I think a lot of the people who swear by VLC come from a Linux/FOSS user usability standpoint. They appreciate a free and open-source software that is mature with so many capabilities that doesn't leave you needing much else. Also, the developer of VLC has a good reputation when it comes to free software principles.freakazoid wrote: ↑Sat May 23, 2020 2:06 pm Coincidentally, I started using the unofficial MPC-HC by clsid last week and it loads way faster than VLC Portable.
Also, MPC-HC's interface is way easier to customize than VLC. You can show or hide almost any toolbar you want. With VLC, you can't even hide the menu bar!
On the other hand, those who like MPC-HC come from a regular (albeit a bit techy) Windows user point of view where you are spoiled for choice and things like customizability and instant launch speeds have relatively higher priority.
Think "Wow, this got around codec patent issues!" vs "Wow, this is really slick!"
Of course there are other factors like codec pack problems that VLC got around by bundling its own, but I feel the previous point is not mentioned often enough in the discussions.