VLC Media Player
VideoLAN
VLC Media Player is a free and open-source, cross-platform multimedia player that plays most multimedia files as well as DVDs, Audio CDs, VCDs, and various streaming protocols. It supports a wide range of audio and video formats without requiring extra codecs.
User Sentiments
Top Likes
- Plays almost any video and audio format
- Free and open source
- Cross-platform availability
- Simple and easy to use
- Lightweight and fast
Top Dislikes
- User interface can be outdated or not visually exciting for some users
- Some users report occasional bugs or settings reset issues
- Lack of some advanced features compared to paid alternatives (e.g., advanced streaming features in Elmedia Player)
Popular Comments
Diray Acosta (App Store User)
2023-06-18
Works most of the time. It's cool when it works. I don't like that the settings I make like equalizer and video filters and playback delay are reset every time I reopen the app.
jax4txt (App Store User)
2024-11-11
Almost perfect. I'm really in love with this app!
cme100160 (App Store User)
2024-01-17
Updated 3 to 5 stars. This is the most advanced & compatible video player Apple has when it comes to playing other companies formats.
MacUpdate User
2024-06-16
VLC Media Player is a highly portable multimedia player for various audio and video formats... as well as DVDs, VCDs, and various streaming protocols. It can also be used as a server to stream in unicast or multicast in IPv4 or IPv6 on a high-bandwidth network.
Reddit User - u/evilone777
2023-10-25
VLC is still a must have player.
Cnet Editor
2024-06-12
VLC Media Player is a free and open-source media player with a huge fan base among Mac users. It owes its popularity to the wide range of audio and video formats it supports... A must-have app for every Mac user.
Detailed Review
VLC Media Player is a highly popular, free, and open-source multimedia player available for macOS and other platforms. It is well-regarded for its ability to play virtually any video and audio file format without needing additional codecs, making it a versatile alternative to default players like QuickTime. VLC supports various media, including files, discs, webcams, devices, and streaming protocols, and it can also function as a server for streaming media over networks.
Standout Features
- Broad Format Support: Plays almost every known video and audio format, including MPEG-2, MPEG-4/Xvid, H.264, MKV, WebM, WMV, and MP3, as well as DVDs, Audio CDs, and Blu-ray discs.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, providing a consistent user experience across devices.
- Free and Open Source: Completely free to use, with no ads, spyware, or user tracking. Developed by a non-profit organization, VideoLAN.
- Simple Interface: Offers a straightforward and easy-to-use interface, with essential playback controls readily accessible.
- Advanced Features: Includes support for subtitles, playback speed control, audio and video filters, and the ability to take screenshots.
- Streaming Capabilities: Supports streaming from various sources, including SMB, FTP, SFTP, NFS, UPnP/DLNA media servers, and the web.
Conclusion
VLC Media Player remains a top choice for Mac users seeking a reliable and versatile media player. Its comprehensive format support, combined with its free and open-source nature, makes it an excellent option for both basic and advanced users. While some users may find the interface less visually appealing compared to more modern players, its functionality and consistent performance are highly praised. For users needing a player that "just works" with any media file they throw at it, VLC is an outstanding solution. It is especially valuable for users who appreciate open-source software and require broad format compatibility without extra costs or codec installations.
