Quick answer
In Preferences → Interface, clear the single-instance options that route new files into the existing player, save, and restart VLC.
Understand the task
Input
Two or more media files that should play in separate VLC windows.
VLC action
VLC stops routing every new file into the first running instance when single-instance options are disabled.
Expected result
Opening another file can create another player window instead of adding it to one playlist.
Tip: Restart VLC after saving the preference, then test with two short local files.
Steps to open Multiple VLC Windows
Open Tools → Preferences and stay in Simple settings first.
Find the playlist and instances controls under Interface.
Disable the options that allow only one instance or enqueue files into the current instance.
Save, restart VLC, and test with two different files.
Limits and recovery
- Multiple hardware-decoded videos can compete for GPU and audio resources.
- Separate windows do not guarantee sample-accurate synchronized playback.
Related decisions
For unattended playback in a separate window, decide whether VLC should close when the playlist ends.
If files are opening in the wrong application before VLC handles them, set VLC as the default player for selected formats.
When separate windows need to become one composed grid, follow the VLC VLM mosaic guide.
Sources and corrections
VLC User Documentation >Menus can differ by VLC version and operating system. If a verified current build behaves differently, report the exact version and platform.