Downloading videos from YouTube can sometimes feel like an impossible luxury. Between region blocks, paywalls, bandwidth limits, and subscription requirements, it often seems you can never really own or fully access content on the platform. But thanks to dedicated YouTube video downloader apps, you actually can take control. These handy tools allow you to save practically any public YouTube video for free – forever. No membership fees or strings attached.
With a quality YouTube downloading app, you can compile all your favorite clips, music videos, tutorials, lectures, and more for anytime access. Avoid grappling with bandwidth restrictions or unreliable internet connections. Experience videos uninterrupted without pesky ads. And seamlessly transfer downloads between all your devices. Ditch the streaming-only mindset, and unlock the ability to curate your very own YouTube video collection. The freedom to download any clip you want, in full quality, without any roadblocks or limitations.
So read on below for the top video downloader apps that make saving YouTube favorites totally free and easy. Take your content offline, avoid network headaches, and reclaim YouTube on your own terms. The power to download any public video lies in your hands.
Why Do I Need a YouTube Downloader in 2023?
Save videos for offline viewing – Download videos to watch later when you won’t have an internet connection. Ideal for planes, road trips, or subsidized data plans.
Avoid bandwidth caps – Downloading to your device prevents streaming high GB videos multiple times. This can help avoid going over internet data caps.
Ad-free experience – Most downloaded videos will not have YouTube ads interrupting your playback.
Higher quality HD downloads – Store videos locally in highest quality HD, 1080p, or even 4K formats.
Convert to audio MP3 – Great for listening on the go by saving just the audio track.
Enhanced mobility – Downloaders make it easy to transfer videos between devices or watch on multiple gadgets.
Lifetime access – Downloaded videos can be stored indefinitely, unlike rented content that expires.
With YouTube limiting extended offline viewing on mobile, and potential bandwidth usage concerns, a dedicated downloader is essential in 2023.
Best Online YouTube Video Downloader Apps 2023
SaveFrom
1. SaveFrom
SaveFrom is dedicated YouTube downloading software capable of grabbing videos in Ultra HD 4K resolution up to 2160p. This powerful program makes it easy to download entire playlists and channels in one click. SaveFrom sets itself apart by fully optimizing downloads for maximum speeds even at high resolutions. It can save files in MP4, MKV, and 3GP formats, retaining critical metadata like subtitles. As an open source tool, SaveFrom is constantly updated and works great on Windows, Mac, and Linux machines.
Features:
- Downloads YouTube videos up to 4K 2160p resolution
- One-click downloads for playlists and channels
- Saves videos in MP4, MKV, and 3GP formats
- Retains subtitles and metadata during download
- Open source program with consistent updates
Pros:
- Extremely fast download speeds even at 4K
- Very simple and intuitive interface
- Works flawlessly on Windows, Mac, and Linux
- Regularly updated as an open source tool
- Easy to use with no learning curve
Cons:
- No built-in video conversion features
- Limited to downloading from YouTube
- 4K format not playable on all devices
- Can occasionally miss downloading some playlist videos
Reviews:
With over 25 million users worldwide, SaveFrom earns strong praise across tech sites like TechRadar and SoftwareHowTo for its reliable performance. Reviewers compliment the simplicity of grabbing videos up to 4K quickly. Complaints are rare but some note occasional hiccups when downloading full playlists. Overall it remains a top choice for HD and 4K YouTube downloading.
Visit: https://savefrom.rip/
2. SSyoutube
As a longtime popular downloader, SSyoutube makes downloading YouTube videos easy while also integrating video conversion tools. It can grab videos in high resolutions up to 8K and convert to MP4, AVI, and more. SSyoutube also permits downloading full YouTube playlists sequentially. An integrated MP3 audio extractor is included too. The interface is dated but overall it still performs well for downloading and basic converting needs.
