Windows Media Player
Windows Media Player: A free Windows media player with playback, libraries, playlists, CDs, and sharing. Ranked #22 of 75 in Media Player Software by our editors (7.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for windows users wanting built-in library features.
At a glance
- Editor score7.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forWindows users wanting built-in library features
- Free planYes
- Paid fromNone
- Network playbackYes
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free access to audio and video playback on Windows
- Combines libraries, playlists, streaming, and media sharing
- Supports CD playback, ripping, creation, and portable-player transfers
Where it doesn't
- Available only on Windows
- Modern 4K video features are directed to the newer Media Player app
- Not open source
Our verdict on Windows Media Player
Windows Media Player is Microsoft’s free multimedia application for Windows users who want playback and basic media organization in one desktop app. It handles audio and video files, streaming content, media libraries, playlists, metadata, media sharing, and Play To. It also covers common disc and device tasks, including audio CD playback, CD creation, CD ripping, and transfers to portable music players. Windows Media Player Legacy is available as an optional feature on some Windows 10 and Windows 11 editions, while the newer Media Player app is a distinct Windows experience.
Its strongest fit is breadth within familiar library workflows. Users can organize media, create playlists, play network content, share media, and send content through Play To without adding separate tools for each task. The documented format support includes MP3, MP2, AAC, M4A, FLAC, ALAC, WAV, WMA, 3GP, 3G2, AMR, MPEG-4/H.264, H.263, VC-1, WMV, DV, VP8, Motion JPEG, and ASF. That range supports a mix of music and video collections, while CD and portable-player features extend the app beyond simple file playback.
The main consideration is platform and product direction. Windows Media Player is Windows-only, and Microsoft recommends the newer Media Player app for modern video features such as 4K. That makes Windows Media Player a practical choice for users who prioritize free playback, library management, playlists, discs, sharing, and device transfers on Windows. Users focused on newer video capabilities or a broader platform footprint should choose a different Windows experience or an alternative media player.
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Windows Media Player pricing
Windows Media Player fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | None |
| Supported platforms | Windows |
| Network playback | Yes |
| Subtitle support | Not verified |
| Format support | MP3, MP2, AAC, M4A, FLAC, ALAC, WAV, WMA, 3GP, 3G2, AMR, MPEG-4/H.264, H.263, VC-1, WMV, DV, VP8, Motion JPEG, ASF |
| Hardware acceleration | Not verified |
| 4K playback | Not verified |
| License model | Free |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | apps.microsoft.com |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Windows Media Player
- VLC media playerA broad, capable free player for local, network, and streamed media across major platforms.9.4
- mpvA flexible, scriptable player for users who prefer control over convenience.9.1
- KMPlayerA broad media player with strong format, network, cloud, and casting support.9.0
See all Windows Media Player alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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