YouTube is full of videos we’d like to save and watch offline. Either as a casual watcher or even as a professional content creator yourself, the ability to archive videos for different purposes is a great tool to have at your disposal. A YouTube video downloader is a simple tool that lets you download videos directly to your device. In 2024, there are many options available, each with unique features to fit different needs. Let’s explore them and find the perfect fit for you.
Are YouTube Video Downloaders Legal?
The legality of using YouTube video downloaders depends on several factors, including YouTube’s Terms of Service, copyright laws, and the intended use of the downloaded content.
YouTube’s Terms of Service
YouTube’s Terms of Service explicitly prohibit downloading content without explicit permission:
“You shall not download any Content unless you see a ‘download’ or similar link displayed by YouTube on the Service for that Content.”
This means that using third-party tools to download videos without authorization violates YouTube’s policies.
Copyright Considerations
Downloading videos without the copyright holder’s permission can infringe on intellectual property rights. However, there are exceptions:
- Public Domain Content: Videos in the public domain can be legally downloaded and used.
- Creative Commons Licenses: Some creators license their videos under Creative Commons, allowing users to download and share content under specified conditions.
It’s essential to verify the licensing status of a video before downloading to ensure compliance with copyright laws.
Legal Alternatives
For those seeking to download YouTube videos legally, YouTube offers a subscription service:
- YouTube Premium: Subscribers can download videos for offline viewing within the YouTube app, adhering to YouTube’s guidelines.
This service provides a legal avenue to access content offline without breaching terms of service or copyright laws.
10 Best YouTube Video Downloaders of 2024: Create your Video Archive!
To help you navigate the options, here’s a list of the best YouTube video downloaders of 2024. Each tool offers unique features, making it easier for you to save videos in the quality and format you need. Whether you’re looking for fast downloads, HD quality, or simple usability, these downloaders are ready to enhance your video-watching experience.
1. 4K Video Downloader
4K Video Downloader is a popular YouTube video downloader that excels in delivering high-quality downloads, supporting resolutions up to 4K and even 8K. This tool is particularly useful for users who want to save videos in their original resolution, including HD and Ultra HD, without losing visual clarity.
Alongside YouTube, it supports various platforms like Vimeo, TikTok, and Facebook, making it a versatile choice for multimedia enthusiasts. The software also offers options for downloading entire playlists, channels, and even subtitles, catering to diverse download needs.
Pros:
- Supports high resolutions, including 4K and 8K
- Allows for downloading entire playlists, channels, and subtitles
- Easy-to-use interface with a straightforward download process
- Supports multiple platforms beyond YouTube
- No ads in the paid version, enhancing user experience
Cons:
- Free version has limitations on playlist and channel downloads
- Only limited downloads in the free version
- Lacks a built-in file converter for those wanting to change formats
Verdict: For users seeking a reliable YouTube video downloader that emphasizes high-quality video retention, 4K Video Downloader is an excellent choice. Its robust support for high resolutions and playlist downloads makes it ideal for those who frequently download video content and want to keep it in the best possible quality.
However, its limited free version may encourage users to upgrade to the paid version for full functionality.
Pricing:
- Free Version: Limited downloads and features
- Personal License: $15 for three computers, offering unlimited playlist and subtitle downloads
- Pro License: $45, includes channel subscriptions, higher speeds, and more extensive options
2. iTubeGO
iTubeGo is a comprehensive YouTube video downloader designed to handle high-quality video downloads across a wide range of platforms. Known for its compatibility with resolutions up to 8K and its ability to download entire playlists and channels, iTubeGo stands out with an integrated video converter that supports various formats like MP4, MP3, MOV, and more.
This makes it ideal for users who want to save videos in a format optimized for specific devices. In addition to YouTube, iTubeGo supports other popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, adding to its versatility.
Pros:
- Supports high-resolution downloads up to 8K and multiple formats
- Downloads entire playlists, channels, and subtitles from YouTube
- Built-in video and audio converter with support for a wide range of formats
- Compatible with over 10,000 websites, expanding download options
- Fast download speeds with advanced turbo mode
Cons:
- Full features are only accessible in the paid version
- Occasional compatibility issues with less common sites
- Desktop version required for most features; mobile capabilities are limited
Verdict: iTubeGo is a robust choice for users who need a reliable YouTube video downloader that offers high-quality downloads with multi-format support. Its ability to handle playlists and channels, combined with a powerful converter, makes it ideal for users who want more control over file formats. For those who download frequently, the paid version unlocks powerful features that make it a worthwhile investment.
