How to Get an Animated Desktop Background on Windows and macOS

Having a static desktop background can get boring after a while. If you’re looking to add some life and dynamism to your computer, setting up an animated desktop background is a great way to do it. This guide will walk you through the steps to achieve this on both Windows and macOS, providing various methods and tools to customize your experience. Whether you want to use pre-made animations, GIFs, videos, or even live wallpapers, this guide has you covered.

## Benefits of Animated Desktop Backgrounds

Before diving into the how-to, let’s explore the advantages of having an animated desktop:

* **Aesthetic Appeal:** Animated backgrounds can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your desktop, making it more engaging and enjoyable to use.
* **Customization:** You have a wide range of options to choose from, from serene nature scenes to dynamic abstract animations, allowing you to personalize your computer to your taste.
* **Information Display:** Some animated backgrounds can display useful information like the time, date, weather, or system performance metrics.
* **Reduced Boredom:** Unlike static wallpapers, animated backgrounds keep changing, reducing the monotony of staring at the same image all the time.

## Considerations Before You Start

While animated backgrounds can be visually appealing, it’s essential to consider the potential impact on your system’s performance and battery life, especially on laptops.

* **Performance Impact:** Animated backgrounds, particularly those with high resolution or complex animations, can consume system resources like CPU and GPU. This might result in slower performance, especially on older or less powerful computers.
* **Battery Life:** On laptops, animated backgrounds can drain battery life more quickly compared to static wallpapers, as the system needs to continuously render the animation.
* **Software Compatibility:** Ensure that the software or methods you use to set up animated backgrounds are compatible with your operating system version.

To mitigate these issues, you can:

* Choose less demanding animations or videos.
* Limit the frame rate of the animation.
* Close the animation software when not needed.
* Monitor your system’s performance to identify any bottlenecks.

## Method 1: Using Lively Wallpaper (Windows)

Lively Wallpaper is a free and open-source application that allows you to set videos, GIFs, and even web pages as your desktop background. It’s a popular choice due to its ease of use, extensive features, and minimal impact on system performance.

**Step-by-Step Instructions:**

1. **Download and Install Lively Wallpaper:**

* Go to the Lively Wallpaper website: [https://www.rocksdanister.com/lively/](https://www.rocksdanister.com/lively/)
* Click on the “Download” button to download the installer.
* Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install Lively Wallpaper. Make sure to allow it to run at startup for seamless background animation after reboot.

2. **Launch Lively Wallpaper:**

* Once installed, Lively Wallpaper should launch automatically. If it doesn’t, you can find it in your system tray (usually in the bottom right corner of your screen) or search for it in the Start menu.
* The Lively Wallpaper interface will appear, displaying a list of pre-installed wallpapers.

3. **Choose a Pre-Installed Wallpaper:**

* Browse through the pre-installed wallpapers and click on one to set it as your desktop background. You’ll see a preview of the animation on your desktop.

4. **Add a Custom Wallpaper (Video, GIF, or Webpage):**

* To use your own video, GIF, or webpage as a wallpaper, click on the “Add Wallpaper” button in the Lively Wallpaper interface (usually a plus (+) icon).
* You have several options:
* **Open File:** Select a video or GIF file from your computer.
* **Enter URL:** Paste the URL of a YouTube video, web page, or online GIF.
* **Drag and Drop:** Simply drag and drop a video or GIF file onto the Lively Wallpaper window.

5. **Customize Wallpaper Settings:**

* After adding a wallpaper, you can customize its settings by clicking on the “Customize” button (usually a gear icon) next to the wallpaper in the Lively Wallpaper interface.
* Available settings may include:
* **Playback Speed:** Adjust the speed of the animation.
* **Volume:** Control the audio volume of the video (if applicable).
* **Scaling:** Choose how the wallpaper is scaled to fit your screen (e.g., Fill, Fit, Stretch).
* **Position:** Adjust the position of the wallpaper on your screen.
* **Rules:** Set rules to pause or stop the wallpaper when certain applications are running or when the computer is idle. This helps to minimize performance impact and battery drain.

6. **Configure Global Settings:**

* Lively Wallpaper also offers global settings that apply to all wallpapers. You can access these settings by clicking on the “Settings” icon (usually a gear icon) in the main Lively Wallpaper interface.
* Important global settings include:
* **General:** Choose whether to start Lively Wallpaper on system startup, set the language, and configure update settings.
* **Performance:** Adjust the CPU and GPU usage limits to prevent Lively Wallpaper from consuming too many resources.
* **Display:** Configure settings related to multi-monitor setups.
* **Rules:** Create global rules to pause or stop wallpapers based on certain conditions.

