If you are one of those people who accumulate hundreds of songs, podcasts or videos on your computer, you will know what cumbersome which can be reproduced one by one.
This is where VLC Media Playerthat free, lightweight and powerful program that you probably already use every day to open any file format.
What you may not have known is that VLC allows you to create and manage customized playlists that become true multimedia libraries at the click of a button.
Today I will teach you how to creating, saving, sorting and editing playlists in VLC so you'll never waste time searching for your favorite file again.
Why use playlists in VLC? 🤔
Playlists are not just a whim.
They are the ideal tool to organize your music, videos, lectures, recorded lessons or even entire series.
Imagine having a M3U file When you open it, it loads your favorite song selection for the gym or a movie marathon without you having to open folder by folder.
In addition, VLC supports almost all playlist formats, such as M3U, XSPF or PLSwhich gives you total flexibility.
How to create a playlist in VLC step by step 🛠️
1. Open VLC
Start your VLC Media Player as you usually do.
2. Add files
- Click on "Medium" → "Open multiple files".
- Use the button "+ Add" to select your songs or videos.
3. Sort the content
In the playback window, you can drag and drop to change the order.
4. Save the list
- Go to "Medium" → "Save playlist to file".
- Choose the format you prefer (M3U is the most common).
- Give it a representative name such as "Travel_list.m3u".
That's it! Now every time you open that file, VLC will play your media in the exact order.
How to manage your playlists in VLC ⚙️
This is where the interesting part begins.
Edit a list
Open your saved list and add more files with Drag and drop or delete them with the Supr.
Reorder
If you regret the order, simply move the files up or down.
Save changes
Don't forget to return to save the list to avoid losing the modifications.
Create multiple lists
You can have as many as you want: one for work, one for training, one for study.
Useful shortcuts for playlists in VLC ⌨️
- Ctrl + Y → Save list.
- Ctrl + O → Open list.
- Ctrl + L → Display the current playlist.
- Supr → Delete selected file.
These shortcuts make managing your lists almost a chore. snapshot.
Advantages of using lists in VLC 🌟
- Absolute order of your means.
- Compatibility with almost all systems.
- PortabilityYou can move your list to another computer.
- Perfect for classes, podcasts or series marathons.
- Lightweight and without the need for additional programs.
Advanced tricks for your VLC playlists 🔧
- You can add Streaming URLs (e.g. online radios) and play them as part of the list.
- If you change computers, you will only need to move the file from the list along with the media files.
- You can combine music and video in the same list, something that many players do not allow.
Summary table
| Action | Fast route | Extra tip |
|---|---|---|
| Create list | Medium → Open multiple files → Save | Uses M3U format |
| Edit list | Open file → Drag/Delete | Always save changes |
| Reorder | Dragging with mouse | Use it for long playlists |
| Save changes | Medium → Save list | Give descriptive names |
| Open list | Medium → Open file | Compatible with M3U, XSPF, PLS |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) ❓
Can I open my VLC list in another player?
Yes, if you save it in M3U format, almost any player will recognize it.
What happens if I move the original files?
If you change the location of your songs or videos, the list will not find them. Keep everything in the same folder.
Can I share my list with friends?
Sure, but be sure to send the media files as well.
Is it possible to create automatic lists in VLC?
Not directly, but you can use scripts or integrate it with music managers.
Conclusion
Use playlists in VLC is like building your own media library, ready to use whenever you are.
Whether you prefer to have a training repertoire, a compendium of online classes or a collection of films, with just a few clicks you will be able to create, save and organize lists in VLC.
Now that you know all the steps and tricks, I invite you to experiment and make VLC your ultimate media center.