Media Preview for Windows

Media Preview is a free Windows utility that restores thumbnail previews for unsupported or broken media file types in Windows Explorer. It allows users to see image previews of video files that would otherwise show only default icons. The tool supports a wide range of formats, making it easier to manage and browse large media collections.

The program is helpful for users dealing with missing thumbnails caused by codec changes or unsupported formats. Media Preview works without external codec packs, offering stable thumbnail generation. Its simple interface and real-time preview feature make it easy to use, even for non-technical users.

Improving visual media navigation

Media Preview enables thumbnail previews for video formats not natively supported by Windows, such as MKV, FLV, and RMVB. Once installed, the software allows users to select specific file types they want to generate thumbnails for. This selective feature helps avoid unnecessary indexing and keeps system performance stable. However, the outdated user interface and limited updates and support can disappoint users seeking modern design or ongoing development.

One key feature is its ability to display thumbnails without relying on codec packs or third-party media players. This reduces the risk of conflicts and crashes often caused by system-level codec modifications. The software also includes a real-time preview option, allowing users to see how thumbnails will appear before applying changes. However, it is not suitable for image file previews, which limits its overall usefulness for users handling mixed media libraries.

Although development has slowed, this remains compatible with many Windows versions, including Windows 10. It continues to function reliably despite its age. Alternatives such as Icaros offer similar features with more frequent updates, while SageThumbs is better suited for image preview needs. Still, this program stands out as a lightweight, no-frills option for users seeking a simple, dedicated solution for generating video thumbnails without altering system codecs or performance.

A simple fix for missing thumbnails

Media Preview is a practical tool for restoring thumbnail previews in Windows Explorer, particularly for unsupported or unusual video formats. While its interface and update frequency may not match newer tools, it performs its task well without overloading system resources. For users dealing with broken or missing thumbnails, this program offers a stable, no-frills solution that enhances everyday file browsing.

• Better handling of camcorder recorded video files by getting actual thumbnails instead of grey images
• Do not reset settings upon upgrading anymore (it won't work if you upgrade from 1.4.2 to 1.4.3 as uninstall is still handle by 1.4.2, but it will work when upgrading from 1.4.3)
• Overall size reduced by nearly 10% (16.1MB to 14.7MB)