CelluloidLinux
vs
Windows Media PlayerWindows
Celluloid as a Linux alternative to Windows Media Player
Updated
Our verdict
Celluloid is a solid replacement for Windows Media Player if you want a simple, modern media player for local files and value a clean GNOME-style interface. It handles most common formats through mpv, supports playlists and basic playback controls, and integrates well on Linux desktops via MPRIS. It’s ideal for users who prefer lightweight, no-frills players and are comfortable with or already using a GTK-based desktop. Not ideal for those needing advanced library management or legacy codec support.
- License
- GPL-3.0+
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 0.30 (March 28, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Plays common formats like MP3, MP4, AVI, MKV, and FLAC
- Basic playback controls: play, pause, seek, volume
- Supports drag-and-drop playlist creation
- Lightweight and fast to launch
- Follows desktop integration standards (MPRIS2)
What is different
- No built-in library organization or media database
- Does not support WMV as reliably without codec packs
- Lacks CD ripping or burning features
- No visualizations or equalizer
- Minimalist design may feel too sparse for some
Opening your Windows Media Player files
Celluloid, using the mpv backend, plays MP3, MP4, AVI, MKV, and FLAC without issue. WMV support depends on system codecs; it may not play all WMV files out of the box, especially on minimal Linux installs. No conversion or export features are available. If you have a collection of older WMV files, ensure your system has proper codec support or consider converting them to more open formats. Most common user media files will open directly.
Switching from Windows Media Player to Celluloid, step by step
- Install Celluloid via your package manager or Flatpak
- Copy your media files to a local directory
- Drag folders or files into Celluloid to build playlists
- Adjust volume and playback settings as needed
- Enable MPRIS in settings if using desktop media controls
Key features of Celluloid
- mpv‑based playback engine
- GTK+ interface following GNOME HIG
- Drag‑and‑drop playlist support
- External mpv config file loading
- MPRIS2 D‑Bus control
- Keyboard shortcuts for play/pause, seek, volume
- Playlist management
- MPRIS2 media player controls
How to install Celluloid on Linux
flatpak install flathub io.github.celluloid_player.Celluloidsudo apt install celluloidsudo apt install celluloidsudo dnf install celluloidsudo pacman -S celluloidsudo zypper install celluloidFrequently asked questions
Can Celluloid play DVDs or Blu-rays?
No, Celluloid does not support DVD or Blu-ray playback. You’d need to install additional tools like libdvdcss and use a different player such as VLC.
Does Celluloid support subtitles?
Yes, it supports external subtitle files and basic controls for toggling and adjusting timing via mpv’s engine.
Is Celluloid available on non-GNOME desktops?
Yes, it runs on any Linux desktop, though the interface is optimized for GNOME. It works fine on XFCE, KDE, and others.
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