Side by side
MediaPortal vs VLC media player
Both stand on media player software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhoneWeb+1
MediaPortal combines live TV, media-library playback, and radio in software for Windows PCs. Choose between MP1, which has more plugins, and MP2, which the maker also describes as stable and usable.
Visit MediaPortal Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+2
VLC covers a wide range of playback sources and formats across desktop and mobile systems. Its listed free plan has no spyware, ads or tracking, with no other limits stated.
Visit VLC media playerThe facts
| MediaPortal | VLC media player | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Web, Windows | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | MediaPortal | VLC media player |
| Website | team-mediaportal.com | videolan.org |
| On media player software | #4 of 76 | #1 of 76 |
MediaPortal: what it does well
- Free and open-source software.
- Shows and records live TV.
- Plays videos, music, pictures, and DVDs.
- Supports network playback and subtitles.
- Community plugins and skins are available.
What to know first
- Requires a Windows PC.
- MP2 has fewer plugins than MP1.
- Outdated versions are not supported.
VLC media player: what it does well
- Free to use, with no ads or user tracking.
- Plays files, discs, webcams, devices and streams.
- Supports subtitles, hardware acceleration and 4K playback.
- Works on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android.
- Supports skins and extensions.
What to know first
- No other free-tier limits are listed.
- Codec packs may still be needed for some codecs.
Alternatives to MediaPortal Alternatives to VLC media player The whole list