How to Download YouTube Videos to Your Computer for Free (Without Premium)
Just imagining how easy it is to watch YouTube videos without a connection is fantastic.
Especially when you are on a plane or need the video for a presentation that requires no connection. To get this feature, you must download the video first.
With YouTube Premium features, you can enjoy unlimited video downloads to your PC. But what if you want to use something other than these premium features?
Luckily, other free ways exist to get your favorite YouTube videos onto your computer.
This guide will help you understand the official Premium method and several alternative solutions.
Download YouTube video to computer with Premium
It will be straightforward if you are a YouTube Premium Subscriber. This way, you can download videos to watch offline directly.
YouTube Premium provides a built-in download feature, making this process faster and simpler.
This section will guide you through the more straightforward steps to use this feature.
Steps
- Make sure you're signed in to your YouTube Premium account at youtube.com.
- Find the video you wish to download.
- Click the "Download" button directly below the video player.
- You may be given the option to choose the video quality you want to download.
- The download will begin, and you'll usually see a progress indicator.
Becoming a YouTube Premium subscriber is the easiest way to download YouTube videos. Unfortunately, YouTube does not allow anyone to download videos directly to their computer.
Downloaded videos will automatically go to your YouTube account only, not to your computer.
You need other tools to save YouTube videos to your computer to get around this.
Download YouTube video to computer without Premium
There are other ways you can do this if you want to avoid buying YouTube Premium.
Since regular YouTube restricts some of the videos, you can not download them immediately.
Fortunately, there are still some ways to download YouTube videos to your computer.
Here are the methods, along with their considerations:
Websites
Options like Y2Mate or SaveFrom.net offer a simple interface.
It is also straightforward to use, and there is no need to log in or register.
Copy the YouTube video URL you want to download, and then paste it into the website's designated field, select the format and quality, and click "Download."
Browser Extension
Several browser extensions add a download button directly to YouTube video pages.
Search your browser's extension store for reputable options, and follow their installation and usage instructions.
You can also use the Internet Download Manager to directly detect and download YouTube videos.
Software
Programs like 4K Video Downloader, VLC Media Player, and WinX YouTube Downloader will offer more features and control.
You can download the software and learn its features to get YouTube videos to your computer.
Some are paid programs. Always choose reputable software to avoid potential security issues.
Safer Alternative: Screen Recording
The last is a method that uses screen recording to copy the video.
It uses software (like OBS Studio) to record your screen while a video plays.
The downside is that the resolution could be better, and getting just one video takes a lot of time.
You can use this method if you need videos from a platform other than YouTube.
Always remember that YouTube copyrights all videos on YouTube. Don't use the downloaded video for things outside YouTube's terms.
Download YouTube video to a computer (PC) for free with software
Excellent options are available if you prefer a dedicated software solution on your computer. Here's how to use two popular choices:
VLC Media Player
The versatile VLC Media Player, often used for video playback, can also download YouTube videos.
While the process involves a few more steps than online downloaders, it's free.
Steps:
- Get the Video Link: Open the YouTube video and copy the link from the address bar of your browser.
- Open VLC: Launch VLC Media Player.
- Network Stream: Go to "Media" in the top menu. Click "Open Network Stream...".
- Paste and Play: Paste the video link into the box. Click "Play".
- Get the Real Link: Go to "Tools" -> "Codec Information".Copy the long link in the "Location" box at the bottom of the new window.
- Paste in Browser: Open your web browser. Paste the long link into the address bar and press Enter.
- Download: Right-click on the playing video. Choose "Save video as..." and select where to save it.
Dedicated YouTube Downloaders
Software like 4K Video Downloader offers user-friendly interfaces and features like batch downloading (handling multiple videos simultaneously).
4K Video Downloader is dedicated to downloading videos from YouTube only. Here's how:
Steps:
- Get 4K Video Downloader: Download and install it from their website: https://www.4kdownload.com/
- Find your video: Go to YouTube and find the video you want.
- Copy the link: Copy the video's web address (URL) from your browser's address bar.
- Open 4K Video Downloader: Launch the software.
- Paste the link: Click the "Paste Link" button within the 4K Video Downloader.
- Choose your settings: Select the video quality and format you want.
- Click "Download": The download will begin!
Want to Know Another Option?
Here are a few more excellent free software options for downloading YouTube videos to your PC:
- WinX YouTube Downloader: This software is known for its speed and simplicity. It supports downloading videos in various resolutions, including 4K, and lets you download entire YouTube playlists.
- aTube Catcher: Offers additional features beyond just downloading YouTube videos. It can convert videos to other formats, record your screen, and even create DVDs.
- Any Video Converter Free (AVC Free): A versatile video conversion tool with a robust YouTube downloading function. The software supports various video formats and gives you control over quality settings.
- ClipGrab: A simple and open-source YouTube downloader with a clean interface. ClipGrab also has a built-in search function to find YouTube videos without leaving the program.
Conclusion
Whether you're a YouTube Premium subscriber seeking the most straightforward solution or exploring free alternatives, there are several effective ways to download YouTube videos to your computer.
Remember, YouTube Premium provides the most convenient and official method, while online converters, browser extensions, and dedicated software offer free solutions.
It's crucial to be mindful of copyright restrictions and use these methods for personal use or with explicit permission from the video creator.
With the right tools, you can simply access your favorite YouTube content offline or incorporate it into your projects.