Windows 11’s default media player determines which application automatically opens your music and video files. After recent updates, Microsoft’s new Media Player often replaces previous defaults like Movies & TV or Windows Media Player, and changing this setting can be less intuitive than in earlier Windows versions. Adjusting your default media player gives you direct control over your playback experience, file compatibility, and interface preferences.

Changing the Default Media Player Using Windows 11 Settings

Step 1: Open the Windows 11 Settings app by clicking the Start menu and selecting Settings. Alternatively, press Windows + I on your keyboard to open Settings directly.

Step 2: In the Settings window, select Apps from the left sidebar. Then click on Default apps in the main panel. This section allows you to control which apps open specific file types and protocols by default.

Step 3: Scroll down or use the search bar to find your preferred media player (such as VLC, Windows Media Player, or another installed app). Click the app’s name to view all file types it can handle.

Step 4: For each file type you want your chosen player to open (such as .mp4, .mp3, .avi, etc.), click the current default app listed. In the pop-up, select your preferred media player and confirm by clicking OK.

Repeat this process for each file extension you commonly use. While Windows 10 allowed setting defaults for all file types at once, Windows 11 requires you to assign your preferred player to each extension individually. This approach improves precision but can be time-consuming if you use many media file formats.

Assigning a Default Media Player via File Explorer

Step 1: Locate a media file (such as a video or audio file) in File Explorer that you want to always open with your preferred player.

Step 2: Right-click the file and choose Open with, then select Choose another app. This brings up a list of compatible applications.

Step 3: Select your desired media player from the list. If it’s not immediately visible, click More apps to expand the selection. If your app still isn’t listed, ensure it’s installed correctly.

Step 4: Check the box labeled Always use this app to open .[file extension] files. Click OK to confirm. From now on, double-clicking files of that type will open them in your chosen player.

This method is efficient for quickly changing the default for a single file type, especially if you only use a few formats regularly.

Setting Defaults by File Type

Step 1: In the Default apps section of Settings, scroll to or search for Choose defaults by file type (usually at the bottom of the Default apps page).

Step 2: Find the file extension you want to change (such as .mp4, .mkv, .wav, etc.). Click the current default app next to it.

Step 3: Select your preferred media player from the list and confirm. Repeat for each extension as needed.

This approach is similar to the app-based method but starts from the file type rather than the application. It’s useful if you want to ensure certain uncommon formats always open in a specific player.

Additional Notes and Troubleshooting

Some users have reported that after Windows 11 updates, certain legacy apps such as Movies & TV or Groove Music may no longer appear as selectable options for default playback. Microsoft now prioritizes the new Media Player app, and in some cases, restricts the ability to revert to older apps. If your preferred player is missing from the default apps list, ensure it is installed and updated. For legacy apps, you may need to reinstall them from the Microsoft Store or enable them via Optional Features in Settings.

Third-party media players like VLC or PotPlayer can also be set as default using the same steps. When installing these applications, they may prompt you to associate file types during setup, but Windows 11 still requires confirmation via the Default apps settings.

If you want to revert to the previous state or reset all default apps, use the Reset button at the top of the Default apps page. Be aware this will restore all file associations to Microsoft’s recommended defaults, and you’ll need to reconfigure your preferences.

Switching your default media player in Windows 11 gives you control over your playback experience, letting you use the features and interface you prefer. Just remember to update your settings after major Windows updates, as defaults can sometimes revert.