A YouTube video converter lets you download and convert YouTube videos into formats like MP4, MP3, or AVI. It helps you save videos for offline viewing, extract audio, or convert them to your preferred format. Whether on Mac, Windows, or smartphones, these converters make video and audio conversion quick and easy. This guide covers the top YouTube video converters and how to use them effortlessly.
In this article
Part 1: What is a YouTube Video Converter?
A YouTube Video Converter is a tool or software that allows users to convert YouTube videos into different file formats, such as MP3, MP4, AVI, or WAV. This conversion process enables users to download videos or audio from YouTube to their devices for offline use, or to convert them into a format that's compatible with their preferred media player, device, or editing software.
There are two primary types of YouTube video converters:
- Video to Audio Converters (YouTube to MP3): These converters allow you to download only the audio portion of a YouTube video, typically in MP3 format. This is useful for listening to music, podcasts, or other audio content without needing to watch the video.
- Video to Video Converters (YouTube to MP4, etc.): These converters enable you to download the full video, often in popular formats like MP4, which is compatible with most devices. The conversion can preserve the original video quality or allow adjustments for different resolutions, such as 720p or 1080p.
Part 2: Legal Aspect of YouTube Video Converters
The legal aspect of using YouTube video converters involves understanding copyright laws and YouTube's terms of service:
- Violation of YouTube's Terms of Service: According to YouTube's Terms of Service, users are not allowed to download videos without permission, unless a download button is provided by YouTube (e.g., for YouTube Premium or Creative Commons content).
- Copyright Issues: Downloading videos or music without the creator's permission may infringe on copyright laws, especially if the content is copyrighted. Using video converters to download copyrighted material without authorization can lead to legal consequences.
- Fair Use: In some cases, downloading content for personal use or educational purposes might fall under "fair use," but this is a gray area and can vary by jurisdiction.
- Creative Commons Content: Videos labeled as Creative Commons can be legally downloaded and reused, as they allow redistribution and modification, but checking the license terms is essential.
Part 3: 8 Best YouTube Video Converters for Seamless Downloads
1. UniConverter
UniConverter (formerly Wondershare UniConverter) is a powerful and feature-packed multimedia tool that offers everything you need to handle video, audio, and even DVD files. It’s designed to make tasks like video conversion, downloading, editing, compressing, and burning more accessible and efficient. Whether you're a content creator, professional, or casual user, UniConverter is designed to save time and improve productivity.
Best Video Converter
Key Features of UniConverter:
- Video and Audio Conversion: Convert videos and audio to over 1,000 formats (MP4, AVI, MP3, etc.).
- Download Videos: Download YouTube, Vimeo, and other platform videos in HD or 4K.
- Video Editing: Trim, crop, rotate, add subtitles, effects, and merge videos.
- Screen Recording: Record your screen with system and microphone audio.
- Device Compatibility: Optimized conversion for devices like iPhones, Androids, and gaming consoles.
Step-by-Step Guide to Compress YouTube Videos Using UniConverter
Step 1:Add Your Video Files
Click on the + Add File/Folders to browse and select the video(s) you want to convert.
You can also drag and drop the file into the program window.
Step 2:Select Output Format
Once the video is added, click on the "Convert All to" button located at the top right.Choose the format you want to convert the video to (e.g., MP4, MOV, MP3, etc.).You can also adjust the quality or resolution if needed.
Step 3: Start Conversion and Locate your File
After selecting the output format, click the "Convert" button.Wait for the conversion to finish. Once done, you can find the converted video in the Finished section in UniConverter, In the specified output folder.
2. YTD Video Downloader
YTD Video Downloader is a popular software application designed to allow users to download videos from various websites, most commonly from video-sharing platforms like YouTube. It provides a straightforward interface for downloading videos, and users can choose from multiple video quality options and formats, such as MP4, FLV, or AVI
Key Features of YTD Video Downloader:
- Download Videos:Lets you download videos from sites like YouTube, Facebook, and Vimeo by pasting the video link.
- Choose Format and Quality:You can pick the video format (e.g., MP4, FLV) and quality (e.g., HD, SD).
- Batch Downloading:Allows you to download multiple videos at once.
- Convert Videos:After downloading, you can convert videos to different formats for various devices (smartphones, tablets, etc.).
- Free and Paid Versions:Free version for basic features; Pro version offers faster downloads and extra tools like playlist downloads.
How to Use YTD Video Downloader:
Step 1: Download and Install YTD Video Downloader
Visit the YTD Video Downloader website and download the installer for your operating system (Windows or macOS).Install the software by following the on-screen instructions.
