How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP4?
you need the right YouTube converter tool to complete this process smoothly and securely. In this article, we present several highly recommended solutions that will allow you to convert YouTube to MP4 within just a few clicks. These tools have been tested for stable performance and safe downloading without any malware or bloatware. Whether you are using Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS, we will cover trusted YouTube to MP4 converters that get the job done with minimal hassle. Continue reading to learn how to safely convert YouTube videos to MP4 format across any device.
Why You Need YouTube to MP4 Converters
There are many reasons why converting YouTube videos to MP4 can be advantageous:
Save Videos for Offline Viewing
One of the biggest reasons to convert YouTube videos to MP4 is for saving videos for offline viewing. The MP4 downloads allow you to watch videos later without an internet connection. This makes them great for plane trips, road trips, or any situation where you won’t have connectivity but want to continue enjoying YouTube content uninterrupted. They can essentially act as local copies of your favorite YouTube videos.
Edit Videos
MP4 files can also be conveniently imported into major video editing software programs like Adobe Premiere and Final Cut Pro. This allows you to include YouTube videos in video editing projects. It is much easier to work with MP4 files in editing software rather than trying to edit streaming YouTube video clips. The MP4 format gives editors more control.
Share Videos in Messaging Apps
Sharing YouTube video links through messaging platforms like WhatsApp or WeChat can be hit or miss. Links don’t always play directly in the apps. Converting YouTube videos to MP4 allows you to share the actual file which is much more reliable. The recipient will be able to view the MP4 video directly in the messaging app.
Avoid Quality Loss from YouTube Compression
YouTube compresses videos to make them easier to stream over the internet. This can result in degraded video quality compared to the original uploaded file. By downloading the direct MP4 file from YouTube, you can avoid transcoding losses and get the highest possible quality version for archiving or editing.
Burn Video to DVD
Some DVD authoring software allows you to burn MP4 videos to a DVD. This allows you to archive your favorite YouTube videos to a physical disc as backups.
As you can see, the versatility and compatibility of the MP4 format makes it an ideal choice for converting YouTube videos.
10 Best YouTube to MP4 Converters
There are many software tools available to download and convert YouTube videos into MP4 files. Here are 10 of the top recommended YouTube to MP4 converters:
1. SSyoutube
Features
- Seamless Chrome extension for fast video downloading
- Automatically detects YouTube links for one-click conversion
- Support for playlists and bulk downloading
SSyoutube seamlessly integrates with Chrome to allow swift, one-click downloads of YouTube videos in MP4 format. It automatically detects YouTube links on pages and pops up the download option without needing to copy/paste URLs. In addition, it can download full playlists or multi-select videos for bulk conversion. With its tight Chrome integration and lightweight footprint, SSyoutube is one of the simplest ways to get YouTube videos as MP4s.
2. SSyoutube online
Features
- Built-in video editing tools
- Adjust encoding settings before downloading
- Support for 1000+ formats
Boasting built-in video editing abilities, SSyoutube online video downloader provides tremendous flexibility for power users. Before downloading, you can trim MP4 videos, tweak encoding settings, stabilize shaky clips, add effects and more. With support for over 1000 input and output formats, aTube Catcher goes far beyond basic downloading to offer an all-in-one converter and editor. Its advanced toolkit makes it easy to customize YouTube videos when saving as MP4s.
3. WinX YouTube Downloader
Features
- Free YouTube downloader for Windows
- Fast MP4 conversion speeds
- Download entire playlists
As a dedicated YouTube downloading tool for Windows, WinX YouTube Downloader provides free and rapid video conversion. It can convert a 1-hour long 1080p YouTube video to MP4 in just minutes. You can also point it at entire YouTube playlists to batch download many videos for offline viewing. For Windows users looking for a straightforward MP4 solution, WinX is a top choice.
4. 4K Video Downloader
Features
- Downloads videos in 4K and 8K quality
- Can download full YouTube playlists and channels
- Supports MP4, MKV, MP3 and more
4K Video Downloader lives up to its name by allowing you to download ultra high definition videos from YouTube in stunning 4K or even 8K resolution. This makes it ideal for archiving top quality versions of your favorite YouTube content. It also enables downloading entire playlists or channels in one shot. Whether you need the highest quality MP4 or want batch downloading, 4K Video Downloader has you covered.
