HEVC Test
HEVC test results come from a real five-second sample, not a browser support guess. Run it below, then match the result to the right repair path.
Original TYB sample: MP4, HEVC Main 8-bit, 960×540, 30 fps, AAC audio, five seconds.
Live result
HEVC / H.265 Browser Test
Run the test to check a real five-second HEVC Main sample with AAC audio.
`canPlayType()` reports no. The live test above is the stronger signal for this exact sample.
What this H265 test checks
The original test file uses an MP4 container, HEVC Main 8-bit video at 960×540 and 30 fps, plus AAC audio. We check the browser's declared support, metadata loading, non-zero decoded dimensions, and time progression.
A pass is narrow evidence. It cannot promise Main 10, HDR, 4K60, another audio codec, or every `hev1` and `hvc1` variation. That caution is the difference between a reproducible test and a compatibility badge.
Interpret the HEVC test result
| Result | Meaning | Next move |
|---|---|---|
| Playback passed | Decoded frames advanced for this sample. | Inspect your file, then test it. |
| Load or decode failed | This path rejected the sample. | Check browser, OS, and hardware. |
| Audio only | AAC may work while HEVC video fails. | Record the symptom and compare another HEVC Main sample. |
| Stutter or dropped frames | Software decode or limited hardware may be involved. | Inspect acceleration. |
| Inconclusive | The file loaded but the timing check did not complete. | Keep the tab active, reload, and run once more. |
Browser codec hints
These rows use `canPlayType()` for several container and codec combinations. They help compare declared support, though the live HEVC result above carries more weight.
Audio Codecs
Browser audio format support
Video Codecs
Container + codec combinations
Troubleshoot by symptom
- Chrome failure: follow Chrome H265 checks.
- Windows requests an extension: use the exact Windows error guide.
- A website reports MIME or format failure: diagnose the file and server response.
- Desktop playback: work through HEVC in VLC.
Hands-on note. We generated this sample ourselves with FFmpeg/libx265, then verified its codec, profile, dimensions, frame rate, duration, and audio using FFprobe. Keeping the clip small makes repeat tests less sensitive to network speed.
FAQ
- Is HEVC the same as H.265?
- Yes. HEVC is the standard name and H.265 is its ITU-T designation.
- Does a pass mean every HEVC file will work?
- No. This pass covers the documented 8-bit Main-profile sample only. Other profiles, bit depths, resolutions, audio tracks, or containers may fail.
- Why does audio work while video stays black?
- The browser may decode the AAC audio track while the HEVC video decoder, profile, or hardware path fails.
- Does this test prove hardware decoding?
- No. It proves decoded playback for one sample. Browser media internals or operating-system tools are needed to distinguish hardware from software decoding.
Sources
Links go to official browser docs or primary references when available.