If you're passionate about music and technology, you might have come across the M3U8 file format. However, many people are unfamiliar with this format or have never encountered it. In reality, M3U8 is extensively utilized across computers, websites, and streaming platforms.
This article will provide a comprehensive overview of this audio format, explaining what M3U8 is and how to use the top M3U8 players on Windows 10/8.1/8/7 and Mac OS X/11/12.
M3U8 Players Overview
- Understanding M3U8
- Top 5 M3U8 Players
- Top 3 Online M3U8 Players
- Frequently Asked Questions about M3U8 Players
1. Understanding M3U8
M3U8 is a file extension used for audio playlists encoded in UTF-8. It stores information about audio tracks and music in plain text, including local file paths (both absolute and relative) and URLs. This allows media players to locate and play the files. Importantly, M3U8 files do not contain actual media content but rather pointers to where the content is stored.
While M3U8 files can be opened and edited using text editors like Notepad, a dedicated M3U8 player is required to listen to the audio.
2. Top 5 M3U8 Players
1. AnyMP4 Blu-ray Player
Key Features:
- Supports M3U8 files for seamless music playback.
- Maintains the original quality of audio tracks.
- Compatible with a wide range of audio and video formats.
- Includes an audio equalizer for customizable sound effects.
- Works on Windows 10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP and Mac OS X/11/12.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface.
- Suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
Cons:
- Requires purchase after the free trial period.
2. VLC Media Player
Key Features:
- Supports numerous audio and video codecs, including MP3, M4V, WMA, and M4A.
- Reads M3U8 files and plays the associated audio tracks.
- Converts M3U8 files for playback on various devices.
- Includes additional tools like CD ripping and online music downloading.
Pros:
- Free and open-source.
- Versatile and feature-rich.
Cons:
- Complex for beginners due to hidden menu options.
- Overwhelming customization choices.
3. iTunes
Key Features:
- Imports M3U8 files and their associated audio tracks.
- Automatically adds M3U8 playlist songs to the iTunes library.
- Syncs playlists with iOS devices via USB or Wi-Fi.
Pros:
- Free to download and use.
- Available on both Windows and Mac.
Cons:
- Requires frequent updates.
- Some tracks may be unavailable due to copyright restrictions.
4. Windows Media Player
Key Features:
- Opens M3U8 files and adds audio tracks automatically.
- Preserves the order of the M3U8 playlist.
- Supports popular formats like WMA and MP3.
- Expandable with plugins and codecs.
Pros:
- Pre-installed on Windows systems.
Cons:
- Limited advanced settings.
- Only offers four audio quality levels.
5. Songbird
Key Features:
- Compatible with Windows XP/Vista, Mac OS X 10.5+, and Linux.
- Plays formats like MP3, AAC, Ogg, FLAC, and WMA.
- Customizable interface with various skins.
- Displays basic audio track information.
Pros:
- Expandable with add-ons and extensions.
- Supports hotkeys for playback control.
Cons:
- Large file size.
- Some features are difficult to use.
3. Top 3 Online M3U8 Players
1. m3u8 Player
Key Features:
- Tests M3U8 streams online for free.
- Supports HLS and MPEG-Dash.
- No installation required.
Pros:
- Fast response time.
- Full control over streaming services.
Cons:
- Limited free trial.
- Cannot download online audio tracks.
2. HLSTester
Key Features:
- Tests and plays streams online without downloads.
- Supports M3U8, RTMP, and MP4 formats.
- Free browser plugin available.
Pros:
- Intuitive interface.
- No registration required.
Cons:
- Requires VPN in some regions.
- May crash with poor internet connections.
3. HLSPlayer
Key Features:
- Plays M3U8 and HLS playlists online.
- Free to use without restrictions.
- Includes RTMP and MP4 players.
Pros:
- Simple and easy-to-navigate interface.
- Compatible with most web browsers.
Cons:
- No browser extensions for Firefox or Chrome.
4. FAQs about M3U8 Players
How can I play M3U8 files in HTML?
HTML5 does not natively support M3U8 playback. To enable it, you can use the following code:
<link href="https://vjs.zencdn.net/6.6.3/video-js.css" rel="stylesheet">
<script src="https://vjs.zencdn.net/6.6.3/video.js"></script>
<script src="https://unpkg.com/videojs-flash/dist/videojs-flash.js"></script>
<script src="https://unpkg.com/videojs-contrib-hls/dist/videojs-contrib-hls.js"></script>
<video class="video-js vjs-default-skin vjs-big-play-centered" data-setup='{"controls": true, "autoplay": true }'>
<source src="http://sample.vodobox.net/skate_phantom_flex_4k/skate_phantom_flex_4k.m3u8" type="application/x-mpegURL">
Your browser does not support HTML5 video.
</video>
How do I convert M3U8 to MP4?
You can use tools like VLC Media Player or M3U8 Loader App to convert M3U8 files to MP4. Detailed steps are available in their respective guides.
Which browsers support M3U8 playback?
Microsoft Edge supports M3U8 playback, but only on Windows 8 or 10.
Summary
This guide has introduced the best M3U8 players for both desktop and online use. Now you should have a clear understanding of M3U8 files and how to enjoy your playlists on Windows and Mac.
