Simple Guide on How to Change Default Video Player on Mac
For Macintosh users, QuickTime has been the default video player for years. However, there are some situations when you will need a program offering more options and flexibility. Suppose file formats, poor performance, or the need for more functions cause it. In that case, changing the default video player on a Mac is quite reasonable. In this guide, you have seen numerous ways to alter the default video player on a Mac, which can help dramatically improve your media consumption. This article will help you understand how to achieve this and present you with a list of the best tools to change default video player on Mac. Here, we will understand more about playing videos and how you can enhance your Mac for the media.
Navigation
Brief Understanding in Default Video Player in Mac
A. Mac Users Default Video Player: Quick Overview of QuickTime
QuickTime is a macOS default multimedia player embedded in Apple hardware devices. It is compatible with different types of files, such as MOV, MP4, and M4V. Additional features of QuickTime include simple editing tools such as cutting and rotating a clip. While it can be a decent way to watch HBO Max offline or other video, it needs more support regarding formats and settings. For instance, a user may notice that QuickTime has some limitations if they try to open videos like AVI or MKV. This is why people turn to other video players that are more usable, provide more features, and support a wider variety of formats.
B. Why the Default Player Needs to Be Changed
There are several reasons why you need to change default media player Mac from QuickTime to something else. Read the following issues below to understand more.
Limited Format Support: QuickTime doesn't support some formats, such as MKV, AVI, and FLV. These files are not playable natively unless you install third-party plugins or codecs into your operating system.
Lack of Advanced Features: QuickTime is very simple and comes with few rather simple controls compared to more advanced controls like sub-title options, custom playback options, or even streaming videos from other sources.
Performance Issues: Due to low CPU capability, some videos, especially high-resolution videos, do not play fluidly in QuickTime; they avert, lag, and stutter. This frequency puts alternative players in a better position to handle large video files.
User Preferences: Some users want third-party video players because of their designs, interfaces, or functionality. Sometimes, they may need additional options for media playback or a more efficient navigation layout.
Enhanced Playback Control: Using additional players may make changing the playback speed and volume or the video's appearance easier.
Effective Ways to Change the Default Video Player
Switching your current default video player is vital to maximizing the media experience when using your Mac PC. People might think that it is a very difficult chore to accomplish, but there are actually easy and practical ways to do it. In this section, we’ll guide you through the process of how to change default video player Mac and go over some of the most valuable options for Mac users.
Method 1. How to Change Default Video Player in Mac
QuickTime has always been a default media player on Mac systems, mainly due to its strong coupling with this Platform. However, with more new media formats and internet streaming services, users began to discover QuickTime's drawbacks. Fortunately, on macOS, you can change the default application for opening your media files, so transitioning to a better video player is a breeze.
Step 1. Locate a Video File
First, you will have to choose any video file on your MAC. This can be any file usually associated with video files, including MP4, MOV, or AVI. Click the right mouse button on the video file, and within the context menu, click “Get Info”. This will open a window that allows you to customize some of the file's properties.
Step 2. Select Your Preferred Video Player
In the “Get Info” window context, search for an option labeled 'Open With.' Here, you will see the default application permanently assigned to open that video file type. Click the dropdown menu to expand to all installed applications on your Mac device. Select the default video player you prefer. If the system is not displayed, it can be searched under the "Other…" tab.
Step 3. Apply the Change to All Files
Once you click on your preferred video player from the dropdown list, click the “Change All” button. This will make the selected player the default for all the files of that type like MP4 files. A pop-up message will ask you whether you want to change the default video player, tick the “Continue” button to apply the changes.
Method 2. Top Recommended Video Players on Mac
Below are three of the best video players for Mac, each with special features. Let’s look at their intent and features that might make them worthwhile.
1. VLC Media Player
VLC is one of the most widely used free video players on Mac. It is a clear favorite for users who prefer a multi-functional app. It supports nearly all video formats, including MKV, FLV, AVI, and all the other formats that QuickTime does not support. Besides, VLC also provides strong functions of streaming, rich subtitles, and precise control of video and audio effects for better play. You can play YouTube playlist in VLC or any media file as a video file or video streaming from a particular network. The VLC does it best without downloading extra plugins or codecs.
2. Elmedia Player
Another great choice when you're searching on how to change Mac default video player is Emelda Player. It is for all Mac users that offers more features and better performance than QuickTime. It can handle MP4, AVI, and FLV formats and has extra features like subtitle support, playlists, and AirPlay streaming support. Regarding this, it’s important to note that one of the biggest advantages of the Elmedia player is its capacity to broadcast content to other devices, like a smart TV or Apple TV, for instance, without much stress. Furthermore, it is very organized and easy to use, and the greatest option for Mac users to control the view they want.
3. AceThinker Player
AceThinker Player is one of Mac's best free media players with minimal download size, designed to support Full HD and 4K video formats. It supports almost all the compatible media formats, such as MP4, AVI, MOV, and MKV. You don’t have any problem playing back whatever file you have. A prime feature of AceThinker is the capability to customize the video by fine-tuning elements such as contrast, brightness, or playback speed. It also provides a good solution for packed media, bringing almost no stutter and buffer. AceThinker is efficient and simple in its layout and smooth performance, making it an ideal replacement option for one player.
Step 1. Acquire the Dedicated Video Player
First, hit the "Download" button for the Mac version. Run the file installer and complete the installation process. Once done, the player will now be ready for use.
Step 2. Import Your Video on Screen
Next, click on the "Open File" button, then search for the location of your video file. Choose the video you want to play and click on it to load the display. The video will begin to buffer for instant playback.
Step 3. Adjust and Watch Your Video
You can also use the control panel to set options like volume, playback speed, and other controls for a better experience. Click on the full-screen icon to view the video in full screen. Watch your video comfortably with the smooth, high-quality, and crystal-clear experience you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
If your video player isn't playing certain files after you’ve set it as the default, it could be due to the file’s format or a missing codec. To resolve this, you should ensure that your video player supports the file format. For example, VLC supports almost every format out of the box, but QuickTime and others may require additional plugins or codecs for some files.
It’s always important to download videos from official websites or trusted sources to avoid any security risks. Installing software from third-party or unverified websites can expose your Mac to malware or unwanted software. Always ensure that you download video players from official sources and keep them updated to benefit from the latest security patches. It’s also a good idea to check user reviews and ratings before downloading to ensure that the player has a good reputation in terms of security and reliability.
No, changing your default video player on Mac will not affect other applications or system settings. The change only impacts how video files are opened by default. For instance, if you set VLC as your default video player, any video file you double-click will open in VLC instead of QuickTime.
Conclusion
Choosing an appropriate default video player is crucial for the best media experience on a Mac. QuickTime is the default player, but it can sometimes leave you wanting more regarding format support and features. This forces you to find ways how to set default video player in Mac. Through them, you can adjust the Mac's multimedia settings to your taste and get a hassle-free, powerful video replay. Use your time to test these players and enhance your media-watching experience today.