If you are new to OSX, you might be thinking "Oh look, there's Quicktime, I must now have everything I need to play video files!"

WRONG!

You need to expand the video capabilities of your mac so that you can be confident that any video file you download will play properly!

First off, you have two options: VLC or Parian

I'll break down the pros/cons of the two, but basically, they will accomplish similar feats: allowing you to play most video files under the sun.

VLC:


This program is open source, free, and plays pretty much anything you can throw at it. This is my choice.

Pros:
Simple and intuitive interface
Easy to use subtitles (if included in the video file)
Streaming options

Cons:
Not as pretty as quicktime

Perian:


This Quicktime component is also free, open source and plays everything.

Pros:
Gives you that nice, "OSX" look
Allows you to export video files into Quicktime format
No extra piece of software, simply adds the functionality to Quicktime
Cons:
Forces you to deal with the clumsy Quicktime GUI

So, the question comes down to this: Do you like the Quicktime interface? If so, Perian is for you! Otherwise, the more VLC is going to be the best option.

So, which one do you use?