Combined Community Codec Pack (CCCP) 2015-10-18 / 2015-10-25 Beta

Overview

Many of us have, at one point or another, encountered problems with video playback on our PCs. While this could be due to any number of reasons, the majority of the time it is because of missing codecs. Since each video file is encoded in a separate way, it requires a different set of codecs to work. The Combined Community Codec Pack helps to alleviate this issue by providing an all in one codec pack. This pack contains almost all the codecs for common video playback.

Installation

The codec package is 8MB in size and takes a few seconds to install. The installation package is relatively straightforward, however it does give the user the option to individually select which player and codec should be installed. It supports all major releases of Windows, which includes Vista, and 7. There is partial support for Windows 2000 and XP. Windows 98 and 95 are no longer supported. Mac OSX and Linux are not supported either since they do not support DirectShow. 

Interface

The interface is simple and to the point. CCCP gives the user control over each codec and player. In addition to this you can also select which codec and player to use with any particular file extension. Furthermore during video playback you can control and customize the codec in use in whichever way you want. Every option is laid down neatly in an intuitive interface. However these options are not laid out on the main menu so even amateur users can get around changing the basic settings without getting confused.

Pros

CCCP includes pretty much every codec in existence. It will playback nearly any video file you throw at it. Anyone who has a taste for some flicks would like to install this pack. If you’re looking for customization, CCCP allows you to alter the codecs to your liking making it one of the best codec pack in the market.These codecs work for pretty much all media players and are not limited to any particular one.

Cons

Despite CCCP offering a wide array of codecs, there will be a few occasions when a particular file fails to open. You’ll then have to manually search for codecs, which can be time consuming. The program is intended for advance users who have ample knowledge of codecs. However on most occasions a beginner can simply install the program and start viewing videos without having to dig into options.

Alternatives

K-Lite codec pack is an alternative to CCCP that also offers a wide variety of codecs. However K-Lite codec pack might not be able to provide full support to users. For this CCCP gets a better job done.

Conclusion

CCCP is the ideal codec pack for your entire video playback needs. It includes all major codecs, with special attention given to those required to playback anime. And since this is a community maintained pack, expect regular updates for any new codec. To keep it short CCCP is a must have for anyone who needs to play a number of video formats flawlessly.