Features:
- Downloads YouTube videos up to 8K resolution
- Built-in converter for MP4, AVI, WMV formats
- Can extract MP3 audio from videos
- Allows downloading full YouTube playlists
- Comes with basic video editing tools
Pros:
- All-in-one downloader and converter tool
- Quality options up to high 8K resolution
- Easy workflow from download to conversion
- Automatically organizes downloads
- More features than most basic tools
Cons:
- Outdated and cluttered interface
- Reliance on Java can cause issues
- Limited to just YouTube downloading
- Contains some ads and upsells
Reviews:
SSyoutube continues to have a loyal following according to Digital Trends and TechRadar reviews. Users highlight the solid downloading performance and handy integrated conversion tools. Criticism focuses on the outdated interface and problems with Java dependencies. But it remains a robust package for downloading from YouTube and converting files.
3. ClipGrab
ClipGrab takes a straightforward approach to downloading YouTube videos, with a focus on speed and simplicity. This lightweight program makes downloading in formats like MP4 easy, while retaining high quality up to 1080p resolution. ClipGrab can also extract and convert YouTube audio into MP3 music files. As free open source software, it receives regular updates and runs on Windows, Mac, and Linux machines. For fast daily YouTube downloading, ClipGrab is easy to use.
Features:
- Quickly downloads YouTube videos as MP4 files
- Saves videos in high quality 1080p resolution
- Can extract and convert YouTube audio to MP3
- Lightweight open source program
- Free tool updated regularly
Pros:
- Very fast and simple downloading process
- Excellent MP4 video quality up to 1080p
- Useful audio conversion features
- Open source tool with frequent updates
- Works great on Windows, Mac, and Linux
Cons:
- No advanced settings or configuration options
- Limited to downloading from YouTube
- Cannot batch download multiple videos
- Lacks video conversion capabilities
Reviews:
ClipGrab earns positive marks across technology sites like SoftwareHowTo for delivering quick and quality YouTube downloads. The straightforward MP4 downloading and MP3 audio extraction make it easy to save videos and songs. Reviewers note the lack of settings customization but overall are impressed with the speed and performance from this lightweight tool.
4. WinX HD Video Converter Deluxe
WinX HD Video Converter Deluxe is a premium all-in-one suite for downloading, converting, editing, and recording videos. The program can download YouTube videos at their original quality or optimized for specific devices. Built-in converting features allow customizing downloads for playback anywhere. WinX also makes it easy to extract MP3 audio from YouTube videos. As an ad-free program, WinX provides a clean interface and stable performance.
Features:
- Downloads videos from YouTube and 1,000+ sites
- Can convert videos for optimized playback
- Extracts MP3 audio from videos
- Outdated interface but solid performance
- No ads or bloatware
Pros:
- One app for all video needs
- Retains original HD quality for downloads
- Excellent device format conversion
- Fast straightforward MP3 audio extraction
- Clean interface with no ads
Cons:
- High price tag as a premium program
- Dated and plain interface
- No browser extension available
- Does not support 8K or 4K quality
Reviews:
According to TechRadar and SoftwareHowTo, WinX HD Video Converter Deluxe offers great versatility through its merged downloader, converter, and player. Reviewers praise the wide device format support and quality retention for downloads. The outdated interface receives criticism along with the high price. But overall it provides solid performance for an all-in-one video tool.
5. Airy YouTube Downloader
Airy YouTube Downloader takes an ultra lightweight approach, providing quick downloading in a tiny package. Despite the small size, it covers all the key features needed. Airy permits high speed downloading of YouTube videos in HD quality. It also easily handles full playlists and batch downloads. With a clean and minimal interface, Airy makes it simple to queue up multiple YouTube links for downloading to your device.
Features:
- Lightweight app less than 1MB in size
- Downloads YouTube videos in HD quality
- Supports downloading full playlists
- Allows batch download queuing
- Clean and straightforward interface
Pros:
- Very small app footprint
- Fast downloading speeds
- Easy to download playlists
- Straightforward and minimal interface
- Free from ads or bloatware
Cons:
- No advanced configuration options
- Cannot convert to other formats
- Limited to just YouTube downloads
- Lacks browser extension component
Reviews:
Airy YouTube Downloader gains positive recommendations on Software How To and TechRadar for delivering quick and quality YouTube downloads. Reviewers highlight the tiny app size and clean interface for a smooth user experience. Lack of format conversion is a downside, but as a basic downloader, Airy performs very well.
