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Download YouTube Videos Free Mp4: The Ultimate Guide
YouTube is undoubtedly the most popular video-sharing platform globally, offering a plethora of amazing and diverse content. Whether you want to watch music videos, tutorials, or movies, YouTube has you covered. However, there are times when you may want to download videos from YouTube and save them in the MP4 format for offline viewing or future reference. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various methods you can use to download YouTube videos for free in the MP4 format.
Contents:
1. Official YouTube App Download
If you want to explore the simplest method to download YouTube videos in MP4 format, the official YouTube app provides that ability. Here’s how you can do it:
- Open the YouTube app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Search for the video you want to download.
- Tap on the video to open it.
- Below the video player, you will find a ‘Download’ button. Tap on it.
- Choose the desired resolution and format (MP4) for your video.
- The video will start downloading and will be saved in your device’s gallery or download folder.
This method is fairly straightforward and convenient, especially if you primarily use the YouTube app on your mobile device.
2. Third-Party Websites
If you prefer downloading YouTube videos on your computer, there are numerous third-party websites that allow you to do so. Here are the steps to download YouTube videos as MP4 using a third-party website:
- Open a web browser on your computer and navigate to a trusted YouTube video downloader website like ‘KeepVid’ or ‘SaveFrom’.
- Go to YouTube and search for the video you want to download.
- Copy the video’s URL from the browser’s address bar.
- Paste the video URL into the downloading field on the third-party website.
- Choose the desired format (MP4) and resolution.
- Click on the ‘Download’ button.
- The website will process the video and provide you with a download link. Click on the link to initiate the download.
These third-party websites offer a convenient way to download YouTube videos on your computer, but ensure that you choose a reputable and reliable website to avoid any potential malware or security issues.
3. Browser Extensions
If you frequently download YouTube videos and want a more streamlined approach, browser extensions can be a fantastic option. Here’s how you can download videos using browser extensions:
- Open your preferred web browser (Chrome, Firefox, etc.) on your computer.
- Install a YouTube video downloader extension from the respective browser’s extension store. Popular options include ‘Video DownloadHelper’ and ‘Easy YouTube Video Downloader’.
- Navigate to YouTube and search for the video you want to download.
- Once the video starts playing, you will notice a download button or icon provided by the extension below the video player.
- Click on the download button, choose the desired format (MP4), and select the resolution.
- The video will start downloading immediately.
Using browser extensions allows you to download YouTube videos with just a single click, minimizing the hassle of visiting external websites.
4. Online Video Downloaders
If you don’t want to rely on browser extensions or third-party websites, you can utilize online video downloader tools. These tools don’t require any installation and work directly in your web browser. Follow these steps:
- Open your web browser and search for ‘online video downloader’.
- Choose a reputable online video downloader tool like ‘Y2Mate’ or ‘Online Video Converter’.
- Copy the YouTube video’s URL that you wish to download.
- Paste the video URL into the downloader’s input field.
- Select the desired format (MP4) and resolution.
- Click on the ‘Download’ button.
- The online video downloader will process the video and provide you with the download link. Click on it to start the download.
Online video downloaders are convenient when you want to quickly grab a video without installing any additional software.
FAQs:
Q1: Is it legal to download YouTube videos?
A1: YouTube’s terms and conditions prohibit the downloading and distributing of videos without the owner’s permission. However, YouTube itself allows users to download videos within their app for offline viewing. The legality of downloading videos outside of the YouTube app may vary depending on your local laws. It is always advisable to view and download videos for personal use only and not for commercial purposes.
Q2: Can I download videos from YouTube in HD?
A2: Yes, most of the methods mentioned above allow you to download YouTube videos in high definition (HD) if the video is available in that format. You can select the desired resolution during the download process.
Q3: Are there any risks involved in using third-party websites or online video downloaders?
A3: While downloading videos using third-party websites and online video downloaders is generally safe if you choose reputable sources, there is a small risk of encountering malware or exposing your device to potential security threats. Make sure to use trusted websites and scan downloaded files before opening them.
Q4: Can I convert YouTube videos to other formats besides MP4?
A4: Yes, many of the methods discussed in this guide allow you to convert YouTube videos to various formats such as AVI, MOV, WMV, and more. You can usually select the desired format during the download process.
Q5: Can I download YouTube videos on my mobile device?
A5: Yes, you can download YouTube videos on your mobile device using the official YouTube app or third-party applications available on your respective app store. Follow the instructions mentioned in the first section of this guide for the official YouTube app download method.
Closing Thoughts
Downloading YouTube videos as MP4 files provides you the freedom to enjoy your favorite content offline without any internet connection. Whether you choose the official YouTube app, third-party websites, browser extensions, or online video downloaders, always remember to respect the copyright of the video owners and use the downloaded content responsibly.
Now that you are equipped with various methods to download YouTube videos in MP4 format, you can start enjoying your favorite YouTube content anytime, anywhere!
