Remember when we all had to wait for songs to come on the radio just to record them on cassette tapes? Well, those days are long gone, but the desire to save our favorite videos for offline viewing is stronger than ever. Whether you’re prepping for a long flight or just want to binge-watch tutorials without burning through your data plan, having a reliable YouTube downloader is basically a millennial survival skill at this point.
Let’s dive into the list of best YouTube downloaders that actually work in 2025, because nobody has time for sketchy sites that promise the world but deliver viruses instead.
What Makes a Great YouTube Downloader?
Before we jump into our top picks, here’s what separates the winners from the wannabes:
- Speed and reliability – Nobody wants to wait 20 minutes for a 3-minute video
- Multiple formats – MP4, MP3, different quality options
- No malware – This should be obvious, but you’d be surprised
- User-friendly interface – If you need a PhD to figure it out, it’s not worth it
- Regular updates – YouTube changes constantly, so your downloader needs to keep up.
The 10 Best YouTube Downloaders for 2025
1. yt-dlp
Downloader Type: Command line tool (Free)
yt-dlp is a command line app that allows you to download video and audio from thousands of websites and streaming platforms, based on the popular YouTube downloader, youtube-dlc, but now comes with additional features and improvements. This is the gold standard for tech-savvy users who don’t mind typing a few commands.
Pros
- Supports over 1,000 sites – Works with virtually any video platform you can think of, not just YouTube
- Constantly updated – Active development means it keeps working even when sites change their code
- No ads or bloatware – Pure functionality without any annoying extras slowing you down
- Completely free – Open source means no hidden costs or subscription fees ever
Cons
- Command line interface – You’ll need to type commands instead of clicking buttons, which intimidates some users
- Steeper learning curve – Takes time to master all the options and syntax
Best for: Power users who want maximum control and reliability.
2. Tubly Downloader
Downloader Type: Browser Extension (Free/Paid)
Tubly Downloader brings YouTube downloading directly into your browser as a seamless Chrome extension. It’s like having a download button built right into YouTube itself – no switching between apps or copying URLs. That’s why Tubly is considered one of the best video downloader extensions for users who value speed and convenience.
Pros
- One-click downloads – Download button appears right below the Youtube video player, making it incredibly convenient
- Supports up to 8K resolution – Download in stunning 4K, or even 8K when available, with flexible quality options from 720p to 2160p
- MP3 extraction in one step – Convert to high-quality 320kbps audio without needing separate conversion tools
- YouTube Shorts support – Specialized feature for downloading short-form vertical videos with ease
- Works with private/member content – Download any video you have access to, including private and member-only content
- Cross-platform compatibility – Works on Windows, Mac, and Linux
- No external websites needed – Avoid sketchy online downloaders and their aggressive ads or malware risks
Cons
- 4K/8K, and MP3 downloads require a Pro subscription
- Requires browser extension installation – Some users prefer not installing browser add-ons
Best for: Users who want the most convenient downloading experience without leaving YouTube.
3. 4K Video Downloader Plus
Downloader Type: Desktop app (Free/Paid)
4K Video Downloader is a one of the favorite YouTube downloader apps, as it’s simple to use and fast, making it a good YouTube downloader without a watermark. This one hits the sweet spot between functionality and ease of use.
Pros
- Super intuitive interface – Even your parents could figure this one out without calling for tech support
- Downloads entire playlists – Grab hundreds of videos with just one click instead of downloading them individually
- Supports 4K and 8K videos – Perfect for when you want that crisp, high-resolution content for your big screen
- Available on Windows, Mac, and Linux – Works regardless of what operating system you’re running
Cons
- Limited downloads in free version – You’ll hit a wall after downloading a certain number of videos per day
- Some features require premium – Advanced options like subtitle downloads need the paid version
Best for: Users who want professional features without the complexity.
4. Freemake Video Downloader
Downloader Type: Desktop app (Free/Paid)
Freemake Video Downloader downloads videos from YouTube & 10,000 more sites. Absolutely FREE. Download YouTube videos in HD, MP4. A solid choice that’s been around for years and keeps getting better.
