VLC Media Player

VLC Media Player: a good old friend that never lets you down

Have you ever wondered why, despite a bunch of new apps and streaming platforms, VLC Media Player is still at the top of the list for millions? At first glance – an ordinary player. But if you analyze it, it’s a real hard worker.

We’ll take a closer look at what’s so great about it and why you should get it now, even if you think it doesn’t apply to you.

What’s so appealing about him?

You can use VLC to play your media because it is free and open source. That’s already good. But the main thing is that it opens almost any format: MP4, MKV, FLAC, old AVI and a bunch of others. No additional downloads, no dancing with settings. Just download it, launch it and go.

Available on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS. This is not simply an abridged maker – it has every feature you would expect.

What it can do and how it can be of use to you

Here’s a short list of his features:

• Displays subtitles in any format – either external .srt or embedded.
• Converts video – for example, from MKV to MP4. A couple of clicks and you’re done.
• Records the screen – convenient if you need to explain something step by step.
• Plays streaming video, including IPTV.
• There is an equalizer, for those who like to tweak the sound to suit themselves.
• Customizable hotkeys and even a command line mode – suitable for those who like to do everything from the keyboard.

Does it seem complicated? It can be. But the interface is as simple as possible. Even if you’ve never messed with the settings, you’ll figure it out the first time.

Works everywhere – and it’s convenient

• VLC for Windows – yes.
• Mac – sure.
• Linux? No problem.
• Android and iOS? You’re all set.

The best part is that the interface is similar everywhere. The settings are familiar. The behavior is clear. Nothing is confusing.

It’s possible to use VLC with Chromecast! You are able to stream video directly from your laptop to your TV. Very easy and uncomplicated.

Are there any problems with it?

In fact, sometimes yes. For example:

• Sound may be lost. Usually solved by switching the output in the settings.
• Subtitles are not displayed? The file may be broken.
• Sound doesn’t match the video? There are hotkeys J and K – you can adjust everything quickly.

It’s rare stuff, but still – it’s good to know.

What about the other players?

There are KMPlayer, Vidmore Player, MPC-HC, PotPlayer and others. But most of them either have inconvenient interface, or ads, or both at once.

VLC is simple, easy, and does not impose anything. You just open the video and watch it. It doesn’t get in the way, doesn’t ask for payment, and doesn’t burden you with unnecessary work.

To install or not to install?

If you need an all-in-one player that just runs videos and music without too much fuss, VLC is a great choice.

It’s not glossy. It’s not “fancy.” But it works. And that’s what matters. A stable program that does its job – what more could you want from a player?

Bottom line: old, but not obsolete

VLC Media Player is like an old friend. Doesn’t whine, doesn’t demand money, doesn’t load. It just does its job.

It’s good for watching movies, for those who edit videos, and even for advanced users with a bunch of screens.

Download it, open the file, watch. Sometimes it’s that simplicity that is the best solution.

And yes – VLC is still worth keeping on hand. It’s time-tested. And it still does a great job.