20 Best VLC Alternatives & Competitors

VLC Media Player has long been a favorite for users seeking a free, open-source solution for playing nearly every type of video or audio file. Its popularity stems from its versatility and cross-platform support. However, even this powerful tool isn’t without its shortcomings such as a dated user interface, occasional playback issues, and limited streaming capabilities. As media consumption evolves, many users are now searching for VLC alternatives that offer smoother performance, modern interfaces, and richer features.

Whether you’re looking for a lightweight video player, a media center solution, or advanced subtitle support, this guide covers the 20 best VLC competitors available today. And if you’re still using VLC, you might find our VLC Shortcuts post useful for navigating it more efficiently.

Top 20 VLC Alternatives & Competitors

Let’s explore the best options that go beyond VLC Media Player.

1. PotPlayer

PotPlayer is a highly capable multimedia player developed by Kakao, known for its smooth performance and broad format compatibility. It handles virtually every video and audio file type with ease and offers advanced options like 3D playback and hardware acceleration. PotPlayer is lightweight yet powerful, making it ideal for users who want full control over their viewing experience.

It also supports screen recording, frame-by-frame playback, bookmarking, and subtitle customization. The player’s modular interface allows for extensive personalization, including themes and skins. It’s especially popular among Windows users looking for more than what VLC offers. If you’re using it regularly, check out our PotPlayer Shortcuts to navigate it faster and smarter.

Key Features:

• Wide format and codec support
• Hardware acceleration and 3D video playback
• Built-in screen capture and recording tools
• Advanced subtitle rendering and sync controls
• Customizable interface with themes and skins
• Bookmarking and playback history tracking

2. KMPlayer

KMPlayer is a versatile and visually appealing media player that supports a wide variety of video and audio formats. Originally developed in South Korea, it’s now popular worldwide for its clean interface and powerful playback engine. KMPlayer is ideal for users who want a modern player that can handle high-resolution content, including 4K and even 8K videos.

The player offers smooth playback with internal codec support, meaning you don’t need external packages. It also supports video capture, screen recording, and subtitle settings with ease. KMPlayer is available for both Windows and macOS, making it accessible to a wider audience. If VLC feels outdated, KMPlayer is a sleek and capable replacement.

Key Features:

• Supports 4K and 8K ultra HD playback
• Built-in codecs for hassle-free viewing
• Subtitle customization and sync tools
• Screen recording and video capture
• Smooth UI with playback speed control
• Cross-platform support (Windows/macOS)

Read More: 25 KMPlayer Keyboard Shortcuts

3. Media Player Classic – Home Cinema (MPC-HC)

MPC-HC is a lightweight, open-source video player for Windows that’s widely appreciated for its simplicity and efficiency. It’s a fork of the original Media Player Classic but comes with modern enhancements and continued support. This makes it one of the most stable and straightforward VLC alternatives available.

Despite its minimalistic design, MPC-HC is capable of playing virtually all common media formats without requiring additional codecs. It launches fast, uses minimal system resources, and integrates well with Windows. Ideal for those who want a no-frills viewing experience with reliable performance every time.

Key Features:

• Lightweight and fast startup
• Plays most video and audio file types
• No need for external codecs
• Clean, easy-to-use interface
• Minimal system resource usage
• Supports keyboard shortcuts and filters

Read More: 29 MPC-HC Keyboard Shortcuts

4. Media Player Classic – Black Edition (MPC-BE)

MPC-BE is a more feature-rich version of MPC-HC with modern UI enhancements and additional settings. While it builds on the same foundation, MPC-BE offers extended subtitle support, enhanced playlist management, and dark mode interface, making it visually appealing and more customizable.

It’s also completely open source and supports hardware acceleration for smooth video playback. MPC-BE is best suited for users who love MPC-HC’s stability but wish for a few extra features and a polished look. Its simplicity combined with new features makes it a great choice for day-to-day media consumption.

