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Have you come across an amazing YouTube video and wish to incorporate some of its footage into your own creation? While creativity is exciting, it’s crucial to download YouTube videos safely and legally before using them. Whether you’re expanding your personal library or editing and sharing on social media, obtaining a usable video file can be challenging. To simplify this process, we’ve compiled a list of reliable tools and websites to assist you.

5 Reliable Ways to Download YouTube Videos in 2024

Method 1: YouTube Premium

Looking for a hassle-free and legal method to download YouTube videos? YouTube Premium might be your ideal solution.

  1. Benefits: It allows you to legally download content with the “save offline” feature while offering an ad-free viewing experience. Various plans are available, including individual, family, and student options, along with a one-month free trial to explore before committing.
  2. How to use: Sign up for the YouTube Premium free trial and follow the provided steps.
  3. Tip: Keep in mind that videos saved this way are only accessible within the YouTube app and aren’t standard video file formats, meaning they can’t be uploaded to video editing software.

Method 2: 4K Video Downloader

Video
Video

The 4K Video Downloader is renowned for its simplicity in downloading online videos.

  1. Benefits: Available for Mac, Android, PC, and Linux, this tool is free for up to 30 downloads per day. For extensive downloads, like saving all of Mr. Beast’s playlists, consider their paid premium offering. You can also download previously live-streamed videos by grabbing the YouTube URL.
  2. How to use: Visit their website, download the app through any browser, and install it. Navigate to the YouTube video you wish to download, copy the URL, open 4K Video Downloader, and click “paste link.” Select your desired save location, and you’re set.
  3. Tip: The free version lets you download videos at the highest quality, but to conserve space, choose a lower-quality setting if needed. Regularly update the software for enhanced features and bug fixes.

Method 3. Savefrom.net

Savefrom is a well-regarded free online downloader that offers a convenient web-based method to download YouTube videos.

  1. Benefits: Similar to the 4K Video Downloader, Savefrom supports HD-quality downloads without any video limits. It also provides a web browser version, eliminating the need for installation (though an Android app is available).
  2. How to use: Simply copy the URL of your desired YouTube video, paste it into the designated field on Savefrom’s homepage, and hit “download”.
  3. Tip: While Savefrom is generally trusted, it’s wise to keep your system security current and use ad blockers. Avoid clicking on suspicious ads—caution is key when downloading from the internet.

Method 4. Browser Extensions

Imagine downloading YouTube videos directly from your browser without visiting external sites. The right browser extension or plugin can make this possible.

social networking
Social networking
  1. Benefits: Browser extensions seamlessly integrate into your browsing experience, allowing you to download videos directly, bypassing other websites or apps.
  2. How to use: Search for YouTube video downloader extensions in your browser’s store or marketplace. Once installed, these extensions usually add a “Download” button below the YouTube video for an effortless experience.
  3. Tip: Prior to installation, check user reviews for insights into the extension’s performance and safety. If an extension has few downloads or reviews, proceed with caution. Ensure your browser is up to date to maintain compatibility with extensions.

Method 5. VLC Media Player

VLC Media Player is not only for watching videos; it can also be used to download them. This trusted application offers a reliable and secure alternative for downloading YouTube videos.

  1. Benefits: For those who already use this versatile player, VLC serves as a dual-purpose tool. Though slightly more complex than other methods, VLC’s reputation ensures security.
  2. How to use it: Launch VLC, navigate to the “Media” tab, select “Open Network Stream,” paste the YouTube link, and click “Play.” Once the video is playing, go to “Tools” and then “Codec Information.” Copy the URL next to ‘location’ and paste it into your browser. As the video starts, right-click and choose “Save As” to download.
  3. Tip: Make sure you have the latest version of VLC for optimal performance. VLC also allows format conversion, enabling you to tailor YouTube videos to your preferred format.

Navigating the Legal Terrain: Downloading and Editing YouTube Videos

Downloading and Editing YouTube Videos
Editing YouTube videos

If you’re curious about the legality of downloading YouTube videos, the answer is yes, you can! With a YouTube Premium membership, you’re authorized to download videos legally. However, be cautious: using unauthorized methods can lead to legal issues. While YouTube hasn’t pursued lawsuits over this, it’s prudent to adhere to their copyright policies.

When downloading YouTube videos or using their content for personal or commercial purposes, understanding the legal context is crucial.

  1. YouTube’s Terms of Service: YouTube’s terms clearly prohibit downloading content without the creator’s consent unless a download option is explicitly provided by YouTube. This rule safeguards creators’ intellectual property rights.
  2. Copyright Laws: If you don’t own the content or lack explicit permission from the owner, downloading or repurposing the video could violate copyright laws. Consequences may include video removal, copyright strikes, or even legal action.
  3. Fair Use: Although copyright laws are stringent, the ‘fair use’ doctrine in many jurisdictions, including the U.S., might permit the use of copyrighted material without permission for criticism, commentary, news reporting, education, and research. However, fair use is a complex legal principle assessed on a case-by-case basis.

How to Avoid Copyright Issues on YouTube

  1. Obtain Permission from Creators: The safest approach is securing explicit permission from the content creator, often through a licensing agreement or written consent.
  2. Utilize Royalty-Free Media: Some creators license their content under Creative Commons, allowing usage under specific conditions. Additionally, platforms offer “royalty-free” videos for use. Always verify licensing details before use.

You’ve Downloaded YouTube Videos. Now What?

Downloading YouTube videos for offline viewing or editing is now straightforward, thanks to various online tools and software. Interested in extracting audio from a YouTube clip or converting an interview into a podcast? Check out our guide on saving YouTube audio.

Once you have your video, try importing it into Clipchamp for seamless editing. Whether you’re a seasoned editor or a beginner, Clipchamp is a user-friendly online video editor with professional features to bring your video ideas to life. You can also explore a range of professional YouTube video templates.