Winamp started as an iconic MP3 player for desktop computers and has evolved into a modern music player available on mobile platforms while maintaining a focus on flexible playback and wide format support. The project has seen renewed activity and a modern player is available in app stores for mobile devices and a maintained desktop player experience is available for Windows.
Where You Can Find Winamp Today
The new official Winamp player is available for Android on Google Play and for iPhone and Mac via the Apple App Store. The Google Play listing describes the player as bringing streaming services podcasts radio and local audio together. The App Store listing shows recent updates and compatibility details for iPhone and Mac with Apple silicon.
Platform Support and Version Notes
Windows Desktop
Winamp for Windows continues to offer the classic desktop experience that includes a full media library ripping and transcoding tools playlist management visualisations and plugin support. Desktop features include the ability to rip audio compact discs convert between common audio formats and play video formats through standard system decoders. The desktop product documentation details these capabilities.
macOS
There are mobile and app store listings that indicate Winamp supports macOS in certain app formats such as through the App Store build and developer notes. Historically native Mac support was limited and some features are platform dependent. Check the app store requirements for exact compatibility with your Mac model and operating system version.
Android
Winamp on Android focuses on unifying local files cloud content radio and podcasts. The Play Store notes modern features and lists a May 2025 update. Widget player controls lock screen controls and integration with streaming sources are part of the mobile experience.
iOS
The Winamp iOS app offers local file playback podcast and radio integration equaliser options and CarPlay support based on recent release notes in the App Store. App updates in 2024 and 2025 introduced improvements to radio tabs equaliser and player customization.
Core Features Explained
Library and Playlist Management
Winamp provides a media library for organising tracks by artist album genre and folder. It supports drag and drop playlist creation queue management and tag editing on desktop and simplified playlist features on mobile. Smart library views and rules based smart lists remain part of the desktop experience while mobile apps focus on quick access and curated tabs.
Playback Quality and Audio Controls
Features include gapless playback when supported by the file format volume normalization ReplayGain support on desktop and a system equaliser on mobile. Some mobile builds add built in DSP and audio enhancements depending on the platform version.
Skinning Visualisations and Plugin Support
One of Winamp's hallmarks is its customisable interface. On desktop users can change skins apply visualisations and extend the player with plugins. Mobile versions preserve visual identity and offer a range of theming options and configurable tabs.
Internet Radio Podcasts and Streaming
Winamp supports internet radio via SHOUTcast and similar streams and includes podcast support on mobile and desktop. The player allows direct streaming from station lists and supports manual stream URLs where supported.
Library Sync Cloud Integration and Multi Device Access
Recent Winamp releases emphasise a single library that can combine local files cloud libraries and streaming sources. Mobile releases advertise cloud integration and syncing so users can access the same content across devices within the Winamp ecosystem.
Read also: 10 Best Android Music player apps
Formats Winamp Can Play
Winamp supports a broad set of audio and video formats. Desktop versions include tools for ripping compact discs and transcoding among common lossless and lossy audio formats. Supported audio formats commonly include MP3 AAC M4A WMA, WAV, AIFF, FLAC, OGG, Vorbis, Opus and a range of tracker module formats such as MOD XM IT and S3M. Video playback relies on platform decoders and may include AVI, MPEG, MP4, FLV and others depending on system codecs. For exact lists consult the official desktop documentation.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Very wide format support including legacy tracker formats and modern lossless audio
- Deep customization options with skins visualisations and plugins on desktop
- Unified player approach combining local files podcasts radio and cloud content on mobile
- Proven media library and playlist tools for large collections on Windows
- Free to download and use on mobile with ongoing updates in recent years
Cons
- Desktop classic experience is mature and in places feels legacy compared with modern native apps
- Mac support can be limited and feature sets differ between platforms
- Some advanced streaming service integrations may be missing or require third party setup
- Mobile experiences vary by platform and some users report behavior differences between versions
Who Should Use Winamp
Winamp is ideal for users who value format freedom and customization who maintain large and varied music libraries and who appreciate granular control over playlists and visual presentation. It is also appealing to long time Winamp fans and anyone who wants a single player that combines local files podcasts radio and cloud based content.
Winamp is less suited for users who need a tightly integrated streaming service native experience on all platforms or for users who prefer minimalist players that require zero setup.
Top 10 Winamp MP3 player Alternatives
Below are alternative music players like Winamp that excel in different ways. Each music player includes its unique strengths and potential drawbacks so you can pick the best match for your workflow.
1. Foobar2000
Platform support Windows iOS Android and macOS via community builds. Foobar2000 is extremely lightweight very configurable and supports a wide range of audio formats natively including MP3 AAC FLAC Ogg Vorbis and many more. It appeals to advanced users who like modular layouts and precise playback control.