**Tips for Optimizing Performance:**

* **Limit Frame Rate:** Reduce the frame rate of the wallpaper to decrease CPU and GPU usage.
* **Pause When Idle:** Configure Lively Wallpaper to pause the wallpaper when the computer is idle or when certain applications are running.
* **Choose Low-Resolution Videos:** Use videos with lower resolutions to minimize resource consumption.
* **Close Unnecessary Applications:** Close any unnecessary applications running in the background to free up system resources.

## Method 2: Using VLC Media Player (Windows and macOS)

VLC Media Player is a versatile and widely used media player that can also be used to set videos as desktop backgrounds. This method is relatively simple and doesn’t require installing additional software if you already have VLC installed.

**Step-by-Step Instructions:**

1. **Download and Install VLC Media Player (if you don’t have it already):**

* Go to the VLC Media Player website: [https://www.videolan.org/vlc/](https://www.videolan.org/vlc/)
* Click on the “Download VLC” button to download the installer.
* Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install VLC Media Player.

2. **Open VLC Media Player:**

* Launch VLC Media Player from the Start menu (Windows) or Applications folder (macOS).

3. **Set the Video as Wallpaper:**

* **Windows:**
* Open the video file you want to use as a wallpaper in VLC Media Player.
* Go to **Tools > Preferences** (or press Ctrl+P).
* Click on the **Video** tab.
* In the **Output** dropdown menu, select **DirectX (DirectDraw) video output** (if available, otherwise try other options).
* Check the box next to **Enable wallpaper mode**.
* Click **Save**.
* Restart VLC Media Player for the changes to take effect.
* Play the video in VLC Media Player. It should now appear as your desktop background. Ensure the VLC window is minimized or hidden to avoid obstructing your view.
* **macOS:**
* Unfortunately, VLC’s wallpaper mode does not work on macOS. Therefore, this solution isn’t applicable to macOS users directly. See other methods for macOS.

4. **Configure VLC Settings:**

* You can configure VLC Media Player settings to further customize the wallpaper:
* **Loop:** Enable the loop option (under **Playback > Repeat**) to continuously play the video.
* **Full Screen:** Press F11 to make VLC run in fullscreen to cover the desktop.
* **Hide Controls:** While there is no direct way to hide controls completely, you can minimize the window or use the minimal interface mode.

**Limitations:**

* **Windows Only (for Wallpaper Mode):** VLC’s wallpaper mode is primarily designed for Windows. macOS users will need to explore alternative methods.
* **Performance:** Using VLC as a wallpaper can consume system resources, especially if the video is high resolution.
* **Audio:** The audio from the video will play unless you mute it in VLC. This can be undesirable if you only want the visual animation.

## Method 3: Using Rainmeter (Windows)

Rainmeter is a powerful desktop customization tool that allows you to create and use custom skins to display information and interact with your computer. While it’s not primarily designed for animated backgrounds, you can use it to create a pseudo-animated effect by displaying a series of images or videos in a loop.

**Step-by-Step Instructions:**

1. **Download and Install Rainmeter:**

* Go to the Rainmeter website: [https://www.rainmeter.net/](https://www.rainmeter.net/)
* Click on the “Download” button to download the installer.
* Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install Rainmeter.

2. **Launch Rainmeter:**

* Once installed, Rainmeter should launch automatically. If it doesn’t, you can find it in your system tray or search for it in the Start menu.
* The Rainmeter interface will appear, displaying a few default skins on your desktop.

3. **Create a New Rainmeter Skin:**

* Right-click on the Rainmeter icon in the system tray and select “Manage”.
* In the Rainmeter Manage window, click on the “Configs” tab.
* Click the “Create Config” button. Give your config a name (e.g., “AnimatedBackground”).
* Click the “Create Skin” button. Give your skin a name (e.g., “Animation”).
* Open the newly created skin file (Animation.ini) in a text editor (e.g., Notepad).

