I really like VLC, but it does not handle subtitles well. The video stutters constantly when subtitles are enabled. If I disable subtitles they play just fine without stutter. I did some searching and came across this topic on the VLC forum. The topic is 3 years old and the issue still present today.
I tried Kodi, but it's not what I'm looking for. It's way too much. I just want a simple video player not an entertainment hub. I play files via SMB and I can't even figure out how to add a share to Kodi with all it's mazes of menus. Even tried reading the Wiki , but it starts you off in the middle of the instructions. Image 1, how did you even get there?? Maybe the instructions are for an old version because I can't find where you see image 2 with being able to enter your username and password and server. Kodi is just way too complicated. With VLC it was quick and easy to add a SMB share.
Is there any other video player out there? I'm afraid I'm going to have to go back to casting. I much prefer being able to browse with the remote. Since I use subtitles 99% of the time, VLC isn't going to cut it. And with a 3 year old issue I doubt it's going to be fixed.
Give Kodi another try. I don't use any of the extra shit. I just browse the files on my smb share and play the file I want. I think I set up the smb by going to the "TV" menu option for example and then choosing to add a source and then I think that took me to the screen to add the share. Couple of tips. Use the IP address of the computer with the share and not it's name. Set the smb min version to 1 and max to 3. Once you get things working switch the min smb to 2. Kodi has worked well for me. Plays anything that I throw at it on my CCwGTV.