11 Best Apps for Downloading YouTube Videos in 2025 (Free & Safe Options)

Whether you're looking to save an educational tutorial for offline study, keep a music playlist for a long flight, or archive a critical news report before it disappears, finding a reliable application for downloading YouTube videos is essential. The problem is that the web is flooded with options, and many are slow, filled with ads, or worse, bundled with malware.

Users are constantly searching for the "best application for downloading YouTube videos" or "how to download YouTube videos to computer" safely. The sheer volume of low-quality, unsafe tools makes it difficult to know what to trust. A bad downloader can compromise your device's security, while a good one can make saving content for offline use a seamless, one-click process.

This guide is built on extensive research into the most popular and effective free YouTube videos downloaders available in 2025. We've sifted through the risky online converters and ad-filled clones to find the 11 best apps that prioritize safety, speed, and video quality. We'll cover everything from simple free tools to powerful desktop software for Windows, macOS, and Android.

Before we begin, a quick note: Always respect copyright. YouTube's terms of service generally prohibit downloading content without the owner's permission. Use these tools responsibly to download your own content, public domain videos, or clips where you have explicit permission from the creator.

Table of Contents

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How We Chose the Best Apps

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Best Apps for Downloading YouTube Videos
• 4K Video Downloader+
• SnapDownloader
• VideoProc Converter AI
• YT Saver
• EaseUS Video Downloader
• Viddly
• ByClick Downloader
• iTubeGo
• VidMate
• SnapSave.io
• ClipGrab (With Caution)
FAQ: Common Questions About Downloading YouTube Videos Final Thoughts

How We Chose the Best Apps

To find the best application for downloading YouTube videos, we didn't just look at download speeds. Our evaluation process was designed to find tools that are trustworthy, effective, and user-friendly. Here’s what we looked for:

• Safety and Trustworthiness: This was our top priority. We checked if the apps are free from malware, viruses, and deceptive adware. We preferred tools with clear privacy policies and reputable backgrounds.
• Supported Platforms: We looked for a wide range of support, including dedicated software for Windows 11, macOS, and Android. We also included a top-tier web-based tool for convenience.
• Video Quality and Resolution: The best apps must support modern formats. We prioritized tools that can handle 1080p, 4K, and even 8K downloads, ensuring you get the best quality possible.
• Features and Functionality: We tested for more than just single-video downloads. Key features include batch downloading, full playlist and channel downloads, subtitle extraction (in .srt format), and MP3 conversion.
• User Experience (UI): The software should be easy to use. A clean, intuitive interface that doesn't require a technical manual is a huge plus.
• Pricing and Value: We included a mix of free, freemium, and premium apps. For paid tools, we assessed whether the features (like faster speeds, no ads, and 4K/8K support) justified the cost.

Best free YouTube Videos Downloader apps

1. 4K Video Downloader+

Best for all-around performance, high-quality 4K/8K downloads, and ease of use.

4K Video Downloader+ is a long-standing favorite in the download community, and for good reason. It strikes the perfect balance between a simple, clean interface and powerful features. As a desktop application for Windows, macOS, and Linux, it provides a stable and secure way to download content without worrying about risky web ads.

The "Smart Mode" feature is a standout, allowing you to pre-set your preferred format, quality, and download directory. Once enabled, you can download videos in a single click. It flawlessly handles entire YouTube playlists and channels, and even downloads subtitles and annotations. It's one of the most reliable tools for grabbing videos in their original 4K and 8K quality.

The free version is highly functional but limits playlist downloads (10 videos) and daily downloads (10 videos). The paid "Lite" and "Pro" plans unlock unlimited downloads, simultaneous downloads, and higher-quality audio extraction. For most users, this is the best application for downloading YouTube videos on PC or Mac.

Pros:

• Supports 4K and 8K video downloads
• Clean, ad-free, and intuitive interface
• Downloads full playlists and channels
• Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux
• "Smart Mode" for one-click downloads

Cons:

• Free version limits daily downloads and playlist size
• Supports a smaller number of sites (around 17) compared to some competitors

Try 4K Video Downloader+

2. SnapDownloader

Best for downloading from a massive number of websites (over 900).

If you need to download videos from more than just YouTube, SnapDownloader is a top-tier choice. It boasts support for over 900 websites, including Facebook, Twitter, Vimeo, and TikTok, making it one of the most versatile downloaders on the market.

SnapDownloader is a premium application for Windows and macOS that excels in power and features. It supports up to 8K resolution, offers lightning-fast download speeds, and includes a built-in video trimmer to cut clips before you even download them. It also features a scheduler, so you can set downloads to begin at a later time.

