Are you looking to download YouTube videos as MP4 for free? In today’s digital age, video content has become an integral part of our online experience. YouTube, being the largest video-sharing platform, houses an extensive collection of videos ranging from entertainment, education, music, tutorials, and more. While streaming videos online is convenient, there are times when you might want to save a video for offline viewing or to create a compilation for personal use.
Downloading YouTube videos as MP4 files allows you to watch them without an internet connection on various devices and platforms. However, it is essential to note that YouTube’s terms of service prohibit the downloading of videos without permission.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore various methods and tools that allow you to legally download YouTube videos as MP4 files for free. We will discuss online tools, software, browser extensions, and mobile apps that can help you save your favorite videos effortlessly.
Is it Legal to Download YouTube Videos?
Before we delve into the different methods of downloading YouTube videos, it’s crucial to address the legality of this action. According to YouTube’s terms of service, you are not allowed to download videos unless a download link or similar functionality is provided by YouTube on the service.
However, there are scenarios where downloading YouTube videos is legal, such as:
- You have the explicit permission of the video owner.
- The video is in the public domain.
- You are downloading your own videos from YouTube Studio.
It is essential to respect copyright laws and the rights of content creators when downloading videos from YouTube. Proceed with caution and ensure you have the necessary permissions before saving any content.
Methods to Download YouTube Videos as MP4 for Free
Online Video Downloaders
Online video downloaders are web-based tools that allow you to download YouTube videos by simply pasting the video URL. These tools are convenient and do not require any software installation. Here are some popular online video downloaders:
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Y2Mate: Y2Mate is a widely used online video downloader that supports the download of YouTube videos in various formats, including MP4. Simply paste the YouTube video URL into the input field, select MP4 as the format, and click on the download button.
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SaveFrom: SaveFrom is another popular online tool for downloading YouTube videos. You can add “ss” before the YouTube URL (e.g., www.ssyoutube.com) to directly access the SaveFrom download page for that video. Choose MP4 as the format and initiate the download process.
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OnlineVideoConverter: OnlineVideoConverter offers a user-friendly interface for downloading YouTube videos in different formats, including MP4. Paste the video URL, select MP4 as the format, and click on the “Start” button to begin the download.
Browser Extensions
Browser extensions provide a seamless way to download YouTube videos directly from your browser. These extensions add a download button below the YouTube video, making the downloading process quick and straightforward. Here are some popular browser extensions:
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Video DownloadHelper: Available for Firefox and Chrome, Video DownloadHelper enables you to download videos from various sites, including YouTube. Once installed, a download button will appear below the video for easy access.
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KeepVid: KeepVid is a versatile extension that supports video downloads from multiple sources, including YouTube. Install the extension, navigate to the YouTube video you wish to download, and click the download button to save it as an MP4 file.
Desktop Software
If you prefer a more robust solution for downloading YouTube videos, desktop software can offer additional features and customization options. Here are some popular desktop software options:
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4K Video Downloader: 4K Video Downloader is a powerful tool that allows you to download videos from YouTube in various formats, including MP4. Simply copy the video URL and paste it into the software to initiate the download process.
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ClipGrab: ClipGrab is a free downloader and converter for YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, and other sites. It supports the download of videos in MP4 format and offers features like batch downloads and video conversion.
Mobile Apps
For on-the-go downloading of YouTube videos, mobile apps provide a convenient solution. These apps are available on both iOS and Android platforms. Here are a couple of popular apps:
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Documents by Readdle: Documents is a versatile app that not only serves as a file manager but also offers a built-in browser for downloading videos. Simply browse YouTube within the app, select the video, choose the MP4 format, and save it to your device.
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VidMate: VidMate is a popular Android app for downloading videos from various platforms, including YouTube. It allows you to select the video quality and format before initiating the download process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I download YouTube videos for offline viewing?
Yes, you can download YouTube videos for offline viewing using various online tools, software, browser extensions, and mobile apps.
2. Is it legal to download YouTube videos?
Downloading YouTube videos without permission is against YouTube’s terms of service. However, there are scenarios where downloading videos is legal, such as having explicit permission from the video owner.
3. How can I download YouTube videos as MP4 files?
You can download YouTube videos as MP4 files using online video downloaders, browser extensions, desktop software, and mobile apps. Simply paste the video URL and select MP4 as the format.
4. Are there any restrictions on downloading YouTube videos?
It is crucial to respect copyright laws and the rights of content creators when downloading videos from YouTube. Only download videos with proper authorization or those that are in the public domain.
5. Can I convert downloaded YouTube videos to other formats?
Yes, many tools and software allow you to convert downloaded YouTube videos to different formats based on your requirements.
Downloading YouTube videos as MP4 files can enhance your offline viewing experience and enable you to create a personalized video library. By following the methods and tools mentioned in this guide, you can easily save your favorite YouTube videos for offline enjoyment while ensuring you abide by copyright regulations and respect content creators’ rights.
