If you’re working with Hikvision CCTV cameras, DVRs, or NVRs, you’ll need a special tool to play and analyze recorded surveillance videos — and that tool is VS Player.
In this guide, we’ll explain what VS-Player is, how to download, install, and use it, and answer the most common questions users have about it.
What is VS Player?
VS-Player is a video playback software developed by Hikvision Digital Technology Co., Ltd.
It’s designed to play, manage, and export recorded video files from Hikvision DVRs, NVRs, IP cameras, and other compatible devices.
Regular media players like VLC often fail to play CCTV video formats correctly — that’s why professionals use VS-Player.
🔹 Key Features of VS Player (Hikvision)
- ✅ Supports CCTV formats like .mp4, .dav, .mov, and .264
- ✅ Frame-by-frame playback for detailed analysis
- ✅ Multi-channel playback – view multiple cameras simultaneously
- ✅ Snapshot, zoom, and video export options
- ✅ Supports audio-video synchronization
- ✅ Works on Windows and macOS
How to Download and Install VS Player
Follow these steps to download the official version of VS Player:
- Visit the official Hikvision website
👉 https://www.hikvision.com/ - Go to Support → Downloads → Tools
- Search for “VS-Player” in the list of software tools
- Click Download for your operating system (Windows/Mac)
- After downloading, extract the ZIP file and run the installer
- Complete installation → Launch VS-Player
How to Use VS Player (Step-by-Step)
- Open VS-Player
- Click on “Open File” or drag and drop your CCTV video file (.mp4 / .dav / .264)
- Use the timeline and playback controls to review your footage
- Use the zoom, snapshot, or export buttons to analyze or save footage
- For multi-camera playback, select multi-window layout
Common Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Video not opening | Make sure the file is recorded from a Hikvision device and not corrupted |
| No sound | Try a slower speed or use a system with higher RAM |
| Playback lagging | Try slower speed or use a system with higher RAM |
| Black screen | Update VS-Player or install missing codecs |
| File format not supported | Convert using VS-Player’s Export → MP4 option |
Why Use VS Player Instead of VLC
- 🧩 Supports proprietary CCTV formats that VLC can’t read
- 🎞 Frame-by-frame precision for investigation or evidence review
- 🔐 Authenticity preserved – no compression or data loss
- 💼 Multi-channel playback for professionals
VS Player vs CP Plus Smart Player
| Feature | VS Player (Hikvision) | Smart Player (CP Plus) |
|---|---|---|
| Developer | Hikvision | CP Plus |
| Supported Formats | .mp4, .mov, .dav, .264 | .dav, .mp4 |
| Interface | Advanced | Simple |
| Multi-channel | Yes | Yes |
| Platform | Windows / macOS | Windows |
| Official Site | hikvision.com | cpplusworld.com |
👉 Note: Many CP Plus players are based on Hikvision’s VS-Player engine, but customized for CP Plus DVR/NVR systems.
FAQs About Hikvision VS Player
Q1. Who developed VS Player?
VS-Player is developed by Hikvision Digital Technology Co., Ltd., a leading global CCTV manufacturer.
Q2. Can I use VS Player for CP Plus videos?
In some cases, yes, but it’s better to use CP Plus Smart Player for CP Plus systems to ensure proper compatibility.
Q3. How can I export a CCTV clip from VS Player?
Use the Export → MP4 option to save the selected portion of the video.
Q4. Does VS Player support mobile phones?
No, VS-Player is for PC (Windows/macOS). You can export videos in MP4 and play them on your phone.
Q5. Is VS Player free?
✅ Yes, VS-Player is completely free and available officially on the Hikvision website.
Conclusion
VS-Player by Hikvision is one of the most reliable tools for CCTV professionals and technicians. It ensures accurate playback, detailed frame analysis, and easy export options for security footage.
Whether you’re reviewing incidents, maintaining systems, or exporting evidence — VS-Player is an essential part of your CCTV toolkit.
⚡ Quick Highlights
- Always download from the official Hikvision site
- Keep your player updated for better performance
- Use frame-by-frame view for investigation clarity
- Convert videos to MP4 for easy sharing