Best Free Hdr Software For Mac

Hi all, I've always thought HDR looked really cool, but as most of you know, I'm an 8th grader without much cash (blew most of it on a MBP, K100D, and various charities) or a paypal account. All software is either free or so necessary for school that my parents buy it (stuff like office). Anyway, I've found a free HDR prograam.

Download – AuroraHDR.com. Rating – ★★★★ OS: Windows & Mac.
Signature & Free Presets. Presets are a great way to instantly create unique HDR results. Aurora 2017 software includes built in signature presets from professional photographers like: Trey Ratcliff, Serge Ramelli and Captain Kimo! We’ve created our own FREE Presetpro pack that easily installs right into the new Aurora 2017.

If you just use the default media player to playback 4K video files, you might get the blurred video and even freeze. In order to have a nice audiovisual experience, choose a Real 4K UHD player is important for the HD TS, 1080P, 4K or 8K videos.

The article has a complied list with the top 10 best free 4K video players for Windows and Mac. Just find why it is important to choose an Ultra media player and learn more about the features of these programs and choose the desired one according to your requirement.

Part 1: Why 4K UHD Player Important for HD TS/1080P/4K

Why the ordinary media player does not work well for 4K videos? Here is the comparison between HD TS, 1080P and 4K videos, which you should know the importance of a 4K UHD video player. In order to playback 4K videos, video FPS, pixels, video frame and more other details, especially the graphic card, CPU and high dynamic range (HDR) of your computer are also very important to make sure a smooth and crystal clear audio-visual experience.

Resolution Name	Horizontal x Vertical Pixels
8K/8K UHD	7680x4320
Cinema 4K/4K	4096x[unspecified]
UHD/4K/Ultra HD/Ultra High Definition	3840x2160
1080P/Full HD/FHD/High Definition	1920x1080
720P/HD/High Definition	1280x720

Part 2: 10 Best 4K Media Players for Windows and Mac

Top 1: Free Blu-ray Player

Free Blu-ray Player is a free 4K video player that plays 4K videos, 1080P, TS HD and most of the video and audio files. Moreover, it also supports Blu-Ray movies and DVD discs. The intuitive interface always enables you to get a silky-smooth 4K video playback.

1. Support more than 200 audio and video formats, DVD/Blu-Ray/4K files.
2. Distinguish Dolby 5.1, DTS, HD audio with the latest playing technology.
3. Controls for play, resume, fast forward, fast backward and more others.
4. Different screen modes to view 4K in full, half, normal and double modes.

How to Play 4K Videos with Free Blu-ray Player

Download and install the 4K-video player. Launch the program to add the video and audio files. If you need to play HD TS or 1080P videos from Blu-Ray, you have to insert the disc into the DVD/Blu-ray Drive beforehand.

Step 2

Click the 'Open File' to load a 4K video into the program. If you need to play TS files from DVD or 1080P videos from Blu-Ray, you can click the 'Open Disc' button to load the files. Then the program will play the 4K video files or 1080P video automatically.

When you play 1080P videos from Blu-Ray disc or TS HD files, you can choose the chapter or title you want to play. There is a 'Display Menu List' enables you navigate to the desired menu and play back the desired video with a crystal high quality.

Top 2: VLC Media Player

OS Supported: Windows

The open source 4K UHD video player is available on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS. VLC Media Player has an advanced frame to play all popular media formats and even 4K video files.

1. Share media content directly with the help of advanced streaming protocols.
2. Play 4K videos from live media streams, webcams, devices, discs and files.
3. Convert the 4K video or other media files to a compatible file format.
4. Stream 4K video files over the Internet between different devices.

Top 3: 5K Player

5K Player is a media player that works with advanced hardware acceleration. The 4K video player works with both Windows and Mac with the 4K with 3840 x 2160 resolutions.

1. Hardware acceleration for DXVA2, QSV, NVIDIA for 4K video playbacks.
2. Support more than 180 video codec that support most of the 4K videos.
3. Stream 4K videos from a computer, Apple TV, iPhone, iPad and PC/Mac.
4. Download 4K HEVC/H.265 video and Blu-Ray/360 degree VR videos.

