YouTube has become the undisputed king of online video, with over 2 billion users visiting the platform each month. The streaming site contains a massive library covering almost every topic imaginable. By using specialized downloader apps and extensions, you can grab videos from YouTube and save them locally on your devices.
In this guide, we will uncover the best YouTube video downloader tools that skillfully handle ripping media from the site. With these software solutions, you can enjoy YouTube videos offline, convert them to different formats, and even extract just the audio. Let’s explore the top options that deliver simple and efficient YouTube downloading capabilities without violating the platform’s terms of service.
Overview of YouTube’s Terms of Service
YouTube strictly forbids downloading videos from their platform through their terms of service and copyright policy. This is because they want viewers to stream videos on their site with ads for monetization.
However, YouTube also acknowledges there are limited cases where downloading content for personal use may be permitted under fair use laws. This is a gray area open to interpretation.
While risky, downloading a reasonable amount of videos just for your own playback generally falls under fair use rights. But it’s smart to comply with their policies by using methods covered in this guide. Distribution and sharing of downloaded videos is always prohibited.
Why Download YouTube Videos? Common Use Cases
Before we get into the downloader apps, let’s discuss some of the main reasons people want to save YouTube videos:
Watch Offline
View videos on planes, subways, or other places without internet.
Archive Favorites
Save treasured videos before they get removed or become unavailable.
Avoid Ads
Download videos to bypass annoying advertisements.
Save Data
Prevent streaming videos from eating up your mobile data plan.
Improve Playback
Download high definition quality for superior viewing.
Extract Audio
Listen to music tracks and songs on the go after converting and saving just the audio.
Portability
Transfer downloaded videos to different devices like phones, tablets and TVs for playback anywhere.
Factors for Choosing a YouTube Video Downloader
There are many downloader apps and tools available, both free and paid. Here are some key factors to evaluate when selecting one:
Video Quality
Ability to download in 720p, 1080p, 4K or even 8K resolution when available. Higher is better.
File Formats
Output video in common formats like MP4, AVI, MKV or audio in MP3. Some tools offer format conversion too.
Download Speed
Faster download rates help save time, especially for longer videos. Look for accelerated performance.
Playlist Support
Batch download entire YouTube playlists or channel videos conveniently.
Usability
Simple, clean interface and workflows for an easy user experience.
Reliability
Consistently working downloader that avoids crashes or other issues.
Security
No bundled adware, malware or viruses. Trusted developers are safest.
Top 10 Free YouTube Video Downloader Apps
Based on the criteria above, below are my picks for the top 10 free YouTube video downloader apps:
1. SaveFrom
Some key features of this app include the ability to paste video links or download entire playlists and channels. There are also some useful options, such as embedding subtitles and metadata into downloaded files. SaveFrom is available on both Windows and Mac desktop applications.
Spending Plan: Free with optional paid version
Pros:
- Downloads up to 8K resolution videos
- Converts to audio & video formats
- Simple and straightforward interface
- Downloads entire playlists and channels
- Fast download speeds
Cons:
- Lacks advanced editing features
- Subscription required for premium features
2. SSyoutube
SSyoutube is a free open source YouTube downloader for Windows. It provides an intuitive interface for pasting links and downloading videos or playlists at up to 4K quality. Once downloaded, built-in converters can save files in virtually any format desired, including MP3 for just extracting audio.
Additional handy features make SSyoutube stand out from basic downloaders. These include a screen recorder, ability to burn videos to DVD, and basic video editing tools for trimming clips. With strong format support and versatility beyond just downloading, SSyoutube is a great option for power users.
Spending Plan: 100% Free
Pros:
- Downloads in up to 4K resolution
- Hundreds of output format options
- Integrated video editor and screen recorder
- DVD burning capabilities
- Active community support
Cons:
- Windows only, no Mac or mobile support
- Contains some bundled third party offers during install
- User interface feels a bit outdated
3. ClipGrab
ClipGrab offers a straightforward and intuitive approach for downloading YouTube videos.Unlike other downloaders bogged down with complex options and settings, ClipGrab embraces minimalism. Their philosophy is to provide an easy way to grab videos without any hassle or unnecessary steps getting in the way. Everything is streamlined to get your media downloaded with the least amount of clicks. For those seeking a no frills solution optimized for speed and convenience, ClipGrab delivers.
