When it comes to watching videos on your computer, laptop, or mobile device, the default video player can often be a source of frustration. Whether it’s slow, buggy, or just plain annoying, having a default video player that doesn’t meet your needs can ruin an otherwise enjoyable video viewing experience. But fear not, dear reader, for we’re about to show you exactly how to change your default video player and take control of your video viewing experience once and for all.
Why Change Your Default Video Player?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of changing your default video player, let’s take a step back and explore why you might want to make the switch in the first place.
Security Concerns: Many default video players come bundled with malware, adware, or other malicious software that can compromise your device’s security. By switching to a different video player, you can reduce the risk of your device being infected with malware.
Performance Issues: If your default video player is slow, crashes frequently, or struggles to play certain video formats, it can be a frustrating experience. Changing to a more reliable video player can help you avoid these issues and enjoy a smoother video viewing experience.
Additional Features: Some video players offer additional features such as support for multiple video formats, customizable playback options, and enhanced audio quality. By switching to a different video player, you can access these features and enhance your overall video viewing experience.
How to Change Your Default Video Player on Windows
Changing your default video player on Windows is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Method 1: Change Default Video Player Through Settings
- Click on the Start menu and select the Settings icon.
- In the Settings window, click on System.
- In the System window, click on Default apps.
- In the Default apps window, click on Video player.
- Click on the current default video player to open a dropdown menu.
- Select the video player you want to set as the default from the dropdown menu.
Method 2: Change Default Video Player Through File Explorer
- Open File Explorer and navigate to the folder that contains the video file you want to play.
- Right-click on the video file and select Open with.
- In the Open with window, click on Choose another app.
- In the Choose another app window, select the video player you want to set as the default.
- Check the box next to Always use this app to open .[file extension] files.
- Click OK to set the default video player.
How to Change Your Default Video Player on Mac
Changing your default video player on Mac is also a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Method 1: Change Default Video Player Through Finder
- Open Finder and navigate to the folder that contains the video file you want to play.
- Right-click on the video file and select Get Info.
- In the Get Info window, click on the Open with dropdown menu.
- Select the video player you want to set as the default from the dropdown menu.
- Click Change All to apply the changes to all files with the same extension.
Method 2: Change Default Video Player Through System Preferences
- Click on the Apple menu and select System Preferences.
- In the System Preferences window, click on LaunchServices.
- In the LaunchServices window, click on the Video tab.
- Select the video player you want to set as the default from the dropdown menu.
- Click OK to apply the changes.
How to Change Your Default Video Player on Android
Changing your default video player on Android is a bit more complex than on Windows or Mac, but it’s still a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Method 1: Change Default Video Player Through Settings
- Go to the Settings app on your Android device.
- Scroll down and select Apps.
- Select the Video player app you want to set as the default.
- Tap the Advanced button.
- Tap the Set as default button.
Method 2: Change Default Video Player Through File Manager
- Open the File Manager app on your Android device.
- Navigate to the folder that contains the video file you want to play.
- Long-press on the video file and select More.
- Select Open in and then select the video player you want to set as the default.
- Check the box next to Always use this app to open this type of file.
- Tap OK to apply the changes.
Additional Tips and Tricks
While changing your default video player is a relatively straightforward process, there are a few additional tips and tricks you should keep in mind to get the most out of your new video player:
- Check Compatibility: Before switching to a new video player, make sure it’s compatible with your device and operating system.
- Read Reviews: Read reviews and ratings from other users to get an idea of the video player’s performance, features, and any potential issues.
- Customize Settings: Take the time to customize your new video player’s settings to optimize performance, audio quality, and other features.
Conclusion
Changing your default video player is a simple process that can make a big difference in your video viewing experience. By following the step-by-step guides outlined above, you can take control of your video viewing experience and enjoy a smoother, more enjoyable experience. Remember to check compatibility, read reviews, and customize settings to get the most out of your new video player. Happy viewing!
What is a default video player and why does it matter?
A default video player is the video player that your device or browser opens automatically when you try to play a video file. It matters because the default video player can affect the quality of your video viewing experience, the level of control you have over playback, and even the security of your device. Depending on the default video player, you may experience issues with video playback, such as poor video quality, lack of subtitles, or intrusive ads.
Having control over your default video player allows you to choose a player that meets your specific needs and preferences. For example, if you prefer a player with advanced features such as customizable subtitles or audio tracks, you can set it as your default player. By taking control of your default video player, you can improve your overall video viewing experience and avoid frustration with unwanted playback issues.
What are the different types of video players available?
There are several types of video players available, including media players, browser extensions, and mobile apps. Media players are standalone applications that can play video files locally on your device. Examples of media players include VLC Media Player, KMPlayer, and Media Player Classic. Browser extensions, on the other hand, are add-ons that allow you to play videos directly within your web browser. Examples of browser extensions include VideoLAN VLC and KMPlayer Extension. Mobile apps are designed specifically for mobile devices and can play video files locally on your smartphone or tablet.
The choice of video player depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you want a player with advanced features and customization options, a media player may be the best choice. If you prefer to play videos directly within your browser, a browser extension may be the way to go. If you want to play videos on your mobile device, a mobile app is the best option.
How do I change my default video player on Windows?
To change your default video player on Windows, you need to access the Settings app and navigate to the Apps section. From there, click on the “Default apps” option and select the “Video player” option. You will then see a list of available video players on your device. Click on the video player you want to set as your default player, and then click “OK” to save your changes.
Alternatively, you can also change your default video player by opening the File Explorer, right-clicking on a video file, and selecting the “Open with” option. From there, you can select the video player you want to use and check the box next to “Always use this app to open .[file extension] files”.
How do I change my default video player on Mac?
To change your default video player on Mac, you need to access the Apple menu and select the “System Preferences” option. From there, click on the “General” option and select the “Default apps” option. You will then see a list of available video players on your device. Click on the video player you want to set as your default player, and then click “OK” to save your changes.
Alternatively, you can also change your default video player by opening the Finder, right-clicking on a video file, and selecting the “Get Info” option. From there, you can select the video player you want to use and check the box next to “Open with”.
How do I change my default video player on Android?
To change your default video player on Android, you need to access the Settings app and navigate to the Apps section. From there, click on the “Default apps” option and select the “Video player” option. You will then see a list of available video players on your device. Click on the video player you want to set as your default player, and then click “OK” to save your changes.
Alternatively, you can also change your default video player by opening the Google Play Store, searching for the video player you want to use, and installing it. Once installed, you can set it as your default player by opening the app and following the prompts.
What are some popular video players that I can use as my default player?
Some popular video players that you can use as your default player include VLC Media Player, KMPlayer, and Media Player Classic. These players are known for their advanced features, customization options, and high-quality video playback. VLC Media Player, in particular, is a popular choice among video enthusiasts due to its ability to play a wide range of video formats, including 4K and 360-degree videos.
Other popular video players include PotPlayer, GOM Player, and SMPlayer. These players offer advanced features such as subtitle synchronization, audio tracks, and video filters. You can experiment with different video players to find the one that best meets your needs and preferences.
Will changing my default video player affect my system’s performance?
Changing your default video player is unlikely to affect your system’s performance significantly. However, the performance of the new default player may vary depending on its system requirements and resource usage. For example, a resource-intensive video player may consume more CPU and memory resources, which can affect your system’s performance.
To minimize any potential performance impact, it’s recommended to choose a lightweight video player that is optimized for your device’s specifications. You can also monitor your system’s performance using task manager or system monitoring tools to ensure that the new default player is not causing any issues.