VLC Media Player Shortcuts for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS

VLC has remained the go-to media player since I started using computers. Even when I moved from Windows to macOS, it brought all those excellent features. These days, you can benefit from familiar UI designs and features on Android and iOS devices as well. But if you want better convenience while using VLC Media Player to watch content, you need a few keyboard shortcuts and gestures.

In this guide, you can find a definitive list of VLC Media Player shortcuts that work on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS.

VLC Media Player Shortcuts – An Overview

VLC Media Player shortcuts are keystrokes/ keystroke combinations that help you navigate VLC Media Player and the content you play using it. In addition to helping you cut down the time you spend on VLC, shortcuts on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS can provide a seamless VLC experience.

General Playback Shortcuts

These are the most popular and helpful keyboard shortcuts you can use with VLC Media Player. These help you control playback using keyboard strokes and can be a time-saver. More importantly, you can use almost the same shortcuts on Windows, macOS, and Linux. On macOS, however, you need to change Ctrl to CMD.

Navigation Shortcuts

Navigating within VLC Media Player can also become easier when you know the right shortcuts. Fortunately, you can use the same navigation shortcuts on Windows, macOS, and Linux devices. VLC even lets you use keyboard shortcuts to move between chapters and time intervals.

Subtitles and Audio Track Shortcuts

Full subtitle support is one primary reason for choosing VLC Media Player over other media players. So, it makes a lot of sense that you can manage subtitles and audio tracks with some keystrokes. Once again, they are all the same regardless of your platform.

Video and Audio Settings Shortcuts

Unlike many other media players, VLC Media Player lets you change video and audio settings without leaving the playing interface. For instance, you can change the aspect ratio of playback or adjust options for audio synchronization.

Playlist and Media Library Shortcuts

As you may know, VLC Media Player lets you manage your media library entirely. You can use many shortcuts to manage these libraries and individual titles.

Interface Shortcuts

Too many controls and sidebars can be disturbing when you use VLC Media Player. Fortunately, you can use these keyboard shortcuts to toggle these features instantly.

iOS and Android Shortcuts

You get some clean control options on iOS and Android as well. While these are not shortcuts, knowing these gestures can make your life easier.

By the way, if you connect a keyboard to your Android tablet or iPad, you may want to use the shortcuts you would need on Windows and macOS, respectively.

The Bottom Line

These VLC Media Player keyboard shortcuts can not only save you time but also help you have a seamless media experience. The next time you want to turn on subtitles, you do not have to reach for the mouse. Instead, a few keystrokes will help you do the same.

More importantly, when you use keystrokes to navigate within media, it is more accurate than using a mouse controller. So, it’s a win-win situation for all needs and purposes.