VLC player: set buffer - so video runs smoother

Set a buffer in your VLC player so that videos play smoother without interruption. This buffer, called a buffer in German, loads the video before it starts playing, ensuring an optimal streaming experience.

How to set the buffer in the VLC player

1. Start the VLC player to make the settings for the buffer.
2. Click on "Media" in the top left menu bar and further on the sub-item "Stream". Alternatively, open the dialog box you are looking for with the key combination [ctrl]+[S].
3. The dialog box labeled "Open Media" opens. In the menu item "File", set the check mark at "Show more options".
4. The menu will now be expanded further and here you can make the settings for the buffer time.

What do the values for the buffer time mean?

1. In the VLC player, a buffer time of 300 milliseconds (ms) is preset. However, if you are in an area where the Internet connection is slow, you should increase this value.
2. The more buffer time is set, the more information is already transferred before playing. Increase or decrease the buffer time using the arrow keys.
3. If your internet connection is faster again, you can decrease the buffer time again.
4. The quality and size of the videos or audio streams you want to play also influences the required buffer time. Try out which value is best for you.