Requirements: OS X 10.12+
, 89.2MB free space
Version 8.15(3307) (22 Mar, 2023) Release notes
Olga Weis
Nov 27, 2022
The main selling point for Mac is that it comes with a high-quality default application to open video or audio on Mac. QuickTime, the built-in Mac media player is also quite good; however, there is always room for improvement. After prolonged use, when you wonder how to change default video player on Mac there is a great option for this. You’ll find the process very simple and straightforward.
When it comes to your Mac’s operating system, it will come with a bundle of applications that are essential for using your computer. The one responsible for media playback is QuickTime Player, which lets you play, record, edit and share all of your video and audio files. It comes with a minimalistic interface and support for some popular codecs. This application can also capture your iPhone or iPad’s screen directly from your Mac. As an integrated solution, it works just fine, but if you are interested in having more, you will need to switch over to a third-party media player soon. Advanced users should take into account new solutions and be treated with more features.
There are quite a few reasons why someone would want to switch from QuickTime Player. Probably the most sought-after feature is the ability to play different formats than the built-in macOS player supports. Taking this into account, the application also hasn’t received a revamp in quite some time and it begins to look outdated even when taken into comparison with the most basic third-party applications. And last but not least, people are tired of the lack of cutting-edge features such as subtitle customization and automatic download, streaming online content, and more. These are all real issues that people are experiencing when using the default option that Apple has provided, thankfully, there are a lot better alternatives you can use.
Use File Explorer. When right-clicked, a video file will produce a context menu where you find information and different operations for said file.
This option will list any and all installed apps that can open your chosen file. Since you chose a video, a list of media players will be presented.
If your desired app isn’t on the list, make sure to click "Other". You’ll have to navigate to the app executable itself.
Now that the steps on how to change default player are complete, you should click "Change All". That will apply your new settings to every file of the appropriate type. One more confirmation, and you’re all set.
Alternatively, select the App Store option at the bottom of the menu. The store offers a wide selection of software available for download. Our recommended choice is the Elmedia Player - a top-shelf video player for Mac.
Important notice: Remember that this is how to set default video player Mac for one format at a time. If you have various formats, you will need to repeat these steps for each one in order for all your videos and tracks to be played by the same default player. For example, changing the default video player for AVI files will mean you still need to repeat the procedure for MKV or MOV files.
It wasn’t long ago that every major tech company tried to compete in the field of file formats. Now we are left with countless incompatible, inconvenient files. However, a well-developed app will play anything and everything out of the box. That’s why we suggest that you choose Elmedia as your Mac default video player.
1. Install the Elmedia Player
Download and install Elmedia on your macOS device.
2. Open a Video Clip
Besides the standard way, there are several shortcuts you can use - either drag a video onto the Elmedia window, or right-click your file and "Open With" Elmedia.
3. Have a Good Time
To improve your experience further, you can optimize the settings.
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