Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

OpenELEC VS VortexBox

Compare OpenELEC VS VortexBox and see what are their differences

OpenELEC logo OpenELEC

OpenELEC, which stands for Open Embedded Linux Entertainment Center, is a Linux operating system that makes the host computer a Kodi media center. The software was the winner of the Swiss Opensource Award in 2014.

VortexBox logo VortexBox

vBulletin Forums
  • OpenELEC Landing page
    Landing page //
    2019-01-29
  • VortexBox Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-09

OpenELEC features and specs

  • Lightweight
    OpenELEC is a lightweight operating system that is designed to run Kodi on minimal hardware, making it ideal for older devices.
  • Ease of Use
    OpenELEC provides a simple user interface and straightforward installation process, which is appealing to users looking for an out-of-the-box media center solution.
  • Dedicated Media Center OS
    Being dedicated solely to running Kodi, OpenELEC offers optimized performance and a streamlined system for media playback.
  • Cost-Effective
    OpenELEC is open-source and free to use, which is beneficial for users looking for a cost-effective media center setup.
  • Strong Community Support
    OpenELEC has a robust community of users and developers who provide support, share knowledge, and contribute to its development.

Possible disadvantages of OpenELEC

  • Limited Functionality
    As a minimalistic operating system, OpenELEC may not support additional services or applications beyond its primary function as a media center.
  • Hardware Compatibility
    OpenELEC may have limited compatibility with certain hardware components or peripherals, which could require users to ensure compatibility beforehand.
  • Less Frequent Updates
    Compared to some other media center solutions or operating systems, OpenELEC may receive updates less frequently, potentially affecting access to new features or security patches.
  • Limited Customization
    Due to its focus on simplicity and ease of use, OpenELEC offers fewer customization options compared to other more flexible operating systems.
  • Potential Stability Issues
    Some users have reported stability issues, particularly when using newer versions or hardware, which may impact overall user experience.

VortexBox features and specs

  • Easy Setup
    VortexBox is designed to be easy to install and set up, making it accessible for users who may not be highly technical.
  • Automated Ripping
    It automatically rips CDs when inserted, saving them in digital formats, which simplifies the process of digitizing physical media collections.
  • Media Server Capabilities
    VortexBox can function as a full-fledged media server, streaming to various devices and compatible with DLNA and other protocols.
  • Open Source
    Being open-source, VortexBox allows users to modify or extend the software as needed, offering flexibility and a community-driven approach.
  • Supports Multiple Formats
    It supports a wide range of audio codecs and formats, providing flexibility in how users store and play their media.

Possible disadvantages of VortexBox

  • Limited Hardware Support
    VortexBox might not work with all hardware configurations, which could be a limitation for users with specific or unusual setups.
  • Potential Learning Curve
    Despite its user-friendly intentions, users with no Linux experience might face a learning curve initially.
  • Dependent on Community Support
    As an open-source project, VortexBox relies heavily on community support, which can be inconsistent compared to commercial offerings.
  • Update Frequency
    Updates and new features may not be released as frequently as some users would like, potentially leading to issues with unsupported new technologies.
  • Requires Dedicated Hardware
    Optimal performance often requires dedicated hardware, which might not be feasible for users who do not have spare equipment available.

OpenELEC videos

My HTPC Is Now Running OpenELEC

More videos:

  • Review - OpenELEC Installation Guide 2019

VortexBox videos

VortexBox 2.5 Beta - Exploreation in a Virtual Machine

More videos:

  • Review - 338 - Building a VortexBox - #Cat5TV Category5TV
  • Review - Vortexbox - Musikserver in null Komma nix

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to OpenELEC and VortexBox)
Video
74 74%
26% 26
Media Player
63 63%
37% 37
Media Players And Streaming Platforms
Watch Movies Online
78 78%
22% 22

User comments

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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, OpenELEC seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 2 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

OpenELEC mentions (2)

  • Does Kodi support HDR passthrough using an x86 processor or an nvidia/AMD dGPU on Linux now?
    Its all good. I use to run Kodi on a HTPC that I built with openelec and it was pretty stable. I am not sure if it is available anymore (openelec.tv) it was a linux distro. I switched to NVidia shield due to the accessibility to Netflix and Amazon and I have not looked back. Oh an its cheaper than a HTPC I think... Source: over 3 years ago
  • Got Jellyfin a few days ago and LOVE the web version, but bad Roku app is a dealbreaker. Before I can it, are there any work arounds you guys have found?
    I know there are various customized distros for the RasPi, such as OpenElec, but as a staunch Linux and FLOSS advocate I still don't think that's what most people are searching for when they look for a streaming device these days. Source: about 4 years ago

VortexBox mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of VortexBox yet. Tracking of VortexBox recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing OpenELEC and VortexBox, you can also consider the following products

LibreELEC - LibreELEC is ‘Just enough OS’ for Kodi, a Linux distribution built to run Kodi on current and...

Daphile - Daphile is an audiophile class music server & player OS – targeted to dedicated headless PC.

GeeXboX - Dec 3, 2017 - . Author: Tomtom 1 Comment. Hi,.

Subsonic - Subsonic is a free, web-based media streamer, providing ubiquitous access to your music and video.

Kodi - Kodi is an award winning free and open source media player that got its start on the Xbox console.

Logitech Media Server - Logitech Media Server is the server software that powers audio players from Logitech (formerly...