how to download youtube videos to computer

 

How to Download YouTube Videos to Your Computer

 

Are you tired of buffering, poor internet connection, and ads interrupting your YouTube experience? If yes, then downloading YouTube videos to your computer is your solution. Downloading YouTube videos to your computer can save you time, data, and give you the flexibility to watch your favorite videos offline. However, the process can be daunting, especially for beginners. In this article, we will take you through the steps of how to download YouTube videos to your computer.

Understanding YouTube's Copyright Policies

Before downloading any video from YouTube, it's essential to understand YouTube's copyright policies. YouTube does not allow downloading of videos from their platform without the consent of the video owner. Downloading copyrighted material can land you in legal trouble, and it's essential to respect the rights of content creators. However, some videos are available for download, and it's essential to check if the video owner allows downloads.

Using a Third-Party Tool to Download YouTube Videos

Using a third-party tool is one of the easiest ways of downloading YouTube videos to your computer. There are various online tools and software that allow you to download videos from YouTube. The process of downloading videos is straightforward, and you don't need any technical knowledge. Follow the steps below to download YouTube videos using a third-party tool:

Step 1: Copy the YouTube Video URL

Open YouTube and search for the video you want to download. Once you find the video, copy the video URL from the address bar.

Step 2: Choose a Video Downloader Tool

There are various online video downloader tools available. Choose a reliable video downloader tool and paste the copied URL into the provided field.

Step 3: Choose the Video Format and Quality

Choose the video format and quality you want to download. Most video downloader tools support various video formats, including MP4, WebM, and 3GP. Select the desired format and quality.

Step 4: Download the Video

After selecting the video format and quality, click the download button, and the video will start downloading to your computer.

Downloading YouTube Videos Using a Web Browser Extension

Another way of downloading YouTube videos to your computer is by using a web browser extension. Browser extensions are small software programs that add extra features to your web browser. Follow the steps below to download YouTube videos using a browser extension:

Step 1: Install a Browser Extension

There are various browser extensions available for downloading YouTube videos. Choose a reliable browser extension and install it on your web browser.

Step 2: Open the YouTube Video You Want to Download

Open YouTube and search for the video you want to download. Once you find the video, open it in a new tab.

Step 3: Download the Video

Click the download button on the browser extension, and the video will start downloading to your computer.

Using VLC Media Player to Download YouTube Videos

VLC media player is a free and open-source media player that can also download YouTube videos. VLC media player is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems. Follow the steps below to download YouTube videos using VLC media player:

Step 1: Copy the YouTube Video URL

Open YouTube and search for the video you want to download. Once you find the video, copy the video URL from the address bar.

Step 2: Open VLC Media Player

Open VLC media player on your computer.

Step 3: Click on Media and Open Network Stream

Click on the Media menu, then click on Open Network Stream.

Step 4: Paste the YouTube Video URL

Paste the copied YouTube video URL into the provided field and click on the play button.

Step 5: Download the Video

After the video starts playing, click on the Tools menu and select Codec Information.

Step 6: Copy the Video URL

In the Codec Information window, copy the entire URL from the Location field.

Step 7: Open Your Web Browser and Paste the Video URL

Open your web browser and paste the copied video URL into the address bar. Press enter to start playing the video.

Step 8: Download the Video

Right-click on the video and select the Save video as option. Choose the location to save the video and click the Save button to start downloading the video to your computer.

Using YouTube Premium to Download Videos

If you're a YouTube Premium subscriber, downloading videos from YouTube is much easier. YouTube Premium allows you to download videos from YouTube and watch them offline without any restrictions. Follow the steps below to download videos using YouTube Premium:

Step 1: Open YouTube Premium

Open YouTube and sign in to your YouTube Premium account.

Step 2: Find the Video You Want to Download

Search for the video you want to download and open it.

Step 3: Download the Video

Click the download button below the video player, and the video will start downloading to your device.

Conclusion

Downloading YouTube videos to your computer can enhance your viewing experience and save you time and data. However, it's essential to respect the rights of content creators and check YouTube's copyright policies before downloading any videos. There are various ways of downloading videos from YouTube, including using a third-party tool, a web browser extension, VLC media player, and YouTube Premium. Choose the method that suits your needs and enjoy watching your favorite videos offline.

FAQs

1. Is it legal to download YouTube videos?

   • Downloading copyrighted material without permission is illegal. However, some videos are available for download, and it's essential to check if the video owner allows downloads.

2. How can I download YouTube videos without using any software?

   • You can download YouTube videos without using any software by adding "ss" before the YouTube video URL in the address bar.

3. Can I download videos from YouTube using my mobile phone?

   • Yes, you can download videos from YouTube using your mobile phone by using the YouTube app or third-party apps.

4. Can I download videos from YouTube using a Mac computer?

   • Yes, you can download videos from YouTube using a Mac computer by using a web browser extension, VLC media player, or YouTube Premium.

5. Can I download videos from YouTube using a Windows computer?

   • Yes, you can download videos from YouTube using a Windows computer by using a third-party tool, a web browser extension, VLC media player, or YouTube Premium.