VLC media player

The all-in-one media player from the VideoLAN non-profit, able to open almost any audio file, video file, disc or network stream without extra codecs.

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Source code: code.videolan.org/videolan/vlc. Flink is not affiliated with VideoLAN.

What it is

VLC has been around for more than two decades and is one of the most downloaded open-source programs ever made. Its reputation comes from one simple promise: if a file contains audio or video, VLC can probably play it. It ships with its own decoders, so you do not need to hunt for codec packs, which on some platforms have historically been bundled with unwanted software.

Beyond playback, VLC can open network streams, play DVDs, handle a wide range of subtitle formats, adjust audio and video synchronisation, convert files between formats and even record a stream to disk. Advanced users can extend it with add-ons and control it from the command line.

Key features

Fine-grained playback controls

VLC lets you change playback speed, step through video frame by frame, loop a section between two points and adjust subtitle and audio delay on the fly. An audio equaliser and video effects such as brightness, cropping and rotation are built in.

Network streams and casting

Paste a stream address to play internet radio, IPTV or video from a network share. VLC can browse media servers on your local network and cast video to compatible devices such as Chromecast-enabled TVs.

Conversion and recording

The Convert/Save tool turns a file into another format using ready-made profiles, which is handy for making a video playable on an older device. You can also record what is currently playing, including network streams.

Subtitles

VLC supports a wide range of subtitle formats and can load an external subtitle file simply by dragging it onto the player window. You can change the subtitle font, size and position, and switch between several subtitle tracks embedded in a single file.

Getting started

Download VLC only from the official VideoLAN website or your platform's official app store, because copycat download sites sometimes bundle unwanted software. After installing, you can make it the default player for video files. If you need advanced options, switch the preferences view to show all settings.

Who it is for

Practically everyone. Even if you use another player day to day, VLC is the tool to reach for when a file refuses to open elsewhere.

Pros and cons

Alternatives

To organise and stream a whole collection to multiple devices, pair VLC with Jellyfin. To record your screen or stream live, see OBS Studio.