HomeScreensavers Planet  »  Help  »  Guides  »  Mac  »  How to disable the screensaver during VLC video playback

How to disable the screensaver during VLC video playback

When you are watching a video using the popular VLC media player, the last thing you want is an interruption by your screensaver, which may think you are away from your Mac because the keyboard and mouse are not used for a period of time.

Thankfully, the VLC developers has implemented a feature that will disable the screensaver while a video is running. When this option is not enabled by default, turn it on like so:

  1. Open the VLC media player, then click "VLC" at the top left of your screen (next to the Apple icon) and select "Preferences".
  2. At the bottom left of the Preferences panel, click "Display all" or click the circle before "All" instead of "Basic", depending on your version of VLC. This will make sure you have access to all possible options.
  3. Click "Video" in the left pane, then find "Disable screensaver" among the options on the right and check the box in front of it.
  4. Finally, click "Save" to save your changes, then close the window.

The next time you watch a video in VLC, your screensaver should now no longer interrupt playback. If you cannot find the "Disable screensaver" option, please make sure you have the latest release of the media player by visiting the official website.

Need help? Have questions?

We're here to help. Post your question or problem on our message board.

Search the help pages