120 MPC-BE Keyboard Shortcuts

Key Features:

• Enhanced UI with dark theme support
• Subtitle engine with advanced features
• Playlist improvements and file navigation
• Hardware decoding support
• Compatible with most video/audio formats
• Open-source and regularly updated

5. mpv

mpv is a highly advanced command-line-based media player built on MPlayer and mplayer2. Though it has a minimal interface, it offers powerful playback capabilities and is widely used by advanced users and developers. It’s especially suited for scripting, automation, and integration into other applications.

Its hardware acceleration, high-quality video output, and support for a wide range of formats make it a favorite among those who prioritize performance. There are also GUI-based frontends available for those who prefer a visual interface. To work even faster with it, explore our collection of MPV Shortcuts for quick navigation.

Key Features:

• Powerful video engine with GPU acceleration
• High-quality rendering and color control
• Scriptable and automation-ready
• Minimalist interface (GUI frontends available)
• Supports all common codecs and formats
• Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux)

6. SMPlayer

SMPlayer is an open-source, cross-platform media player with built-in codecs that can handle virtually any video or audio format. It’s built on top of the MPV and MPlayer engines, giving it the best of both worlds advanced playback control with a user-friendly interface. SMPlayer also remembers playback position for every file you open.

It includes built-in subtitle download, support for YouTube streaming, and customizable skins. The interface is clean, lightweight, and perfect for users who want reliable playback without overwhelming features. It runs smoothly on both Windows and Linux, making it a practical and efficient VLC alternative.

91 SMPlayer Keyboard Shortcuts

Key Features:

• Built-in codecs for broad format support
• YouTube video streaming integration
• Remembers playback positions
• Subtitle download and sync tools
• Cross-platform (Windows/Linux)
• GUI front-end for MPV and MPlayer engines

7. GOM Player

GOM Player is a well-known media player from South Korea that balances simplicity with powerful features. It supports a wide range of formats and includes a codec finder that automatically locates missing codecs. GOM also offers 360° VR playback and subtitle support with automatic downloads.

One of its standout features is GOM Remote, which allows users to control playback from their smartphone. It’s a great pick for users who want ease of use combined with modern enhancements. To get more out of it, check out our list of GOM Player Shortcuts for efficient media control.

Key Features:

• Codec finder for missing format support
• 360° and VR video playback
• Remote control app for mobile devices
• Subtitle search and sync
• Customizable interface and skins
• Windows-focused with macOS beta

8. 5KPlayer

5KPlayer is a stylish media player that supports UHD videos, online streaming, AirPlay, and DLNA wireless sharing. It combines the functions of a media player, online video downloader, and streaming server in a single application. The player is well-suited for high-resolution playback including 4K, 5K, and even 8K videos.

Its clean and modern interface appeals to users looking for both functionality and aesthetics. 5KPlayer also excels in network streaming, especially for Apple devices. For faster usage, check out our 5KPlayer Shortcuts to navigate through its sleek controls.

Key Features:

• Plays 4K/5K/8K and 360° videos
• AirPlay and DLNA support for streaming
• Built-in YouTube and online video downloader
• Online radio streaming capability
• Stylish and intuitive interface
• Supports Windows and macOS

9. DivX Player

DivX Player is a polished media player designed for high-quality video playback, especially in the DivX, AVI, MKV, and HEVC formats. It’s known for its sleek design and ability to stream media to DLNA-compatible devices. The player is optimized for watching HD and Ultra HD video files with crisp clarity.

It also includes DivX Converter and DivX Media Server for a full-featured media experience. While some features are part of the Pro version, the free player itself is still a solid alternative to VLC for users focused on format fidelity and network sharing.

Key Features:

• Optimized for DivX, HEVC, MKV formats
• Supports 4K Ultra HD playback
• Built-in media server with DLNA
• Scene navigation and chapter support
• Advanced audio playback controls
• Cross-platform (Windows/macOS)

10. QuickTime Player

QuickTime Player is Apple’s native media player for macOS, offering a smooth and elegant video experience. While it doesn’t support as many formats out of the box as VLC, it provides top-notch performance and tight integration with macOS features. QuickTime is ideal for simple playback, recording, and trimming.

