When you use VLC Media Player to record a video or audio clip, the first question that arises is almost automatic: where is this recording stored?.
It may seem like a mystery, but in reality, it all depends on your operating system and the internal configuration of the program itself.
In this article you will find the more complete and optimized guide so you don't waste a second looking for those hard-earned recordings.
📂 Default location of recordings in VLC
Default, VLC saves recordings in different folders as used Windows, macOS or Linux.
- 🪟 Windows: usually go to the folder Videos within your user profile.
- 🍏 macOS: are stored directly in the Films.
- 🐧 Linux: most often they are located in the folder Videos from your personal directory.
In most cases, if you don't touch anything, they will be there waiting for you.
⚙️ How to change the destination folder in VLC
Perhaps you are not satisfied with the default location and would prefer to have the recordings saved elsewhere, for example on an external disk.
To do so:
- Open VLC.
- Go to Tools > Preferences.
- Select the tab Input/Codecs.
- In the section Archivessearch for the option of Recordings directory.
- Change the path and select the destination folder of your choice.
This way, every time you record, VLC will deposit the files exactly where you want them.
🎥 Format of recordings
One thing that surprises many users is that VLC doesn't change the original video format when you record.
- If the file was in .mp4the recording will also be .mp4.
- If it was a .aviyou will get a .avi.
This means that no loss of qualitybecause what VLC does is to copy the exact fragment of the multimedia stream.
🔎 How to locate lost recordings
If you recorded something but can't find it, don't despair.
- Search in your folder Videos o Films.
- Use the system's search engine with keywords such as
vlc-record. - Check in Preferences that you have not changed the destination folder without remembering it.
💡 Tip: in Windows you can press Win + E and in the search bar type vlc-record for the explorer to locate all recordings.
🖥️ Differences by operating system
Windows
In this system, most users find the files in:C:\User's Name Videos
macOS
Here the typical route is:Users/YourName/Movies
Linux
The address is usually:/home/youruser/Videos
In all cases, if you do not touch the configuration, they will appear there automatically.
📊 Summary table of recording locations in VLC.
| Operating System | Default folder | Example of a route |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | Videos | C:\Usersuarios\Ana\Videos |
| macOS | Films | /Users/Ana/Movies |
| Linux | Videos | /home/ana/Videos |
🤔 Frequently asked questions about recording in VLC
Can I change the name of the recording automatically?
Not directly, VLC usually names the files with the pattern vlc-record-date-time. You can rename them manually afterwards.
What happens if I close VLC while recording?
The file is saved up to the last moment recorded before closing. You will not lose it, although it may be incomplete.
Can I choose another format when engraving?
Not in simple recording mode. To change format you need convert or export the file using the menu Medium > Convert/Save.
Where are screenshots saved in VLC?
Unlike recordings, screenshots are saved in the folder Images of your user.
🌐 Useful links
🎯 Conclusion.
The next time you ask yourself "where does VLC save the recordings?"Remember, they will almost always be in your Videos or Moviesunless you have changed the configuration.
👉 My recommendation is that you set the destination folder to a location that you control, such as a dedicated folder called. VLC recordingsso you never waste time looking for them.