mpvLinux
vs
KodiWindows
mpv as a Linux alternative to Kodi
Updated
Our verdict
mpv is not a direct replacement for Kodi, but it can work if you prioritize lightweight, keyboard-driven playback over media organization. Kodi excels as a full media center with libraries, metadata scraping, and remote-friendly navigation. mpv does none of that. However, if you already manage media through folders or other tools and want a fast, minimal player that handles nearly any format, mpv is excellent. It’s ideal for users who don’t need a 10-foot interface or library management and prefer simplicity and scriptability over features.
- License
- GPL-2.0+ AND LGPL-2.0-or-later
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- v0.41.0 (December 21, 2025)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both are free, open-source, and support a wide range of audio and video formats
- Play media from local and network sources
- Support subtitle loading and customization
- Run on Linux and other platforms
- Can be extended with scripts (mpv via Lua, Kodi via add-ons)
What is different
- Kodi has a full media library with metadata scraping; mpv has no library system
- Kodi features a 10-foot interface designed for TVs; mpv is desktop-oriented and keyboard-driven
- Kodi supports add-ons, podcasts, and plugins; mpv focuses strictly on playback
- Kodi can act as a home theater PC with PVR support; mpv cannot
- mpv starts instantly and uses fewer resources compared to Kodi’s heavier interface
Opening your Kodi files
mpv does not import Kodi libraries, playlists, or database files. If you have plain media files (videos, music) that Kodi played, mpv will likely play them too — often with better codec support. However, Kodi-specific files like .nfo metadata, library databases (.db), or smart playlists are not readable by mpv. You’ll need to access media manually or through external file managers. No tool converts Kodi libraries for mpv use, so organization must be handled outside the player.
Switching from Kodi to mpv, step by step
- Install mpv via your package manager or Flatpak: 'sudo apt install mpv' or 'flatpak install io.mpv.Mpv'
- Copy your existing media folders — mpv reads them directly
- Use drag-and-drop or command-line to open files in mpv
- Customize behavior by editing mpv.conf in ~/.config/mpv (or ~/.var/app/io.mpv.Mpv/config/mpv for Flatpak)
- Install Lua scripts in the scripts directory for features like playlist management or OSD enhancements
- Use 'mpv --input-ipc-server=/tmp/mpvsocket' if you want JSON-RPC control via external tools
Key features of mpv
- Wide format and codec support
- Keyboard‑driven control
- Drag‑and‑drop playlist
- External configuration files
- Multimedia key support
- Scriptable via Lua and JSON‑RPC
How to install mpv on Linux
flatpak install flathub io.mpv.Mpvsudo apt install mpvsudo apt install mpvsudo dnf install mpvsudo pacman -S mpvsudo zypper install mpvFrequently asked questions
Can mpv replace Kodi on my living room TV?
Not really. mpv lacks a remote-friendly interface and media library. It’s better suited for desktop or secondary use. If you want a 10-foot experience, stick with Kodi or consider alternatives like Plex or Jellyfin with a client.
Does mpv support subtitles and audio tracks like Kodi?
Yes. mpv handles multiple subtitle and audio tracks in most container formats (MKV, MP4). You can toggle them with number keys or shortcuts. It supports SRT, ASS, and embedded subtitles just as well as Kodi.
Can I control mpv with a remote or keyboard shortcuts?
Yes. mpv supports multimedia keys and customizable keyboard controls. You can also use infrared remotes via LIRC or input exec scripts. For MPRIS support (e.g., GNOME media controls), use the mpv-mpris Flatpak extension.
2 other alternatives to Kodi
Jellyfin DesktopJellyfin Desktop is a local media player for Jellyfin servers, built with Qt WebEngine and libmpv for smooth…Open sourceFreeFlatpakJellyfin Desktop vs Kodi
VLCVLC is a free, open‑source multimedia player that handles virtually any audio or video format.Open sourceFreeFlatpakVLC vs Kodi