Some device manufacturers provide the "HEVC Video Extensions from Device Manufacturer" for free. You can often find links to these via the "ms-windows-store" protocol in your browser to bypass the $0.99 fee.
To get the best HEVC performance in VLC, you don't just need a "file"; you need to ensure your is active. Install the Windows HEVC Extension, tweak your VLC FFmpeg thread settings, and ensure your GPU drivers are current. install hevc codec for vlc exclusive
Microsoft sells the "HEVC Video Extensions" in the Microsoft Store for $0.99. This unlocks the hardware decoder for your GPU. Some device manufacturers provide the "HEVC Video Extensions
If you've installed the codecs and adjusted the settings but still see a black screen with audio: Install the Windows HEVC Extension, tweak your VLC
During installation, ensure the is selected.
If you’ve ever tried to play a 4K video or a modern MKV file only to be met with a stuttering mess or a "Codec not supported" error, you’ve hit the HEVC wall. High-Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC), also known as H.265, is the industry standard for high-quality, low-bandwidth video.