The user interface is modern and sleek, and it handles bulk downloads with ease—just paste in a list of links and let it work. It's not free, but its 48-hour free trial gives you enough time to test its extensive capabilities. If you're a heavy user who needs a powerful, multi-platform tool, SnapDownloader is a fantastic investment.

Pros:

• Supports over 900 websites
• Downloads up to 8K resolution
• Built-in video trimmer and download scheduler
• Sleek, modern user interface
• Excellent bulk downloading features

Cons:

• It's a premium-only product (after a short trial)
• Fewer video output formats than some converters (focuses on MP4 and MP3)

Try SnapDownloader

Read also: How to Unblock Youku Outside China

3. VideoProc Converter AI

Best for users who also need to convert, edit, and AI-upscale videos.

VideoProc Converter AI is much more than just a YouTube downloader; it's a full-featured video processing suite. The "Downloader" is one of its core components, and it's incredibly powerful, supporting over 1,000 websites and resolutions up to 8K.

Where VideoProc truly shines is in what you can do after the download. You can convert the video to hundreds of different formats, make quick edits (cut, merge, crop, add subtitles), and even use its new AI tools to upscale low-resolution videos to 4K, stabilize shaky footage, or smooth out motion by interpolating frames.

This application for downloading YouTube videos on PC and Mac is definitely geared toward prosumers and content creators who need an all-in-one solution. While it might be overkill for someone who just wants to grab a single clip, it's an invaluable tool for those who work with video regularly. It's a premium product, but its power justifies the price.

Pros:

• All-in-one downloader, converter, editor, and AI upscaler
• Supports 1,000+ websites, including YouTube
• GPU acceleration for very fast processing and downloading
• AI features can restore and enhance old or low-quality videos

Cons:

• More complex than a simple downloader
• Premium software; no completely free version

Try VideoProc Converter AI

4. YT Saver

Best for a built-in web browser and video-cutting features.

YT Saver is another robust premium application that makes downloading YouTube videos simple. Available for both Windows and macOS, it supports downloads from over 10,000 websites, putting it in the top tier for site compatibility.

Its two best features are the built-in web browser and the video cutter. The browser lets you navigate to YouTube and other sites directly within the app, and a download button will appear, letting you grab content without ever copy-pasting a URL. The "Cutter" feature allows you to trim and download just the segment of the video you need, saving time and disk space.

YT Saver supports 8K video, entire playlists, and high-speed MP3 conversion. It also has a "Private Mode" to protect your downloaded files in a password-locked folder. It's a fast, reliable, and feature-rich tool for users who want more than a basic downloader.

Pros:

• Supports over 10,000 websites
• Built-in browser for easy downloading
• "Cutter" feature to download specific video segments
• Supports 8K video and playlist downloads

Cons:

• Premium software with a limited free trial
• The interface is functional but not as modern as some rivals

Try YT Saver

5. EaseUS Video Downloader

Best for a simple, safe, and premium experience on Windows and Mac.

EaseUS is a well-known and trusted name in the software world, and their Video Downloader lives up to that reputation. This is a clean, safe, and efficient tool for Windows and Mac. It's 100% ad-free and provides a straightforward, no-fuss downloading experience.

The application supports over 1,000 websites and can download videos in 8K, 4K, and HD. One of its best features is the "Video to MP3" function, which allows you to batch-download YouTube music playlists directly into audio files. It also has a "bulk download" feature where you can paste multiple URLs at once.

The main drawback is that the free trial is very limited, essentially just letting you test the interface. To get any real functionality, you must upgrade to the paid version. However, for those who want a reliable, set-it-and-forget-it application from a trustworthy company, EaseUS Video Downloader is a solid choice.

Pros:

• From a highly reputable and trusted software company
• 100% safe, clean, and ad-free interface
• Supports 1,000+ sites and 8K resolution
• Excellent bulk-download and video-to-MP3 features

Cons:

• The free trial is extremely limited
• Primarily a paid, premium product

Try EaseUS Video Downloader

6. Viddly

Best for a simple, fast, and free experience on PC and Mac.

Viddly is a fantastic lightweight application for Windows and macOS that focuses on one thing: downloading YouTube videos easily. It doesn't have the bells and whistles of a full AI suite, but it's incredibly fast and simple to use. You just paste a YouTube link, and it immediately gives you download options.

The free version is surprisingly capable, allowing downloads up to 1080p Full HD, which is more than enough for most users. This makes it one of the best free apps for downloading YouTube videos. It's clean and doesn't bundle any adware.

If you need 4K/8K downloads, playlist downloading, or the ability to download multiple files at once, you'll need to upgrade to the "Plus" version. But for grabbing individual videos quickly and safely, Viddly's free version is a top-notch choice.