Pricing:
- Free Version: Limited downloads and features
- 1-Month Plan: $9.95, full access for one month
- 1-Year Plan: $24.95, includes updates and premium support
- Lifetime License: $29.95, one-time fee for unlimited access on a single device
3. By Click Downloader
By Click Downloader is a versatile YouTube video downloader that simplifies the process of saving videos and audio from various platforms. It supports downloading content from YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and over 40 other sites, offering flexibility for users who consume media across multiple platforms.
The software allows downloads in multiple formats, including YouTube MP3, MP4, AVI, and more, catering to diverse user preferences. A standout feature is its ability to download entire playlists and channels with a single click, streamlining the process for users who want to save bulk content efficiently.
Pros:
- Supports a wide range of platforms beyond YouTube
- Offers multiple download formats and quality options, including HD and 4K
- Enables downloading of entire playlists and channels with one click
- User-friendly interface with automatic detection of downloadable content
- Regular updates ensure compatibility with supported sites
Cons:
- Full features are accessible only in the premium version
- Currently available only for Windows; no macOS or Linux support
- The free version includes ads, which may affect user experience
Verdict: By Click Downloader is a robust YouTube video downloader suitable for users seeking a straightforward solution to download videos and audio from multiple platforms. Its ability to handle entire playlists and channels with ease makes it particularly appealing for users who want to save large amounts of content efficiently.
While the free version offers basic functionality, upgrading to the premium version unlocks the full potential of the software, providing a more seamless and ad-free experience.
Pricing:
- Free Version: Basic features with ads
- Premium Version:
- Annual Subscription: $7.99 per year
- Lifetime License: $9.99 one-time payment
- Both premium options offer full access to all features and an ad-free experience
4. Tubemate
TubeMate is a popular YouTube video downloader designed primarily for Android devices, enabling users to download videos directly to their smartphones or tablets. Its user-friendly interface allows for easy navigation and quick downloads, making it a convenient choice for on-the-go video saving.
TubeMate supports multiple resolutions, including HD, catering to various storage capacities and viewing preferences. Additionally, it offers the ability to extract audio from videos, providing flexibility for users interested in saving music or podcasts.
Pros:
- Simple and intuitive interface suitable for all user levels
- Supports multiple resolutions, including HD, to accommodate different needs
- Allows audio extraction from videos, useful for music lovers
- Fast download speeds with the option to pause and resume downloads
- Compatible with various video-sharing platforms beyond YouTube
Cons:
- Not available on the Google Play Store; requires manual installation from the official website
- Contains ads in the free version, which may affect user experience
- Limited to Android devices; no official support for iOS or desktop platforms
- Some users report occasional stability issues during downloads
Verdict: TubeMate stands out as a reliable YouTube video downloader for Android users seeking a straightforward solution to save videos and audio directly to their devices. Its support for multiple resolutions and audio extraction adds to its versatility.
However, the necessity to download it outside the Google Play Store and the presence of ads in the free version may be drawbacks for some users. Overall, TubeMate remains a solid choice for those prioritizing ease of use and functionality in a mobile video downloader.
Pricing:
- Free Version: Includes all features but contains ads
- Ad-Free Version: Available through in-app purchase; pricing varies by region
5. VidJuice
VidJuice UniTube is a comprehensive YouTube video downloader that enables users to download videos and audio from over 10,000 websites, including YouTube, Vimeo, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram. It supports high-definition downloads up to 8K resolution and offers a built-in video trimmer, allowing users to cut specific segments from videos before downloading. Additionally, UniTube provides a private mode to protect downloaded content with a password, ensuring user privacy.
Pros:
- Supports downloads from a vast array of websites, enhancing versatility
- Allows high-resolution downloads up to 8K, catering to quality preferences
- Features a built-in video trimmer for customized downloads
- Offers a private mode to secure downloaded content with a password
- Provides batch downloading capabilities, saving time for users
Cons:
- Some users have reported slower download speeds compared to competitors
- The free version has limitations on the number of downloads and features
- Occasional compatibility issues with less common websites
Verdict: VidJuice UniTube stands out as a versatile YouTube video downloader suitable for users seeking to download high-quality content from a wide range of platforms. Its unique features, such as the built-in video trimmer and private mode, add value for users who prioritize customization and privacy.
