Side by side
mpv 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 AndroidAPILinux+2
mpv offers broad media support, video controls and extension options in a command-line-focused player. Its limited GUI and release support policy are important considerations.
Visit mpv 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
| mpv | VLC media player | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, API, Linux, Mac, Windows | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | VLC media player |
| Website | mpv.io | videolan.org |
| On media player software | #2 of 76 | #1 of 76 |
mpv: what it does well
- Supports network playback and subtitles
- Includes 4K playback and hardware decoding
- Video features include HDR and interpolation
- Scripting and C API support
What to know first
- No full graphical interface
- Older releases are unsupported and unmaintained
- Not designed for untrusted environments
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 mpv Alternatives to VLC media player The whole list