How to Play MP4 Files on Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

Playing MP4 files on Windows 10 is pretty straightforward. First, ensure you have a media player that supports MP4 files, like VLC Media Player. Once installed, right-click on the MP4 file, select ‘Open With,’ and choose your media player. Boom! You’re good to go.

How to Play MP4 Files on Windows 10

This section will guide you step-by-step on how to play MP4 files on your Windows 10 computer.

Step 1: Download and Install VLC Media Player

Go to the VLC Media Player website and download the software.

VLC Media Player is free and supports a wide range of video formats, including MP4. Once you’ve downloaded the installer, run it and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Step 2: Locate Your MP4 File

Find the MP4 file you want to play on your computer.

Your MP4 file could be in your Downloads folder, Desktop, or anywhere else. Navigate through your folders until you find it.

Step 3: Right-Click the MP4 File

Right-click on the MP4 file to open the context menu.

In the context menu, you’ll find a list of options. These options allow you to manage or interact with the file in different ways.

Step 4: Select ‘Open With’

Choose the ‘Open With’ option from the context menu.

Selecting ‘Open With’ will provide a list of available programs that can open the MP4 file. If VLC Media Player is not listed, you might need to select ‘Choose another app’ to find it.

Step 5: Choose VLC Media Player

Click on VLC Media Player from the list of programs.

If VLC Media Player is not immediately visible, you might need to scroll down or click on "More apps" to find it. Once selected, the MP4 file will open in VLC Media Player.

Step 6: Play the MP4 File

VLC Media Player will open and start playing your MP4 file.

The file should start playing automatically. You can use VLC’s playback controls to pause, stop, or skip through the video.

After following these steps, your MP4 file should play seamlessly in VLC Media Player. You can enjoy your video without any hiccups.

Tips for Playing MP4 Files on Windows 10

  • Always Keep Your Media Player Updated: Regular updates often include support for new file formats and bug fixes.
  • Use a Reliable Media Player: VLC Media Player is highly recommended for its versatility and ease of use.
  • Check File Integrity: Ensure your MP4 file is not corrupted by playing it on another device.
  • Adjust Playback Settings: Customize settings like subtitles and audio tracks within VLC Media Player for a better experience.
  • Explore Other Media Players: While VLC is great, you can also try other players like Windows Media Player, which might come pre-installed on your system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if VLC Media Player doesn’t open my MP4 file?

Ensure that your VLC Media Player is updated to the latest version. Sometimes older versions may not support certain file codecs.

Is VLC Media Player safe to download?

Yes, VLC Media Player is safe to download as long as you get it from the official website.

Can I use Windows Media Player instead of VLC?

Yes, you can, but you might need to download additional codecs for Windows Media Player to support MP4 files.

What if my MP4 file is not playing smoothly?

This could be due to a corrupted file or insufficient system resources. Try playing another MP4 file to check if the issue persists.

Can I make VLC my default media player for MP4 files?

Yes, you can. Right-click on an MP4 file, then select ‘Open With’ > ‘Choose another app’ > ‘VLC Media Player’ and check the ‘Always use this app to open .mp4 files’ box.

Summary

  1. Download and Install VLC Media Player.
  2. Locate Your MP4 File.
  3. Right-Click the MP4 File.
  4. Select ‘Open With.’
  5. Choose VLC Media Player.
  6. Play the MP4 File.

Conclusion

Playing MP4 files on Windows 10 doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right tools, like VLC Media Player, you can enjoy your videos without any fuss. We’ve walked you through downloading and installing VLC, locating your MP4 file, and finally playing it. This ensures you have a smooth and hassle-free experience.

If you want to dive deeper, consider exploring other media players or learning how to customize playback settings in VLC. Your viewing experience can be as unique as you are. Now, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy your MP4 files. Happy watching!