How To Download Youtube Videos?
How to Download YouTube videos, is a topic that involves capturing videos from the YouTube platform and saving them to a local device for offline viewing. It’s essential to highlight the importance of respecting copyright laws and adhering to YouTube’s policies when discussing this topic.
YouTube’s terms of service clearly state that downloading videos without permission, especially copyrighted content, is against their rules. Engaging in unauthorized downloading can lead to legal consequences and the violation of intellectual property rights. Therefore, it’s crucial for users to be informed about legal and responsible ways to interact with YouTube content.
Read More- YouTube Videos Downloader
Methods to Download YouTube Videos
a. Online Video Downloaders:
How online video downloaders work: Online video downloaders are web-based tools that allow users to input the URL of a YouTube video and then download it to their device. They work by extracting the video file from the YouTube server and making it available for download.
List of reputable online tools:
- Y2Mate: Offers various format and quality options.
- KeepVid: Supports multiple video platforms beyond YouTube.
- ClipConverter: Allows video conversion to different formats.
Limitations and potential risks:
- These services may change or become unavailable due to legal issues.
- Pop-up ads and potentially harmful links are common on such sites.
- Copyright infringement can occur if you download copyrighted content without permission.
b. Desktop Software:
Desktop software options: Desktop software offers more robust downloading capabilities, including batch downloading and additional features. Some popular choices include:
- 4K Video Downloader: Supports high-quality downloads and playlists.
- Video DownloadHelper: A browser extension that can also be used as standalone software.
- WinX YouTube Downloader: Supports 4K and 8K video downloads.
Advantages:
- Faster downloads with options for multiple videos.
- Enhanced video quality and format selection.
- Batch download entire playlists or channels.
c. Browser Extensions:
How browser extensions work: Browser extensions add a download button to your browser, simplifying the downloading process. They allow you to download YouTube videos directly while watching them on the website.
Reliable browser extensions:
- Video DownloadHelper (Firefox/Chrome): Offers versatility and user-friendly interface.
- YouTube Video Downloader (Chrome): Supports various video resolutions.
Security concerns:
- Be cautious when installing extensions from unverified sources.
- Check user reviews and ratings for legitimacy.
- Some extensions may access your browsing data, so review permissions carefully.
d. Mobile Apps:
Availability of mobile apps: There are mobile apps available for both Android and iOS platforms that facilitate YouTube video downloads.
Recommended apps:
- VidMate (Android): User-friendly interface and supports multiple platforms.
- Documents by Readdle (iOS): A file manager app that includes a built-in browser for downloading.
Importance of reputable sources: Ensure you download apps only from official app stores to avoid security risks. Unauthorized apps may contain malware or compromise your data.
Download YouTube Videos on Different Devices
Here, I have provided instructions on how to download YouTube videos on an iPhone, on a computer (PC), and specifically on a Mac:
How to Download YouTube Videos on iPhone:
Downloading YouTube videos directly to your iPhone is possible using certain apps. However, keep in mind that some of these methods may not be permitted by YouTube’s terms of service, so use them responsibly.
- Using Documents by Readdle (Free):
- Download the “Documents by Readdle” app from the App Store.
- Open the app and tap the built-in web browser icon (compass icon).
- Visit a YouTube video you want to download.
- Play the video, and a download button will appear at the bottom right corner.
- Tap the download button to save the video to your iPhone.
- Using Third-Party Apps:
- There are third-party apps available on the App Store that claim to allow YouTube video downloads. Search for these apps and follow their specific instructions, but be cautious about their legitimacy and compliance with YouTube’s terms.
How to Download a YouTube Video to a Computer (PC):
You can download YouTube videos to your computer using various methods, including online tools and desktop software:
- Using Online Video Downloaders:
- Visit an online video downloader website like “y2mate.com” or “keepvid.com.”
- Paste the YouTube video URL into the provided field.
- Select the desired video format and quality.
- Click the download button to save the video to your computer.
- Using Desktop Software:
- Download and install desktop software like “4K Video Downloader” or “WinX YouTube Downloader.”
- Launch the software and paste the YouTube video URL.
- Choose the format and quality options.
- Click the download button to save the video to your computer.
How to Download YouTube Videos on a Mac:
Downloading YouTube videos on a Mac is similar to downloading them on a PC. Here’s how you can download YouTube videos on Mac for free:
- Using Safari (Built-in Method):
- Open Safari and visit the YouTube video you want to download.
- Play the video.
- Go to the “Window” menu and select “Activity.”
- In the “Activity” window, find the video file with the largest file size. Double-click it, and it will download to your Mac.
- Using Browser Extensions:
- Install a browser extension like “Video DownloadHelper” for Safari or “Video Downloader Professional” for Chrome.
- Visit the YouTube video and click the download button provided by the extension.