Top 4: DivX Player

The program is another free 4K UHD video player available for Windows 10. DivX Player enable you to gain access to 4K videos along with the other media files with a high quality.

1. Built to support the other web-based video files, movies, and TV shows.
2. Manage the media content within the media library with ease.
3. Enhance the 4K video organizations through play and loop creation.
4. Provide the controls with a smooth RW/FF feature with trick play abilities.

Top 5: CyberLink PowerDVD

Different from the other free 4K Ultra media player, Cyberlink PowerDVD is a shareware to manage videos and movies on Windows 10 and TV at the same time.

1. Enhance the video quality to experience HDR TV and 4K videos.
2. Professional audio experience with VR headset and finest pictures.
3. Playback common videos, Blu-ray discs, 360 degree DVD and more.
4. Supports Roku, AppleTV and Chromecast streaming to send any media.

Top 6: PotPlayer

PotPlayer has a wide arrange of codec to play all the video formats, including the Blu-Ray discs and 4K videos. You can get the 4K video players for DVD, TV and HDTV with ease.

1. Maximum performance with minimum resource via DXVA, CUDA and more.
2. Support various types of 3D glasses to get immersive viewing experience.
3. Support different subtitle formats, SMI, STR, Vobsub, ASS, SSA, etc.
4. Setup bookmark for your favorite scene or chapter for later preview.

Top 7: Media Player Classic

If you need some light weighted 4K video player, MPC-HC is another well-known media player with extended support to most of the audio and video files.

1. Support movies on any SSE CPU, even for the computer with old system.
2. Customize the 4K media player for Windows with a wide variety of tools.
3. Compatible with common videos/audios as well as H.265 video playback.
4. All-rounded player that can be used as a DVB player.

Top 8: UFUShare

UFUShare is another 4K media player that supports content from 1080P Blu-ray, Ultra HD videos and even 4K Blu-Ray disc with immersive audio effect and clarity for visuals.

1. Compatible with Blu-Ray ISO, folders and disc without any restriction.
2. Playback any audio and video formats, including 4K UHD and HD videos.
3. Provide excellent HD video quality as well as lossless audio effects.
4. Select multiple subtitles and audio tracks with a better processing.

Top 9: DVDFab Player

DVDFab Player is a 4K video player provides smooth playback experience for 4K, UHD and HEVC. Moreover, you can also enjoy the amazing content appearance.

1. Enjoy the longest time on-board classified content for free.
2. Allow you to perform operations on the video while spinning or flipping.
3. Boast of an advanced routing list of options with Blu-ray vision.
4. Create and manage the playlists for playing 4K UHD videos.

Top 10: KMPlayer

Different from the other 4K players mentioned above, KMP has the built-in external and internal codecs to play DVDs, Blu-Ray discs and even 4K movies with a high quality.

1. Modify the user interface with accessing customizable toolset.
2. Capture audio and video that you can save to the format you want.
3. Support multiple formats, RTS, MPEG1/2, AAC, WMA7, WMA8, OGG, etc.
4. Full control over DVD selections, movie/audio menus, subtitle menus, etc

Part 3. FAQs of Playing 4K Videos on Computer

1. Do you need a 4K player to play 4K movies?

Many media players can play 4K videos like VLC Media Player, 5K Player, Divx Player as we mentioned in the article. But if you are particular about the quality, you are recommended to play 4K movies with a 4K player like Blu-ray Master Free Blu-ray Player.

2. Which media player is best for 4K video?

We have summarized the top 10 4K video players for Windows and Mac. According to the functions, Blu-ray Master Free Blu-ray Player is recommended video player that plays 4K/1080p/TS HD videos and more.

3. Does VLC play 4K video?

VLC Media Player supports playing all popular media files, even 4K videos. But most of the case, users can’t play 4K videos with VLC. However, you can convert the improper 4K video to compatible file format with VLC.

4. Can a Blu Ray player play 4K UHD?

Yes, Ultra HD Blu-ray players can play Blu-ray discs, DVDs, DVD-Audio, SACDs and Redbook CDs. Actually, most standard Blu-ray discs and DVDs can play 4K UHD videos.

