VLCLinux
vs
SpotifyWindows
VLC as a Linux alternative to Spotify
Updated
Our verdict
VLC is not a replacement for Spotify if you rely on streaming a massive cloud catalog or cross-device sync. It is a local media player, not a streaming service. However, if your library consists of local files (MP3, FLAC, etc.) and you just need a reliable, feature-rich player to manage playlists and handle offline playback, VLC is an excellent, free alternative. It lacks the social and discovery features of Spotify but excels at playing whatever files you already own without subscription fees or DRM restrictions.
- License
- GPL-2.0+
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 3.0.23 (January 1, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both allow creating and managing playlists of audio tracks.
- Both support searching through your local or loaded media library.
- Both can play podcasts, though VLC requires manual file or stream management.
- Both integrate with standard desktop audio controls for volume and playback.
What is different
- VLC does not stream from a global cloud catalog; it plays local files or direct network streams only.
- VLC lacks cross-device syncing; your library is tied to the machine or local network.
- VLC has no 'freemium' model; it is fully free but offers no curated recommendations or artist pages.
- Spotify provides high-quality streaming codecs automatically; VLC relies on the source file quality.
Opening your Spotify files
VLC cannot open or export Spotify-specific proprietary files or access Spotify's DRM-protected streams. It does not support importing Spotify playlists directly via a link. If you have downloaded Spotify Premium offline files, VLC cannot play them. However, VLC can import standard playlist formats like M3U or PLS if you have converted your Spotify playlists to these formats and mapped them to local files you own.
Switching from Spotify to VLC, step by step
- Download your local music files (MP3, FLAC, etc.) to your Linux machine.
- Open VLC and add your music folder to the media library.
- Create new playlists in VLC by dragging tracks from the library to the playlist panel.
- If using network streams, add the direct URL to VLC's open stream dialog.
- Configure VLC to remember your media library for future sessions.
Key features of VLC
- Plays virtually any audio or video codec
- Supports DVDs, Audio CDs, VCDs and Blu‑ray (with optional libraries)
- Streams from HTTP, RTSP, RTP, MMS and other protocols
- Built‑in subtitles handling and conversion
- Simple drag‑and‑drop UI with customizable skins
- Command‑line interface for scripting
- Media conversion and basic editing tools
- Network browsing and playlist import
How to install VLC on Linux
flatpak install flathub org.videolan.VLCsudo apt install vlcsudo apt install vlcsudo dnf install vlcsudo pacman -S vlc-plugin-alsasudo zypper install vlcFrequently asked questions
Can I log into my Spotify account in VLC?
No. VLC is a media player, not a Spotify client. It does not have authentication mechanisms for third-party streaming services.
Does VLC support Spotify Connect?
No. VLC does not implement the Spotify Connect protocol, so you cannot control VLC from the Spotify app or vice versa.
Is VLC better for offline listening than Spotify?
If you own the files, yes. VLC plays local files without needing an internet connection or a subscription. Spotify requires a premium account for offline mode and restricts file access.
2 other alternatives to Spotify
Strawberry Music PlayerStrawberry is a free, open-source Qt-based music player and collection organizer for Linux.Open sourceFreeFlatpakStrawberry Music Player vs Spotify
Clementine Music PlayerClementine is a cross‑platform music player that plays local files, internet radio, and supports cloud…Open sourceFreeFlatpakClementine Music Player vs Spotify