Changing the default video player in Windows 11 is a simple task that can be done in just a few steps. This allows you to set your preferred video player to open all your video files by default, giving you a better viewing experience. Follow the guide below to set your favorite video player as the default in Windows 11.
How to Change Default Video Player in Windows 11
These steps will guide you through changing the default video player in Windows 11. Once completed, your chosen video player will automatically open any video files you click on.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, open the Settings app on your Windows 11 device.
You can do this by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the gear-shaped Settings icon, or simply pressing Win + I for a shortcut.
Step 2: Go to Apps
Navigate to the ‘Apps’ category in the Settings menu.
This section allows you to manage all applications installed on your system, including setting default apps for various file types.
Step 3: Click on Default Apps
Inside the Apps section, click on ‘Default apps’.
Here, you can see all the default applications currently set for different file types, protocols, and tasks on your Windows 11 system.
Step 4: Search for Video Player
Scroll down or use the search bar to find “Video player”.
This will display the current default video player and give you the option to change it.
Step 5: Select Your Preferred Player
Click on the current default video player and choose your preferred video player from the list.
If your favorite video player isn’t listed, ensure it’s installed on your system first. After selecting, your new default video player will open all video files by default.
After you complete these steps, Windows 11 will use your selected video player to open all video files. This change will be applied system-wide, so any video file you double-click will open in your new default video player.
Tips for Changing Default Video Player in Windows 11
- Ensure Installation: Make sure your preferred video player is installed before starting the process.
- Try Different Players: Experiment with different video players to find the one that best suits your needs.
- Check File Associations: Some video players allow you to set file associations directly from their own settings.
- Keep It Updated: Regularly update your video player to ensure compatibility and access to new features.
- Backup Settings: Keep a note of any changes you make to easily revert if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the default video player back to the original one?
Yes, you can follow the same steps and select the original video player from the list.
What if my preferred video player doesn’t show up in the list?
Make sure it’s installed and up-to-date. If it still doesn’t appear, try reinstalling the application.
Will changing the default video player affect other default apps?
No, this change will only affect the default video player. Other default apps will remain unchanged.
Can I set different default players for different video file types?
Yes, you can set different default players for different video file types through the ‘Choose default apps by file type’ option in the Default apps settings.
Is there a way to reset all default apps in Windows 11?
Yes, you can reset all default apps to their original settings by scrolling to the bottom of the Default apps page and selecting the ‘Reset’ button.
Summary of Steps
- Open Settings.
- Go to Apps.
- Click on Default Apps.
- Search for Video Player.
- Select Your Preferred Player.
Conclusion
Changing the default video player in Windows 11 can greatly enhance your viewing experience by aligning it with your personal preferences. Whether you prefer VLC, Media Player Classic, or any other video player, setting it as the default ensures smooth playback every time you open a video file.
Remember, you can always revert to the original settings or try out different players to see which one you like best. Keeping your software updated and exploring different options helps you make the most out of your Windows 11 experience.
If you found this guide helpful, don’t hesitate to share it with others who might benefit from learning how to change the default video player in Windows 11. Enjoy your enhanced viewing experience!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.