Pros:

• Very simple and easy-to-use interface
• The free version supports up to 1080p downloads
• Lightweight and fast
• Safe and ad-free application

Cons:

• 4K/8K and playlist downloads require the paid version
• Only downloads from YouTube

Try Viddly

7. ByClick Downloader

Best for one-click browser detection and downloading.

ByClick Downloader (formerly YouTube By Click) is a popular application for Windows. Its defining feature is the auto-detect popup. When you're watching a video on YouTube, Facebook, or other supported sites in your browser, a small message pops up asking if you want to download the video or convert it to MP3. This "one-click" process is the most convenient way to download videos.

The software supports 4K and 8K, downloads playlists and channels, and converts to many formats (MP3, MP4, AVI, etc.). It's a premium tool, but it's very user-friendly for those who want a seamless bridge between their browser and their downloader.

While many users love its simplicity, some long-term users have reported occasional slowdowns or bugs after updates. However, it remains one of the most popular and convenient tools available for downloading YouTube videos on Windows.

Pros:

• Auto-detect popup for one-click browser downloading
• Very easy to use, great for beginners
• Supports 4K/8K and full playlist downloads
• Converts to multiple video and audio formats

Cons:

• Only available for Windows
• Some users report occasional bugs or slow speeds
• Premium software

Try ByClick Downloader

8. iTubeGo

Best for being a fast and reliable, long-standing premium option.

iTubeGo has been a reliable name in the video downloading space for over a decade. It's a powerful desktop tool for Windows and Mac that supports over 10,000 websites. It's designed for speed, offering a "Turbo-fast" mode that accelerates download times significantly.

This is a full-featured premium tool. It handles 8K video, batch downloads, and full playlists. It also has a built-in browser and a video cutter, similar to YT Saver. It's a direct competitor to other top-tier apps like SnapDownloader and YT Saver and holds its own with excellent performance and reliability.

Some users find its subscription price a bit high compared to competitors, but its long history and consistent updates make it a trustworthy choice for anyone who needs a powerful, everyday downloader for their computer.

Pros:

• Long, 14+ year history of reliability
• Supports 10,000+ websites
• "Turbo-fast" mode for high-speed downloads
• Includes a built-in browser and video cutter

Cons:

• Premium-only, and can be more expensive than some rivals
• Occasional user reports of slow downloads (though this is rare)

Try iTubeGo

9. VidMate

Best for Android users who need a free, all-in-one downloader.

When it comes to downloading YouTube videos on Android, VidMate is in a class of its own. It's an Android-only application (APK) that you won't find on the Google Play Store due to its ability to download YouTube content. You must download it from its official website.

VidMate is 100% free and incredibly powerful. It supports over 1,000 sites, has a built-in browser, and is optimized for Android. You can download videos in the background, pause and resume downloads, and save content directly to your phone's storage. It's particularly popular in regions with unstable internet, as it handles interrupted connections well.

A critical warning: Because it's an APK, you must download VidMate only from its official site. Downloading it from unverified third-party app stores can expose you to significant malware risks. When downloaded from the official source, it is safe, but this is a crucial step to follow.

Pros:

• Completely free to use
• The most powerful and feature-rich downloader for Android
• Supports 1,000+ sites
• Handles background downloads and resumes interrupted ones

Cons:

• Android-only (no iOS, Windows, or Mac)
• Not on the Google Play Store
• High security risk if downloaded from unofficial sources

Try VidMate (Official Site)

10. SnapSave.io

Best for a quick, free, and web-based social media video downloads.

Not everyone wants to install a dedicated application. For those who just need to grab a single clip, an online tool is faster. SnapSave.io is one of the best and safest web-based downloaders. While many online tools are dangerous, SnapSave has a clean interface and focuses on downloading from social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, in addition to YouTube.

It's simple: you paste the URL, and it gives you download options, including 1080p. You don't need to install anything, which makes it a great solution for downloading YouTube videos to an iPhone (you can use the Safari browser and save the file to your Photos app).

The tradeoff for this convenience is a lack of features. You won't find batch downloading, 4K/8K support, or playlist downloads. Like any free online tool, be cautious of any pop-up ads, but as of 2025, SnapSave is one of the most reliable online options.

Pros:

• Completely free and web-based; no installation needed
• Good for quick downloads on any device (including iPhone/iPad)
• Clean interface for an online tool
• Supports most major social media platforms

Cons:

• No 4K or 8K support
• No batch, playlist, or channel downloads
• As an online tool, it's more susceptible to ads than a desktop app

Try SnapSave.io

11. ClipGrab

Best for open-source fans (with a critical safety warning).

ClipGrab is a free, open-source downloader for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It has a clean, simple interface and even features a built-in search function, so you can find a YouTube video directly from the app. It supports downloads from YouTube, Vimeo, and Dailymotion and can convert files to MP3, MPEG4, and other formats.

