Like videos, music on YouTube is subject to copyright. The content has legal owners and they will not be happy with direct downloads, which is actually piracy. We do not recommend breaking the rules and doing so.
Possible options that can help you download anything you wish are described below. Please note that you can download only audio files licensed under the Creative Commons CC0 (Public Domain) and CC BY (Attribution) free license, as well as your own music previously published on YouTube.
Downloading with the help of a browser extension
Online services are considered one of the best options nowadays. Nevertheless, for those who don’t want to utilize those, there is another option – browser extensions.
SaveFrom.Net
The application is easily integrated into the web browsers Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer, Opera. It is enough to find video files through the search bar, move the mouse cursor over the clip or audio track you are interested in and press the “save” key.
Also, the free YouTube Video Downloader works in a similar way. Both utilities, like most of the software presented in our review, can download videos from YouTube, Facebook, Vimeo, Rutube, Google and Yahoo Video, Veoh, MySpace, DailyMotion, and many other popular services. For many, the browser extension is the most optimal option, providing a convenient and simple system for downloading videos and musical compositions.
YouTube Video Downloader
This tool allows you to convert certain clips to the desired format. There is a useful option to extract the audio track from the movie. You will have the opportunity to choose the video quality, which is important for the demanding user because viewing in FullHD and 4K will bring much more pleasure than the usual resolution.
As an example, Ummy Video Downloader and SaveFrom.Net allow you to adjust this parameter, but only up to 1080p. Those who are not satisfied with streaming downloads in FullHD should pay attention to the latest versions of VDownloader and VSO Downloader Ultimate. In both utilities, you can adjust the resolution to 2048 x 1080 and even 4096 x 2160 (Ultra HD).
Android apps will help
Google prohibits downloading YouTube content, as we know. Therefore, there are no specific tools in either the Chrome extension store or Google Play.
As we know, Android applications have to be installed via APK files. If you don’t want to fall victim to viruses and other harmful things, only reliable sources must be chosen, like official sites of developers, etc. The selection of applications designed for working with YouTube content is impressive, so it won’t be of any problem to find what suits your needs. The most popular options are VidMate, Videoder, Snaptube, and more.
Apps of this type work based on a similar principle. The sequence of action looks like this:
- The link needed is copied.
- You paste it into the corresponding field.
- You choose the criteria you need, such as quality, etc.
- Voila – files are saved. Easy, isn’t it?
Downloading using online services
oDownloader
This yt to mp4 converter can quickly convert videos to MP4 and get them downloaded on your gadget easily. The algorithm is incredibly simple: insert the link, and click on the “Convert” button. It will start automatically.
9Convert
This service works just as easily as the previous service we described. Paste the video link, select the bitrate and click “Download”.
y2mate
y2mate lovers know that there are two ways of downloading: visiting the service page itself or via adding pp symbols between youtube and .com to the URL of the desired video. Both options are equally convenient, so you can choose the one you like more.
Downloading using computer programs
VideoCacheView
VideoCacheView is a fast and simple program, good software for beginners and those who do not care about powerful functionality. A characteristic feature is the automatic monitoring of the sites you visit on the Internet. CacheView downloads from the browser cache, in other words, it catches video on the fly.
It downloads clips, music, various graphics, and flash videos at high speed. There is an intuitive control and a user-friendly interface that any user can easily understand. The program works with many popular video hosting sites, including YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, Rutube and is compatible with the Windows operating system.
ClipGrab
Another great tool for music fans. A great feature is the possibility of finding tracks right in the application. The downloading process starts simply: you click the corresponding button and enjoy the process!
MediaHuman YouTube to MP3
This tool with tons of settings makes it possible to download entire playlists. The application can automatically download files, supports multithreaded downloading, templates for renaming and editing tags, as well as automation scripts.