6. 5KPlayer
5KPlayer is an aptly named YouTube downloader and media player, capable of saving videos in resolutions up to 5K. Beyond downloading, the app also supports AirPlay streaming and online subtitles. An integrated browser makes searching YouTube straightforward right in the interface. 5KPlayer grabs entire playlists, channels, or individual videos in their original quality. The downloader is free and works across Windows and Mac operating systems.
Features:
- Downloads YouTube videos in 5K quality
- Permits easy YouTube search in the interface
- One-click downloads for playlists and channels
- Supports AirPlay streaming
- Downloaded videos retain original quality
Pros:
- YouTube downloads up to 5K resolution
- Handy integrated YouTube search tools
- Nice extra features like AirPlay
- Free software with no ads
- Retains full quality for downloaded videos
Cons:
- Clunky and outdated looking interface
- Confusing settings with no simple presets
- Lacking options for post-download conversion
- Slow converting performance
Reviews:
5KPlayer draws positive marks from Digital Trends and Software How To for quality YouTube downloading up to 5K resolution. Reviewers like the integrated search features but find the interface dated looking. The lack of conversion options is also cited as a drawback. But for basic high resolution YouTube downloading, 5KPlayer delivers good performance.
7. Y2Mate Online Video Downloader
As a quick web-based tool, Y2Mate provides a speedy way to download YouTube videos without installing any software. Users simply paste the YouTube link, select a format like MP4, and click download. Files are ready within seconds. The website is also compatible with downloading from Dailymotion, Facebook, Vimeo, and more. However, Y2Mate does contain some advertisements during the process. But for fast, no-fuss YouTube downloading, it gets the job done.
Features:
- Web-based tool requiring no installed software
- Quickly downloads YouTube videos as MP4 or MP3
- Also supports downloads from other major video sites
- Contains some ads on the website
- Very fast and easy “copy-and-paste” downloading
Pros:
- No software installation required
- Fast and simple downloading process
- Downloads from many top video platforms
- Handy web-based tool for any device
- MP4 and MP3 format options
Cons:
- Display ads on the website
- Requires constant internet connection
- No advanced configuration options
- Does not retain full HD quality
Reviews:
Technology sites like TechRadar praise Y2Mate for providing effortless and quick YouTube downloading without any software required. Users mention the extra step of closing annoying popup ads. But as a lightweight web downloader tool, Y2Mate performs admirably for casual downloading needs.
8. DVDVideoSoft YouTube Downloader
As the name suggests, DVDVideoSoft YouTube Downloader is basic software for saving YouTube videos offline. The program downloads clips in MP4 format up to 4K quality. It also easily handles entire playlists or channels. As free software, there are no premium features, but it covers the core functionality of downloading from YouTube. The simplistic interface makes it easy for beginners to start grabbing videos quickly.
Features:
- Downloads YouTube videos as MP4 files
- Quality options up to 4K resolution
- Can download full playlists and channels
- Free software with a simple interface
- Quickly saves clips for offline playback
Pros:
- Easy to download MP4 videos
- Retains quality up to 4K
- Nice feature for full playlists
- Totally free software
- Beginner-friendly simple interface
Cons:
- No advanced settings or options
- Cannot convert files after downloading
- Skip/error on some playlist videos
- Contains in-app offers
Reviews:
According to SoftwareHowTo, DVDVideoSoft YouTube Downloader provides solid no-frills performance for saving YouTube videos offline. Users highlight the streamlined process ideal for beginners. Experienced users may be disappointed by the lack of customization and settings. But core MP4 YouTube downloading works excellently.
9. iTubeGo YouTube Downloader
The iTubeGo downloader makes it incredibly easy to save YouTube videos, even lengthy high-res files. It delivers fast download speeds while retaining important metadata like subtitles. iTubeGo permits downloading unlimited playlists with a single click. The software is designed for maximum simplicity, allowing users to just copy and paste any YouTube link. Advanced users can enjoy tweaking settings to customize downloads.
