How to Make a Video Your Wallpaper on Windows 10?

This unique customization can make your desktop more dynamic and personalized. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to make a video your wallpaper on Windows 10 using simple steps and free software.

Why Use a Video as Wallpaper?

Setting a video as your wallpaper is a fun way to add personality and flair to your desktop. It can be a looping video, a GIF, or even a music video. This dynamic background makes your computer stand out, offering an interesting visual experience while you work or relax.

Using Third-Party Software to Set Video Wallpaper

Windows 10 doesn’t have a built-in option to directly set a video as your wallpaper. However, you can achieve this by using third-party applications specifically designed for this purpose. One of the most popular and reliable options is Wallpaper Engine, but there are also free alternatives like DeskScapes and VLC Media Player.

Method 1: Using Wallpaper Engine (Paid)

Wallpaper Engine is a premium software that allows you to set videos, animated wallpapers, and even live wallpapers. It is a versatile program and provides a smooth and seamless experience when using videos as wallpapers.

Steps:

1. Download and Install Wallpaper Engine:
   • Go to Steam and search for Wallpaper Engine. You can buy and download it for around $4.99.
2. Open Wallpaper Engine:
   • Once installed, launch the application.
3. Choose or Upload a Video:
   • You can either select from pre-existing animated or video wallpapers within the app or upload your own video file.
4. Set Video as Wallpaper:
   • To set your video as wallpaper, click on Create Wallpaper and choose the video file you want to use. The software will automatically set the video as your wallpaper.
5. Customize Settings:
   • You can adjust settings such as video playback, audio, and performance preferences (e.g., stop playback when minimized).
6. Enjoy Your New Wallpaper:
   • Your video will now play as your desktop wallpaper, and it will loop as long as you want.

Method 2: Using DeskScapes (Paid)

DeskScapes is another popular paid program that offers the ability to set videos as your desktop wallpaper. It offers both video and dynamic wallpaper options, and it’s a simple-to-use alternative to Wallpaper Engine.

Steps:

1. Download DeskScapes:
   • Visit the official Stardock DeskScapes website and download the software (there is a free trial available).
2. Install and Launch DeskScapes:
   • After installation, open DeskScapes.
3. Select Your Video:
   • Inside the DeskScapes interface, you can browse for video files or upload one from your computer.
4. Set as Wallpaper:
   • Once your video is selected, click Apply to set it as your desktop wallpaper.
5. Adjust Settings:
   • DeskScapes allows you to modify playback settings, such as looping, volume control, and visual adjustments.

Method 3: Using VLC Media Player (Free)

If you’re looking for a free alternative, VLC Media Player can also be used to play a video as your wallpaper. While VLC doesn’t support direct wallpaper options, you can use it in combination with Windows to create this effect.

Steps:

1. Download and Install VLC Media Player:
   • If you don’t have VLC, download it for free from the official VLC website.
2. Open the Video in VLC:
   • Open the video file you want to set as wallpaper with VLC Media Player.
3. Enable DirectX Output:
   • In VLC, go to Tools > Preferences.
   • Under the Video tab, select DirectX Output in the Output section. This ensures the video will play as the background.
4. Play the Video in Full Screen:
   • Start playing the video and hit Alt + Enter to make it fullscreen.
5. Set as Wallpaper:
   • While the video is playing in fullscreen, right-click on the video and select Video > Set as Wallpaper.
   • The video will now be set as your wallpaper.
6. Loop the Video (Optional):
   • To have the video loop, go to Playback and select Loop. This will ensure the video repeats once it finishes.

Method 4: Using Desktop Live Wallpapers (Free)

If you prefer a free method, you can use Desktop Live Wallpapers, a free app available from the Microsoft Store, which allows you to set a video or GIF as your wallpaper.

Steps:

1. Download Desktop Live Wallpapers:
   • Open Microsoft Store and search for Desktop Live Wallpapers. Download and install the app.
2. Launch the App:
   • After installation, launch the app and browse for the video you want to set as wallpaper.
3. Set the Video as Wallpaper:
   • Select your video and click Set as Wallpaper to apply it.
4. Configure Settings:
   • You can configure the playback settings, such as whether the video should loop or stop when the desktop is inactive.

Performance Considerations

Setting a video as your wallpaper may affect your system’s performance, especially if the video is high resolution or if your PC has limited resources. To minimize any performance impact:

• Use Short, Looping Videos: Keep the video short and set it to loop. This minimizes the resources needed to play it continuously.
• Lower the Video Resolution: Lowering the video resolution or using lower-quality videos can reduce the load on your system.
• Close Unnecessary Programs: If your system is slow, close unnecessary programs while using video wallpapers.

Conclusion

Making a video your wallpaper on Windows 10 can add a unique touch to your desktop and make it visually appealing. While Windows 10 doesn’t offer a native option to do so, third-party applications like Wallpaper Engine, DeskScapes, and even free solutions like VLC Media Player allow you to enjoy video wallpapers with ease. Choose the method that fits your needs and enjoy a dynamic desktop experience!