mpvLinux
vs
QuickTimeWindows
mpv as a Linux alternative to QuickTime
Updated
Our verdict
mpv is a strong replacement for QuickTime's playback role, especially since QuickTime for Windows is discontinued. It handles standard formats like MP4, MKV, and audio files well, with excellent hardware acceleration and subtitle support. However, it lacks the basic video editing and audio recording features QuickTime offered. If you only need to play media, mpv is superior. If you relied on QuickTime for quick clips or audio recording, you will need separate tools like Kdenlive or Audacity alongside mpv.
- License
- GPL-2.0+ AND LGPL-2.0-or-later
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- v0.41.0 (December 21, 2025)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Plays standard video formats like MP4, MKV, and AVI
- Supports standard audio formats including MP3, FLAC, and AAC
- Handles subtitles and multiple audio tracks
- Uses hardware acceleration for smooth playback
What is different
- mpv is a dedicated player, not an editor; it lacks built-in video trimming or editing
- No native audio recording capabilities; requires external tools
- Interface is minimal and keyboard-driven, unlike QuickTime’s simple window-based UI
- Configuration is file-based and scriptable, which can be steeper for casual users
Opening your QuickTime files
mpv opens QuickTime-generated files (like MOV) without issue, as it supports the underlying codecs. It does not export or edit video, so you cannot save trimmed clips directly from mpv. For editing, you must use a separate editor. There is no direct 'export' function in mpv, as it is strictly a playback application.
Switching from QuickTime to mpv, step by step
- Install mpv via your package manager or Flathub
- Configure hardware acceleration in mpv.conf for your GPU
- Set up subtitle paths if you use external subtitle files
- Install a video editor like Kdenlive for trimming needs
- Install Audacity for audio recording and editing
Key features of mpv
- Wide format and codec support
- Keyboard‑driven control
- Drag‑and‑drop playlist
- External configuration files
- Multimedia key support
- Scriptable via Lua and JSON‑RPC
How to install mpv on Linux
flatpak install flathub io.mpv.Mpvsudo apt install mpvsudo apt install mpvsudo dnf install mpvsudo pacman -S mpvsudo zypper install mpvFrequently asked questions
Can mpv edit videos like QuickTime?
No, mpv is a player only. Use Kdenlive or Shotcut for editing.
Does mpv support hardware acceleration?
Yes, it supports various hardware acceleration methods depending on your platform and GPU.
Is mpv difficult to use?
It is minimal and keyboard-focused. If you prefer mouse-driven simplicity, it may feel less intuitive than QuickTime.
2 other alternatives to QuickTime
VLC media playerVLC is a free, open‑source multimedia player that runs on Linux and handles virtually any audio or video…Open sourceFreeFlatpakVLC media player vs QuickTime
KdenliveKdenlive is a free, feature‑rich non‑linear video editor built on the MLT framework.Open sourceFreeFlatpakKdenlive vs QuickTime