OpenELEC
Transform any device into a media center
What is OpenELEC?
OpenELEC, or Open Embedded Linux Entertainment Center, is a Linux distribution designed to run Kodi, a popular open-source media center. It is independent and not based on any major Linux distribution.
This distro is ideal for users who want to quickly transform a device into a dedicated media center. It is lightweight and optimized for media playback, making it perfect for home theater setups.
OpenELEC follows the 'Just Enough Operating System' (JeOS) philosophy, meaning it is designed to run Kodi with minimal resource usage, ensuring a smooth and efficient user experience.
Key features
Kodi Integration
Integrated with Kodi, providing a powerful media experience with support for a wide range of media formats.
Minimal Footprint
Designed to use minimal resources, allowing for efficient media playback even on low-end hardware.
Quick Boot
Fast boot times, getting you to your media center quickly without unnecessary delays.
Customizable
Offers a range of customization options for users to tailor their media center experience.
Regular Updates
Regularly updated to ensure compatibility with the latest Kodi releases and features.
Broad Device Support
Compatible with a wide range of devices, from PCs to Raspberry Pi, making it versatile for various setups.
System requirements
| Minimum | Recommended | |
|---|---|---|
| RAM | 512 MB | 1 GB |
| Storage | 256 MB | 1 GB |
| Display | 1024×768 | 1920×1080 |
| Boot | Legacy BIOS | |
Featured in
OpenELEC appears in these recommendation lists.
FAQ
Is OpenELEC free to use?
Yes, OpenELEC is completely free and open-source, licensed under the GNU GPL.
Is OpenELEC suitable for beginners?
OpenELEC is user-friendly and can be used by beginners, especially those familiar with Kodi.
Can I try OpenELEC without installing?
OpenELEC is designed to be installed directly onto a device to function as a media center, rather than run as a live system.
How often is OpenELEC updated?
Updates are released approximately every six months, aligning with new Kodi releases.
What software is compatible with OpenELEC?
OpenELEC is primarily designed to run Kodi, but it also supports various Kodi add-ons and plugins.
Can OpenELEC be used on Raspberry Pi?
Yes, OpenELEC is compatible with various Raspberry Pi models, making it a popular choice for DIY media centers.
Ready to try OpenELEC?
Download the ISO and create a bootable USB to test it out.