4. **Configure the Skin to Display Images or Videos:**

* **For Images:**
* Add the following code to your skin file:

ini
[Variables]
ImagePath = C:\Path\To\Your\Images\
Image1 = image1.png
Image2 = image2.png
Image3 = image3.png
ImageCount = 3
CurrentImage = 1

[MeasureImage]
Measure=Calc
Formula=(CurrentImage % ImageCount) + 1
UpdateDivider=-1

[MeterImage]
Meter=Image
ImageName=[Variables:ImagePath][Variables:Image[MeasureImage]]
X=0
Y=0
W=[DesktopWidth]
H=[DesktopHeight]
UpdateDivider=60 ; Update every 60 frames (adjust as needed)

[ActionChangeImage]
Measure=Calc
Formula=1
IfCondition=(#CurrentImage# < #ImageCount#) IfTrueAction=[!SetVariable CurrentImage ([#CurrentImage#+1])] IfFalseAction=[!SetVariable CurrentImage 1] UpdateDivider=60 * Replace `C:\Path\To\Your\Images\` with the actual path to your images. * Add more `Image` variables for each image you want to display. * Adjust `ImageCount` to the total number of images. * Modify `UpdateDivider` in both `[MeterImage]` and `[ActionChangeImage]` to control how often the image changes (lower values mean faster animation). * **For Videos (using DirectShow):** * Rainmeter's native image meter does not directly support video playback. You would need to use a plugin that can handle video playback, such as the DirectShow plugin. * This approach is more complex and requires additional configuration. 5. **Load the Skin:** * Save the skin file (Animation.ini). * Right-click on the Rainmeter icon in the system tray and select "Refresh All". * Find your skin in the Rainmeter Manage window and click "Load". * The images should now cycle through your desktop, creating an animated effect. **Limitations:** * **Complexity:** Creating and configuring Rainmeter skins can be complex, especially for beginners. * **Limited Animation Capabilities:** Rainmeter is not designed for smooth video playback or complex animations. It's better suited for simple image slideshows. * **Performance:** Depending on the complexity of the skin and the number of images, Rainmeter can consume system resources. ## Method 4: Using Dynamic Wallpaper (macOS) macOS offers a built-in feature called Dynamic Wallpaper that automatically changes your desktop background based on the time of day. While not exactly an animated background, it provides a dynamic visual experience that changes throughout the day. **Step-by-Step Instructions:** 1. **Open System Preferences:** * Click on the Apple menu in the top left corner of your screen and select "System Preferences". 2. **Go to Desktop & Screen Saver:** * In System Preferences, click on "Desktop & Screen Saver". 3. **Choose a Dynamic Wallpaper:** * In the Desktop & Screen Saver window, click on the "Desktop" tab. * In the left sidebar, you'll see a list of available wallpaper categories. Select "Apple" or "Desktop Pictures". * Look for wallpapers with the "Dynamic" label. These wallpapers change their appearance based on the time of day. * Click on a Dynamic wallpaper to select it. 4. **Configure Dynamic Wallpaper Settings:** * In the Desktop & Screen Saver window, you have a few options for configuring the Dynamic wallpaper: * **Dynamic:** The wallpaper will change automatically based on the time of day. * **Light (Still):** The wallpaper will remain in its daytime appearance. * **Dark (Still):** The wallpaper will remain in its nighttime appearance. **Limitations:** * **Limited Options:** The number of built-in Dynamic wallpapers is limited. * **Not True Animation:** Dynamic wallpapers are not true animations; they are a series of static images that change over time. * **No Customization:** You cannot customize the timing or appearance of the Dynamic wallpapers beyond the available options. ## Method 5: Using Third-Party Apps (macOS) Several third-party apps are available for macOS that allow you to set videos, GIFs, and even web pages as your desktop background. These apps often offer more features and customization options than the built-in Dynamic Wallpaper feature. Here are a few popular options: * **iWallpaper:** iWallpaper is a paid app that offers a wide range of animated wallpapers, including videos, GIFs, and live wallpapers. It supports 4K resolution and offers various customization options. * **Plastuer:** Plastuer is another paid app that allows you to set videos, GIFs, and web pages as your desktop background. It also offers features like custom playlists and automatic wallpaper changes. * **Wallpaper Engine:** This is a popular choice, but primarily used through Steam. It offers a large community driven workshop to download animated wallpapers. **Step-by-Step Instructions (using iWallpaper as an example):** 1. **Download and Install iWallpaper:** * Purchase and download iWallpaper from the Mac App Store. * Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install iWallpaper. 2. **Launch iWallpaper:** * Once installed, iWallpaper should launch automatically. If it doesn't, you can find it in your Applications folder. 3. **Choose a Wallpaper:** * The iWallpaper interface will appear, displaying a list of available wallpapers. * Browse through the wallpapers and click on one to set it as your desktop background. You'll see a preview of the animation on your desktop. 4. **Add a Custom Wallpaper:** * To use your own video or GIF as a wallpaper, click on the "Add" button in the iWallpaper interface. * Select the video or GIF file from your computer. 5. **Customize Wallpaper Settings:** * After adding a wallpaper, you can customize its settings by clicking on the "Settings" button next to the wallpaper in the iWallpaper interface. * Available settings may include: * **Playback Speed:** Adjust the speed of the animation. * **Volume:** Control the audio volume of the video (if applicable). * **Scaling:** Choose how the wallpaper is scaled to fit your screen. * **Position:** Adjust the position of the wallpaper on your screen. **Considerations:** * **Cost:** Most third-party apps for animated wallpapers are paid. * **Features:** Each app offers different features and customization options. Choose an app that meets your specific needs. * **Performance:** Consider the performance impact of the app on your system. Some apps may consume more resources than others. ## Method 6: Using ScreenSaver as Desktop Wallpaper (macOS) This is a trick of setting up a screensaver with your video and then making the screensaver run constantly behind your icons. **Step-by-Step Instructions:** 1. **Download and Install a Screensaver Creation Tool:** * For this method, you'll need a tool that allows you to create a screensaver from a video file. A suitable option is **SaverLab** (available on the Mac App Store). 2. **Create a Screensaver from Your Video:** * Open SaverLab. * Drag and drop the video file you want to use as your wallpaper into the app. * Configure any desired settings within SaverLab, such as transition effects or playback options. * Save the screensaver. This will typically save the screensaver file in your Library/Screen Savers folder. 3. **Set the Screensaver to Run Constantly:** * Download and install **Desktops** from Microsoft ([https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/downloads/desktops](https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/downloads/desktops)). It is a virtual desktop manager that also works to set screensavers as backgrounds. * Open Desktops. Configure it to use multiple desktops (the number is up to you). * On any one of the desktops you need to configure the screensaver. Configure that screensaver to be the one you made. * Set the wait time to the minimum (1 minute). 4. **Automatically Start Screensaver on Login:** * Go to **System Preferences > Desktop & Screen Saver > Screen Saver**.
* Select the screensaver you created from the list on the left.
* Set **Start after** to **1 minute** (or the minimum available time).

