YouTube is one of the most used video platforms today, with over 2 billion monthly active users.
While it allows high-quality streaming, downloading videos is restricted to premium subscribers.
That’s why many users turn to free YouTube video downloader apps to save videos for offline use.
Every day, millions of videos are downloaded through online tools and desktop software. Some of these downloaders are completely free; others offer more advanced features under paid plans.
In this guide, we’ve reviewed the top YouTube video downloader apps including both free and paid options.
We’ve compared them based on speed, quality, supported formats, and ease of use, so you can pick the right one based on your needs.
What Is a YouTube Video Downloader?
A YouTube video downloader is a tool that lets you save videos from YouTube to your device so you can watch them offline. These tools are available as desktop software, browser extensions, and online websites. Some of them are free, while others offer premium plans with extra features.
Most downloaders work by letting you paste the video link into the tool, choose your preferred format or resolution, and download the file.
You can often convert videos to MP3 (audio) or MP4 (video), as well as other formats such as AVI or MOV.
Some tools also allow for batch downloads, meaning you can download multiple videos or entire playlists simultaneously. Others come with extra features like subtitle downloads, private mode, and basic editing options.
It’s important to use these tools responsibly. Always make sure you have permission to download content, especially if it’s copyrighted.
Quick Summary: Best YouTube Video Downloaders at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview of the top YouTube video downloader tools, what they’re best suited for, and a short line on what makes each one stand out.
- SnapDownloader – Best for high-quality downloads across 900+ sites
- By Click Downloader – Best for downloading entire playlists and channels
- HitPaw – Best for speed and simple editing tools
- iTubeGo – Best for audio extraction and private video downloads
- 4K Video Downloader – Best for free cross-platform downloads
- VidJuice – Best for real-time video and TikTok downloads
- Viddly – Best for lightweight 8K video downloading
- UniConverter – Best for advanced editing and iOS compatibility
- VideoProc – Best for large video conversion and fast processing
Feature Comparison: Top YouTube Video Downloader Tools
| Tool | 8K Support | MP3/MP4 Conversion | Batch Download | Subtitle Support | Free Version | Supported Platforms |
| SnapDownloader | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | Windows, macOS |
| By Click Downloader | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | Windows |
| HitPaw | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Windows, Android |
| iTubeGo | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | Windows, macOS |
| 4K Video Downloader | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| VidJuice | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Windows, macOS |
| Viddly | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Windows |
| UniConverter | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | Windows, macOS, iOS |
| VideoProc | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Windows, macOS, iOS |
1. SnapDownloader
Best for High-quality downloads across multiple platforms and formats
SnapDownloader is a trusted YouTube video downloader that supports more than 900 websites and delivers videos in resolutions up to 8K. It allows users to search videos by keywords and convert them into multiple formats with ease. Its scheduling feature and proxy setup make it a reliable tool for users who want flexibility and control.
Features:
- Supports 900+ video websites
- Downloads videos in 8K, 4K, 1080p, and other resolutions
- Converts videos to MP4, MP3, AVI, WMA, AAC, and more
- Includes a built-in video trimmer for quick cuts
- Batch downloading and scheduling options
- Allows downloading of 360° and VR videos
- Proxy setup helps bypass geo-restrictions
- Compatible with Windows and macOS
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Clean and simple interface | No mobile app for macOS |
| Supports entire YouTube playlists and channels | Paid plan needed for full features |
| Smart video search using keywords |
Verdict:
SnapDownloader is a well-rounded video downloader that combines ease of use with powerful features. It’s a good pick for users who want to download and manage videos in bulk without sacrificing quality.
2. By Click Downloader
Best for automatic video detection and playlist downloads
By Click Downloader is a straightforward YouTube video downloader that shows a pop-up as soon as it detects a video being played in your browser. It supports multiple video formats, subtitle downloads, and lets you back up videos from over 40 sites. Users can download videos in resolutions up to 8K without complications.
