Are you tired of Windows 11 opening your videos or songs with the wrong player every time? Maybe you’ve installed VLC, PotPlayer, or Media Player Classic and want to use it instead of the default one. Changing your default media player in Windows 11 is simple once you know where to look—and that’s exactly what this guide will show you.
Why Change the Default Media Player?
Before diving into the steps, let’s quickly understand why you might want to change it.
Better Features
Some media players offer better codecs, subtitles, and customization options.
Improved Performance
Lightweight players often run faster and use fewer resources.
Personal Preference
You may simply like the interface and controls of another player.
Step 1: Open Windows 11 Settings
The Settings app is your control center for all system configurations.
How to Access Settings
Press Win + I on your keyboard.
Or click the Start button → Settings (gear icon).
Step 2: Navigate to Apps Settings
This is where Windows manages all your app preferences.
Find the Apps Section
In the left panel, click on Apps.
Then select Default apps.
Step 3: Choose the Media Player You Want
Now, let’s tell Windows which player to use.
Select Your Preferred Player
Scroll through the list or use the search bar to find your player (e.g., VLC Media Player).
Click on it to open its settings.
Step 4: Change File Type Associations
Each file type (.mp4, .mp3, .mkv, etc.) needs to be linked to your player.
How to Associate File Types
After selecting your player, you’ll see a list of file formats it can open.
Click on each format and choose your media player from the list.
Repeat this for all media file types you want.
Step 5: Change Default App by File Type (Alternative Method)
If you only want to change a specific file type, you can do it this way.
Steps
Go to Default apps again.
Scroll down and click Choose defaults by file type.
Select the file type (e.g., .mp4).
Pick your desired media player.
Step 6: Change Default App by Link Type (Optional)
Some streaming links may still open in the old player.
Adjust Link Associations
Go to Choose defaults by link type.
Set your media player for streaming protocols (like
mms,rtsp, etc.).
Step 7: Verify the Changes
Once you’ve set everything, test it out.
Test Your Default Media Player
Open any media file (video or audio).
Check if it opens with your new default player.
Step 8: Revert Back to the Original Player (If Needed)
Changed your mind? No worries.
How to Revert
Go back to Default apps.
Select the original Windows Media Player or Movies & TV.
Reassign the file types.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, the default app setting may not stick.
Possible Fixes
Update Windows 11 to the latest version.
Reinstall your preferred media player.
Restart your PC after making changes.
Best Media Players for Windows 11
Not sure which player to pick? Here are some popular choices.
Top Recommendations
VLC Media Player – Free, open-source, plays almost everything.
PotPlayer – Lightweight with advanced settings.
Media Player Classic (MPC-HC) – Simple and fast.
KMPlayer – Good for high-quality videos.
Can You Set Different Players for Different Media Types?
Yes, you can.
Example
Set VLC for videos (.mp4, .mkv).
Set Windows Media Player for music (.mp3, .wav).
Conclusion
Changing your default media player in Windows 11 is easy and gives you more control over how your files open. Whether you’re switching to VLC, PotPlayer, or any other player, following these steps ensures your favorite media player is always just a double-click away.
FAQs
1. Can I have more than one default media player?
No, you can only set one player as default per file type.
2. Does this work for all versions of Windows 11?
Yes, the steps are the same for both Home and Pro editions.
3. Do I need admin rights to change default apps?
No, any standard user can change default apps.
4. Can I set defaults for streaming links too?
Yes, via the “Choose defaults by link type” option.
5. What if my player is not listed?
Reinstall it or make sure it’s properly installed on your system.