How to Set Default Video Player in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 21, 2025

Windows 11 comes with its own built-in Media Player app, but many users prefer popular alternatives like VLC Media Player, KMPlayer, PotPlayer, or MPC-HC for better features and compatibility. If your videos keep opening in the wrong app, don’t worry — in this guide, we’ll walk you through how to set a default video player in Windows 11 step by step so your favorite app always launches automatically.

Why Change the Default Video Player?

By default, Windows 11 uses Media Player to open video files. While it works fine, many users want more features such as:

  • Support for all file formats (MKV, FLV, MOV).

  • Advanced playback controls.

  • Better subtitle management.

  • Lightweight performance.

Changing the default player makes sure your videos always open in the app you prefer, without the extra step of right-clicking every time.

What You’ll Need Before Setting a Default Player

  • A Windows 11 PC (up to date).

  • A video player installed (VLC, KMPlayer, PotPlayer, etc.).

  • Administrator access (for system-wide changes).

Method 1: Set Default Video Player via Settings

The easiest way is through Windows 11 Settings.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to Apps → Default apps.

  3. Scroll down and find your preferred player (e.g., VLC Media Player).

  4. Click on it, then assign it as the default for common file types like .mp4, .avi, .mkv.

✅ Now every video will open in your chosen app.

Method 2: Change Default Video Player Using “Open With” Option

You can also change defaults directly from a file.

Steps:

  1. Find a video file (e.g., example.mp4).

  2. Right-click → Open with → Choose another app.

  3. Select your preferred player (e.g., VLC).

  4. Check Always use this app to open .mp4 files.

  5. Click OK.

Now all .mp4 files will open in that player. Repeat for other file types if needed.

Method 3: Set Defaults by File Type (MP4, AVI, MKV, etc.)

Windows lets you customize defaults for each file type individually.

Steps:

  1. Open Settings → Apps → Default apps.

  2. Scroll down and click Choose defaults by file type.

  3. Find .mp4, .avi, .mkv, .mov, etc.

  4. Assign your preferred video player.

This ensures every format opens with the correct player.

Method 4: Set Defaults by App in Windows 11

You can also do the reverse: pick an app and assign all compatible formats to it.

Steps:

  1. Go to Settings → Apps → Default apps.

  2. Search for your video player (e.g., VLC).

  3. Click it → Set defaults for each format it supports.

Method 5: Classic Control Panel Method

For users who prefer the classic interface:

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type control, and press Enter.

  2. Go to Programs → Default Programs → Set Default Programs.

  3. Choose your video player → Set this program as default.

Bonus Tip: Pin Your Favorite Video Player to Taskbar or Start Menu

Even after setting it as default, you may want quick access.

  • Right-click the app → Pin to taskbar.

  • Or right-click → Pin to Start.

Troubleshooting: When Windows Resets Defaults After Updates

Sometimes Windows updates reset your default apps.

  • Reapply your settings using Method 1 or 3.

  • Make sure you’re running the latest version of your video player.

Best Free Video Players for Windows 11

Here are some top choices besides the built-in Media Player:

  • VLC Media Player – Lightweight, supports all formats.

  • PotPlayer – High-quality playback with advanced settings.

  • KMPlayer – Good for subtitles and rare file formats.

  • MPC-HC – Minimal and fast.

How to Reset Back to Microsoft’s Default Media Player

Want to go back? Easy.

  1. Go to Settings → Apps → Default apps.

  2. Search for Media Player.

  3. Set it as default for video file types.

Common Problems When Changing Video Player Defaults

  • Player not listed → Reinstall the app.

  • File type won’t change → Use the “Open with” method.

  • Settings keep resetting → Windows update may need reconfiguration.

Does Changing the Default Affect Streaming Apps?

No ❌. Streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video use browsers or their own apps. The default video player only affects local video files.

Performance & Security Considerations

  • Performance: VLC and PotPlayer are optimized for high-quality playback.

  • Security: Always download from official websites to avoid malware.

  • System resources: Some players use less CPU/GPU than others.

Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Media Experience

Changing the default video player in Windows 11 is quick and simple. Whether you prefer VLC for all formats, PotPlayer for advanced control, or KMPlayer for subtitle handling, setting it as default saves you time and enhances your viewing experience.

FAQs

1. What is the default video player in Windows 11?

Windows 11 uses the Media Player app by default.

2. Can I set different players for different file types?

Yes, you can assign .mp4 to VLC and .mkv to another player.

3. Does changing the default affect streaming?

No. It only changes how local files open.

4. Is VLC better than Windows Media Player?

Yes, for most users — it supports more formats and has advanced features.

5. Can I set a portable (no-install) player as default?

Yes, but you need to browse to its .exe file when choosing defaults.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows 11 defaults to Media Player, but you can easily change it.

  • Methods include Settings, Open With, File Type settings, Control Panel.

  • You can even assign different players for different formats.

  • Popular choices: VLC, PotPlayer, KMPlayer, MPC-HC.

  • Troubleshooting is simple if defaults reset after updates.

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