Hey there! Are you someone who loves watching YouTube videos on the go but finds it frustrating that you can’t download them? Well, luckily there is a solution to that problem! In this article, we’ll be discussing how to download YouTube videos in MP4 format with ease. So, let’s dive in!
How to Download YouTube Videos to MP4: A Comprehensive Guide
As video consumption through streaming platforms continues to rise, one platform has remained a ubiquitous source of content: YouTube. With millions of videos available at any given moment, it has become one of the most popular destinations for entertainment, education, and information. However, despite its immense popularity, YouTube’s video downloading options are severely limited for users.
Fortunately, the internet has a wide array of tools and websites that can help users download YouTube videos for offline viewing. One of the most popular formats to use for downloaded videos is MP4, which is compatible with most devices and video players. In this guide, we’ll provide a comprehensive look at the benefits of downloading YouTube videos to MP4 and the steps you need to take to do it.
Why Download YouTube Videos to MP4?
There are several reasons why you might want to download a YouTube video to MP4. First and foremost, having the video stored on your device means you can watch it offline, which can be especially helpful for individuals with limited access to the internet, or for those who want to save on data usage. Also, if you have a video on YouTube that you would like to share with a friend who doesn’t have access to the internet, downloading it to MP4 format can make it easier to share the file with them directly.
Another popular reason for downloading YouTube videos to MP4 involves content creators. If you’ve created a video and uploaded it to YouTube, having an MP4 version can provide you with an offline backup of your video in case anything happens to the version already uploaded to YouTube. Additionally, having an MP4 version of the video can make it easier to transfer the file to other video-sharing platforms, such as Vimeo or Facebook.
How to Download YouTube Videos to MP4
There are multiple methods to download YouTube videos to MP4, so we’ll explore three popular options.
Option 1: Use a Video Downloader Website
One of the easiest ways to download a YouTube video to MP4 is to use a video downloader website. These online tools generally offer a simple interface that allows you to paste the URL of the video you want to download, select the output quality, and then initiate the download.
Step 1: Find the video you want to download on YouTube and copy the URL.
Step 2: Open a video downloader website, such as TubeOffline or Y2mate.
Step 3: Paste the YouTube video URL in the input field on the downloader website.
Step 4: Select the MP4 output format from the available options.
Step 5: Choose the quality you want.
Step 6: Click on the download button.
Step 7: A new window will open, prompting you to save the file. Choose an appropriate location on your computer and save the file.
Option 2: Use a Browser Extension
Another way to download YouTube videos to MP4 is to use a browser extension. Most popular browsers have a range of extensions available that allow you to download videos from YouTube (as well as other sites).
Step 1: Choose a browser with a video downloader extension available. For this example, we’ll use Chrome.
Step 2: Open the Google Chrome web store.
Step 3: Search for a video downloader extension, such as Video Downloader Plus or Video Downloader for Chrome.
Step 4: Install the extension.
Step 5: Find the YouTube video you want to download and click on the extension button on your browser.
Step 6: Select the MP4 format and wait for the file to download.
Option 3: Use VLC Media Player
If you’re looking for a method that doesn’t require access to the internet or the use of browser extensions, VLC Media Player is a great option. VLC is a free, open-source media player that can be downloaded for Windows, MacOS, and Linux systems. It also has a built-in feature that allows you to download YouTube videos in MP4 format.
Step 1: Download and install VLC Media Player from the official website.
Step 2: Find the YouTube video you want to download and copy the URL.
Step 3: Open VLC and select “Media” from the menu bar.
Step 4: Select “Open Network Stream” and paste the YouTube video URL in the input field.
Step 5: Click on “Play” and wait for the video to buffer.
Step 6: When the video is playing, select “Tools” from the menu bar and choose “Codec Information.”
Step 7: Under the “Location” section, copy the URL in the “Location” field.
Step 8: Open your web browser and paste the URL in the address bar.
Step 9: The video will begin playing again in your browser. Right-click on the video and select “Save Video As” to download it to your computer in MP4 format.
Conclusion
Downloading YouTube videos to MP4 can be a great way to ensure you have offline access to your favorite videos or to share them with others. The three methods we explored in this guide are just a few of the many options available online. Whichever method you choose, be sure to only download videos that you have the right to download and use. With these tips and tools, you’re ready to start building your own offline library of videos in no time!
