Often wishing to watch a video from YouTube, but not have an internet connection at the same time? Perhaps it is an instructional video that you go back to from time to time, a song to which you listen like a poster listens to favorite music, or a speech. The problem here is that YouTube does not allow direct downloads for videos. Here comes Youtube Video Downloader – the tool that allows saving videos with a few clicks only. So, let me explain everything you need to know about downloading YouTube videos in this article – legality, tools, everything so that you can have your favorite video downloaded and ready for use whenever you want it.
Table of Contents
What is a Youtube Video Downloader?
A Youtube Video Downloader can also mean an application that can help you download videos from YouTube to your computer or other device you have. These tools help you save videos in any format using your laptop, desktop or even your smartphone for viewing later offline. The best part? They have no specific skills needed for their use as has been demonstrated above. Basically it’s just the same process we’ve seen before on the video link just copy and paste the link on the downloader and click on download. Boom, you’re all set!
Why You Should Use a Youtube Video Downloader?
Well then why download videos at all when you can just stream them? Let me tell you, our internet is often something we wish we could rely on. Moreover, when you are on a business trip or in some other place where Wi-Fi is inaccessible, those cute animal videos will not be several clicks away. Downloading videos implies this, the videos are always with you always at your convenience.
For that matter, downloading videos is something that suits content creators perfectly well. Suppose, for instance, a project or presentation requires bits and bytes of YouTube content, but you cannot use the internet. This means having videos downloaded to your device so that it is never the case that you did not find a video worthwhile.
Forced Outcomes: the Legality of Download from YouTube
Okay, let’s first come right to the point: is it legal? According to YouTube’s Terms of Service users are prohibited from downloading videos unless there is a download button or link available for it. However, since most downloading is considered an unauthorized usage it might fall under these terms as well. Nevertheless, downloading contents which are available for public use for instance royalty free music or internet videos are fine.
Most people download YouTube Videos for private use or for use in schools, presentations etc, but then this should be done with caution and always ensure you check on the copyright status of the desired YouTube clip. Better safe than sorry!
How does a Youtube Video Downloader work?
The steps followed in most products enclosing Youtube Video Downloaders have common simple steps that are easy to understand. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Copy the Video URL
Go to Youtube, locate the video which you wish to download and copy the URL from your browser.
Step 2: Paste into the Downloader
Copy the link of your desired video and head to your favorite video downloader site (You will know the best ones in a bit).
Step 3: Choose Format and Quality
This is where things get fun. Select your preferred format, most commonly the MP4 video format is used. You can also choose the video quality of the file; low quality, standard, high definition or even full HD.
Step 4: Hit Download
Just hit the download button, wait a few moments and, provida! The video link is saved to your device enabling you to watch it even if you are out of reach of any internet connection.
The Best Youtube Video Downloader Options for the Best Experience
So, not all downloaders are the same; theORS model was developed to categorize the stakeholders involved in the downloading of content that breaches the Web 2.0 terms of use. Here’s what makes a good YouTube Video Downloader stand out:
1. Speed
No one likes waiting around. A good downloader should download your video in a few seconds when you want the video urgently.
2. Multiple Formats
You will also need features such as download formats, such as MP4, MP3 only, and other related formats. Flexibility is key.
3. Video Quality Options
There are times where you may require the high resolution more than anything else; and there are other times where all you require in an easy and a small video clip with low resolution. When it comes to a downloader, while having a simple one is good, having a downloader that allows you to choose which one to use is better.
4. No Watermarks
Who wants a huge stamp on their video? Always choose downloaders that offer clear downloads without any watermark.
5. Device Compatibility
Ensure you are able to download it on any device, be it a Mac, PC or even via your mobile.
Top Seven Youtbe Video Downloaders of 2024
So, you are here to know what to look for when it comes to choosing the best YouTube Video Downloaders, let’s get to it.
1. 4K Video Downloader
4K Video Downloader is undoubtedly one of the most famous and simple to work with tools currently available. You are able to download full playlists, save the video and its quality in high definition and even so extract subtitles from a video.
2. Y2Mate
Currently, being a fan among fans, Y2Mate ensures compatibility with various videos in MP4 and MP3. it is very fast, there is no charge for it and, best of all, it doesn’t need to be installed.
3. SnapDownloader
SnapDownloader is highly effective for downloading videos from not only YouTube but other 900+ sites as well. Load of features include; Batch download option and the support of 8K resolution.
4. SaveFrom.net
SaveFrom.net: fast and free, this website is another dedicated to help you download videos by just copying and pasting a link. It is convenient if you want to download a file or two while you’re in a hurry.
5. YTD Video Downloader
To add to it, this tool comes with both a free and paid version that lets users download videos and even convert them to other formats. The ad-supported version is useful for casual downloading, but the full version gives you additional options: faster downloads.
Downloading YouTube videos on mobile is not a difficult task if few basic settings are made on the phone.
Downloading videos on your mobile device is not very much different from doing it on your computer. Furthermore there exist mobile applications which have been developed especially for the purpose of downloading videos from YouTube.
Step 1: Choose a Mobile Downloader
For the Android users, the most used apps are TubeMate and VidMate. For the Apple fans, you may require additional applications for download, for instance, Documents by Readdle.
Step 2: Copy the Video Link
Just like on a desktop, right click the link of the YouTube video you would like to download.
Step 3: Paste and Download
Open that application and just click on the link, then click download. In just a couple of minutes, your video will be ready to be watched even when you’re offline!
Advantages and Disadvantages of Downloader A Youtube Video
That being said, let’s look at the argument for and against to see whether or not it makes sense for you to download videos.
Pros
- Watch videos offline anytime
- No interruptions from ads
- Spend less bandwidth by monitoring videos that have been downloaded
- Retrieve material for cases for a project or seminar
Cons
- This may lead to Youtubers violating their Terms of Service.
- A severe risk of downloading copyrighted materials
- As expected, not all the downloaders out there do not contain malware hence one should be wary watching out for the malware’s injectors.
In Your Youtube Video Downloader: Safety Measures to Follow
Indeed the internet environment sometimes goes rugged and everyone downloading something is not a saint. Here are a few tips to stay safe:
1. Use Trusted Downloaders
Only run the tools that are proven and reliable like the ones I have listed above. Do not open web pages that alert one to download free items that end up containing a virus.
2. Install Antivirus Software
Not even the most secure downloader could be free from dropping other files that are applicable to the intended package. Make use of well recognized antivirus software in your device.
3. Avoid Copyrighted Material
It is always important to learn whether the video you would like to download contains copyrighted material. If you are still in doubt then you are advised not to download it.
FAQs
- And is using a YouTube Video Downloader legal?
Technically, no, downloading YouTube videos without permission is prohibited by YouTube Terms of Service. However, the downloading of free to use content is generally acceptable.
- Is there an option for doing it in 4K resolution?
Indeed, most downloaders such as 4K Video Downloader enable you to download the videos in high definition quality including 4k and 8k.
- Are YouTube Video Downloaders Compatible with mobile devices?
Yes, indeed, TubeMate and VidMate are such applications through which it becomes possible to download YouTube videos to a mobile device.
- Are the YouTube Video Downloaders safe?
But all of them are quite safe, it is required to use only the tools that are recommended, the Internet antivirus programs should be installed to fight with viruses.
- How can you get the audio from a YouTube video?
Absolutely! Most of the tools will enable you to download only the audio in the MP3 format – perfect for music and podcasts.