- Choose the video quality and format and save it to your Mac.
Remember to respect copyright laws and YouTube’s policies when downloading videos, and use these methods responsibly for personal use only.
Step-by-Step Tutorials
Here are step-by-step tutorials for downloading YouTube videos using two different methods: downloading on an iPhone using the “Documents by Readdle” app and downloading on a computer (PC) using an online video downloader.
Downloading YouTube Videos on iPhone using “Documents by Readdle”:
- Install Documents by Readdle:
- Go to the App Store on your iPhone.
- Search for “Documents by Readdle” and download/install the app.
- Open Documents and Enable Browser:
- Open the “Documents” app after installation.
- Tap the compass icon in the bottom right corner to access the built-in web browser.
- Visit YouTube and Find the Video:
- In the browser, go to the YouTube website (www.youtube.com).
- Search for and select the video you want to download.
- Start Playing the Video:
- Tap on the video to start playing it.
- Download the Video:
- Once the video is playing, a download icon (downward arrow) will appear at the bottom right corner of the screen.
- Tap the download icon.
- Choose Download Format and Quality:
- You will see options for the video format and quality.
- Select the format and quality you prefer.
- Start Download:
- Tap “Done” in the top right corner to start the download.
- The video will be saved to the Downloads folder in the Documents app.
- Access the Downloaded Video:
- To access your downloaded video, go to the “Downloads” folder within the Documents app.
- Tap the video file to play it offline.
Downloading YouTube Videos on a Computer (PC) using an Online Video Downloader:
- Visit an Online Video Downloader Website:
- Open your web browser on your PC.
- Go to an online video downloader website like “y2mate.com” or “keepvid.com.”
- Copy the YouTube Video URL:
- Go to YouTube (www.youtube.com) and find the video you want to download.
- Copy the URL of the video from the browser’s address bar.
- Paste the URL on the Online Downloader:
- Return to the online video downloader website.
- In the provided field, paste the YouTube video URL.
- Select Download Options:
- Choose the video format and quality options that you prefer from the available choices on the website.
- Initiate the Download:
- Click the “Download” or “Start” button on the website to initiate the download process.
- Download the Video:
- The website will process the video and generate a download link.
- Click the link to download the video file to your computer.
- Access the Downloaded Video:
- Once the download is complete, you can access the video file in your computer’s designated download folder.
Alternatives to Downloading – YouTube Premium
There are legal alternatives to downloading YouTube videos for offline viewing. One of the most convenient options is YouTube Premium, which offers offline viewing and various other benefits. Here are some alternatives:
-
YouTube Premium (Paid Service):
- YouTube Premium is a subscription service offered by YouTube.
- Subscribers can download videos for offline viewing on mobile devices.
- It also includes ad-free viewing, background play, and access to YouTube Originals.
- To use YouTube Premium:
- Sign up for a YouTube Premium subscription.
- Open the YouTube app on your mobile device.
- Find the video you want to download, tap the download button, and select the video quality.
-
YouTube Offline Feature (Mobile App):
- The regular YouTube app also offers a limited form of offline viewing.
- You can temporarily download videos for offline viewing on your mobile device.
- To use this feature:
- Open the YouTube app.
- Find the video you want to download.
- Tap the download button (usually looks like a downward-facing arrow).
- Choose the video quality and confirm the download.
-
YouTube Kids App (For Family-Friendly Content):
- If you’re looking for family-friendly content, consider the YouTube Kids app.
- It allows offline downloads of child-appropriate videos.
- Downloading works similarly to the main YouTube app.
-
YouTube Studio (Creators Only):
- If you’re a content creator, YouTube Studio allows you to download your own videos legally.
- This can be useful for making backups or reusing your own content.
-
Netflix and Other Streaming Services:
- Many popular videos and movies that are on YouTube are also available on legal streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+.
- These services often provide offline viewing options as well.
-
YouTube TV (Paid Live TV Service):
- YouTube TV offers live TV streaming and DVR capabilities.
- You can record live TV shows and movies to watch offline later.
-
Educational Platforms:
- Many educational content creators offer their videos on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy.
- These platforms often allow you to download course materials and videos for offline learning.
These alternatives provide legal and convenient ways to enjoy YouTube content offline, while also supporting content creators and respecting copyright laws. Consider the option that best suits your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I strongly emphasize the importance of responsible and ethical behaviour when it comes to downloading YouTube videos. As an individual, I believe in respecting copyright laws and adhering to YouTube’s policies. While there are various methods available for downloading videos, my responsibility as a user is to use these tools for personal, non-commercial purposes only.
I encourage fellow users to consider legal alternatives, such as YouTube Premium, which not only provides offline viewing but also supports content creators. By making informed and ethical choices, I can continue to enjoy YouTube content while contributing to the sustainability of this remarkable platform.
