In this step-by-step guide, we will explore various methods to download MP4 videos from YouTube. As one of the largest video-sharing platforms on the internet, YouTube offers a vast collection of videos that users often wish to save for offline viewing. While YouTube itself does not provide a direct download option, there are several tools and techniques available to help you achieve this. Let’s dive in and explore the different methods below.
Method 1: Using Online YouTube Downloader Websites
Online YouTube downloader websites provide a convenient way to download MP4 videos from YouTube without the need for installing additional software. Here’s how you can easily download YouTube videos using this method:
1. **Choose a Reliable Online YouTube Downloader Website**: Start by selecting a reputable online YouTube downloader website, such as SaveFrom.net, Y2Mate, or KeepVid. These platforms allow you to download YouTube videos by simply pasting the video URL into their designated search bar.
2. **Find the YouTube Video You Want to Download**: Visit YouTube and locate the video you wish to download. Copy the URL from the video’s address bar.
3. **Open the Online YouTube Downloader Website**: Open your preferred online YouTube downloader website in a new browser tab.
4. **Paste the Video URL**: On the online YouTube downloader website, locate the search bar and paste the YouTube video URL that you copied earlier.
5. **Choose the Desired Format**: Select MP4 as the preferred video format for download. Some online YouTube downloader websites may offer additional quality and resolution options.
6. **Initiate the Download**: Click on the download button to start the MP4 video download. Depending on the website and your internet speed, the download may take a few moments to complete.
Method 2: Using Browser Extensions
Browser extensions can be a convenient way to download YouTube videos directly from your web browser. Here’s how you can use browser extensions to download MP4 videos from YouTube:
1. **Choose a Suitable Browser Extension**: Select a trusted browser extension specifically designed for downloading YouTube videos. Popular options include Video Downloader Professional for Google Chrome and FastestTube for Mozilla Firefox. Install the chosen extension from the official browser extension store.
2. **Find the YouTube Video**: Locate the YouTube video you want to download and open it in your web browser.
3. **Activate the Browser Extension**: Once the video starts playing, click on the browser extension icon that appears in the toolbar. Different extensions may have slightly different icons, but they are usually located near the top-right corner of the browser window.
4. **Select the MP4 Format**: A dropdown menu will appear, allowing you to choose the desired video format. Select MP4 and specify the preferred quality, if available.
5. **Initiate the Download**: Click the download button or link to start the MP4 video download. The download progress will be displayed, and the file will be saved to your default download location.
Method 3: Using Software Applications
If you prefer to download YouTube videos regularly or in bulk, using dedicated software applications can be a practical solution. Here’s a step-by-step process for using software applications to download MP4 videos from YouTube:
1. **Choose a Reliable YouTube Downloading Software**: There are numerous software applications available, such as 4K Video Downloader, YTD Video Downloader, and Freemake Video Downloader. Research and select a trustworthy software application that suits your needs. Download and install it on your computer.
2. **Find the YouTube Video**: Open YouTube in your web browser and search for the video you want to download.YouTube downloader
3. **Copy the Video URL**: Copy the URL of the YouTube video from the address bar of your browser.
4. **Launch the Software Application**: Open the downloaded software application on your computer.YouTube
5. **Paste the Video URL**: Look for a designated input field to paste the copied video URL. In most software applications, this field is clearly visible on the main interface.
6. **Select the MP4 Format**: Choose MP4 as the desired video format and specify the quality settings, if applicable.
7. **Initiate the Download**: Click the download button or similar action to start the MP4 video download. The software application will fetch the video from YouTube and save it to your specified download folder.
Method 4: Using Command Line Tools
For advanced users comfortable with command line tools, there are powerful options available to download MP4 videos from YouTube. Here’s how you can download YouTube videos using the command-line approach:
1. **Install and Configure the Command Line Tool**: Start by installing a command line tool such as youtube-dl on your computer. Follow the installation instructions provided by the tool’s official documentation.
2. **Open the Command Prompt or Terminal**: Depending on your operating system, open the Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac or Linux).
3. **Navigate to the installation directory of the Command Line Tool**: Use the `cd` command to navigate to the directory where the command line tool is installed.
4. **Fetch the Video URL**: Locate the YouTube video you wish to download and copy its URL.YouTube download software
5. **Enter the Download Command**: In the Command Prompt or Terminal, enter the appropriate command to download the video. It typically involves specifying the video URL, format, and desired output folder.
6. **Execute the Command**: Press Enter to initiate the command. The command line tool will start downloading the MP4 video based on the provided parameters.
Conclusion
Downloading MP4 videos from YouTube can be done using various methods, each with its own advantages and suitability. Online YouTube downloader websites offer a quick and easy way to download individual videos, while browser extensions provide convenience for downloading directly from your web browser. Software applications are ideal for regular or bulk downloads, offering additional features and customization options. Command line tools present a more advanced approach for experienced users seeking greater control. Experiment with these different methods and choose the one that best suits your needs. Enjoy downloading your favorite YouTube videos in MP4 format and watch them offline anytime, anywhere!