Syncplay for Mac

Quick summary of the app

Syncplay is a lightweight program that keeps video playback synced between people in different locations. It pairs with local media players so everyone watches the same file at the same time — pausing, seeking and starting are reflected across the group. The interface is straightforward: pick a compatible player, join or host a session, and the application handles synchronization for all connected viewers.

Steps to get started

Install Syncplay on each participant’s computer.
Choose a supported media player on your machine and point Syncplay to it.
Create or join a Syncplay server room and share the room details with others.
Once everyone is connected, playback is automatically kept in sync so you can enjoy a shared viewing session.

Supported players and operating systems

Compatible video players (examples):

MPV
VLC media player (free)
MPC-HC
PotPlayer

Supported platforms:

Windows
macOS
Linux

Typical uses and benefits

Syncplay is ideal for virtual watch parties, remote family movie nights, study groups reviewing video content together, or any situation where synchronized local playback is desired. Key advantages include:

Real-time shared control over playback (pause, play, seek)
Works with local video files rather than relying on streaming-service accounts
Simple room-based sessions that don’t require complicated setup

Other tools you might consider

Plex (Watch Together) — useful if you already host media on a Plex server and want an integrated experience
Scener or Teleparty — designed for synchronized viewing of streaming services and browser-based platforms
Local media player setups (using VLC directly) — for casual syncs without a separate syncing layer

Final notes

Syncplay is particularly helpful when participants have the same video file and want a low-friction way to watch it together. Because it leverages established local players, you can keep using familiar playback controls while adding the benefit of synchronized viewing.