Spending Plan: Free
Pros:
- Extremely simple one-click downloads
- Fast download speeds
- No limits on quantity of downloads
- No account registration required
- Active development with frequent updates
Cons:
- Only outputs MP4 video format
- Lacks playlists or channel downloading
- No browser extensions available
- Limited configuration options
4. WinX YouTube Downloader
WinX YouTube Downloader is a popular free tool for Windows and Mac that makes downloading YouTube videos quick and easy. Just copy and paste the video link into the sleek interface and select your desired quality up to 4K. Videos can be saved as MP4 or even converted to MP3 audio files.
Key features that make WinX YouTube Downloader stand out include support for downloading entire playlists and channels. It also has a handy browser extension for fast video grabbing. Performance is optimized for blazing fast downloads thanks to accelerated download technology. Overall an excellent option for everyday YouTube video downloads.
Spending Plan: Free
Pros:
- Fast batch downloading with no limits
- Supports 4K quality downloads
- Browser extension for easy downloading
- Can extract MP3 audio from videos
- No malware or adware included
Cons:
- Basic features only, no advanced editing
- Simplified interface lacks some customization
- Requires an account to use browser extension
- Limited options for converting to formats besides MP4
5. Freemake Video Downloader
As the name suggests, Freemake Video Downloader is 100% free software for downloading videos from YouTube and many other streaming sites. It sports a clean and intuitive interface that makes downloading as simple as pasting in a video link and clicking the download button.
Useful features include the ability to download entire YouTube playlists or channels with just one click. Subtitle files can also be downloaded for your videos. The straightforward design means this downloader app is easy for just about anyone to use, while still providing enough functionality for power users.
Spending Plan: Free
Pros:
- Downloads from many streaming sites besides just YouTube
- One-click playlist and channel downloading
- Automatically saves English subtitles
- Clean and distraction-free interface
- Completely free with no paid upgrade
Cons:
- Maximum quality limited to 1080p HD
- No built-in video conversions
- Limited configuration options
- Requires an account to use features
- Contains third party offers during install
6. DVDVideoSoft Free YouTube Download
As a widely used browser extension for Chrome and Firefox, DVDVideoSoft Free YouTube Download makes grabbing videos convenient without leaving your browser. After a quick install, you can simply click the extension icon on any YouTube page to download that video in seconds.
Despite the simplicity, DVDVideoSoft’s extension can download in HD 720p quality and save files in MP4 format. The easy accessibility right within your browser makes this a top choice for quick on-the-fly YouTube video downloads.
Spending Plan: Free
Pros:
- Seamless integration into Chrome and Firefox
- One-click downloads from YouTube pages
- Saves videos in MP4 format up to 720p
- Easy to install and use
- Completely free extension
Cons:
- Lower maximum quality than desktop downloader apps
- No playlist, channel or audio conversion support
- Requires browser extension install
- Limited configuration options
- Must download videos one-by-one
7. OnlineVideoConverter
As an online solution requiring no software installs, OnlineVideoConverter provides a quick way to download YouTube videos. Simply paste the video link into your browser, select download in MP4 format up to 720p HD quality, and save the file.
While convenient, online converters have limitations versus desktop apps. Quality is capped at 720p, and you must download videos one-by-one instead of in bulk. However, OnlineVideoConverter is easy to use on any device with a browser, making it a handy backup option.
Spending Plan: Free with optional premium
Pros:
- No software install required
- Easy to use in any web browser
- Downloads 720p MP4 videos quickly
- Wide device and platform support
- Additional features available with premium account
Cons:
- Maximum 720p HD quality
- Must download videos individually
- Contains ads with free version
- Requires internet connection to operate
- Lacks playlists or channel support
8. Video Keeper for Android
For Android mobile users, Video Keeper provides an excellent option to download videos directly on your smartphone or tablet. The app makes it easy to paste in links and download YouTube videos up to 4K quality.
Useful premium features include a built-in video editor, private cloud storage support, and a music tagger. The intuitive mobile interface also enables simple management of your downloaded video library. Overall, Video Keeper is a great choice for accessing YouTube downloads on the go.
Spending Plan: Free or $4.99 premium
Pros:
- Downloads up to 4K quality
- Integrated video editor
- Works offline without internet
- Music autotagger
- Cloud storage support
Cons:
- Premium version has one-time fee
- Limited to Android mobile devices
- Basic interface lacks some options
- App crashes reported on some devices
9. SnapTube for Android
SnapTube is an extremely popular YouTube downloader app available for Android smartphones and tablets. It provides fast video downloads in resolutions up to 4K. Convenient features include one-click downloads for entire YouTube playlists or channels.