Its minimalist interface makes it beginner-friendly, while built-in screen recording and iOS device capture tools give it extra utility. If you’re a Mac user seeking an alternative to VLC with better macOS integration, this is a great pick. Boost your efficiency with our QuickTime Player Shortcuts.

Key Features:

• Native macOS integration
• High-quality H.264 and MOV support
• Screen and iOS device recording
• Simple video trimming tools
• Clean, intuitive interface
• Optimized for macOS performance

11. Kodi

Kodi is an open-source media center that goes far beyond basic playback. Originally developed as XBMC, Kodi transforms your device into a fully functional home theater hub. It supports local and network-stored media and includes a large library of community-created add-ons for streaming content from across the web.

Kodi’s interface is highly customizable, and it works across all major platforms including Android TV and Raspberry Pi. It’s ideal for users who want more than just a media player Kodi can serve as your full media library manager. Power users can also boost productivity with our Kodi Shortcuts.

Key Features:

• Full-featured media center software
• Supports local, network, and internet streaming
• Vast ecosystem of add-ons and plugins
• Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, etc.)
• Customizable skins and themes
• Built-in PVR (personal video recorder) support

12. Plex

Plex is both a media player and a server solution that lets you stream your personal media library to any device. It’s a great VLC alternative if you’re looking for a centralized way to manage and access your media on the go. Plex automatically fetches metadata and artwork, making your collection look organized and polished.

With Plex Pass, you also get premium features like offline syncing, parental controls, and live TV support. Plex is ideal for users who want a seamless multi-device experience. To optimize your setup, explore our list of Plex Shortcuts.

Key Features:

• Media server and client support
• Beautiful library management with metadata
• Remote streaming on any device
• Live TV and DVR functionality (with Plex Pass)
• Supports a wide range of formats
• Available on nearly every platform

13. Jellyfin

Jellyfin is a free, open-source media system that lets you manage and stream your media without any limitations or subscription fees. It’s a community-driven alternative to Plex and Emby, giving you complete control over your content, privacy, and network setup.

You can set up your own Jellyfin server and stream media to multiple devices on your home network or remotely. It’s perfect for those who value open-source software and want to build a personal media streaming solution. Jellyfin’s web interface and apps make it accessible and modern.

Key Features:

• 100% free and open-source
• Self-hosted media server
• Supports movies, TV shows, music, and photos
• Web-based and app-based access
• Multi-user support and access controls
• No tracking or subscription required

14. Emby

Emby is a media server and playback platform that sits between Plex and Jellyfin in terms of control and ease of use. It allows users to stream media across devices while offering parental controls, metadata fetching, and live TV options. It also supports transcoding for smooth playback on slower devices.

The core software is free, but some advanced features require Emby Premiere. Its sleek interface and mobile-friendly apps make Emby a strong VLC competitor for those who need media management with flexibility. Great for families or multi-device households.

Key Features:

• Personal media server and streaming platform
• Supports live TV and DVR
• Automatic metadata and subtitle management
• Cross-platform streaming and sync
• Emby Premiere adds mobile sync and backups
• Multi-user access with parental control

15. Stremio

Stremio is a modern media center that aggregates content from multiple sources including YouTube, Netflix, and other streaming platforms. Rather than storing your own media, it uses add-ons to access and stream content directly from the internet. It’s ideal for users who want a centralized place to discover and watch new media.

Its interface is simple and organized, with one-click streaming and automatic metadata collection. While not a direct replacement for VLC in local playback, Stremio is a top choice for cloud-based content discovery and streaming.

