Quick Steps (Universal)
- Copy the YouTube video URL you want to save.
- Choose a trusted tool (desktop app, web downloader, or mobile app).
- Select output format MP4 and pick quality (720p, 1080p, or 4K if available).
- Click download and wait until the file is fully saved.
- Verify playback in VLC/Photos/Files app and keep files for personal use only.
Tip: For consistent results and fewer ads, desktop apps or yt-dlp are the most reliable choices.
Method 1: Desktop (Windows/Mac)
- 4K Video Downloader+: Easiest UI, supports playlists, subtitles, 4K/8K.
- yt-dlp (free/open-source): Fastest and most powerful via command line.
- JDownloader: Good for bulk downloads and link grabber.
Steps (4K Video Downloader): paste link �?choose quality �?select MP4 �?download. For yt-dlp, install Python and run:
yt-dlp -f "bv*[ext=mp4]+ba[ext=m4a]/mp4" -o "%(title)s.%(ext)s" VIDEO_URLAdd --write-auto-sub --sub-lang en to grab captions, or --yes-playlist for whole playlists.
Method 2: Online Downloader (No Install)
Use reputable web tools (see our best downloaders list). Steps: open site �?paste URL �?pick MP4 quality �?download.
Watch out: Avoid sites with excessive popups, forced extensions, or captcha loops. Never enter Google credentials.
Method 3: iPhone/iPad
Use the Files app + Shortcuts or a downloader app. See detailed iPhone guide.
- Safari + Shortcut: Share �?Shortcuts �?custom “Save YouTube MP4�?
- Documents by Readdle: Built-in browser to access web downloaders.
- YouTube Premium: Official offline, but files stay inside the app.
Method 4: Android
Popular apps: NewPipe (open-source), Seal (uses yt-dlp), and reputable APKs. Or use Chrome to access web tools.
Security: Only install APKs from trusted sources; keep Play Protect on; scan with antivirus.
Method 5: Playlists & Subtitles
- Playlists: In 4K Downloader, paste playlist URL �?“Download Playlist�? In yt-dlp, add
--yes-playlist. - Subtitles: Use
--write-auto-sub --sub-lang en --convert-subs srtin yt-dlp. - Audio-only: Add
-f ba[ext=m4a]for compact audio files.
Quality & Storage
| Quality | Use Case | 10 min Size (approx) |
|---|---|---|
| 4K (2160p) | Large screens, editing | 1.5�?.5 GB |
| 1080p | TV/desktop default | 400�?00 MB |
| 720p | Mobile, balance | 200�?00 MB |
| 480p | Low storage | 100�?00 MB |
Legal & Safety
- Respect copyright; download only with permission or under fair-use contexts.
- Do not redistribute or monetize downloaded content without rights.
- Use YouTube Premium for official offline viewing when possible.
- Scan downloads; avoid sites asking for logins or extensions.
Next: Pick the best tool
See our tested list of desktop, web, and mobile downloaders.