VLC desktop and VLC UWP are different Windows apps, but “from the Microsoft Store” does not automatically mean UWP. The Store has separate listings for VLC and VLC UWP. Check which app you are installing before comparing features.
Desktop VLC vs VLC UWP
| Question | Desktop VLC | VLC UWP |
|---|---|---|
| What is it? | The traditional Windows media player | A separate app built for the Universal Windows Platform |
| What is its focus? | Playback plus a broad set of menus and tools | A simpler playback experience |
| Can I identify it by “Store” alone? | No: the Store also lists desktop VLC | Look for the VLC UWP listing |
| What should I check? | Architecture, version and required features | Listing requirements and supported features |
Which should you choose?
For a normal Windows PC, desktop VLC is the straightforward option if you want its familiar Media, Playback, Audio, Video and Tools menus. Use the official VideoLAN download route or the correct Store listing. The separate UWP app should not be assumed to include every desktop setting.
If you need a specific feature, such as conversion, capture or disc playback, check the app you installed rather than judging it by its icon. Our VLC 3D playback guide deals with a particular desktop setting; it is not a promise that every VLC package has the same controls.
How to tell which version you have
- Check the full app name in the Start menu and its Microsoft Store listing.
- Open its About or version information.
- Compare the interface with the instructions for the feature you need.
- If you have both installed, check which one Windows uses to open your video files.
The live VLC Store listing and VLC UWP listing have different product IDs. Availability and compatibility can vary by Windows version, device and region. Use the listing’s current requirements rather than an old screenshot.
Do both play every file?
No player can promise to open every video. A damaged file, unsupported format or copy protection can prevent playback. Disc support also depends on the disc, drive and protection involved; installing desktop VLC is not a guarantee that every commercial Blu-ray will play.
If a video fails, try a known-good file first and note the exact error. Changing apps will not repair a broken download. Avoid extra “codec packs” offered by unrelated download sites. See how to choose a trustworthy software download.
Download from the official route
Start with VideoLAN’s Windows download page or the Store listings above. VideoLAN also keeps a Windows Store/UWP page, which refers to that separate app. The installer source and the app type are two different things.
Information checked October 13, 2026, using the guides linked above.