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Clear VLC Cache on Mac

Clearing the VLC cache removes temporary files that the app rebuilds on its own, while your settings and media stay where they are. Clear it only when the app misbehaves or you want some space back.

Last updated: October 31, 20262 min read

Clear the VLC cache without guessing

VLC data usually takes 50 MB – 500 MB on a Mac. The free scan shows the exact size on your Mac before you change anything.

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Free scan · No account · Nothing is deleted without your OK · Moves to the Trash first · macOS 14+

Application: VLC
Typical data size: 50 MB – 500 MB
Category: Video
File Location: ~/Library/Preferences/org.videolan.vlc

VLC cache folders you can clear

These folders are rebuilt automatically, so removing them does not touch your own files.

~/Library/Caches/org.videolan.vlc Cache · app cache Yes, rebuilt automatically~/Library/Saved Application State/org.videolan.vlc.savedState Window state · window positions from the last session Yes, rebuilt automatically

Locations are the standard macOS folders VLC uses; some appear only after you use the matching feature.

What the VLC cache holds and when clearing it helps

Specific to VLC

The cache folder holds temporary data that the app recreates automatically, and its data typically takes 50 MB – 500 MB. Clearing it can help when playback stalls, the app freezes on launch, or the interface shows outdated information. The configuration file and the settings plist are different: they keep your preferences and recently played files, so leave them alone. Neither holds your media, and deleting the app would not remove them either.

What happens after you clear the VLC cache

The app rebuilds its cache the next time you open it, so the first launch may take a little longer. Window positions from your last session are stored separately and are also rebuilt, so windows may open in new places. Your settings, your recently played list and your media files are untouched. If playback still misbehaves afterwards, the cache was probably not the cause.

If the app offers a cache option in its settings, use that first.Quit the app completely before touching any cache files.Move only the app's cache folder to the Trash.Keep the Trash item until playback works, then empty it.

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Frequently asked questions

Yes. Folders marked “Yes, rebuilt automatically” are rebuilt automatically; removing them only makes the next start slower.

Will the first launch after clearing be slower?

It may be, because the app rebuilds its cache on the next open. The rebuild happens automatically, so you do not need to do anything else.

Can I restore the cache folder if clearing did not help?

Yes, as long as the folder is still in the Trash, you can drag it back. Once the Trash is emptied, the app simply rebuilds the cache when it runs.