Windows 10 is one of the most popular operating systems in the world, and it’s no surprise that users want to know if it comes with a built-in music player. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Windows 10 music players, exploring the options that come pre-installed, as well as some popular third-party alternatives.
Windows Media Player: The Classic Choice
Windows Media Player (WMP) has been a staple of the Windows operating system for decades. It’s a robust media player that can play a wide range of audio and video file formats, including MP3, WAV, and AVI. WMP also includes features like CD burning, DVD playback, and media library management.
However, with the release of Windows 10, Microsoft decided to phase out Windows Media Player in favor of a new music player called Groove Music. But don’t worry, WMP is still available for download from the Microsoft website, and it’s compatible with Windows 10.
Features of Windows Media Player
- Plays a wide range of audio and video file formats
- Includes CD burning and DVD playback capabilities
- Allows for media library management and organization
- Supports playlists and radio stations
- Can be customized with skins and plugins
Groove Music: The New Kid on the Block
Groove Music is a music streaming service that comes pre-installed with Windows 10. It allows users to stream music from the cloud, as well as play local music files. Groove Music also includes features like playlist creation, radio stations, and music discovery.
However, Groove Music has some limitations. It doesn’t support CD burning or DVD playback, and it’s not as customizable as Windows Media Player. Additionally, the music streaming service was discontinued in 2018, so users can no longer stream music from the cloud.
Features of Groove Music
- Allows for music streaming from the cloud (discontinued)
- Plays local music files
- Includes playlist creation and radio stations
- Offers music discovery features
- Integrates with Microsoft’s OneDrive cloud storage
Other Music Players for Windows 10
If you’re not satisfied with Windows Media Player or Groove Music, there are many other music players available for Windows 10. Here are a few popular options:
- VLC Media Player: A free and open-source media player that can play a wide range of audio and video file formats.
- Winamp: A classic music player that’s been around since the 1990s. It’s known for its customization options and support for plugins.
- Spotify: A popular music streaming service that offers a free version with ads, as well as a premium subscription.
- Apple Music: A music streaming service that offers a free trial, as well as a premium subscription.
Comparison of Music Players
| Music Player | Audio Formats | Video Formats | CD Burning | DVD Playback |
| — | — | — | — | — |
| Windows Media Player | MP3, WAV, WMA | AVI, MP4, WMV | Yes | Yes |
| Groove Music | MP3, WAV, WMA | None | No | No |
| VLC Media Player | MP3, WAV, WMA, FLAC | AVI, MP4, WMV, MKV | No | Yes |
| Winamp | MP3, WAV, WMA | AVI, MP4, WMV | Yes | Yes |
| Spotify | MP3, AAC | None | No | No |
| Apple Music | MP3, AAC | None | No | No |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Windows 10 does come with a music player, but it’s not the only option available. Windows Media Player is a classic choice that’s still available for download, while Groove Music is a more modern option that’s pre-installed with Windows 10. However, if you’re looking for more features or customization options, you may want to consider a third-party music player like VLC Media Player or Winamp.
Ultimately, the choice of music player depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a simple music player or a more robust media player, there’s an option available for you.
Recommendations
- If you’re looking for a classic music player with CD burning and DVD playback capabilities, Windows Media Player is a good choice.
- If you’re looking for a more modern music player with music streaming capabilities, Groove Music is a good choice.
- If you’re looking for a free and open-source media player with a wide range of audio and video file formats, VLC Media Player is a good choice.
- If you’re looking for a music player with customization options and support for plugins, Winamp is a good choice.
By considering your options and choosing the right music player for your needs, you can enjoy your music collection on Windows 10.
Does Windows 10 come with a built-in music player?
Yes, Windows 10 comes with a built-in music player called Groove Music. It is a digital music streaming service and media player software developed by Microsoft. Groove Music allows users to stream music, create playlists, and purchase music from the Microsoft Store. However, it’s worth noting that Groove Music is not as feature-rich as some third-party music players, and its music streaming service was discontinued in 2018.
Although Groove Music is still available on Windows 10, it’s no longer the default music player. Instead, Windows 10 uses the Media Player app, which is a more basic media player that can play music and video files. If you’re looking for a more advanced music player, you may want to consider downloading a third-party app from the Microsoft Store or elsewhere.
What is the difference between Groove Music and Media Player?
Groove Music and Media Player are two different music players that come with Windows 10. Groove Music is a more feature-rich music player that allows users to stream music, create playlists, and purchase music from the Microsoft Store. It also has a more modern and user-friendly interface. On the other hand, Media Player is a more basic media player that can play music and video files.
The main difference between the two is that Groove Music is designed for music streaming and discovery, while Media Player is more geared towards playing local media files. If you have a large music library on your computer, you may prefer to use Media Player. However, if you’re looking for a more modern music streaming experience, Groove Music may be the better choice.
Can I still use Groove Music on Windows 10?
Yes, you can still use Groove Music on Windows 10, although its music streaming service was discontinued in 2018. You can still use Groove Music to play local music files, create playlists, and purchase music from the Microsoft Store. However, you will no longer be able to stream music from the Groove Music catalog.
To access Groove Music on Windows 10, you can search for it in the Start menu or find it in the Apps list. You can also pin it to the taskbar or Start menu for easy access. Keep in mind that Groove Music may not receive updates or support from Microsoft, so you may encounter bugs or issues while using it.
What are some alternative music players for Windows 10?
There are many alternative music players available for Windows 10, both free and paid. Some popular options include VLC Media Player, Foobar2000, and MusicBee. These music players offer a range of features, including support for multiple audio formats, equalizers, and playlist management.
Other popular music players for Windows 10 include Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. These music streaming services offer access to large music libraries and allow you to create playlists, discover new music, and listen to radio stations. You can download these music players from the Microsoft Store or from the music streaming service’s website.
How do I set a default music player on Windows 10?
To set a default music player on Windows 10, you can go to the Settings app and click on “Apps.” Then, click on “Default apps” and select the music player you want to use as the default. You can also right-click on a music file and select “Open with” to choose a music player.
Alternatively, you can go to the Control Panel and click on “Programs and Features.” Then, click on “Default Programs” and select the music player you want to use as the default. You can also set a default music player by opening the music player and going to its settings or preferences menu.
Can I use a third-party music player with Windows 10?
Yes, you can use a third-party music player with Windows 10. There are many third-party music players available for Windows 10, both free and paid. You can download these music players from the Microsoft Store or from the music player’s website.
Some popular third-party music players for Windows 10 include VLC Media Player, Foobar2000, and MusicBee. These music players offer a range of features, including support for multiple audio formats, equalizers, and playlist management. You can also use music streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music on Windows 10.
Is it safe to download third-party music players on Windows 10?
Generally, it is safe to download third-party music players on Windows 10, but you should always be cautious when downloading software from the internet. Make sure to download music players from reputable sources, such as the Microsoft Store or the music player’s official website.
Be wary of music players that ask for unnecessary permissions or access to your personal data. You should also read reviews and check the music player’s ratings before downloading it. Additionally, make sure to keep your antivirus software up to date and run regular scans to protect your computer from malware and viruses.