Fix VLC Black Screen in Fullscreen Mode with Audio Playing
Key Notes
- Preliminary checks may resolve the issue quickly.
- Disabling hardware acceleration can fix playback problems.
- Reinstalling VLC ensures all necessary files are intact.
Resolving VLC Media Player’s Frustrating Black Screen Issues on Windows
Experiencing a black screen while using VLC Media Player? This comprehensive guide outlines various troubleshooting techniques to restore your video playback.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix VLC Black Screen
Step 1: Conduct Preliminary Checks
Before diving into advanced solutions, perform some basic checks:
- Close and reopen VLC to see if it resolves the issue.
- Restart your PC to fix potential temporary issues.
- Ensure your graphics drivers are current.
- Test another video file—corruption may cause playback problems.
- Update VLC via Help > Check for Updates.
Pro Tip: Playing a different video might help identify if a specific file is causing black screens.
Step 2: Disable Hardware Acceleration
Hardware acceleration can sometimes lead to playback issues. Here’s how to disable it:
- Open VLC and go to Tools > Preferences.
- Navigate to the Input / Codecs tab.
- Set Hardware-acceleration decoding to Disabled.
- Hit Save and restart VLC.
Pro Tip: Disabling this feature may significantly improve playback on some configurations.
Step 3: Change Default Video Output Mode
If VLC isn’t handling video types properly, change the video output mode:
- Go to Tools > Preferences in VLC.
- Select the Video tab.
- Choose an output mode from the Output dropdown, or set it to Automatic.
- Press Save and verify if the issue is resolved.
Pro Tip: Experiment with different output modes to determine which one works best for you.
Step 4: Verify Video Codecs
Codec compatibility can lead to black screens. Review and install necessary codecs:
To check codecs, open the video and navigate to Tools > Media Information or press Ctrl + I, then visit the Codecs tab. If codecs are outdated, install the appropriate codec pack.
Step 5: Reset VLC Preferences
Corrupt settings can cause playback issues. Reset VLC preferences by following these steps:
- Navigate to Tools > Preferences in VLC.
- Click Reset Preferences at the bottom of the window.
- Confirm with OK, then restart VLC and check for issues.
Step 6: Reinstall VLC Media Player
If problems persist, you may need to uninstall and reinstall VLC:
- Close VLC, then use Win + I to open Settings.
- Select Apps > Installed Apps.
- Locate VLC, click on the three-dot menu, and select Uninstall.
- Remove residual files from %AppData% after uninstalling.
- Download the latest version from the official website and reinstall.
Pro Tip: A clean installation often resolves deeper issues related to settings and files.
Additional Tips
- Always keep your software updated for best performance.
- Consider alternative media players if issues persist.
- Check for conflicting applications that may intercept video playback.
Summary
This guide has provided clear steps for fixing VLC Media Player’s black screen issue on Windows. Following these solutions should restore video playback functionality.
Conclusion
By utilizing this troubleshooting guide, you should have the necessary tools to address VLC black screen issues efficiently. Don’t hesitate to explore additional media players if problems persist.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What should I do if VLC is not working properly on Windows 10?
Ensure you have the latest version of VLC installed and check your settings, specifically hardware acceleration options. Reinstallation may also help.
Why does my Windows Media Player screen go black?
Black screen issues in Windows Media Player can stem from outdated graphics drivers or unsupported media formats. Ensure your software and drivers are updated for optimal performance.