Conclusion

When you get some 4K UHD videos, the article shares the top 10 best 4K video players on Windows and Mac. Just learn more about the features of these programs and choose the desired one according to your requirement. If you have any other query about the programs, you can share more details in the comment.

February 15, 2021
23 min to read

Have you ever taken a photo of the stunning sunset only to be disappointed by the end result? If it helps, you are not entirely to blame. The thing is that it is very difficult to capture photos with a high contrast. These types of shots have a big dynamic range that cameras find hard to capture. Consequently, you fail to keep both the highlights and shadows in a single photo. The good news is that there is a solution - HDR photography. What’s more, there are also tools to help you!

In a nutshell, HDR software solutions combine images taken at different exposures into a single image that boasts more detail. It can also usually be used for tone mapping, ghost removal, aligning images and reducing noise. If it sounds like a tool that you need to invest in, be sure to check out the following top 10 HDR software solutions (listed in no particular order):

1. Aurora HDR

Aurora boasts an intuitive interface which makes HDR, which can be hard, much easier.

With Aurora HDR, you can use its Quantum HDR engine to merge your photos efficiently for more natural-looking results.

Unlike other programs, it does not have so-called presets. Instead, it offers 8 Looks features that include Architecture and Essential. Though, if you would like to add more edits, you can use the masking and layers features. Moreover, thanks to its sliders and controls, you can remain in control over your photos. All in all, it offers enough effects to create impressive HDR photos quickly and with its use of AI you can add more details and depth to your images.

✅ Pros

It is simple to use the program and unlock its potential.
You can use it to change a single raw photo to HDR (unlike traditional HDR photography that combines more than one photo).
It is simple to undo an edit to revert back to your original image.
It can be used as a plug-in for Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, Apple Photos extension or as a stand-alone app.
Its batch processing feature is very useful.
It is suitable for beginners as well as more advanced photographers.

✖️ Cons

It is not a full-featured image editing tool and does not offer the complete range of features.

2. Machinery HDR

If you are searching for a tool that can help you with HDR tone mapping, be sure to check out Machinery HDR Effects. Though, while the interface is intuitive, be ready as it does require quite some time to become skilful at using this program (and unfortunately its online manual does not make it much easier). The program might not be perfect, but if you are willing to play around a bit, you can successfully deal with less significant issues. All things considered, it is good at rendering tone-mapped HDR photos that look really natural.

✅ Pros

It is easy to auto-align handheld brackets.
It boasts an awesome range of built-in presets.
It is easy to navigate your way around in this tool.
The built-in vignette control panel is respectable.

✖️ Cons

It is not as straightforward as similar apps.
While the built-in sharpening control is a good addition, if your photo has noise it will create many noise artefacts and fixing it can be challenging.

3. Oloneo HDR Photoengine

If speed plays a major factor in your decision-making process, you will love Oloneo Photoengine. Not only is this program super quick, but you can also view your modifications in real time and as soon as you are done making changes, you can save your image directly (no extra time is required for processing). With the help of a single slider, you will be able to get most of the things done. Overall, it boasts a very decent selection of features and tools, (the Natural HDR mode in particular will grab your attention).

✅ Pros

Unlike the majority of other similar products, this tool does not remove as much sharpness.
It is very easy to use (without having to rely too much on presets).
It is easy to install.

✖️ Cons

The file browser is not built for efficiency.
At times it can create a halo around a darker area.

4. HDR Expose 3

If you are looking to create only natural-looking photos, you can check out HDR Expose. Though, if you are searching for a tool that can whip up more surrealistic results, skip this one and continue reading.

✅ Pros

It will check for distortion problems automatically.
It has an option to remove ghosting and align images.

✖️ Cons

It is not as simply to import photos.
It can take rather long to install.

5. SNS-HDR

SNS-HDR is one of the top software solutions for creating natural-looking HDR images. It offers 8 presets, but you can also create your own custom presets. Similar to Oloneo HDR Photoengine, this tool is also very quick. It does not take long to refresh which means that you can see your changes in real time. Though, if you are busy with a lot of batch processing, speed can become a problem. All things considered, it is very simple to use and one of the best tools if you need to recover detail.