Step 2: Copy the Video URL
Go to YouTube (or another supported site) and copy the URL of the video you want to download.
Step 3: Paste and Download
Open YTD Video Downloader, click the "Paste URL" button, and the software will automatically fetch the video.Select the desired format and quality, then click "Download" to save the video.
3. 4K Video Downloader
4K Video Downloader allows users to download videos, playlists, channels, and subtitles from sites like YouTube and Vimeo in high quality (4K and 8K). It supports various formats like MP4, MKV, and audio extraction in MP3 or M4A. The free version has basic features, while the paid version offers unlimited downloads and faster speeds. It's available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Key Features:
- High-Quality Downloads: Supports downloading videos in up to 4K and 8K resolution.
- Playlist and Channel Downloading: Allows downloading entire YouTube playlists and channels.
- Multiple Formats: Supports various video formats like MP4, MKV, and FLV, and also allows audio extraction in MP3 and M4A formats.
- Subtitles: Can download subtitles in multiple languages, either embedded or as separate files.
- Batch Downloading: Enables downloading multiple videos at once.
How to Use 4K Video Downloader:
Step 1: Download and Install 4K Video Downloader
Visit the 4K Video Downloader website and download the software for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).Install it by following the on-screen instructions.
Step 2: Copy the Video URL
Go to YouTube (or any supported site) and copy the URL of the video or playlist you want to download.
Step 3: Paste and Download
Open 4K Video Downloader, click the "Paste Link" button, and the software will automatically fetch the video.Choose the video quality and format, then click "Download" to save it to your device.
4. Freemake Video Downloader
Freemake Video Downloader is a free software tool that allows users to download videos, playlists, channels, and audio from a wide range of websites, including YouTube, Facebook, Vimeo, Dailymotion, and many others. It supports downloading videos in various formats and resolutions, including HD and 4K, providing a straightforward way to save content for offline viewing.
Key Features of Freemake Video Downloader:
- Simple Interface:The interface is easy to use, making it simple for beginners to download videos.
- Download Playlists and Channels:Easily download entire YouTube playlists or channels in just a few clicks.
- Extract Audio:Save only the audio from videos in MP3 or FLAC format.
- Download Subtitles:You can download subtitles along with videos, which is useful for videos in other languages.
- Free Version Available:There is a free version with basic features, but advanced features require a paid version.
How to Use Freemake Video Downloader:
Step 1: Download and Install Freemake Video Downloader
Visit the Freemake Video Downloader website, download the installer, and install the software on your computer.
Step 2: Copy the Video URL
Go to YouTube or any supported video site, and copy the URL of the video or playlist you want to download.
Step 3: Paste and Download
Open Freemake Video Downloader, click the "Paste URL" button, and the software will grab the video.Select the desired video quality and format, then click "Download" to save it to your computer.
5. JDownloader
JDownloader is a free, open-source download manager that allows users to download files from platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and Dailymotion. It supports batch downloads, link extraction, and automatic captcha solving. The tool can handle large files, resume interrupted downloads, and download from multiple sources at once. It is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Key Features:
- Download from Multiple Sites:Supports downloading from many platforms like YouTube, Dailymotion, and file hosting services (e.g., Mega, Google Drive).
- Automatic Captcha Solving:Automatically solves captchas on supported websites, so you don’t need to enter them manually.
- Resume Interrupted Downloads:If your download is interrupted, JDownloader can resume it from where it left off without starting over.
- File Extraction:Can automatically extract compressed files (like ZIP or RAR) after they’re downloaded.
- Link Grabber:Automatically detects and grabs download links from websites and apps, making the process easier.
How To Use JDownloader:
Step 1: Download and Install JDownloader
Visit the JDownloader website and download the software for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).Install it by following the on-screen instructions.
Step 2: Copy the Video URL
Go to YouTube or any supported site and copy the URL of the video or playlist you want to download.
Step 3: Paste and Download
Open JDownloader, and the software will automatically detect the copied URL.Select the video quality and format, then click "Start All" to begin the download.
6.ClipGrab
ClipGrab is a free, easy-to-use software for downloading and converting videos from websites like YouTube, Vimeo, and others. It allows users to download videos in various formats (MP4, MKV, MP3) and resolutions (HD, 4K). ClipGrab also has a built-in converter, so you can change the format of videos after downloading. It has a simple, user-friendly interface, making it a good choice for beginners. ClipGrab is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Key Features of ClipGrab:
- Download Videos: Supports downloading from popular video-sharing sites like YouTube, Vimeo, etc.