Pros
- Supports 10,000+ sites – Beyond YouTube, this works with Instagram, Facebook, Vimeo, and tons of other platforms
- Built-in video converter – No need for separate software to change formats after downloading
- Batch downloads – Queue up multiple videos and let it work while you grab coffee
- Clean interface – Simple design that doesn’t overwhelm you with unnecessary buttons
Cons
- Free version adds watermarks – Your downloaded videos will have the Freemake logo unless you upgrade
- Some bundled software during installation – Watch out for additional programs trying to install alongside
Best for: Casual users who download from multiple platforms.
5. ClipGrab
Downloader Type: Desktop app (Free)
ClipGrab is a straightforward downloader that gets the job done without any fuss. Perfect for people who just want to grab videos quickly without learning complex software.
Pros
- Completely free – No premium versions, subscriptions, or hidden fees to worry about
- No registration required – Download immediately without creating accounts or sharing personal info
- Automatic quality detection – Picks the best available quality without you having to choose from confusing options
- Built-in search function – Find videos directly in the app instead of copying URLs from your browser
Cons
- Limited format options – Fewer choices for output formats compared to more advanced tools
- Slower than premium alternatives – Downloads take longer, especially for high-quality videos
Best for: Occasional downloaders who want something simple.
6. Any Video Converter
Downloader Type: Desktop app (Free/Paid)
More than just a downloader – AVC is complete video toolkit that happens to excel at grabbing YouTube content. Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of video downloaders.
Pros
- Downloads and converts in one step – No need to download first, then convert later with separate software
- Supports 100+ video sites – Works with most major platforms beyond just YouTube
- DVD burning capabilities – Create physical discs from your downloaded content
- Video editing features – Basic trimming and editing tools included in the package
Cons
- Interface feels dated – Looks like it was designed in 2010 and hasn’t been updated much
- Can be overwhelming for simple tasks – Too many features if you just want to download a single video
Best for: Users who need video conversion alongside downloading.
7. YTD Video Downloader
Type: Desktop app (Free/Paid)
YTD is a Windows-focused downloader that’s been refined over many years of development. It’s like that reliable friend who always gets things done efficiently.
Pros
- Fast download speeds – Downloads complete much quicker than many competitors
- Playlist support – Handle entire YouTube playlists without downloading videos one by one
- Simple drag-and-drop interface – Just drag video URLs into the app and it handles the rest
- Converts to multiple formats – Choose from MP4, MP3, AVI, and other popular formats
Cons
- Windows only – Mac and Linux users are out of luck with this one
- Free version has limitations – Restricted number of downloads and some features locked behind paywall
- Occasional ads – Pop-ups and promotional content can interrupt your workflow
Best for: Windows users who favor desktop app to download videos.
8. ByClick Downloader
Type: Desktop app (Paid with free trial)
ByClick is all about automation – set it up once and it handles everything in the background. Perfect for the “set it and forget it” crowd.
Pros
- Auto-detects videos in browser – Automatically spots downloadable content as you browse YouTube
- One-click downloads – Single click starts the download process without additional steps
- Supports private/unlisted videos – Can download content that’s not publicly searchable
- Batch processing – Handle multiple downloads simultaneously without slowing down
Cons
- Not free – Requires payment after the trial period, though it’s reasonably priced
- Can be aggressive with auto-downloads – Sometimes tries to download videos you were just browsing
Best for: Heavy downloaders who want maximum automation.
9. SaveFrom.net
Type: Online service (Free)
SaveFrom is the go-to online option when you don’t want to install anything on your computer. It’s like the drive-thru of YouTube downloaders.
Pros
- No software installation needed – Works entirely in your web browser without taking up computer storage
- Works on any device with a browser – Perfect for Chromebooks, work computers, or borrowed devices
- Quick and simple – Just paste the URL and click download, no complex setup required
- Supports multiple sites – Beyond YouTube, works with Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms
Cons
- Limited quality options – Fewer choices for resolution and format compared to desktop apps
- Ads on the website – Pop-ups and banner ads can be annoying during the download process
- Slower than desktop apps – Online processing means longer wait times for your downloads
Best for: Quick downloads on shared or work computers.
