Emby vs Kodi

What each one covers

Drawn from each product's published feature list. An absence here means we hold no record of it - not that the product lacks it.

What people use each for

The jobs each tool is most often brought in to do.

Where each one falls short

Documented limitations, not opinions. Every one is a constraint you would hit in normal use.

Pricing, plan by plan

Which should you pick?

Questions people ask

Is Emby or Kodi better?

Neither clearly leads. Emby starts at Free and Kodi at Free, and user ratings are close enough to be indistinguishable. Choose on capability and platform support.

Which is cheaper, Emby or Kodi?

Emby starts at Free and Kodi at Free.

Does Emby or Kodi run on more platforms?

Emby runs on Web, Ios, Android, Smart-tv, Desktop. Kodi runs on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, Ios, Smart-tv.

Can I use Emby for free?

Both have a free tier, so you can try either at no cost before committing.

What is Emby best used for?

Emby is most often used for running a personal media server for films, television and music, streaming a home library to phones, tablets and televisions. Of those, running a personal media server for films, television and music and streaming a home library to phones, tablets and televisions are not what Kodi is typically brought in for.

What can Emby do that Kodi cannot?

Emby covers Personal media server, Streaming, Sync, Remote access. Kodi covers Media playback, Add-ons, Customization, Remote control. Both handle Library management, Ios support, Android support, Smart-tv support.