Compare software

RealPlayerVLC media player
Free

The desktop player is offered as a free download.

 Free

Free software from a non-profit; there is no paid tier and no advertising in the player.

Windows, Android, iOS Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
  • Video downloader with resolution, codec and audio language choices
  • Records live streams in real time
  • Plays an unusually wide list of codecs and containers out of the box, including MPEG-1/2, H.264, H.265, VP8/VP9…
  • No spyware, no advertising and no user tracking, stated on the project feature page
  • Closed source
  • Downloading from some sites may conflict with their terms of service
  • The stable desktop line is still 3.0.23; the 4.0 interface rewrite has not shipped
  • The interface is functional rather than modern, and advanced options are buried in preference dialogs
Downloadable app Downloadable app
Closed source Open source
License not stated License: GPL-2.0
Not stated if an account is needed No account needed
Not stated if it works offline Works offline

Checked October 2, 2026

Checked September 20, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.