Pros:
- Lightweight and highly customizable music player
- Supports MP3, FLAC, AAC, OGG, WMA, and more
- Advanced tagging, DSP effects, and replay gain support
- Large community with plugins and UI extensions
- Ideal for power users who want full control over playback
Cons:
- Minimalist and technical interface
- Setup and configuration can be complex for beginners
- No built-in streaming or visualizer features
2. MediaMonkey
Platform support Windows and Android. MediaMonkey excels at large library management automatic organization and file tagging. It is good for users who need intelligent auto organization and device sync.
Pros:
- Clean and customizable interface with multiple skins
- High-quality 32-bit audio processing
- Supports MP3, OGG, FLAC, WAV, AAC, and WMA formats
- Built-in sound effects and equalizer presets
- Includes internet radio and audio converter tools
- Lightweight and fast on Windows and Android
Cons:
- No macOS or iOS version
- Limited streaming and smart playlist options
- Interface may seem dated for some users
3. Poweramp
Platform support Android only. Poweramp is a polished mobile first player with strong audio engine DSP equaliser support and a modern interface. It is one of the best choices for Android users who play local files.
Pros:
- Exceptional 10-band graphic equalizer with custom presets
- Supports most audio formats including MP3, FLAC, ALAC, WAV, OGG, and WMA
- Gapless playback and replay gain support
- Smooth, responsive interface optimized for Android devices
- Customizable themes and visualizations
- Offline playback without ads
Cons:
- Available only for Android (no iOS or desktop version)
- Some features locked behind a paid license
- Interface can feel complex for casual users
Recommended: Top 8 Free WAV Player Apps
4. VLC Media Player
Platform support Windows macOS Linux Android iOS and more. VLC supports almost every audio and video codec and is a great universal player. It is ideal when you need a player that reliably plays uncommon formats and handles video as well as audio. VLC continues active development and added new AI subtitle features and platform improvements.
Pros:
- Completely free and open source
- Available across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS
- Supports virtually all audio and video formats
- Allows streaming from local networks and online sources
- No ads, no tracking, and lightweight installation
- Great for users who need both music and video playback
Cons:
- Interface feels plain and less polished for music playback
- Limited music organization and playlist features
- Fewer audio customization tools than dedicated music players
5. AIMP
Platform support Windows and Android. AIMP is lightweight with very good audio fidelity and format support. It offers strong audio playback and a clean interface for users who prefer efficient players without bloat.
Pros:
- Clean and customizable interface with multiple skins
- High-quality 32-bit audio processing
- Supports MP3, OGG, FLAC, WAV, AAC, and WMA formats
- Built-in sound effects and equalizer presets
- Includes internet radio and audio converter tools
- Lightweight and fast on Windows and Android
Cons:
- No macOS or iOS version
- Limited streaming and smart playlist options
- Interface may seem dated for some users
6. JRiver Media Center
Platform support Windows and macOS. A feature rich paid product aimed at power users who need advanced audio routing multi room playback and integrated media management for music and video.
Pros:
- Clean and customizable interface with multiple skins
- High-quality 32-bit audio processing
- Supports MP3, OGG, FLAC, WAV, AAC, and WMA formats
- Built-in sound effects and equalizer presets
- Includes internet radio and audio converter tools
- Lightweight and fast on Windows and Android
Cons:
- No macOS or iOS version
- Limited streaming and smart playlist options
- Interface may seem dated for some users
7. MusicBee
Platform support Windows. MusicBee is a free player that offers powerful tagging library management and excellent support for high resolution audio. It is a favorite among Windows audiophiles who want a free but full featured library manager.
Pros:
- Excellent music organization and library management
- Supports gapless playback and advanced audio enhancement
- Can sync with Android devices
- Includes podcast and internet radio integration
- Free and ad-free on Windows
Cons:
- Available only for Windows
- Large music libraries may slow down startup
- Learning curve for new users
8. JetAudio
Platform support Windows and Android. JetAudio bundles many audio effects and provides video support along with skins and expanded features for users who like built in audio processing.
Pros:
- High-quality sound enhancements (Reverb, X-Bass, AM3D Audio)
- Supports MP3, FLAC, OGG, WAV, and WMA
- 20-band equalizer and powerful sound effects
- Plays both local and network music files
- Free version with core features available
Cons:
- Outdated design compared to newer players
- Ads appear in the free version
- Occasional compatibility issues on newer Android devices
9. Neutron Music Player
Platform support Android and iOS. Neutron targets audiophile listeners with bit perfect output advanced DSP and support for native hi resolution audio formats. It is a paid product that rewards users who need audio chain accuracy on mobile devices.