While some users have noted slower download speeds, the extensive site support and additional functionalities make UniTube a compelling choice for those looking to manage their multimedia content effectively.
Pricing:
- Free Version: Limited downloads and features
- 1-Month Plan: $9.95 for one device
- 1-Year Plan: $19.95 for one device
- Lifetime Plan: $29.95 for one device
- Family Plan: $39.95 for up to five devices
6. YTD Video Downloader
YTD Video Downloader is a versatile tool that enables users to download videos from various platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, and Vimeo. It offers the capability to download videos in high resolutions, such as 8K, 4K, and 1080p, ensuring users can enjoy content in excellent quality.
Additionally, YTD functions as a video converter, allowing users to convert downloaded videos into multiple formats like YouTube to MP4, AVI, MOV, and more, enhancing compatibility across different devices.
Pros:
- Supports high-resolution downloads up to 8K, catering to users seeking superior video quality.
- Functions as both a downloader and converter, providing flexibility in managing video formats.
- User-friendly interface that simplifies the downloading and conversion processes.
- Supports downloading from a wide range of platforms beyond YouTube, increasing its utility.
- Offers a built-in video player, allowing users to view downloaded content directly within the application.
Cons:
- The free version includes ads, which may disrupt the user experience.
- Limited format options and slower download speeds in the free version compared to the paid version.
- Some users have reported occasional stability issues during downloads.
Verdict: YTD Video Downloader stands out as a reliable YouTube video downloader for users seeking a straightforward solution to download and convert videos from multiple platforms. Its support for high-resolution downloads and various formats makes it a versatile tool for managing multimedia content.
While the free version offers basic functionality, upgrading to the paid version unlocks enhanced features, including faster download speeds and an ad-free experience, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent users.
Pricing:
- Free Version: Basic features with ads.
- Pro Version: $9.99 per month, offering faster download speeds, additional format options, and an ad-free experience.
- Ultimate Version: $12.99 per month, includes all Pro features plus the ability to download 8K videos and multiple simultaneous downloads.
7. VideoProc
VideoProc is a comprehensive YouTube video downloader and video processing tool designed for both Windows and macOS users. Beyond downloading, it offers features like video conversion, editing, and screen recording, making it a versatile solution for multimedia needs.
VideoProc supports over 1,000 websites, including YouTube, Facebook, and Vimeo, allowing users to download videos in various resolutions, including 4K and 8K. Its Level-3 GPU acceleration ensures fast processing speeds, even for large video files.
Pros:
- Supports high-resolution downloads up to 8K, catering to users seeking superior video quality.
- Offers a built-in video editor with features like cutting, cropping, merging, and adding subtitles.
- Provides screen recording capabilities, including recording from webcams and iOS devices.
- Utilizes GPU acceleration for faster processing and conversion speeds.
- Supports a wide range of formats and devices, enhancing compatibility.
Cons:
- The free trial version has limitations, such as a 5-minute maximum media file length.
- Some advanced editing features are less robust compared to dedicated video editing software.
- The interface, while user-friendly, may require a learning curve for beginners.
Verdict: VideoProc stands out as a reliable YouTube video downloader that offers a suite of additional features, making it more than just a downloader. Its ability to handle high-resolution videos, combined with editing and recording capabilities, makes it a valuable tool for users looking to manage and process multimedia content efficiently.
While the free version provides a glimpse into its functionalities, the paid versions unlock its full potential, offering a comprehensive solution for video enthusiasts.
Pricing:
- Free Version: Limited to processing 5-minute media files.
- One-Year License: $29.95 for one PC, includes full features and updates for one year.
- Lifetime License: $37.95 for one PC, includes lifetime updates.
- Family License: $57.95 for up to five PCs, includes lifetime updates.
8. PPTube
PPTube is a versatile YouTube video downloader that enables users to download videos and audio from over 10,000 websites, including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. It supports high-definition downloads up to 8K resolution and offers a built-in YouTube converter, allowing users to convert downloaded content into various formats such as MP4, MP3, AVI, and more.
PPTube also provides batch downloading capabilities, enabling users to download multiple videos simultaneously, which is particularly useful for saving entire playlists or channels.
Pros:
- Supports high-resolution downloads up to 8K, catering to users seeking superior video quality.
- Built-in video converter allows conversion to multiple formats, enhancing compatibility across devices.
- Batch downloading feature saves time by enabling multiple downloads simultaneously.
- User-friendly interface simplifies the downloading and conversion processes.
- Supports a wide range of websites beyond YouTube, increasing its utility.
