tofaLooking for an Emby alternative?
Tofa is an Emby alternative for movies and shows you host yourself. The useful comparison is which features your household needs, on which devices, and what each server requires. This guide is written by Tofa and links to Emby's own feature matrix.
| What matters | Tofa | Emby |
|---|---|---|
| Product model | Free tier and optional Supporter; in beta | Free features and Emby Premiere |
| App playback | No separate device purchase; Tofa Server required | Free or paid access depends on the client |
| Hardware acceleration | Included in the free tier on supported hardware | Generally Premiere; device exceptions apply |
| Downloads | Supporter feature, unlocked during beta | Premiere on supported clients |
| Live TV / DVR | Available | Premiere |
| Switching | One-time Emby import; preview supported matches | Keep Emby running while evaluating Tofa |
Check features by device
Emby's feature matrix lists free full playback on Apple TV, Roku, LG, and Samsung. Mobile playback can require an app unlock or Premiere. Its Android TV and Fire TV row includes a free allowance for up to five TV devices.
Tofa's official apps have no separate device purchase. A Tofa account and access to Tofa Server are required. Supporter extras follow the server owner's entitlement; store availability is listed separately on our apps page.
Hardware acceleration and downloads
Emby generally puts hardware transcoding, downloads, and DVR in Premiere. Its matrix notes hardware-acceleration exceptions for Nvidia Shield and WD NAS devices. Check the exact device and feature rather than assuming all Emby playback needs a subscription.
Tofa includes hardware acceleration and streaming in its free tier. Offline downloads and automatic intro skipping belong to the planned Supporter tier, with Supporter features currently unlocked during beta. Device and media support still determine the playback path.
When staying with Emby makes sense
If your setup relies on Emby's music library or a particular client, check those needs before moving. Tofa has live TV and recording, but no music libraries yet.
A successful trial should include the devices your family actually uses, your typical subtitles, and remote playback. A feature comparison can't replace that test.
What switching involves
Install Tofa Server alongside Emby and point it at the same media folders. Keep the original server and its data intact during evaluation. The Tofa player needs a Tofa server; it isn't an Emby client.
Server 0.10.0 adds an Emby import flow for watch progress and library setup. Preview the matched items and choose what to bring over. Reusing media folders alone does not transfer your viewing history.
Common questions
Is Tofa cheaper than Emby for everyone?
It depends on your devices and required features. Emby has free playback on several TV platforms. Compare its current matrix with Tofa's free and Supporter features instead of assuming either product always costs less.
Will my Emby watch history transfer automatically?
Server 0.10.0 supports a one-time Emby import. Open the import wizard, connect your source, and review the matched items before applying them. Adding media folders alone does not transfer watch history.
Try it with your own library.
Create your beta account, verify your email, and connect your server.
Sign up for the beta →