free is a complex and powerful tool with a high level of versatility and adaptability that can provide viewers with the ideal media playback means.