However, we must include ClipGrab with a strong E-E-A-T (Trustworthiness) warning. The standard Windows installer from its official site is bundled with "InstallCore," an adware program that is considered a "Potentially Unwanted Program" (PUP) by many antivirus tools. This is a major trust violation.

While the developers offer an alternate "download without third-party offers" link, the fact that the primary download includes this adware means we cannot recommend it without this caveat. If you are a technical user who knows to find the "clean" installer, it's a capable free tool. Otherwise, we recommend using Viddly (app #6) for a safe, free experience.

Pros:

• 100% free and open-source
• Simple interface with a built-in search feature
• Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux

Cons:

• Major Safety Risk: The main Windows installer bundles adware (PUPs)
• Lacks advanced features like 4K or playlist downloads
• Development appears to be slow

Try ClipGrab (Use with Caution)

FAQ: Common Questions About Downloading YouTube Videos

How do I download YouTube videos safely?

Safety is the most important factor. The safest way to download YouTube videos is to use reputable, well-known desktop software from an official website. Avoid "online YouTube converter" websites that are not on our list. Many of these free sites are funded by malicious pop-up ads ("malvertising") that can lead to scams or malware infections.

For PC and Mac, tools like 4K Video Downloader+ or EaseUS Video Downloader are exceptionally safe. For Android, only download VidMate from its official site. Never install a browser extension that claims to download YouTube videos, as most are banned from the Chrome/Firefox stores and can be used to steal your data.

What is the best free app for downloading YouTube videos?

For desktop (Windows/Mac), the best truly free application is Viddly. Its free version is clean, ad-free, and supports downloads up to 1080p, which is perfect for most users. 4K Video Downloader+ also has an excellent free tier, but it limits you to 10 downloads per day.

For Android, the best free app is VidMate, but it comes with the safety warning mentioned above. For a quick, one-time download on any device, the best free tool is the web-based SnapSave.io.

Can I download YouTube videos on Mac or iPhone?

Yes. Many of the best apps are available for Mac. 4K Video Downloader+, SnapDownloader, VideoProc Converter AI, YT Saver, EaseUS Video Downloader, Viddly, and iTubeGo all have dedicated macOS versions.

Downloading YouTube videos to an iPhone is trickier due to iOS restrictions. You cannot install a downloader app from the App Store. The safest method is to:

1. Use a web-based tool like SnapSave.io in your Safari browser.
2. Download the video, which will save to the Files app.
3. From the Files app, select the file and choose Save Video to move it to your Photos library.

Alternatively, you can download the video to your Mac or PC using one of the apps above and then transfer the MP4 file to your iPhone via AirDrop, iCloud Drive, or a USB cable.

Are YouTube downloaders legal?

This is a gray area. In most countries, it is legal to download a video for your own personal, offline use (e.g., "time-shifting" to watch later). However, it is almost always illegal to re-upload, distribute, or monetize copyrighted content that you do not own.

Furthermore, using any third-party downloader is a direct violation of YouTube's Terms of Service, which state: "You are not allowed to... access, reproduce, download, distribute, transmit, broadcast, display, sell, license, alter, modify or otherwise use any part of the Service or any Content except... as expressly authorized by the Service... or with prior written permission from YouTube and, if applicable, the respective rights holders."

While YouTube has never sued an individual user for downloading a video, they can terminate your account if you violate their terms. Always download responsibly and never for commercial use.

What’s the safest YouTube video downloader for Windows?

The safest YouTube video downloader for Windows 11 and 10 is a reputable, paid desktop application. Our top recommendations for safety and reliability are 4K Video Downloader+ and EaseUS Video Downloader.

These applications are professional software products. You pay for them (or use their limited free tiers), and in return, you get a tool that is 100% free of ads, malware, and bundled "crapware." They are downloaded from a secure official website, receive regular updates to patch bugs, and come with customer support. Avoid free tools with installers that try to add browser toolbars or "PC cleaners" (like ClipGrab's installer).

Final Thoughts

Finding the best application for downloading YouTube videos in 2025 comes down to balancing safety, features, and price. While the web is full of risky options, sticking to a well-vetted tool will protect your device and give you the high-quality video you want.

For the vast majority of users, our top recommendation is 4K Video Downloader+. Its blend of ease of use, power, and a generous free tier makes it the best all-around choice. If you're a power user who needs to download from hundreds of sites, SnapDownloader is a worthy investment. And for Android users, VidMate remains the undisputed champion, as long as you download it safely from its official site.

No matter which tool you choose, remember to respect the hard work of content creators and abide by copyright laws. Happy downloading.