MplayerLinux
vs
Windows Media Player (wmp)Windows
Mplayer as a Linux alternative to Windows Media Player (wmp)
Updated
Our verdict
MPlayer is a capable replacement for Windows Media Player if you're comfortable with command-line tools and don't need a graphical library. It plays nearly all audio and video formats out of the box, including MP3, MP4, AVI, and WMV, and handles subtitles well. However, it lacks a built-in media library, playlist manager, or album art support—those require external tools or frontends. It's ideal for users who prioritize playback flexibility and low resource use over convenience. For casual users expecting a point-and-click experience, it's not a direct fit.
- License
- GPL-2.0-or-later
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 1.5
- Rating
- 5/5 (1)
What works the same
- Plays common formats like MP3, WAV, MP4, AVI, and WMV without extra codecs
- Supports subtitle display during video playback
- Plays DVDs and network streams
- Low system resource usage
- Customizable playback controls via key bindings
What is different
- No built-in media library or metadata organizer
- No playlist management interface
- No album art display
- Command-line focused—no default GUI
- No drag-and-drop or file import wizard
Opening your Windows Media Player (wmp) files
MPlayer can play most files used in Windows Media Player, including MP3, AAC, WAV, MP4, WMV, and AVI. It handles common container formats and codecs directly, so your existing media files will likely work without conversion. It does not rely on Windows-specific formats like WMA Pro or DRM-protected files, which may not play. If your files are standard consumer formats, MPlayer will open them.
Switching from Windows Media Player (wmp) to Mplayer, step by step
- Install MPlayer via your package manager: 'sudo apt install mplayer' on Debian/Ubuntu
- Copy your media files to a folder accessible from the terminal
- Use the command 'mplayer video.mp4' to play a file
- Add subtitles with '-sub subtitle.srt'
- Use 'mplayer -playlist playlist.m3u' to play a playlist
- Consider installing a frontend like SMPlayer for easier control
Key features of Mplayer
- Extensive codec support
- Command‑line control
- Low resource usage
- Customizable key bindings
- Video and audio filters
- Subtitle handling
- DVD, Blu‑ray, and streaming support
How to install Mplayer on Linux
sudo apt install mplayersudo apt install mplayersudo pacman -S mencoderFrequently asked questions
Can MPlayer play WMA files?
Yes, MPlayer supports standard WMA audio files, but not DRM-protected ones.
Is there a GUI for MPlayer?
The core MPlayer is command-line only, but frontends like SMPlayer or GNOME MPlayer provide a GUI.
Can I manage playlists like in Windows Media Player?
Not directly in MPlayer. You can use M3U playlists, but editing and organizing them requires a text editor or separate app.
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