QmmpLinux
vs
Nullsoft WinampWindows
Qmmp as a Linux alternative to Nullsoft Winamp
Updated
Our verdict
Qmmp is a solid replacement for Nullsoft Winamp if you value a familiar, skinnable interface and lightweight audio playback. It handles MP3, OGG, FLAC, and AAC well through plugins, supports playlists, metadata, and internet radio, and runs efficiently on older hardware. The Winamp-style skin support means you can replicate the classic look. It lacks some advanced DSP effects and video playback, but for core audio use — especially if you're migrating from Winamp for music, not nostalgia — Qmmp delivers reliably on Linux.
- License
- GPL-2.0+
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 2.2 (October 5, 2024)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Supports Winamp and XMMS skin formats for identical visual customization
- Plays common audio formats including MP3, OGG, FLAC, and AAC via backend plugins
- Low memory and CPU usage, suitable for older or minimal systems
- Manages playlists, metadata, and supports gapless playback and ReplayGain
- Includes a basic equalizer and plugin-based visualizations
What is different
- No built-in video playback — focuses strictly on audio
- Fewer DSP plugins compared to Winamp's ecosystem
- Visualizations are functional but less flashy than Winamp's classic AVS
- Library management is simpler, lacks advanced tagging tools
- Internet radio support is basic; no built-in directory
Opening your Nullsoft Winamp files
Qmmp can open Winamp-compatible playlist files like .m3u and .pls without issue. It reads ID3 tags and metadata from MP3s and other common formats correctly. While it doesn't use Winamp's proprietary configuration files (.ini, .wsz skins), it supports loading Winamp skin archives (.wsz) directly for theme compatibility. You’ll need to reapply skins manually. Playlist import works reliably, but complex Winamp-specific plugin presets won’t transfer.
Switching from Nullsoft Winamp to Qmmp, step by step
- Install Qmmp via your package manager or Flathub
- Copy your Winamp .wsz skin files to ~/.local/share/qmmp/skins/
- Import playlists (.m3u, .pls) through File > Open Playlist
- Set audio output and buffer settings in Preferences
- Enable and configure input and visualization plugins as needed
Key features of Qmmp
- Supports Winamp and XMMS skin formats
- Plugin architecture for visualizations and input
- Cross-platform compatibility (Linux, Windows, macOS)
- Built with the Qt library for consistent UI
- Supports standard audio formats via GStreamer/FFmpeg
- Playlist management and queueing
- Gapless playback support
- ReplayGain support
How to install Qmmp on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.ylsoftware.qmmp.Qmmpsudo apt install qmmpsudo apt install qmmpsudo dnf install qmmpsudo pacman -S qmmpsudo zypper install qmmpFrequently asked questions
Can I use my old Winamp skins in Qmmp?
Yes, Qmmp supports Winamp .wsz skin files directly. Just extract or place them in the skins directory, and select them in settings.
Does Qmmp support gapless playback?
Yes, Qmmp supports gapless playback for formats that include proper metadata, such as FLAC and OGG.
Is Qmmp available on Windows?
Yes, but it's primarily developed and used on Linux. The Windows version exists but sees less testing.
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