Features:
- Automatically detects and prompts downloads while browsing
- Supports video resolutions up to 720p, 1080p, 4K, and 8K
- Downloads entire Instagram pages, YouTube playlists, and channels
- Allows subtitle downloads in different languages
- Enables downloading of private videos from Facebook and YouTube
- Regular software updates to improve features and performance
- Supports multiple format conversions
- Works on Windows
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy one-click download process | Not available for macOS or Linux |
| Batch downloading support | Paid plan required for full features |
| Subtitle and private video support |
Verdict:
By Click Downloader is ideal for users who want a tool that works quietly in the background and offers simple, quick downloads with minimal setup.
3. HitPaw Video Downloader and Converter
Best for ultra-fast downloads with built-in editing tools
HitPaw is a feature-rich YouTube video downloader that supports over 10,000 websites and delivers ultra-fast downloads. Known for its speed and ease of use, it also offers simple video editing tools and AI-powered enhancements like background noise removal. HitPaw maintains high video quality throughout the download and conversion process.
Features:
- Supports 120x download speed with lossless video conversion
- Compatible with 10,000+ video sites
- Converts 2D videos to 3D
- Includes tools for trimming, changing playback speed, merging clips, and adding watermarks
- Built-in AI tools to remove vocals or background sounds
- Batch compression available for video and image files
- Offers multi-language subtitle support
- Available for Windows and Android
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| High-speed downloads without quality loss | Not available on Linux |
| Built-in AI editing tools | Some features locked behind paywall |
| 30-day money-back guarantee |
Verdict:
HitPaw stands out for users who want both downloading and light editing in one tool. It’s especially helpful for creators or anyone working with video content regularly.
4. iTubeGo
Best for MP3 extraction and private video downloads
iTubeGo is a premium YouTube video downloader that supports popular streaming platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Dailymotion, and more. It offers resolutions from 480p up to 8K and allows users to extract audio in 320Kbps MP3 format. The platform makes good use of system resources to deliver fast downloads without affecting performance.
Features:
- Supports video downloads from YouTube and other platforms like Instagram and Facebook
- Extracts high-quality audio and saves it in 320Kbps MP3 format
- Downloads videos in resolutions from 480p to 8K
- Offers bulk video downloads to save processing time
- Includes a built-in browser for easier downloads
- Simple YouTube cutter tool to trim specific parts of videos
- Private mode to protect sensitive downloads
- Compatible with Windows and macOS
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Free upgrades included with paid plan | Only premium users can download videos |
| Supports over 10,000 websites | |
| Bulk downloading and video trimming available |
Verdict:
iTubeGo is a solid choice for users who regularly convert videos to audio or want added privacy features while downloading from various sites.
5. 4K Video Downloader
Best for free cross-platform downloads with 360° video support
4K Video Downloader is a versatile tool that works across Windows, macOS, and Linux. It allows users to download entire playlists, channels, and even private videos. While many core features are free, some premium-only options are available. The platform also supports automatic downloads from subscribed YouTube channels.
Features:
- Downloads videos in high resolutions, including 360° and 3D formats
- Supports YouTube playlists, channels, and subtitles in 50+ languages
- Offers Smart Mode for one-click downloads using preset preferences
- Allows private video downloads from YouTube
- In-app proxy feature to bypass geo-blocked content
- Cross-platform: works on Windows, macOS, and Linux
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Supports 3D and 360° video downloads | Playlist downloads limited in free version |
| Allows subtitle downloads in multiple languages | Doesn’t support Android or iOS platforms |
| Smart Mode simplifies repetitive tasks | Free version contains ads |
Verdict:
4K Video Downloader is a reliable free option for users across devices who want support for high-res, 360°, and even private videos without overcomplicating the process.
6. VidJuice
Best for live stream downloads and TikTok support
VidJuice is a flexible video downloader that allows users to save videos, playlists, and channels with just one click. A standout feature is its ability to download TikTok videos without watermarks and live streams in real-time. It supports both free and premium versions, offering more features and ad-free access to paying users.
