How to Play VOB Files on Windows 11: A Simple Guide for Users

By / September 1, 2025

Ever stumbled upon a .VOB file on your computer and wondered how to play it? If you’ve ever copied files from a DVD or downloaded old video content, chances are you’ve seen this file type. But here’s the catch: Windows 11 doesn’t natively support VOB files in its default media player.

So, how do you play them? Don’t worry—in this guide, I’ll walk you through simple methods to play VOB files on Windows 11, step by step.

What is a VOB File?

Before jumping into solutions, let’s quickly break down what a VOB file is.

  • VOB (Video Object File): A container format used on DVDs.
  • It stores video, audio, subtitles, menus, and navigation data.
  • Found in the VIDEO_TS folder of a DVD.
  • Uses MPEG-2 video compression.

Think of a VOB file as a digital DVD movie disc packed inside a single file.

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

Windows 11’s built-in Media Player supports common formats like MP4, AVI, and MKV. But it doesn’t include codecs for DVD-based formats like VOB. That’s why you’ll often see errors like:

  • “File format not supported.”
  • “Windows Media Player cannot play this file.”

To fix this, you’ll need third-party tools or a format conversion.

Methods to Play VOB Files on Windows 11

Now let’s explore different ways to get those VOB files running.

Method 1: Use VLC Media Player (Best Option)

The most reliable and free option is VLC Media Player.

Steps:

  1. Download VLC from the official site: videolan.org.
  2. Install and open the application.
  3. Drag and drop your VOB file into VLC.
  4. Click Play, and you’re good to go!

👉 VLC supports VOB natively, no extra setup required.

Method 2: Use Windows Media Player with Codec Packs

Windows Media Player can’t play VOB files by default, but you can install K-Lite Codec Pack.

Steps:

  1. Download and install the K-Lite Codec Pack.
  2. Open Windows Media Player.
  3. Drag your VOB file into the player.

👉 This method works if you prefer sticking to Microsoft’s player.

Method 3: Convert VOB Files to MP4

If you don’t want to install extra players, you can convert VOB to MP4, which Windows 11 plays natively.

Steps:

  1. Use a free converter like HandBrake.
  2. Open HandBrake and import your VOB file.
  3. Select MP4 as the output format.
  4. Click Start Encode.
  5. Play the new MP4 file in Windows Media Player.

👉 Conversion also makes files easier to share and play on phones or TVs.

Method 4: Use Other Third-Party Players

Besides VLC, other players also support VOB files:

  • PotPlayer
  • KMPlayer
  • GOM Player
  • MPC-HC (Media Player Classic – Home Cinema)

These players are lightweight and can be a good alternative if you don’t like VLC.

Method 5: Play VOB Files Directly from a DVD

If your VOB files are still inside a DVD structure:

  1. Insert the DVD into your drive.
  2. Open VLC Media Player.
  3. Go to Media > Open Disc.
  4. Select DVD and hit Play.

👉 This method preserves menus, chapters, and subtitles.

Troubleshooting VOB Playback Issues

Sometimes, even with the right player, VOB files might not work. Here are quick fixes:

  • No Sound? → Check audio codecs or try a different player.
  • Choppy Playback? → Copy the file from DVD to your hard drive first.
  • File Not Opening? → The file may be corrupted—try another copy.
  • Subtitles Missing? → Use VLC’s subtitle settings to enable them.

Tips for Smooth Playback

  • Always update your media player for new codecs.
  • Keep files on your hard drive instead of playing directly from DVD for smoother performance.
  • If your PC struggles with large VOB files, consider converting to MP4.

Conclusion

Playing VOB files on Windows 11 isn’t complicated once you know the right tools. The simplest and most reliable way is to use VLC Media Player—it works out of the box. If you prefer Windows Media Player, installing a codec pack will do the trick. And if you want universal compatibility, converting VOB to MP4 is your best bet.

So next time you come across a VOB file, don’t worry—you now know exactly how to play it!

FAQs

1. Can Windows Media Player open VOB files in Windows 11?
Not by default, but with a codec pack, it can.

2. What is the best free software to play VOB files?
VLC Media Player—it’s free, lightweight, and works instantly.

3. Is it better to play or convert VOB files?
If you play them often, converting to MP4 is more convenient.

4. Can I play VOB files on Windows 11 without third-party software?
Yes, but only if you convert them to MP4 first.

5. Are VOB files safe to open?
Yes, as long as they come from trusted DVDs or sources. Always scan with antivirus if unsure.

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