Cons:
- The free version has limitations on the number of downloads and features.
- Some users have reported occasional stability issues during downloads.
- Currently available only for Windows; no macOS or Linux support.
Verdict: PPTube stands out as a reliable YouTube video downloader for users seeking a straightforward solution to download and convert videos from multiple platforms. Its support for high-resolution downloads and various formats makes it a versatile tool for managing multimedia content.
While the free version offers basic functionality, upgrading to the paid version unlocks enhanced features, including faster download speeds and an ad-free experience, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent users.
Pricing:
- Free Version: Basic features with limitations on downloads and formats.
- Pro Version: $19.95 for a one-year license, offering unlimited downloads, full access to all features, and free updates.
- Lifetime License: $29.95 for a one-time payment, providing lifetime access to all features and free updates.
9. AllMyTube
AllMyTube is a comprehensive YouTube video downloader developed by Wondershare, designed to facilitate the downloading and conversion of videos from over 10,000 websites, including YouTube, Vimeo, and Dailymotion.
It supports high-definition downloads up to 4K resolution and offers a built-in YouTube to mp3 converter, allowing users to convert downloaded content into various formats such as MP4, MOV, AVI, and more. Additionally, AllMyTube provides a one-click download feature, enabling users to download videos directly through their browser with minimal effort.
Pros:
- Supports high-resolution downloads up to 4K, catering to users seeking superior video quality.
- Built-in video converter allows conversion to multiple formats, enhancing compatibility across devices.
- One-click download feature simplifies the downloading process.
- Supports a wide range of websites beyond YouTube, increasing its utility.
- Provides a built-in video player for previewing downloaded content.
Cons:
- The free trial version has limitations on the number of downloads and features.
- Some users have reported occasional stability issues during downloads.
- Currently available only for Windows and macOS; no Linux support.
Verdict: AllMyTube stands out as a reliable YouTube video downloader for users seeking a straightforward solution to download and convert videos from multiple platforms. Its support for high-resolution downloads and various formats makes it a versatile tool for managing multimedia content.
While the free trial version offers basic functionality, upgrading to the paid version unlocks enhanced features, including faster download speeds and an ad-free experience, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent users.
Pricing:
- Free Trial: Basic features with limitations on downloads and formats.
- One-Year License: $29.00 for a one-year license, offering unlimited downloads, full access to all features, and free updates.
- Lifetime License: $39.00 for a one-time payment, providing lifetime access to all features and free updates.
10. Yt Saver
YT Saver is a versatile YouTube video downloader that enables users to download videos and audio from over 10,000 websites, including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. It supports high-definition downloads up to 8K resolution and offers a built-in video converter, allowing users to convert downloaded content into various formats such as MP4, MOV, AAC, WAV, and more.
Additionally, YT Saver provides a built-in web browser, facilitating easy browsing and downloading of media content directly within the application.
Pros:
- Supports high-resolution downloads up to 8K, catering to users seeking superior video quality.
- Built-in video converter allows conversion to multiple formats, enhancing compatibility across devices.
- Built-in web browser simplifies the process of finding and downloading media content.
- Supports downloading entire playlists and channels with one click, saving time for users.
- Offers a private mode to protect downloaded content with a password, ensuring user privacy.
Cons:
- The free version has limitations on the number of downloads and features.
- Some users have reported occasional stability issues during downloads.
- Currently available only for Windows and macOS; no Linux support.
Verdict: YT Saver stands out as a reliable YouTube video downloader for users seeking a straightforward solution to download and convert videos from multiple platforms. Its support for high-resolution downloads and various formats makes it a versatile tool for managing multimedia content.
While the free version offers basic functionality, upgrading to the paid version unlocks enhanced features, including faster download speeds and an ad-free experience, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent users.
Pricing:
- Free Version: Basic features with limitations on downloads and formats.
- 1-Month Plan: $9.95 for one device, offering unlimited downloads, full access to all features, and free updates.
- 1-Year Plan: $19.95 for one device, including updates and premium support.
- Lifetime License: $29.95 for one device, providing lifetime access to all features and free updates.
Conclusion
Finding the right YouTube video downloader can greatly enhance your ability to access and manage video content. Whether you prioritize high-resolution downloads, format versatility, or the ability to download from multiple sites, these tools offer unique benefits to fit different needs. From quick downloads to powerful editing and conversion features, these downloaders provide a range of capabilities for both casual and professional users.
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