Play M3U8 HLS streams online with hls.js
Chrome, Firefox, and Edge use Media Source Extensions; Safari can use native HLS playback when available.
HLS playback test bench
Free Online M3U8 Player for HLS Live and VOD Streams
Paste a direct HLS playlist URL to test browser playback, detect adaptive quality levels, and surface network or media errors without uploading the stream.
No upload No signup No watermark
Open the tool Paste a public HLS URL to test playback.
Test adaptive M3U8 quality levels in the browser
Master playlist levels are detected and listed with their declared height and bitrate.
Debug HLS network and media playback errors
Fatal network and codec errors are surfaced with practical next checks for CORS, expiry, and compatibility.
How to play an M3U8 stream online in Chrome, Firefox, or Safari
Use the direct master or media playlist URL, paste it above, and press Play. Normal video controls handle pause, seek, volume, picture-in-picture, and fullscreen where the browser supports them.
Adaptive bitrate selection is managed by hls.js on Media Source Extensions browsers. The player does not proxy, record, or store the media.
How to test an HLS stream before M3U8 to MP4 conversion
Playback confirms that the browser can reach the manifest and decode at least one quality level. It does not guarantee conversion, because a VOD download also needs every segment to remain accessible.
Use the manifest analyzer next to verify VOD status, duration, segment count, encryption markers, and the container used by the selected quality.
Common questions
M3U8 Player frequently asked questions
Straight answers about browser support, privacy, source access, and output behavior.
How can I play an M3U8 stream online in Chrome or Firefox?
Paste the direct playlist URL and press Play. The page uses hls.js with Media Source Extensions in supported browsers, while Safari can use its native HLS playback path.
Does the online HLS player support adaptive bitrate streams?
Yes. When a master playlist exposes multiple levels, hls.js can select an appropriate level as network conditions change. The detected quality levels are listed below the player.
Why does an M3U8 URL play in VLC but not in this browser player?
VLC is not subject to browser CORS rules and can attach different headers or cookies. Browser playback also requires codecs supported by Media Source Extensions or the native video element.
Is my private HLS URL sent to M3U8toMP4.org?
No. Playback occurs between your browser and the media host. Avoid pasting sensitive signed URLs on shared devices because they may remain in local browser history.
Can I play an M3U8 stream on iPhone or Android?
Yes, when the source allows it. Safari on iOS and macOS can play HLS natively, while Chrome and Firefox on Android and desktop use Media Source Extensions through hls.js. Sources that block cross-origin requests or use unsupported codecs will fail on both paths.