✅ Pros

Best Free Hdr Software For Mac

It is great for recovering detail.
There are no ghosting or halos, making it great tool if realistic images are important to you.
Revisions to the program are made regularly.
Its automatic alignment is very good.
It is easy to install.

✖️ Cons

It is not ideal if you want to create over-the-top saturation and extreme effects.
The program does take some time to open.
You do not have as much control over your RAW images.
It cannot be used as a plug-in.
It does not offer native support for Mac.
The manual is unclear at times.

6. Luminar AI

Luminar is a unique tool! It employs artificial intelligence (AI) to make those hard editing jobs a lot easier. Rest assured, if you want more control over your edits, this tool still allows you to take complete control.

It offers a wide range of tools that include: Layers, Portrait, Canvas, Creative, PRO and Essential. One feature that deserves to be highlighted is its AI Sky Replacement feature. It is really amazing and so realistic! In short, you can replace the sky in the click of a button. This means that you no longer need to wait for the right time of the day to take that photo. All in all, with Luminar AI you can expect professional images in a flash. It is a feature-packed tool with several handy features.

✅ Pros

You can get it for a one-off payment. Included in this fee, you will have access to future updates, support as well as bug fixes.
Your workspace remains uncluttered.
If you like to work in Apple Photos, Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom, it is easy to open an image in Luminar. While it can be used as a plug-in for Apple and Adobe, it is actually best to use it in conjunction with these other apps.
Its AI Sky Replacement feature is really amazing (in short, you can replace the sky in the click of a button).
The interface is modern, yet functional.

✖️ Cons

The panels could be organized better.
There is no option to export an image.

7. EasyHDR

Best Free Hdr Software For Mac 2020

EasyHDR is an affordable stand-alone app. It is a great tool if you are only beginning with HDR photography, but keep in mind that as you become more experienced you will find that you have outgrown this tool’s capabilities.

✅ Pros

It offers sufficient visual feedback for beginners.
It renders the final photos really well.

✖️ Cons

While this app has several features, you will most likely find that it is still simpler to use Adobe Photoshop.
It does not have that many options.
If you use JPEG images, you will see quite a degree of noise and artefacts.
It does not have an undo option.
It requires more work to get the colors correct.

8. Photomatix Pro

Photomatix Pro is a very good tool for those who want to play around with exposure and create HDR images. Its use of presets, rendering algorithms and basic set of tools to tweak the color makes it a great software solution for beginners as well as more experienced photographers. It has a useful selective brush tool that you can use to modify the tone or color and blend your images. Overall, it does not offer as much functionality as you might have come to expect, but it is still a cost-effective option to get the job done.

✅ Pros

It boasts a good selection of tools that you can use to adjust and manipulate your images.
Tips and written tutorials are available should you require more help.
It offers a nice range of presets as well as custom presets.
It can be used as a plug-in for Adobe Lightroom.
It boasts many tone mapping options.

✖️ Cons

The program does have quite a learning curve.
It does not offer that many file sharing options if you would like to export edited photos.
Mac users might find that the final result looks different.

9. HDR Projects 8

This is a simple tool if you would like to start experimenting with HDR photography. All in all, it is a good tool to look at and can deliver respectable natural-looking results.

✅ Pros

It has a plug-in for Lightroom.

✖️ Cons

Its presets are not that great.

Best Hdr Software

10. Adobe Lightroom Classic

If you are searching for a tool that is easier to use than Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom Classic is a good choice. This multi-functional image editing tool offers an impressive selection of useful features. If you want to use it specifically for HDR photography, you will find that it is quite intuitive and can deliver rather satisfactory results. Its Photo Merger feature is very quick. In just a couple of clicks, you can merge a couple of images so that you can then make your final tweaks.

✅ Pros

From import to the final image, it only takes four simple steps.
It is easy to take your HDR image too far which will only result in unrealistic photos.

✖️ Cons

It is simpler to use than Photoshop, but it still has some learning curve.
Its dynamic range is not that impressive.