VLC
Plays virtually any video or audio format without codec packs or subscriptions.
Quick facts
- Price model
- Open source
- Starting price
- Free
- Best for
- Local media playback · Odd file formats · Subtitle tweaking
- Replaces
- Elmedia Player, Paid codec packs, Some streaming app needs
- Platforms
- MacWindowsLinuxiOSAndroid
- Last verified
- 2026-06-22
Why it's listed
One app plays everything you throw at it—no 'upgrade to Pro' for basic playback.
VLC handles local files, DVDs, streams, and odd formats that other players refuse. It's been the reliable media player for decades—free, open source, and without ads or premium unlocks.
The catch
Interface is functional, not beautiful; not a full replacement for a curated streaming library UI.
Good fit for
- Media hoarders
- Students with lecture recordings
- Anyone with MKV files
Not ideal for
- People who only stream from Netflix in a browser
Alternatives
Plex
Legal media server for your owned files—plus thousands of free ad-supported movies and live channels.
Replaces: Re-buying movies on every streaming service, Extra paid streamers for background TV
Jellyfin
Fully open-source media server—no premium tier required for core streaming features.
Replaces: Plex Pass, Monthly media server fees
Obsidian
A local-first notes app that stores your vault as plain Markdown files on your device.
Replaces: Evernote, Notion…
Joplin
Open-source note-taking with optional end-to-end encrypted sync you control.
Replaces: Evernote, OneNote…