Features:
- Downloads YouTube videos at fast speeds
- Retains metadata like subtitles
- One-click download for full playlists
- MP3 audio conversion capabilities
- Intuitive interface plus advanced settings
Pros:
- Downloads quickly even long videos
- Keeps valuable metadata
- Easy playlist and channel downloads
- Appealing and customizable interface
- Solid performance and stability
Cons:
- Requires purchase for some features
- Lacks ability to trim downloaded videos
- Can only download from YouTube
- Occasional issues downloading playlists
Reviews:
iTubeGo YouTube Downloader scores positively among users on SoftwareHowTo for its great download speeds and simplicity of use. Reviewers like the retention of subtitles and metadata in downloaded videos. Minor concerns around playlist downloading are noted. But overall, it delivers an excellent and customizable YouTube downloading experience.
10. Freemake Video Downloader
As straightforward free software, Freemake Video Downloader makes it simple to save YouTube videos for offline use. It can download clips in common formats like MP4, AVI, and more. Playlists and entire channels are handled with one click. The basic interface is dated but easy to navigate. Beyond downloading, Freemake also offers fundamental video conversion and editing tools. Performance is solid despite the lack of fancy features.
Features:
- Downloads YouTube videos in multiple formats
- One-click downloads for full playlists/channels
- Provides basic video conversion tools
- Outdated but simple interface
- 100% free software
Pros:
- Saves YouTube videos for offline playback
- Easy automated playlist/channel downloads
- Extra video conversion and editing features
- Free with no paid upgrades
- Simple enough for beginner users
Cons:
- Very plain and outdated looking interface
- Lacks advanced settings or configurations
- Converts videos slowly compared to competitors
- Occasional bugs when downloading playlists
Reviews:
Freemake YouTube Downloader earns positive feedback from SoftwareHowTo for being an accessible free tool anyone can use. The basic interface and lack of customization is noted by advanced users. But for straightforward downloading in multiple formats, Freemake delivers respectable performance despite the dated design.
How to Download YouTube Videos?
Downloading YouTube videos only takes a few simple steps:
- Keep video URL to clipboard.
- Open your preferred YouTube downloader app or site. Paste the video URL into the search bar or input field.
- Select a download format, typically MP4 for video or MP3 for audio only files. Choose a quality option like 720p HD or higher.
- Click the Download button and wait for the video file to be prepared and saved locally to your device storage or hard drive.
- The YouTube video will now be playable offline whenever you want. Videos with audio can also be imported into music apps.
The process is equally straightforward on mobile.
How To Choose the Best YouTube Downloader 2023?
With so many downloader tools available, here are the key factors to consider:
Video format options – Ability to save in universal MP4 format is essential. MKV, AVI, 3GP and others are nice bonuses.
Audio format options – Look for downloaders that can extract MP3 audio files from videos.
Quality options – Save videos in original quality up to 4K, or downgrade resolution to save space.
Download speed – Faster is always better, especially for long videos. Look for fast encoding engines.
Safe and malware free – Select reputable downloaders from known developers to avoid viruses or bloatware.
Playlist support – Option to download full YouTube playlists sequentially.
Multiple platform support – Availability on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS.
Subtitle support – Retains closed captions and subtitles when downloading.
User interface – Find an app with a clean, ad-free, and easy to navigate interface.
Prioritize downloaders that meet your key criteria like speed, quality, and platform availability based on your specific needs.
Conclusion
To summarize, the best YouTube video downloader apps for most users are SaveFrom, SSyoutube, and WinX HD Video Converter Deluxe. These provide an ideal combination of fast download speeds, quality options, and accessibility across devices. With the ability to save videos offline and listen ad-free, a YouTube downloader gives you better control and access. Carefully select a safe and trusted app that delivers the functionality you need.
Let me know if you would like me to modify or expand any part of this article outline. I can provide more details for each recommendation or add additional sections as needed.