5 open-source media players that put VLC to shame

VLC Media Player has long been the go-to alternative for Windows Media Player on PCs. In fact, it used to be one of the first few apps I installed as soon as I set up a new computer. Over time, though, the same old design has gotten stale, and several alternatives have popped up that offer a fresh look along with a bunch of useful features. That’s when I decided to explore the world of free and open-source media players that could give VLC a run for its money. Thankfully, it didn’t take me long to encounter some awesome apps that rival VLC and even beat it in some ways.

Some of these apps specialize in certain sectors, while others are simple media players that just get the job done by providing a no-frills experience. I’ve also thrown in an audio player since I’m sure there are several users out there like me who used to use VLC as an MP3 player too, so an audio-only alternative still makes sense for a niche group. So, if you’re tired of Windows Media Player and bored with VLC, here are some cool open-source alternatives you can try.

5

MPC-BE

Simple yet elegant

MPC stands for Media Player Classic – one of the most popular Windows Media Player replacements from back in the day. Several editions of this particular player have originated over the years. There’s MPC-HE, which is Media Player Classic – Home Cinema. Then, there’s MPC-BE, which is Media Player Classic – Black Edition. While the core functionality remains the same, MPC-BE has a few additional features and a black theme to suit the moniker.

Apart from the ability to play audio and video files in various formats, MPC-BE has support for hardware decoding and deinterlacing​​​​​​, 3D stereo modes, subtitles, and mounting ISO images automatically so they can be played directly. A feature that I found rather interesting is automatically shutting down the PC after playback. As the name suggests, MPC will turn off your computer once you’ve finished watching a movie or show — quite handy for those late-night binge sessions. The player has a modern look and a clean interface, making it a solid option for your default media player.

MPC-BE

MPC-BE is a simple media player that has all the required features with an elegant, black theme.

4

SMPlayer

Support for skins and themes

The built-in codecs on SMPlayer ensure it can play pretty much any file format you throw at it – regardless of whether it’s an audio or video file. The usual set of features like support for subtitles, changing playback speed, remembering the position of the seeker from the last time, etc. are here, but it’s the additional functionality that makes SMPlayer stand out.

For instance, there’s an add-on that lets you stream YouTube videos directly inside SMPlayer. Then, there’s the option to download multiple themes and skins to change the look of the player. Customize it as per your requirements so you don’t get bored with it quickly. It has a retro theme by default, which is reminiscent of Windows Media Player from the Windows Vista days.

SMPlayer

SMPlayer is a GUI for command-line players like MPV of MPlayer, offering robust video and audio support so you can enjoy videos in any format.

3

Miro

The iTunes lookalike

Don’t go by what shape Miro’s website is in. While the site has lost its design charm over the years, the player itself still functions absolutely fine even today. Miro looks similar to iTunes, and that’s for a reason. It was initially designed to be an iTunes replacement with more features. Apart from playing audio and video files, you can download and purchase music from multiple different stores on Miro.

Additionally, the platform can also play podcasts from various sources, so it’s like an all-in-one media tool along with being a media player for your offline files. It also has a built-in file converter and a network-sharing system. So, if two or more devices are using Miro on the same network, you can share media files between them. It’s a good option, although it seems like the project has now been abandoned, so expect some broken elements and no updates going forward.

Miro

Miro is a media player that looks and functions similar to iTunes. It has a built-in file converter, podcast player, and access to multiple stores to download music.

2

Clementine

For all the music lovers out there

Unlike all the other options on this list, Clementine is strictly an audio player. Not only can it play local audio files from your computer, but it also gives you access to internet radio stations from Spotify, Soundcloud, and several other services. In fact, you can even link it to your cloud storage accounts. After which, searching for a track will also search your cloud storage. This is an excellent feature for those who have purchased MP3 tracks in the past.

There’s support for viewing lyrics in real time, adding album art for missing tracks, and using an Android phone as a remote controller to switch between tracks from a distance. I would say Clementine is probably the best audio player out there when it comes to so many features baked into a single app.

Clementine

Clementine is an advanced audio player and music library management program that allows you to build playlists, organize tracks, and stream music from various internet services.

1

Bino

Play VR and 3D videos flawlessly

Bino isn’t your usual multi-format media player. While it certainly can play standard videos, it specializes in playing stereoscopic 3D and VR content. There’s support for 3D content in various formats, along with support for 180-degree and 360-degree videos too, even if they aren’t necessarily shot in 3D. The app also functions well with 3D displays and VR headsets.

The reason why you should use a specialized 3D player like Bino is that it provides controls that can overcome ghosting, adjust viewing angles, and ensure you have a pleasant experience when watching stereoscopic content. Since VR environments are also supported, you can even watch spatial videos via the app.

Bino

Bino makes watching 3D and VR content a breeze on your computer.

Ready to switch from VLC?

VLC is the default media player for a lot of people, so it may seem difficult to switch to an alternate app initially. However, there are a few media players that have better features and arguably better UI that make them compelling options. Perhaps, you can give them a try and decide whether you still want to stick to VLC or not.

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