10. Snaptube (Mobile)
Type: Android app (Free)
For when you want to download YouTube videos (and basically any other social media video) directly to your phone – Snaptube is perfect for building an offline music library for your commute or gym sessions.
Pros
- Download directly to mobile – Skip the computer entirely and save content straight to your phone
- Multiple quality options – Choose from different resolutions to balance quality and storage space
- Built-in video player – Watch your downloaded content without switching to another app
- Background downloading – Continue using your phone while downloads happen in the background
Cons
- Android only – iPhone users can’t use this due to Apple’s App Store restrictions
- Not available on Google Play Store – Must be downloaded from third-party sources, which some users find sketchy
- Contains ads – Free version includes advertisements that can interrupt your experience
Best for: Mobile users who want offline content on their phone.
How to Choose the Right YouTube Downloader
- For beginners: Start with 4K Video Downloader Plus or ClipGrab. They’re user-friendly and reliable.
- For power users: yt-dlp is unbeatable if you’re comfortable with command line tools.
- For maximum convenience: Tubly extension is perfect if you want downloads without leaving YouTube or switching apps.
- For mobile: Snaptube is your best bet on Android (iPhone users are out of luck due to App Store restrictions).
- For quick one-offs: Use SaveFrom.net when you just need to grab something fast.
- For heavy downloading: Consider ByClick Downloader for its automation features.
Pro Tips for YouTube Downloading
- Check the video quality before downloading – Don’t waste time on 240p when 1080p is available.
- Download playlists overnight – Set up batch downloads when you’re sleeping to avoid slowing down your internet during the day.
- Keep your downloader updated – YouTube regularly changes how their site works, so outdated downloaders will stop working.
- Be mindful of storage space – 4K videos eat up storage fast, so consider your available space before going crazy with downloads.
- Use VPN if needed – Some regions have restrictions on downloading content.
Read also: How to Download YouTube Videos: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Is a YouTube Donwloader Legal?
Look, it’s only fair to address this question when we’re talking about the best YouTube video downloaders – it’s probably on your mind anyway. YouTube’s terms of service generally prohibit downloading videos unless they provide a download button. However, the legal landscape is complex and varies by country. Most people download for personal use (like watching offline during travel), which typically falls into a gray area.
The safest approach is to only download content you have permission to download, or content that’s clearly marked as free to use. When in doubt, check with the content creator or stick to YouTube Premium’s official offline feature.
This is definitely a topic that deserves more detailed coverage than we can provide here. We actually have a whole comprehensive article dedicated specifically to the legal aspects of converting YouTube content to MP3.
Conclusion
In 2025, you’ve got more options than ever for downloading YouTube content. Whether you’re a tech newbie who just wants something that works or a power user who needs advanced features, there’s a tool on this list that’ll fit your needs.
The best YouTube downloader is ultimately the one you’ll actually use. Start with something simple and if you find yourself needing more features, you can always level up to something more advanced later.
Remember, the goal is to enhance your viewing experience, not complicate it. Pick a tool that matches your technical comfort level, and you’ll be building your offline video library in no time.
FAQs
Will these downloaders work with YouTube Premium content?
Most downloaders can’t access YouTube Premium exclusive content, but they work fine with regular YouTube videos. If you’re already paying for YouTube Premium, you might want to use their official offline feature instead.
Do I need to worry about viruses?
Stick to the tools on our list and download from official sources. Avoid sketchy websites promising “the best free YouTube ripper” – they’re usually loaded with malware.
What’s the difference between downloading and ripping?
Technically, they’re the same thing. “Ripping” just sounds more dramatic. Both terms mean extracting the video file from the streaming platform.
Can I download live streams?
Some advanced tools like yt-dlp can capture live streams, but most basic downloaders can’t. You’ll need to wait until the stream ends and gets saved as a regular video.
