OpenELEC vs Windows Media Center : Which is Better?
OpenELEC
OpenELEC (Open Embedded Linux Entertainment Center) is a Linux distribution designed for home theater PCs and based on the Kodi (XBMC) media player.
License: Open Source
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OpenELEC VS Windows Media Center
OpenELEC is a lightweight, open-source media center focused on media playback and customization, while Windows Media Center was a feature-rich solution integrated into Windows, offering robust live TV support but is no longer actively developed. Users looking for a free and highly customizable solution may prefer OpenELEC, whereas those wanting ease of use within a Windows environment may have previously favored Windows Media Center.
OpenELEC
Pros:
- Lightweight and optimized for media playback
- Highly customizable with various add-ons
- Active community support
- Cost-effective as it is free and open-source
- Supports a wide range of media formats
Cons:
- Limited commercial support
- Less user-friendly for non-technical users
- Installation and setup can be complex for beginners
- Fewer out-of-the-box features compared to Windows Media Center
- Potential compatibility issues with some hardware
Windows Media Center
Pros:
- Integrated into Windows ecosystem
- User-friendly interface with rich features
- Robust support for live TV and DVR
- Easy to manage and navigate
- Good integration with Microsoft services
Cons:
- Discontinued and no longer officially supported
- Limited customization options
- Dependency on Windows system
- Higher resource requirements compared to OpenELEC
- Some features may not work without additional software
Compare OpenELEC
