VLC media player

VLC media player Review

Reviewed by

Mohamed Zaki

VLC media player is a solid free and open-source multimedia tool. Created by the VideoLAN project, VLC was firstly introduced in 1996.

It can handle any audio or video file format, so you won’t have to worry about downloading extra codec packs.

This capability extends to DVDs, Audio CDs, and even streaming content, making VLC the ultimate all-in-one media solution. But that’s not all, VLC packs a surprising range of features.

You can convert media formats, record your screen, and even stream content to other devices on your network.

Thanks to its open-source nature, VLC is continuously improved by a dedicated community, ensuring it remains a robust and ever-evolving media player for Windows users.

VLC media player has proven itself as the go-to media player for Windows PCs. But what exactly makes it stand out?

Let’s explore its key features, download process, and installation to see why VLC deserves to be your default video player.

Unmatched Format Support

Have you ever spent way too long trying to find the right video player or codec just to watch a movie? That’s a huge hassle, but with VLC, those days are over.

VLC handles almost any video file you throw at it, whether it’s a common MP4 or MKV, or something you don’t see as often like an FLV or OGG.

No more downloading a different player for every file type. VLC’s versatility means you’ll have a smooth, simple video-watching experience every single time.

Besides Playback: A Feature Rich Player

VLC is so much more than just a video player. It’s packed with hidden tools that give you complete control over what you’re watching.

Need to adjust subtitles? Tweak audio or video settings? Easily create a playlist for your favorite videos? VLC has you covered.

For those who want to take things a step further, VLC lets you stream media from your own local network or from online sources. This makes it an incredibly powerful and versatile tool for anyone who loves multimedia.

Customization Galore

While user-friendly, VLC offers a surprising degree of customization. Tweak playback settings, play with audio and video effects, or create personalized shortcuts to tailor your viewing experience.

Advanced users can delve deeper with advanced settings and plugins.

Open-source Advantage

It’s completely free to use, with no hidden costs or in-app purchases. The active developer community ensures regular updates, bug fixes, and even feature enhancements based on user feedback.

Lightweight and Efficient

Despite its feature-rich nature, VLC remains a lightweight program. It consumes minimal system resources, making it ideal for users with older machines. This allows for smooth playback even on less powerful hardware.

How to Download & Install VLC media player

VLC Media Player is a free and powerful tool that lets you play virtually any video or audio file on your Windows PC. It’s easy to download and install, making it a great choice for anyone who wants a simple way to enjoy their media collection.

Here’s how to get VLC up and running on your Windows machine:

Getting VLC for your Windows PC

1. Standard 64-bit installer: This is the most common option for most Windows PCs.

2. ARM-based installer: If you have a newer Windows device with an ARM processor, you’ll need this specific installer.

3. Offline installer: For situations where you can’t connect to the internet during installation, VLC provides downloadable offline installers for both 64-bit and ARM versions.

Finding the right VLC installer

The official VLC website doesn’t directly provide download links. However, our download page will give you official direct download links where you can safely download the latest version for your specific needs.

Remember to choose the installer that matches your system (64-bit, ARM) and whether you have an internet connection available during installation.

Downloading VLC

1. Click on the above Green Download button.
2. Save VLC setup file to your local desk.

Installing

1. Double-click the downloaded file to begin the installation.

2. Click “Next” and accept the license agreement.

3. Choose Components: You can choose to leave most settings at their defaults unless you have specific needs.

4. Click “Install” to start the installation. It will only take a few minutes.

5. Click “Finish” to launch VLC Media Player.

That’s it! Now you can open any video or audio file on your computer by right-clicking on it and selecting “Open with > VLC media player.”

System Requirements

VLC runs smoothly on nearly any Windows PC, even older ones. Here’s what you’ll need:

• OS: Windows 7 or later (32-bit or 64-bit).
• CPU: A modest 1GHz processor or better.
• RAM: At least 512MB (but 1GB or more is ideal for HD/4K playback).
• Graphics: Any basic GPU works; dedicated hardware helps for 4K or HDR.
• Storage: Just 200MB of free space. Smaller than most mobile apps.
• Extras: Audio output (obviously) and a decent internet connection for streaming.

The beauty of VLC? It’s lightweight enough to run on decade-old hardware without breaking a sweat. No bloated installs, no sneaky background processes, just playback that works.

Pros & Cons

Best VLC media player Alternatives

PotPlayer

Get unparalleled video playback and experience with this best video and audio player.

Media Player Classic – BE

A free, lightweight Windows media player with advanced playback features.

PowerDVD

Turns your PC into a high-end media hub for movies, music, and more.