How to Play a VOB File on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 22, 2025

Have you ever come across a VOB file on your computer and wondered how to play it in Windows 11? If you’ve ripped a DVD or received video content in the VOB format, you might already know that Windows 11 doesn’t natively support VOB playback out of the box. This can be frustrating — but don’t worry.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through multiple ways to play VOB files smoothly on your Windows 11 PC, from using built-in options to installing third-party media players and codecs. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy your videos without a hitch.

What Is a VOB File?

A VOB (Video Object) file is a container format used on DVDs. It can include:

  • Video data (usually MPEG-2 format)

  • Audio tracks (like AC3, DTS, or MP2)

  • Subtitles

  • DVD menus

Essentially, a VOB file is the backbone of DVD video playback. If you’ve ever explored the VIDEO_TS folder of a DVD, you’ve likely seen files like VTS_01_1.VOB.

Why Won’t Windows 11 Play VOB Files by Default?

Unlike older versions of Windows that included built-in MPEG-2 codecs, Windows 11 does not have native support for DVD playback or VOB files. Microsoft removed DVD support to keep the OS lightweight, expecting users to rely on apps from the Microsoft Store or third-party players.

That’s why double-clicking a VOB file often results in an error or no playback.

Best Ways to Play VOB Files on Windows 11

There are several approaches to open VOB files in Windows 11:

  • Install VLC Media Player (free and highly recommended).

  • Use Windows Media Player with additional codec packs.

  • Try the Movies & TV app (basic support, not always reliable).

  • Convert VOB to MP4 for universal compatibility.

  • Use specialized DVD player software.

Let’s go through them one by one.

Method 1: Play VOB Files with VLC Media Player (Best Option)

VLC Media Player is the most popular free media player in the world. It supports almost every video format, including VOB.

Steps:

  1. Download VLC from the official website.

  2. Install and launch VLC.

  3. Drag and drop your VOB file into VLC.

  4. Click Play and enjoy.

✔️ VLC doesn’t require extra codecs. It’s fast, lightweight, and safe.

Method 2: Use Windows Media Player with Codec Packs

Windows Media Player on Windows 11 can’t handle VOB out of the box. But with codec packs like K-Lite Codec Pack, it can.

Steps:

  1. Download and install the K-Lite Codec Pack.

  2. Open your VOB file with Windows Media Player.

  3. The file should now play normally.

⚠️ Note: Be careful to download codec packs from trusted sources to avoid malware.

Method 3: Try Movies & TV App (Limited Support)

Windows 11’s default Movies & TV app sometimes plays VOB files, but support is inconsistent.

  • Right-click your VOB file.

  • Select Open with > Movies & TV.

If it doesn’t work, switch to VLC instead.

Method 4: Convert VOB Files to MP4 for Easier Playback

If you prefer using Windows’ native apps, converting VOB files to MP4 is a great option.

Recommended tools:

  • HandBrake (free, open-source)

  • Freemake Video Converter

  • Any Video Converter

Steps with HandBrake:

  1. Download and install HandBrake.

  2. Open your VOB file.

  3. Select MP4 as the output format.

  4. Click Start Encode.

  5. Play the MP4 file in any Windows 11 app.

Method 5: Use Dedicated DVD Player Software

If you frequently work with DVD content, consider dedicated software like:

  • CyberLink PowerDVD

  • WinX DVD Player

  • Leawo Blu-ray Player

These are especially useful if you still watch physical DVDs on your laptop or desktop.

How to Install VLC and Play VOB Files (Step-by-Step)

Here’s a detailed walkthrough:

  1. Go to the official VLC Media Player website.

  2. Click Download VLC.

  3. Run the installer and follow the prompts.

  4. Launch VLC after installation.

  5. Drag your VOB file into the VLC window.

  6. Press the Play button.

That’s it — your video should play immediately.

Pros and Cons of Different Methods

Method Pros Cons
VLC Media Player Free, safe, works instantly Extra software install
Codec Pack + WMP Uses native player Codec packs can be risky
Movies & TV app Already installed Limited compatibility
Convert to MP4 Works everywhere Takes extra time
DVD Software Great for full DVD menus Usually paid

How to Fix Common VOB Playback Issues in Windows 11

  • No sound in VOB file? Update your audio drivers or switch to VLC.

  • Choppy playback? Copy the file to your hard drive before playing.

  • File won’t open at all? Convert to MP4 using HandBrake.

  • Subtitles missing? Enable subtitle tracks in VLC (Subtitle > Sub Track).

Are VOB Files Still Relevant in 2025?

While VOB was once the standard for DVDs, streaming and MP4 formats have taken over. However, VOB files are still useful if you:

  • Rip old DVDs for backup.

  • Need the original DVD structure (menus, multiple audio tracks).

  • Work with legacy video editing software.

Alternatives to VOB for Better Compatibility

If you want to future-proof your video collection, consider converting your files to:

  • MP4 (H.264/H.265) – most compatible format.

  • MKV – keeps multiple audio and subtitle tracks.

  • AVI – older but still widely supported.

Tips for Organizing and Managing VOB Collections

  • Store VOB files inside labeled folders.

  • Consider converting them into a single MP4 for convenience.

  • Use Plex or Kodi to manage and stream your videos.

  • Keep an external hard drive for DVD backups.

Conclusion

Playing a VOB file on Windows 11 doesn’t have to be complicated. While Windows lacks native support, you have plenty of options:

  • VLC Media Player (best and easiest).

  • Codec packs for Windows Media Player.

  • Converting to MP4 for universal playback.

  • Dedicated DVD software if you need menus and extra features.

If you just want something quick and reliable, download VLC, drag your VOB file in, and hit play.

FAQs

1. Can Windows 11 natively play VOB files?
No, Windows 11 doesn’t support VOB playback without extra software.

2. What’s the best free VOB player for Windows 11?
VLC Media Player is the most reliable and widely recommended option.

3. How can I convert VOB files to MP4?
Use free tools like HandBrake or Freemake Video Converter.

4. Why do some VOB files not play even in VLC?
They may be corrupted or encrypted (from protected DVDs).

5. Is it legal to rip DVDs into VOB files?
It depends on your country’s copyright laws. Personal backups are usually fine, but sharing them is illegal.

✅ Key Takeaways

  • Windows 11 doesn’t natively support VOB playback.

  • VLC Media Player is the easiest and most reliable solution.

  • Converting VOB to MP4 makes playback universal.

  • Dedicated DVD software is ideal if you want menus and full DVD features.

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