5. **Make Screensaver Persistent:**

* This setup will run screensaver and place it behind icons.

**Limitations:**

* **Application Dependency:** Requires both a screensaver creation tool and a screen management utility.
* **Resource Intensive:** Running a screensaver constantly can consume more system resources.
* **Can Interfere with Normal Screensaver Functionality:** May interfere with the computer’s normal screensaver operation when the user is idle.

## Finding Animated Wallpapers

Once you’ve chosen a method to set up animated backgrounds, you’ll need to find some interesting content. Here are some resources for finding animated wallpapers:

* **YouTube:** Search for “animated wallpapers,” “live wallpapers,” or “desktop backgrounds” on YouTube. Many creators offer free downloadable videos that are optimized for use as desktop backgrounds.
* **Reddit:** Subreddits like r/wallpapers, r/Live ওয়ালপেপার, and r/animatedwallpapers offer a wide variety of user-submitted animated wallpapers.
* **MyLiveWallpapers.com:** This website offers a collection of free animated wallpapers for Windows and macOS.
* **DesktopHut.com:** Similar to MyLiveWallpapers.com, DesktopHut.com provides a curated selection of animated wallpapers.
* **Steam Workshop (for Wallpaper Engine):** If you use Wallpaper Engine, the Steam Workshop is a vast repository of user-created animated wallpapers.

## Conclusion

Setting up an animated desktop background can be a fun and rewarding way to personalize your computer. Whether you choose to use Lively Wallpaper, VLC Media Player, Rainmeter, Dynamic Wallpaper (macOS), or third-party apps, there are plenty of options to suit your needs and preferences. Just remember to consider the potential impact on your system’s performance and battery life, and choose animations or videos that are appropriate for your computer’s capabilities. With a little effort, you can transform your desktop into a dynamic and visually appealing environment.