I finally started using IINA video player and I should have sooner

Level up your streaming setup. For many, a video player is just a video player, so we settle for whatever works—typically the reliable but often clunky VLC media player or a basic native option.

I was part of that group for years: dissatisfied but too lazy to search for a better fit tailored to the modern macOS environment. Everything changed the moment I downloaded IINA.

My immediate reaction was one of regret; I should have made this switch much sooner.

After just one evening, I realized I hadn’t simply upgraded my software; I had upgraded my entire viewing experience.

Old Philosophy vs. New Experience

My previous approach was straightforward: if it played the file, it was good enough. I preferred VLC because it was cross-platform and never failed to open files.

However, “never failing” doesn't mean excelling. I tolerated several frustrations: a player that looked out of place, menus borrowed from another operating system, and a generally heavy feel.

I knew there had to be a better player designed specifically for my Mac, yet I kept postponing the switch. That hesitation is what I regret most now.

The IINA Advantage

The biggest revelation with IINA is how it feels like it was designed by Apple, for Apple. My old player always seemed like an imported application, while IINA feels fully integrated.

Supports the Touch Bar
Seamlessly handles essentials like Picture-in-Picture (PiP)
Allows me to tuck a video away while I work

It supports the Touch Bar and even essentials like Picture-in-Picture (PiP) seamlessly, so I can tuck a video away while I work.

Switching to IINA transformed my Mac watching experience from merely functional to truly enjoyable.

Summary: Switching to IINA transformed the user experience by providing a sleek, integrated macOS player that elevates video viewing beyond just basic playback.

XDA — 2025-11-02