Software Alternatives & Startups

ncmpcpp VS ncmpc

Compare ncmpcpp VS ncmpc and see what are their differences

ncmpcpp logo ncmpcpp

Ncurses Music Player Client (Plus Plus)

ncmpc logo ncmpc

ncmpc is a fully featured MPD client, which runs in a terminal (using ncurses).
  • ncmpcpp Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-09-22
  • ncmpc Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-07-13

ncmpcpp features and specs

  • Feature-rich
    ncmpcpp offers a wide range of features including a media library, playlist management, cover art display, and support for Last.fm, allowing users extensive control over their music experience.
  • Customizability
    The application allows users to customize its appearance and behavior extensively, making it adaptable to individual preferences and workflows.
  • Lightweight
    ncmpcpp is lightweight and efficient, using minimal system resources while providing powerful features, making it suitable for use on older hardware.
  • Keyboard-Driven Interface
    Designed for keyboard use, ncmpcpp offers keyboard shortcuts for nearly all of its functions, allowing for fast and efficient control by experienced users.
  • Integration with MPD
    As a client for the Music Player Daemon (MPD), ncmpcpp offers seamless integration, allowing users to control their MPD music servers directly.

Possible disadvantages of ncmpcpp

  • Steep Learning Curve
    New users may find ncmpcpp challenging to learn due to its text-based interface and extensive use of keyboard shortcuts.
  • Limited Support for Non-MPD Contexts
    ncmpcpp is specifically designed as a client for MPD, so it lacks utility and integration features for users not using MPD.
  • Lack of Modern UI
    The text-based interface may be off-putting to users accustomed to graphical interfaces, potentially making it less visually appealing.
  • Configuration Complexity
    While customizable, the process of configuring and fine-tuning ncmpcpp to specific needs can be complex and time-consuming.
  • Dependency on MPD
    Since ncmpcpp is dependent on MPD, issues with MPD or incompatibility with certain versions could affect ncmpcpp's functionality.

ncmpc features and specs

  • Lightweight
    ncmpc is a command-line client that consumes minimal system resources, making it ideal for use on systems with limited resources or for users who prefer to minimize resource usage.
  • Customizable
    Users can customize key bindings and interface settings, allowing for a personalized user experience tailored to specific preferences.
  • Remote Control
    ncmpc allows users to control Music Player Daemon (MPD) running on a remote server, providing flexibility in managing music playback from different locations.
  • Fast and Responsive
    Due to its minimal design and command-line interface, ncmpc is typically fast and responsive, which enhances user experience, especially on older hardware.
  • Comprehensive Features
    Despite its simplicity, ncmpc offers a wide range of features including playlist management, music library browsing, and support for various audio formats.

Possible disadvantages of ncmpc

  • Steep Learning Curve
    The command-line interface may be intimidating for users who are not familiar with terminal-based applications, requiring some learning to become proficient.
  • Limited Graphical Interface
    Being a terminal application, ncmpc lacks a graphical user interface, which may be a drawback for users who prefer visual interaction.
  • Dependency on MPD
    ncmpc requires Music Player Daemon to be set up and configured properly before it can be used, which adds complexity compared to standalone music players.
  • Limited Multimedia Features
    As a music-focused application, ncmpc lacks multimedia features such as video playback or advanced sound settings that more comprehensive media players might offer.

ncmpcpp videos

Ncmpcpp: The Best MPD Client With The Worst Name

More videos:

  • Review - Spotify + Mopidy + ncmpcpp = The most Linux way to listen to Spotify!
  • Review - Linux Language Learning Workflow (Part 1: mpd, ncmpcpp + trans with Assimil)

ncmpc videos

Spotify + Mopidy + ncmpcpp = The most Linux way to listen to Spotify!

More videos:

  • Review - antimicro-nonX controlling ncmpc on Odroid Go Advance
  • Demo - ncmpc / raspberry pi internet radio player demo

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to ncmpcpp and ncmpc)
Media Player
59 59%
41% 41
Audio Player
59 59%
41% 41
Music Player
57 57%
43% 43
Video Player
53 53%
47% 47

User comments

Share your experience with using ncmpcpp and ncmpc. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
Log in or Post with

What are some alternatives?

When comparing ncmpcpp and ncmpc, you can also consider the following products

C* Music Player - cmus is a small, fast and powerful console music player for Linux and *BSD.

kew - A terminal music player for Linux.

AIMP - AIMP : Free Audio Player : Официальный сайт программы

rmpc - Rmpc is a beautiful, modern and configurable terminal based Music Player Daemon client. It is heavily inspired by ncmpcpp and ranger/lf file managers.

Clementine - Clementine is a cross-platform free and open source music player and library organizer based on...

Rhythmbox - Rhythmbox is an audio player for Linux that plays and organizes digital music.