What is OGV and How to Open OGV Files
Struggling to open OGV files? Curious to know what's inside them? Well, they are video files. They contain video content just like the other common video formats you're probably familiar with, such as MOV, AVI, MP4, etc. However, the OGV format differs from such formats in several crucial ways, which we'll get to in a moment. Perhaps, you've already noticed that your device cannot play OGV files. It doesn't matter whether you have Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, or Linux; your device cannot natively play OGV files. You'll need third-party tools to open and enjoy their contents. This guide gives you all the information you need about OGV files, including how to play them and convert them into a common format like MP4.
Part 1: What is an OGV File Format?
OGV is short for OGG Video. It's a free and open-source video format developed as part of the OGG container format. It was created by the Xiph.org foundation for streaming video content. OGV files typically contain video content and use lossy compression codecs like Theora, Daala, and Dirac. OGV format is a web-based format typically found in website videos that use the HTML5 < video > tag.
Despite the open-source nature of the file format, OGV is not universally supported. Most devices do not natively play OGV files. So, you'll have to use a third-party media player to play OGV files, irrespective of the device you're using.
Part 2: Top 4 Ways to Free Open OGV Files
1. HitPaw Univd - Best Free OGV Player
HitPaw Univd (HitPaw Video Converter) is a powerful media converter for Windows and Mac devices. It features playback support for OGV files and lets users convert them into any other video format, including MP4. Univd comes with a free trial and you can unlock its premium features with a one-time purchase. With HitPaw Univd, you can play all video and audio files with ease. Here's a quick tutorial on how to do it:
HitPaw Univd - All-in-on Video Solutions for Win & Mac
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- 1000+ Formats: Convert OGV videos to any format of your choice-MP4, MOV, AVI, FLV, etc.
- Batch Conversion: Convert up to 5000 OGV videos to MP4 at once
- 120X Faster: Univd uses CPU and GPU acceleration to convert files faster than any other tool
- Lossless Conversion: Convert video files without losing their original quality
- Set Output Quality: From resolution to bitrate, control every aspect of your converted video quality
- Edit Video: Edit videos, adjust quality, change video meta data, and do more during conversion
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- Step 1: Import OGV File to Univd
- Step 2: Play OGV File
Launch HitPaw Univd >> Go to 'Converter' module >> Drag and drop OGV files directly into the tool, or use the 'Add Files' button to do it.

Right-click on an OGV file in the imported list >> Hit 'Play' to run the video.


2. VLC media player

VLC media player has a reputation for playing almost any video file out there and it doesn't disappoint this time either. VLC media player can natively play OGV files and doesn't need any third-party plugin or codec. It works flawlessly and plays OGV files without any hiccups. If you're looking for a simple solution for playing OGV files, then VLC media player can be your go-to tool.
3. Windows Media Player

Windows Media Player is the default media player on older Windows PCs. Although it has been discontinued in the latest versions of Windows, you can still download and install the outdated versions. However, a point to consider is that Windows Media Player doesn't play OGV files by default. It requires you to install an OGV codec to play the file format. The good news, however, is that the plugin installation is easy. Once you do it, Windows Media Player can play OGV files.
4. MPC-HC

MPC-HC is another free and open-source media player like VLC Media Player. It supports a variety of file formats, including OGV. However, MPC-HC is a legacy tool that hasn't been updated since 2017. So, you'll be using an old, buddy tool without any hope of it ever being fixed. Any issues you encounter while using the tool are here to stay. Still, the player works perfectly for most users.
This is typically the problem with legacy file formats. So, it would be smarter on your part to just convert OGV files to a more modern file format like MP4 to ensure universal compatibility, which brings us to the next section.
Part 3: Convert OGV File to MP4 for Wide Playback
Once you convert OGV files to MP4, you can play them on any modern media player without worrying about playback issues. HitPaw Univd can convert OGV files without compromising their original quality. In fact, HitPaw Univd lets you convert OGV files to any video format effortlessly. Here are some reasons for choosing HitPaw Univd for OGV to MP4 conversion.
Batch Convert OGV to MP4 for Playing
- Step 1: Import OGV Files to HitPaw Univd
- Step 2: Choose Output Settings
- Step 3: Convert OGV File to MP4
Launch HitPaw Univd for Mac >> Go to 'Converter' module >> Drag and drop OGV files directly into the tool, or use the 'Add Files' button to do it.

Click on the dropdown menu at the bottom left to open output settings >> Choose 'MP4' as output format under the 'Video' tab >> Set output quality settings using the 'Pen' button.

Click 'Convert' or 'Convert All' to start convert OGV to MP4 format at 120X faster speed.

FAQs about Play OGV File
Q1. Are there any browser extensions for playing OGV files directly in web browsers?
A1. Yes, but you don't need them. Most modern browsers support OGV files natively and can play them with HTML5 <video> tags. So, you don't need a separate plugin for playing them.
Q2. What is the difference between OGV and OGG files?
A2. OGV is a file format for videos that are stored inside OGG. On the other hand, OGG is a container format that stores video (in OGV format), audio, and metadata. Sometimes, OGG can contain only audio files and no video files. So, OGG container files can be video files or just audio files, while OGV files are always video files inside OGG containers.
Q3. Can I embed OGV files in a webpage using HTML5?
A3. Yes. You can embed OGV files in a webpage using HTML5 <video> tags.
Conclusion
While OGV files are a great open-source video format, they're not as widely supported as other formats like MP4. HitPaw Univd stands out as the most efficient and versatile solution for handling OGV files. Not only can it play OGV files seamlessly, but it also allows you to convert them to more widely supported formats like MP4 without compromising quality. With its fast conversion speeds, batch processing, and lossless quality preservation, HitPaw Univd ensures you can easily access and enjoy your videos on any device. Try it today.
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Daniel Walker
Editor-in-Chief
My passion lies in bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and everyday creativity. With years of hands-on experience, I create content that not only informs but inspires our audience to embrace digital tools confidently.
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