Features:
- One-click download for YouTube and over 10,000 websites
- Allows live stream downloads in real-time
- Supports TikTok video downloads without watermarks
- Offers password protection for premium users’ downloads
- Enables video editing with tools like trimming and speed control
- Batch downloads supported to save time
- Offers regular updates and quick customer support
- Compatible with Windows and macOS
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Fast download acceleration | Limited features in trial version |
| Privacy mode to secure downloaded content | |
| Multiple format conversions supported |
Verdict:
VidJuice is a good option for users who download from a wide variety of platforms and want added control over privacy and live content.
7. Viddly
Best for lightweight 8K downloads with offline access
Viddly is a fast and compact YouTube video downloader that supports high-quality downloads up to 8K. Its built-in search feature makes it easy to find and convert videos on the go. The platform also allows MP3 conversion at 128, 192, or 320Kbps, making it useful for both video and audio needs. Offline file access and backup options add to its appeal.
Features:
- Downloads videos up to 8K resolution
- Converts videos to MP3, MP4, AVI, WMA, and other formats
- Built-in keyword search for quick video discovery
- Supports real-time downloads of live streams
- Option to back up downloaded videos
- Removes pre-roll ads and annotations
- Allows offline viewing of downloaded files
- Compatible with Windows
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Supports more than 50 languages | All plans are relatively expensive |
| Ad-free experience for premium users | |
| Lightweight and fast performance |
Verdict:
Viddly is a good pick for users who want a fast, no-frills downloader that delivers high-resolution video and easy audio extraction.
8. UniConverter
Best for advanced editing and iOS compatibility
UniConverter is a full-featured video downloader and converter that supports over 1,000 formats and multiple advanced tools. From screen recording and metadata editing to AI-powered video compression, it offers much more than simple downloading. The platform works well on both Windows and macOS, and supports iOS users too. While the free trial is limited, premium access unlocks the complete toolset.
Features:
- Converts videos into 1,000+ formats including MP4, MOV, and more
- Supports video compression without losing quality
- Includes screen recorder, metadata editor, and GIF maker
- AI-based tools for smart editing and enhancement
- Enables drawing while recording videos
- Offers multithreaded GPU acceleration for faster downloads
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, and iOS
- Requires account registration to access full features
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Built-in editing tools with full-screen support | Free trial has more restrictions |
| Advanced encoder support for rare formats | Full features available only on paid plan |
| Smooth performance even with large files |
Verdict:
UniConverter is best suited for users who want downloading, converting, and editing features all in one place, especially those working across desktop and mobile platforms.
9. VideoProc
Best for large video conversions and high-speed processing
VideoProc is a powerful downloader and video processing tool that supports more than 1,000 streaming websites. It offers a clean interface with GPU acceleration, making it a strong option for handling large video files without lag. Along with downloading, it also supports video editing, screen recording, and audio-video conversion — all in one place.
Features:
- Downloads videos in resolutions up to 8K
- Offers 47x fast conversion speed with hardware acceleration
- Supports batch downloads and large file handling
- Tools for trimming, cropping, merging, and compressing videos
- Records live streams and screens with built-in recorder
- Accesses geo-blocked content using proxy settings
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, and iOS
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Handles large files smoothly | Free version has limited functionality |
| Offers a wide range of editing tools | Ads present in the free version |
| 30-day money-back guarantee |
Verdict:
VideoProc is a good fit for users who frequently download large or high-resolution videos and want additional control over video editing and conversion.
Conclusion
Choosing the right YouTube video downloader depends on what you need most whether it’s bulk downloads, audio extraction, high-resolution support, or basic editing tools.
While some tools offer free versions with decent features, others require a premium plan to unlock their full potential.
If you’re just getting started, it’s worth trying out a few free versions to see what suits your workflow. Most platforms offer trial access, so you can test before upgrading.
Whether you’re saving videos for offline viewing, extracting music, or editing content for reuse, there’s a tool in this list that will fit the job.