- Multiple Formats: Can download videos in MP4, MKV, and convert videos to MP3 for audio.
- Easy Conversion: Built-in converter to change video formats after downloading.
- Simple Interface: User-friendly and easy to use, even for beginners.
- Free and Open Source: Completely free with no hidden costs.
How To Use ClipGrab :
Step 1: Download and Install ClipGrab
Visit the ClipGrab website and download the installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).Install the software by following the on-screen instructions.
Step 2: Copy the Video URL
Go to YouTube (or another supported site) and copy the URL of the video you want to download.
Step 3: Paste and Download
Open ClipGrab, click the "Paste" button, and the software will automatically fetch the video.Choose the format and quality, then click "Grab this Clip" to download the video..
7. Any Video Converter (AVC)
Any Video Converter (AVC) is a free, easy-to-use software for downloading, converting, and editing videos. It allows users to convert videos between formats, download from sites like YouTube, and extract audio. AVC also offers basic editing features like trimming and merging videos, and is available for both Windows and macOS.
Key Features of AVC:
- Video Conversion: Convert videos between many formats (e.g., MP4, AVI, MKV).
- Video Downloading: Download videos from websites like YouTube, Vimeo, and others.
- Audio Extraction: Extract and save audio from videos in MP3 or other formats.
- Basic Editing: Cut, trim, or merge videos.
- Free and Paid Versions: The free version offers many features, while the paid version unlocks extra tools.
How To Use Any Video Converter (AVC):
Step 1: Download and Install AVC
Visit the Any Video Converter website and download the installer for your operating system (Windows or macOS).Install the software by following the on-screen instructions.
Step 2: Add Video URL or File
To download a video, click "Download", paste the video URL (e.g., from YouTube), and choose the format you want.Alternatively, click "Add Video" to import a video file from your computer.
Step 3: Convert or Download
Select the output format (e.g., MP4, MP3) and quality.Click "Convert Now" to convert the video or "Download" to save the video.
8. aTube Catcher
aTube Catcher is a free software that allows you to download videos from websites like YouTube, Vimeo, and others. It also supports converting videos into different formats (e.g., MP4, AVI, FLV). In addition to downloading, it can extract audio from videos and save them as MP3 files. aTube Catcher has a simple interface, making it easy to use for both beginners and advanced users. It is available for Windows and Android.
Key Features of aTube Catcher:
- Video Downloading: Download videos from popular video sites like YouTube.
- Format Conversion: Convert downloaded videos into different formats (MP4, AVI, etc.).
- Audio Extraction: Extract audio and save it in formats like MP3.
- Batch Downloading: Download multiple videos at once.
- Free and Lightweight: It is free and doesn't take up much space on your device.
How To Use a Tube Catcher:
Step 1: Download and Install aTube Catcher
Visit the aTube Catcher website and download the installer for your operating system (Windows).Install the software by following the on-screen instructions.
Step 2: Copy the Video URL
Go to YouTube (or another supported site) and copy the URL of the video you want to download.
Step 3: Paste and Download
Open aTube Catcher, click the "URL" tab, and paste the copied video URL.Select the format and quality, then click "Download" to save the video.
Conclusion
YouTube video converters allow users to download, convert, and manage videos in various formats and resolutions, making them perfect for offline viewing. These tools often come with useful features such as video editing, batch processing, and compression. Advanced options like auto crop for precise framing and a subtitle editor for seamless subtitle management further enhance the experience. While some converters are free and simple, tools like UniConverter stand out with features like 4K downloads, playlist support, and intuitive usability. Choosing the right converter ensures fast, high-quality video management tailored to your needs.
FAQs
1. What is the best format to download YouTube videos?
The best format for YouTube videos depends on how you plan to use them. MP4 is the most widely used and compatible format for both video and audio. For audio only, MP3 is the most common.
2. Can YouTube video converters extract audio from videos?
Yes, many YouTube video converters allow you to download only the audio from a video, typically in MP3 or other audio formats.
3. Can YouTube videos be converted to different resolutions?
Yes, most video converters allow you to choose the resolution when downloading videos (e.g., 720p, 1080p, 4K). However, the available resolution depends on the video’s original quality.
4. Are YouTube video converters safe to use?
Some YouTube video converters may contain malware or ads. It’s important to download converters from trusted sources and use reliable antivirus software. Always be cautious during installation to avoid unwanted software.
5. Can I use YouTube video converters on mobile devices?
Some YouTube video converters have mobile apps, while others can be used through a web browser. However, downloading from YouTube using mobile apps might also violate YouTube's terms of service