Tofa and Emby, for your own library.

Tofa and Emby both stream media 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.

By the Tofa team. Reviewed September 24, 2026.

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 live TV/DVR, music library, or a particular client, check those needs before moving. Tofa currently focuses on movies and television shows; live TV/DVR and music libraries aren't available.

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.