Portable VLC 0.8.6a_r3.0

'Portable VLC' is a modified version of the VLC player.

The differences between this version and the original VLC player are obvious. This program provides the same great features as the original, but it was built for portable drives, such as USB flash drive, iPod, portable hard drive, memory card, etc.

The only requirements for this software are a machine running Mac OS X and approximately 80 MB of free space on the portable device. When you run it for the first time, the program detects if you have a VLC player installed on your machine. If you have one, then the application allows you to copy your profile settings to the portable version.

The startup is a bit slow, even when it's launched from the Mac's internal hard drive. I think the modification that makes this program run from a portable drive is the cause.

Pluses: It has the same great support as the original VLC. It allows you to carry your player on a portable storage device. It can copy and use the settings from a VLC installed on your Mac.

Drawbacks / flaws: The interface has minimal changes. In fact, I couldn't see any user interface modifications between this portable version and the version that you would normally install on your Mac. The player starts a little slow, even when it's launched from a fixed hard drive.

In conclusion: If you like the VLC Player for Mac, but you miss your player's portability, this software provides you with the perfect solutions. You can use your player and your settings, on any Mac to which you have access.

version reviewed: 0.8.6_r3.0