A handy built-in video converter allows saving files in just about any format needed. The clean mobile interface is easy to navigate, making SnapTube one of the best options for Android users wanting to take their YouTube videos on the go.
Spending Plan: Free
Pros:
- Downloads up to 4K resolution
- One-click playlist and channel downloads
- Integrated video converter
- Fast download speeds
- Free with no ads or limits
Cons:
- Android mobile only, no PC app
- Less frequently updated
- Poor customer support
- Potential security/malware concerns
10. Documents by Readdle for iOS
For iPhone and iPad users, Documents by Readdle provides integrated YouTube downloading capabilities alongside its robust file manager features. Just open the app, copy a YouTube link, and download any video up to 720p resolution.
Benefits include offline playback and the ability to save videos directly in cloud storage services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and more. While basic, having downloader functionality baked into this handy free file manager makes Documents by Readdle a handy iOS option.
Spending Plan: Free
Pros:
- Native YouTube downloader built-in
- Cloud storage support
- Offline playback mode
- No app switching needed
- Intuitive touch interface
Cons:
- Maximum 720p quality YouTube downloads
- No advanced configurations
- iOS mobile only
- Large app size
- Contains some premium subscription prompts
Step-by-Step Guide to Downloading YouTube Videos
The process for downloading videos is straightforward:
- Install: Download and install the video downloader app if required. Web and mobile apps launch instantly.
- Copy Link: Browse YouTube in your web browser or app and copy the link (URL) of the video you want to download.
- Paste Link: Paste the YouTube link into the downloader app.
- Select Format: Choose the preferred download format and resolution if available. MP4 at 1080p is recommended.
- Download: Click the download, convert or rip button to start saving the video file.
- Save File: Select a folder location to save the downloaded video on your device storage.
Repeat these steps to quickly build your personal offline YouTube video library!
Downloading YouTube Videos on Mobile
Beyond desktop downloader apps, many users want to save YouTube videos directly on their smartphones and tablets for viewing offline.
Some options for downloading YouTube videos on mobile devices include:
- Official YouTube App – Provides limited offline playback for select videos. Requires premium subscription.
- Video Keeper, SnapTube, TubeMate – Top third-party downloader apps for Android. Generally easy to use with various features.
- Documents by Readdle – File manager for iPhone/iPad that can download videos from YouTube and other sites.
- Clipboard Managers – Apps like Clipboard History (Android) or Pastebot (iOS) that can save YouTube links for downloading later.
- Mobile Browsers – Chrome and Safari have extensions like VideoDownloadHelper to integrate downloads into the browser.
Follow the same basic process outlined above to download videos within these mobile apps. Just paste the YouTube link, select quality and output format, then save the video file locally on your device storage.
Is Downloading YouTube Videos Legal?
This is a complex topic with some gray areas. YouTube’s terms prohibit downloading videos. However, courts have upheld that downloading videos for personal use in limited quantities falls under fair use rights in the United States.
YouTube is unlikely to go after someone downloading a few videos for themselves. Just don’t distribute or share the downloaded videos publicly, and avoid using any methods that violate their terms.
Ultimately it’s a decision for each user based on their specific situation and jurisdiction. This guide focuses on downloader apps that comply with YouTube’s policies. Consult a lawyer for legal advice.
Troubleshooting: Videos Not Downloading?
Here are some tips if you are having trouble downloading YouTube videos:
Check your internet connection is working properly. Slow speeds can disrupt downloads.
Restart the downloader app and device. This fixes transient glitches.
Try copying and pasting the link again. Mistakes can prevent downloading.
Enable permissions in your mobile device settings for third-party apps to access YouTube.
Update the app or extension to the latest version which may resolve bugs.
Use a different downloader app in case an issue is isolated to one.
Downloaders can stop working if YouTube makes changes to block them. Be patient for updates.
As a last resort, download videos on a desktop PC which is generally more reliable.
Conclusion
I hope this detailed guide covers everything you need to know about the best apps for legally downloading YouTube videos. The ones featured above are all solid options that comply with YouTube’s terms and make saving videos easy.
Now you can build up an offline collection of your favorite YouTube content to watch anywhere without an internet connection. Never miss a must-see video again!
Let me know if you have any other questions. Enjoy exploring the wonderful world of YouTube offline.
