This is not for VLC, but it's a frequently searched topic. If you want Windows' built-in apps to play HEVC files without paying, there is a legal, free version called "HEVC Video Extensions from Device Manufacturer". This is often pre-installed on new computers from manufacturers like Dell, HP, or Lenovo. If you cannot find it on your machine, you can try to install it directly:
High-bitrate videos (like 10-bit HDR) overwhelming your CPU.
vlc --list | grep -i hevc
This is not for VLC, but it's a frequently searched topic. If you want Windows' built-in apps to play HEVC files without paying, there is a legal, free version called "HEVC Video Extensions from Device Manufacturer". This is often pre-installed on new computers from manufacturers like Dell, HP, or Lenovo. If you cannot find it on your machine, you can try to install it directly:
High-bitrate videos (like 10-bit HDR) overwhelming your CPU.
vlc --list | grep -i hevc