Key Features:

• Aggregates streaming content via add-ons
• Auto-fetches metadata and subtitles
• Clean, Netflix-style interface
• Supports torrents and cloud streaming
• Cross-platform and mobile apps available
• Open-source base with secure playback

16. MediaPortal

MediaPortal is a powerful open-source media center for Windows, designed to turn your PC into a full home theater system. It supports video, music, TV, and radio playback, and integrates seamlessly with TV tuners to enable live TV recording and timeshifting.

Its interface is customizable, and it offers support for plugins and skins to enhance functionality. MediaPortal is ideal for users who want a centralized platform for all their media, including cable TV functionality making it more than just a VLC alternative.

Key Features:

• Watch and record live TV
• Full media center with video, music, and radio
• Plugin and skin support for customization
• Remote control and mobile app integration
• Timeshift and scheduled recording options
• Windows-only platform

17. Serviio

Serviio is a media server application that allows you to stream content to DLNA-compatible devices such as TVs, consoles, Blu-ray players, and smartphones. It supports a variety of file formats and transcoding to deliver smooth playback regardless of the device.

Unlike VLC, which focuses on playback, Serviio is great for users who want to distribute content from one central machine across their home network. It’s available in both free and Pro versions, with the latter offering more control and remote access features.

Key Features:

• DLNA-compliant media streaming
• Real-time transcoding for device compatibility
• Content delivery over home networks
• Metadata extraction and content categorization
• Supports subtitles and audio tracks
• Windows, macOS, and Linux support

18. IINA (macOS)

IINA is a modern media player built exclusively for macOS, leveraging MPV’s powerful core while offering a native macOS design. It supports all major video and audio formats and integrates beautifully with macOS features like Touch Bar, Picture-in-Picture, and dark mode.

Its clean interface and advanced playback settings make it a top VLC alternative for Mac users. IINA also supports online subtitles, track selection, and customizable key bindings, making it both elegant and highly functional.

Key Features:

• macOS-native UI with dark mode and Touch Bar
• Based on the MPV engine
• Supports all major codecs and formats
• Picture-in-Picture and gesture control
• Online subtitle download support
• Fully open-source and actively maintained

19. MediaMonkey

MediaMonkey is more than a media player it’s a full-featured media manager ideal for users with large audio and video libraries. It offers powerful tagging, library organization, and playlist features, along with playback capabilities for a wide range of formats.

It’s especially popular among music lovers, but it also handles video well. MediaMonkey supports CD ripping, device sync, podcast downloads, and auto-tagging. For those overwhelmed by VLC’s limited library tools, MediaMonkey provides deep organization features.

Key Features:

• Robust media library and tagging tools
• Supports audio and video playback
• Sync with iOS and Android devices
• CD ripping and automatic file conversion
• Podcast and audiobook support
• Available on Windows (with mobile companion apps)

20. RealPlayer

RealPlayer has evolved from its early days as a streaming media player into a comprehensive media management tool. It offers video downloading from popular sites, private video storage, and simple editing features like trimming and converting.

Its modern version supports cloud syncing and secure sharing across devices. RealPlayer is great for casual users who want to manage, watch, and share their media without technical hassle. It’s also one of the few VLC alternatives with a focus on privacy and mobile integration.

Key Features:

• Video download from websites
• Cloud storage and secure sharing
• Video converter and basic editing tools
• Private video locker feature
• Clean interface with playlist support
• Windows-based with mobile extensions

Conclusion

While VLC Media Player remains a solid choice for many, it’s clear that the media landscape offers a wide variety of alternatives tailored to different needs. Whether you’re seeking better streaming capabilities, a more modern interface, advanced subtitle handling, or server-based media management, there’s a VLC alternative for you.

For local playback, tools like PotPlayer, KMPlayer, and mpv deliver smooth performance and deep customization. If you’re building a home media hub, options like Plex, Kodi, or Jellyfin offer expansive control and access across devices. And for macOS users, IINA provides a seamless, native experience.

Explore these VLC competitors based on your platform and preferences you might find something that suits your viewing habits even better than the original. Happy watching!

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