Are you tired of Windows 11 opening your videos with the default Movies & TV app? If you prefer VLC Media Player—the lightweight, versatile, and powerful video player—you can easily set it as your default. This guide will show you how to make VLC your default player in Windows 11 step by step, so every video or audio file automatically opens with VLC.
Why Use VLC as Your Default Player?
VLC Media Player is one of the most popular media players for a reason:
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Supports almost all media formats (MP4, AVI, MKV, MP3, FLAC, and more)
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Lightweight and fast
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Customizable interface and playback options
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Built-in codecs—no need to download extra software
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Free and open source
Setting VLC as your default player ensures you don’t have to manually select it every time you play a video.
Step 1: Install VLC Media Player
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Open your web browser and go to VLC Official Website.
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Click Download VLC.
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Run the installer after download and follow the on-screen instructions.
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Once installed, launch VLC to ensure it works properly.
Step 2: Open Windows 11 Settings
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Alternatively, click Start > Settings.
Step 3: Navigate to Apps Settings
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In the Settings sidebar, click Apps.
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Select Default apps from the menu.
Step 4: Search for VLC Media Player
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In the search bar under Set defaults for applications, type VLC.
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Click VLC Media Player in the search results.
Step 5: Set VLC as Default for File Types
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You’ll see a list of file types (MP4, AVI, MKV, MP3, etc.).
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Click on a file type, and select VLC Media Player.
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Repeat for all file types you want VLC to handle automatically.
Tip: To quickly set VLC for all compatible formats, choose Set default for all if the option appears.
Step 6: Verify the Default Player
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Double-click a video or audio file you previously opened with Movies & TV.
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It should now open automatically in VLC Media Player.
Alternative Method: Set VLC as Default via File Properties
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Right-click any video file (e.g., MP4) → Properties.
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Under the General tab, find Opens with → Click Change.
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Select VLC Media Player → Apply → OK.
This method works if you want to change default settings for specific file types only.
Step 7: Enable VLC Features for Better Playback
After setting VLC as default:
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Enable hardware-accelerated decoding for smoother playback:
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Open VLC → Tools > Preferences > Input / Codecs → Hardware-accelerated decoding: Automatic.
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Adjust audio and video effects for optimal viewing.
Common Issues and Fixes
1. VLC Not Showing in Default Apps
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Reinstall VLC with administrator rights.
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Restart Windows 11.
2. Windows Keeps Opening Movies & TV
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Check Settings > Apps > Default apps and ensure VLC is set correctly.
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Use the File Properties method for stubborn file types.
3. Some File Types Still Open with Other Apps
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Repeat the process for additional extensions (MKV, FLV, WMV, etc.).
Conclusion
Making VLC the default player in Windows 11 is easy and ensures a smooth, versatile media experience. Whether you’re watching movies, listening to music, or streaming videos, VLC handles almost any format without hassle. With these steps, every video or audio file will automatically open in VLC, saving time and improving playback quality.
FAQs
1. Can I make VLC the default for all media files at once?
Yes, in the Default apps > VLC menu, you can select Set default for all supported file types.
2. Is VLC better than Windows 11 Movies & TV?
For format support, customization, and performance, VLC is superior.
3. Can I revert back to Movies & TV?
Yes, go to Settings > Apps > Default apps and select Movies & TV as default.
4. Do I need admin rights to change default apps?
No, regular user accounts can change default media players.
5. Will VLC automatically play DVDs or Blu-rays?
Yes, VLC can play physical discs without additional software.