Downloading YouTube videos on your PC allows you to watch content offline, save important tutorials, and access videos without an internet connection. While YouTube does not officially allow downloading all videos (except for YouTube Premium users), several legal and safe methods exist.
This guide will explain different ways to download YouTube videos on your PC, including YouTube Premium, online tools, software, and browser extensions.
Method 1: Using YouTube Premium
The most reliable and legal way to download YouTube videos is through YouTube Premium, a subscription service that allows offline viewing within the YouTube app.
Steps to Download Videos with YouTube Premium:
- Subscribe to YouTube Premium – Visit YouTube Premium and sign up.
- Find the Video – Open YouTube and locate the video you want to download.
- Click the Download Button – Below the video player, you will see a Download button (available on the YouTube app for Windows or mobile devices).
- Choose the Video Quality – Select the resolution you prefer.
- Access Offline Videos – The downloaded video will be available in the Library or Downloads section of your YouTube app.
While this method is completely legal, it has limitations. Videos cannot be saved as standalone MP4 files, and they remain accessible only within the YouTube app.
Method 2: Using Online YouTube Video Downloaders
Several free online tools allow you to download YouTube videos without installing software. These websites provide a simple way to save videos in different formats.
Steps to Download Videos Using an Online Tool:
- Go to an Online Downloader – Some popular options include:
- Copy the YouTube Video URL – Open YouTube, find the video you want, and copy its URL from the address bar.
- Paste the URL into the Downloader – Visit the website and paste the copied link into the input box.
- Select the Video Format and Quality – Choose MP4 or another preferred format and resolution.
- Download the Video – Click the Download button and wait for the process to complete.
Pros:
- No software installation required
- Works on any web browser
- Free to use
Cons:
- Some sites may contain pop-up ads
- Websites may stop working due to YouTube’s policies
Method 3: Using YouTube Video Downloading Software
For frequent downloads, dedicated software provides a more reliable and feature-rich solution.
Best YouTube Downloading Software for PC:
- 4K Video Downloader – Supports high-quality video downloads and subtitles.
- YTD Video Downloader – Allows batch downloads and file format conversion.
- Freemake Video Downloader – Provides an easy-to-use interface and multiple format options.
Steps to Download Videos Using Software:
- Download and Install the Software – Visit the official website of your chosen downloader and install it on your PC.
- Copy the Video URL – Open YouTube, find the video, and copy its link.
- Paste the URL into the Software – Open the downloader and paste the link into the provided field.
- Select Download Preferences – Choose the video format (MP4, MKV, AVI) and resolution (1080p, 4K, etc.).
- Start the Download – Click Download and wait for the process to complete.
Pros:
- Faster downloads compared to online tools
- Supports HD and 4K video downloads
- Can download multiple videos at once
Cons:
- Requires software installation
- Some advanced features may require a paid version
Method 4: Using Browser Extensions
Browser extensions offer another convenient way to download YouTube videos without copying and pasting links manually.
Popular YouTube Downloader Extensions:
- Video DownloadHelper (for Chrome and Firefox)
- YouTube Video Downloader by Addoncrop
Steps to Use a Browser Extension:
- Install the Extension – Go to the Chrome Web Store or Firefox Add-ons page and install a YouTube downloader extension.
- Open YouTube – Navigate to the video you want to download.
- Click the Download Button – A download option will appear below the video.
- Choose Video Quality and Format – Select the preferred resolution and file type.
- Download the Video – Click download and save the file to your PC.
Pros:
- Quick and easy to use
- No need to copy and paste URLs
- Works directly within the browser
Cons:
- Google Chrome does not officially support YouTube download extensions
- Some extensions may stop working due to YouTube’s policies
Is Downloading YouTube Videos Legal?
Downloading YouTube videos for personal use is generally against YouTube’s Terms of Service, except in the following cases:
- You use YouTube Premium
- The video has a download option enabled by the uploader
- You download content that is in the public domain or has a free-use license
Downloading copyrighted content without permission may violate copyright laws. Always ensure you are using legal methods to avoid any potential issues.
Conclusion
Downloading YouTube videos on a PC can be done through multiple methods, including YouTube Premium, online downloaders, dedicated software, and browser extensions. If you are looking for an official and legal option, YouTube Premium is the best choice. However, if you need to save videos in different formats and resolutions, 4K Video Downloader or similar software may be more suitable.
Always be mindful of YouTube’s policies and copyright laws when downloading videos. Choose the method that best fits your needs while ensuring compliance with legal guidelines.