If you’ve ever wondered “how to download YouTube video to computer”, this guide provides several effective methods. Whether you want to save tutorials, music videos, or any other content, these steps will help you download videos easily and legally.
How to Download YouTube Video to Computer: 7 Easy Ways
1. Using YouTube Premium
YouTube Premium is the official and most straightforward way to download YouTube videos. It requires a subscription, but it offers a seamless experience. “How to download YouTube video to computer” by using YouTube Premium?
Subscribe to YouTube Premium:
- Log in to your YouTube account and subscribe to YouTube Premium. This subscription not only allows you to download videos but also offers ad-free viewing and access to YouTube Music and YouTube Kids.
Find the Video:
- Locate the video you want to download by browsing YouTube or using the search function.
Download the Video:
- Click the three-dot menu below the video and select “Download”. On mobile devices, you can also tap the download button directly under the video. You can choose the quality of the download, which will be stored in your Downloads library.
Access Downloaded Videos:
- On a computer, go to the Downloads section from the left menu. On mobile, go to the Library tab and select Downloads to view your saved videos. Note that these videos are accessible offline but can only be played within the YouTube app.
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2. Using VLC Media Player
VLC Media Player is a versatile tool that can also be used to download YouTube videos. This method is a bit more technical but offers flexibility. “How to download YouTube video to computer” with VLC Media Player?
Install VLC:
- Download and install VLC Media Player from the official website. VLC Media Player’s available for both Mac and Windows.
Copy Video URL:
- Open YouTube and copy the URL of the video you wish to download.
Open Network Stream:
- Open VLC, go to Media > Open Network Stream, and paste the URL into the provided box.
Play the Video:
- Click Play. The video should start playing within VLC.
Codec Information:
- Go to Tools > Codec Information and copy the URL from the Location box at the bottom of the window.
Download the Video:
- Paste this URL into your web browser’s address bar, press Enter, and right-click the video to select “Save Video As…”. Choose your desired location in your computer to save the file.
3. Using Third-Party Software: ClipGrab
ClipGrab is a free application designed specifically for downloading videos from YouTube. It’s user-friendly and effective. Here’s a guide for you on “how to download YouTube video to computer”.
- Download ClipGrab:
- Install ClipGrab from the official website. Be careful during installation to avoid bundled software.
- Launch ClipGrab:
- Open the program and navigate to the Downloads tab.
- Paste YouTube URL:
- Copy the YouTube video URL that you want and paste it into ClipGrab. The software will automatically detect the video and display options for download.
- Select Format and Quality:
- Choose your desired file format (e.g., MP4) and quality. ClipGrab allows you to download videos in various resolutions, depending on the original video’s quality.
- Download the Video:
- Click “Grab this clip!” and select a location to save the file. The download process will begin, and you can monitor the progress within the application.
4. Using Y2 (y2mate.com)
If you still want to know more about “how to download YouTube video to computer”, let’s try to use the website y2mate.com following these steps:
Step 1: Copy the YouTube video link
Step 2: Visit Y2mate.com and paste the video link you want to download copied from YouTube into the URL box > Click Start or click outside the white area for the web to process > Then choose the appropriate format and click Download.
Step 3: Wait for the web to process, when completed, click “Download“
Step 4: To watch the video being loaded, go to the 3-dot icon menu in the right corner of the browser and select “Download” or press the key combination Ctrl + J. This method applies to all browsers like Chrome; Firefox; Edge; Opera…
Step 5: The downloaded file management screen appears, you can view all downloaded files (videos, music, files, etc.) here. Click “Open in folder” to go to the folder containing the downloaded video or “Play” to open and watch the video.
5. Using Savefrom.net
Step 1: Copy the YouTube video link.
Step 2: Visit Savefrom.net and paste the video link you want to download copied from YouTube into the URL box and click Start download.
Step 3: Click Download to download the video or click on the video format you want.
Step 4: Wait for the website to process and automatically download to your device. You can monitor the video download status via the download section in the right corner of the browser or press Ctrl + J.
6. Using 9convert.com
Step 1: Copy the YouTube video link.
Step 2: Visit 9convert.com and paste the video link you want to download copied from YouTube into the URL box and click Start download.
Step 3: Click “MP3 auto quality” to select video format and quality and then click Download.
Step 4: Wait for the web to process, then a dialog box appears > Click Download.
Step 5: A new window will automatically open, wait for the web to run and show the video, then click on the three vertical dots icon in the lower right corner of the video.
Step 6: Select download to download videos from YouTube to your computer.
You can monitor the video download status via the download section in the right corner of the browser or press Ctrl + J.
7. Using Python Script
For tech-savvy users, using a Python script can be an efficient way to download YouTube videos. This method requires basic programming knowledge but offers a high degree of control. “How to download YoTube video to computer” by using Python Script?
Install Python and pytube:
- Ensure Python is installed on your system, then install pytube using pip (pip install pytube). Pytube is a lightweight library specifically designed for downloading YouTube videos.
Write the Script:
from pytube import YouTube
videoURL = input(“Enter YouTube URL: “)
yt = YouTube(videoURL)
yt.streams.filter(progressive=True, file_extension=’mp4′).order_by(‘resolution’).desc().first().download()
This script prompts the user to enter a YouTube URL and downloads the highest resolution MP4 available.
Run the Script:
- Save the script as download.py and run it using a command line interface (e.g., Command Prompt on Windows or Terminal on Mac). Follow the prompts to download the video that you want.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Downloading YouTube Videos
Sometimes, you might encounter issues when downloading YouTube videos. Here are some solutions related to “how to download YouTube video to computer”:
Issue: Videos Not Playing or Downloading
- Check Internet Connection: Ensure your Internet connection is stable. A weak Internet connection can disrupt your download process.
- Update Software: Make sure VLC, ClipGrab, or any other software you are using is up to date. The newest updates often include bug fixes and compatibility improvements.
- Clear Cache: Clearing your browser or software cache can resolve some issues, especially if the download process stalls.
Issue: Low-Quality Downloads
- Choose Higher Resolution: If using ClipGrab or another tool, select a higher resolution before downloading. Higher resolution files are larger but offer better quality.
- Use Alternative Methods: If one method fails, try another. Different tools and scripts may handle downloads differently, offering a workaround if one approach encounters issues.
Additional Tips for Downloading YouTube Videos
When learning “how to download YouTube video to computer”, it’s useful to keep a few additional tips in mind:
- Respect Copyright Laws: Downloading videos for personal use is generally acceptable, but redistributing them without permission can violate copyright laws. Always make sure that you have the right to download and use the content.
- Check for Malware: Be cautious when downloading software from third-party sites to avoid malware. Always use trusted sources and scan downloaded files with antivirus software.
- Keep Software Updated: Regularly updating your software ensures compatibility with YouTube’s latest changes. Developers often release updates to address changes in YouTube’s code that might affect downloading capabilities.
By using these methods, you can easily download YouTube videos to your computer for offline viewing. Whether you choose a subscription service like YouTube Premium, free software like VLC Media Player or ClipGrab, or a custom Python script, or some free websites, you have multiple options to suit your needs. Now you know “how to download YouTube video to computer”, making it easier to enjoy your favorite content anytime, anywhere.