Pros:
- Professional-grade 32/64-bit audio engine with DSP effects
- Supports DSD, FLAC, MP3, AAC, WAV, and other formats
- High-resolution audio output for audiophiles
- Available for Android, iOS, and desktop systems
- Extensive equalizer and playback customization options
Cons:
- Interface can be difficult to navigate
- Paid-only app with no free version
- Steep learning curve for casual listeners
10. Plexamp
Platform support Windows macOS Android iOS. Plexamp is built on the Plex ecosystem and works well when you host a personal media server. It provides a modern interface and smart listening features that are tightly integrated with the Plex server platform.
Pros:
- Clean, modern interface with material-style design
- Supports MP3, FLAC, OGG, WAV, and more
- Fast, lightweight, and ad-free experience
- Automatic album art and metadata correction
- Smart playlists and built-in sleep timer
Cons:
- No built-in streaming or cloud sync
- Not available for iOS or desktop
- Limited advanced equalizer options compared to Poweramp
Comparison Table: Top 10 Winamp Alternatives (2025)
This table compares the best MP3 player apps and software similar to Winamp across multiple devices and operating systems. It includes supported formats, platform availability, free and premium options, and key standout features.
| Player Name | Supported Platforms | Supported Formats | Free / Paid | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Poweramp Music Player | Android | MP3, FLAC, ALAC, WAV, OGG, WMA | Paid (Trial available) | 10-band EQ, gapless playback, offline listening, visual themes |
| VLC Media Player | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS | All major audio and video formats | Free and Open Source | Universal playback, no ads, supports streaming, cross-platform |
| AIMP Player | Windows, Android | MP3, OGG, FLAC, WAV, AAC, WMA | Free | Audio converter, internet radio, customizable skins, lightweight |
| Foobar2000 | Windows, Android, iOS | MP3, FLAC, AAC, OGG, WMA | Free | Highly customizable, plugin support, low resource usage |
| MusicBee | Windows | MP3, FLAC, OGG, AAC, WMA, WAV | Free | Advanced library management, podcasts, Android sync, customizable UI |
| Spotify | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Web | Streaming formats (MP3, OGG) | Free / Premium | Cloud music streaming, AI playlists, social sharing, offline mode |
| Apple iTunes / Music App | macOS, Windows, iOS | MP3, AAC, ALAC, WAV, AIFF | Free (with Apple Music subscription option) | Apple ecosystem sync, smart playlists, streaming integration |
| JetAudio HD Music Player | Android, Windows | MP3, FLAC, OGG, WAV, WMA | Free / Premium | 20-band EQ, Reverb & Bass effects, network playback |
| Neutron Music Player | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS | DSD, FLAC, MP3, AAC, WAV | Paid | 64-bit audio engine, DSP effects, hi-res output, pro-level controls |
| Pulsar Music Player | Android | MP3, FLAC, OGG, WAV | Free | Modern UI, lightweight, smart playlists, metadata correction |
Conclusion: Is Winamp Still Worth It in 2025?
Winamp remains a nostalgic yet powerful MP3 player that continues to evolve with modern features. It supports a wide range of formats including MP3, FLAC, AAC, OGG, and WAV, making it suitable for both casual listeners and audiophiles. With the reintroduction of the Winamp app for Android, iOS, and desktop systems, it’s clear that the brand is aiming to reclaim its place in the digital audio space.
However, newer music apps like Poweramp, VLC Media Player, and Spotify offer enhanced streaming and smart features that may appeal to modern users. If you value local file playback, classic skins, customizable equalizers, and nostalgia-driven design, Winamp remains one of the best music players to try in 2025.
Final Verdict: Winamp is ideal for users who appreciate full control over their audio experience, offline playback, and old-school aesthetics backed by modern support.
Frequently Asked Questions about Winamp (2025)
Yes. Winamp is available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS platforms as of 2025. The developers have released updated versions with cloud integration and modern streaming capabilities.
Winamp offers a free version with full local playback support. A premium version may include advanced features such as enhanced audio processing and streaming options.
Winamp supports a wide range of formats including MP3, AAC, FLAC, WAV, OGG, WMA, and M4A. It also allows plugin extensions to handle additional formats.
Yes, the Winamp app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Both mobile versions are optimized for streaming, playlists, and offline playback.
Top alternatives to Winamp include Poweramp, VLC Media Player, AIMP, Foobar2000, MusicBee, Spotify, iTunes, JetAudio, Neutron Player, and Pulsar Music Player.
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