mpv alternatives: 5 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave mpv: no proper GUI; configuration is done in text files, and windows and macOS builds come from third parties. We ranked 5 alternatives by how directly each one replaces mpv, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. IINA currently ranks first.
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Show all 5 alternativesThe best mpv alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best mpv alternative for most people
IINAGives mpv's playback engine a proper Mac interface and settings screens.
Best mpv alternative for a free option
mpv.netWindows GUI around mpv that keeps mpv's config and scripts.
Best mpv alternative for open source
CelluloidSimple GTK front end for mpv on Linux that reads mpv's config files.
Best mpv alternative for Mac
VLC media playerEasier menus and wider device support if you don't want to write configs.
Best mpv alternative for Linux
HarunaKDE front end for mpv with a playlist sidebar and configurable shortcuts.
Best mpv alternative for iPhone and Android
VLC media playerEasier menus and wider device support if you don't want to write configs.
mpv alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to mpv?
IINA ranks first right now. Gives mpv's playback engine a proper Mac interface and settings screens. mpv.net and Celluloid follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to mpv?
Yes. IINA (open source), mpv.net (open source), Celluloid (open source) and Haruna (open source) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to mpv?
Yes: IINA, mpv.net, Celluloid and Haruna, plus 1 more in the list above.
Which mpv alternatives work on Linux?
Celluloid, Haruna and VLC media player run on Linux.
Why do people switch from mpv?
The complaints we hear most: no proper GUI; configuration is done in text files; windows and macOS builds come from third parties; steep learning curve for casual users.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces mpv, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.