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Windows · Media Players

GOM Player for Windows

Free Windows video player from GOM & Company with built-in codec finder and simple support for playing partially damaged files.

Updated August 9, 2026 · Reviewed by SoftNexi Editorial Team, Software research and documentation

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Overview

GOM Player, from South Korean company GOM & Company, is a free video player built around ease of use: a straightforward interface, wide format support, and a built-in 'codec finder' feature that can locate a missing codec for an unusual file automatically.

It handles common formats natively and can play some damaged or incomplete video files, a niche but useful feature for partially downloaded content. It also supports 360-degree video, subtitle downloading, and basic playback speed and A-B repeat controls.

The free version has historically shown ads within the interface, and GOM & Company also sells GOM Player Plus, a paid ad-free version with extra features. That commercial layer distinguishes it from fully free, ad-free options like VLC or the MPC forks.

It suits users who want a simple, approachable player and don't mind occasional prompts, or who specifically value its damaged-file playback and codec-finder convenience.

Key features

  • Built-in codec finder that locates missing decoders for unusual files
  • Plays some partially downloaded or damaged video files
  • 360-degree video playback support
  • Subtitle search and download from within the app
  • A-B repeat and adjustable playback speed for review or study
  • Simple, approachable interface aimed at casual users

System requirements

Operating system
Windows 11 and Windows 10
Architecture
x64 or x86 build
Disk space
Under 100 MB installed

How to install GOM Player

  1. 1. Download from GOM Lab

    Go to gomlab.com and download the GOM Player installer directly.

  2. 2. Run the installer

    Uncheck any optional offers presented during setup if you don't want them.

  3. 3. Set default file types

    Choose which video formats should open with GOM Player, or skip and set this later in Windows settings.

  4. 4. Test playback

    Open a video file to confirm it plays correctly.

How to use it

  1. 1. Use the codec finder

    If a file won't play, use the built-in codec finder prompt to search for and install the missing decoder.

  2. 2. Download subtitles

    Use the subtitle search feature to find and load matching subtitles for a video automatically.

  3. 3. Set A-B repeat

    Mark a start and end point in a video to loop a specific section, useful for studying a clip closely.

  4. 4. Play a damaged file

    If a downloaded file is incomplete, try opening it directly — GOM Player can sometimes play what other players reject.

Safety and privacy

  • Download only from gomlab.com, the official site, to avoid third-party mirrors with bundled offers.
  • The free version is ad-supported; expect occasional promotional prompts within the app.
Bundled software
Watch each installer screen carefully, since ad-supported free players are more likely to present optional add-ons or toolbars during setup.
Privacy
GOM Player can connect online to fetch subtitles, codecs, and ads; these can generally be limited in the app's settings.

Known risks

  • The free tier's ad-supported nature means more prompts and in-app promotions than fully free competitors.
  • As with any player fetching content online (subtitles, ads), review privacy settings if that matters to you.

What's new

    Pros and cons

    Pros

    • Simple, approachable interface for casual users
    • Codec finder helps with unusual file formats
    • Can play some damaged or incomplete files
    • Built-in subtitle search

    Cons

    • Free version is ad-supported
    • Ad-free features require paying for GOM Player Plus
    • Not open source, unlike VLC or MPC-BE
    • Fewer advanced playback controls than PotPlayer

    Verdict

    GOM Player is a fine, easy option for casual playback and its damaged-file handling is a genuine niche advantage, but the ad-supported free tier makes it a step down from fully free, ad-free alternatives like VLC for most users.

    Frequently asked questions

    Is GOM Player free?

    The base version is free but ad-supported. GOM Player Plus is a paid, ad-free version with extra features.

    What is the GOM Player codec finder?

    A built-in tool that detects when a file needs a codec GOM Player doesn't already have and helps locate it.

    Is GOM Player safe?

    We link only to the official gomlab.com download; as with any ad-supported free installer, review each setup screen for optional offers.

    Can GOM Player play damaged video files?

    Yes, it's known for being able to play some partially downloaded or corrupted video files that stricter players reject.