5. ClipGrab
Features
- Lightweight, clean interface
- No frills YouTube downloading
- Active community support
If you value simplicity and speed, ClipGrab delivers a bloat-free YouTube downloading experience. It has an intuitive layout focused solely on fast MP4 conversions without complex settings or edits. ClipGrab’s active user community provides helpful support for beginners getting started. For basic downloading needs, ClipGrab nails the fundamentals.
6. Freemake Video Converter
Features
- Download from 500+ sites beyond just YouTube
- Extensive video editing tools built-in
- Free unlimited conversions
Boasting support for over 500 online video sites, Freemake goes far beyond basic YouTube downloading. Within the app you can trim, crop, adjust encoding, insert subtitles, and more. Freemake offers unlimited free video conversions without watermarks or restrictions. For versatile downloading and editing abilities across the web, Freemake is a superb option.
7. Any Video Converter
Features
- Convert over 1000 format combinations
- Device profile presets for easy use
- Online video downloader integrated
As an ultra-versatile converter, Any Video Converter can download and convert between more than 1000 input and output formats. It features device specific encoding presets making it easy to customize MP4s for any gadget. The integrated downloader directly grabs videos from YouTube and hundreds of other sites. With countless options and formats, Any Video Converter is one of the most advanced choices available.
8. iSkysoft iTube Studio
Features
- Fully featured video downloader and editor
- Windows and Mac versions available
- Extracts MP3 audio from YouTube videos
As an all-in-one toolbox, iSkysoft iTube Studio provides YouTube downloading, MP4 conversion, and video editing functionality across Windows and Mac OS. Within the intuitive interface you can edit videos, grab thumbnail images, record video or audio, and extract MP3 audio tracks from YouTube videos. The breadth of features makes this one versatile multimedia toolkit.
9. VLC Media Player
Features
- Media player with integrated downloading
- Totally free and open source
- Simple YouTube to MP4 conversion
The popular VLC media player includes the ability to directly download YouTube videos for conversion to MP4 or other formats. It implements YouTube downloading in a simple no-frills interface. As a free and open-source tool, VLC provides a transparent conversion option completely free from restrictions. For a convenient one-stop media player and downloader, VLC is a great choice.
10. Online Video Converter
Features
- Web app for quick online file conversions
- No download or install required
- Support for MP4, AVI, MOV, GIF and more
For a download-free YouTube MP4 solution, Online Video Converter offers quick conversions right in your web browser. It takes just seconds to paste in a YouTube link and convert online. Without needing to install any desktop software, you can access its straightforward converter from any internet-connected device. For easy online converting, this web app delivers excellent value.
The guide to convert YouTube to MP4 File Format
The exact steps to convert YouTube videos to MP4 may vary slightly depending on which tool you select from the list above. However, the general workflow is straightforward:
1. Find the YouTube URL
First, navigate to the YouTube video page you want to download and copy the URL from the address bar. Then in your selected converter tool, paste this URL into the designated field.
2. Select MP4 as the Output Format
Next, specify MP4 as the output format you want to convert and download to. Most converters will have a dropdown menu to select from common formats like MP4, AVI, WMV, MOV and more.
3. Customize MP4 Settings (Optional)
Some converter tools will allow you to tweak the MP4 settings before downloading. This may include options like video resolution (1080p, 720p etc.), encoder quality, frame rate, sample rate and bitrate for the audio. Adjust as desired.
4. Download the Converted MP4
With settings configured, trigger the converter to download the YouTube video in MP4 format. The MP4 file will be saved directly to your computer, ready for offline use and viewing.
5. Enjoy Your YouTube MP4 Videos!
You can now access the downloaded videos from your device’s local storage without internet. Congrats, you have successfully converted YouTube videos to MP4 format!
Things to Note When Converting Video Files
Below are some important notes, tips, and considerations when converting YouTube videos to MP4:
- Downloaded videos are meant for personal offline use only. Do not redistribute copyrighted content from YouTube.
- The converted MP4 can only be as high quality as the original source YouTube video. A 480p video will end up as 480p MP4 even if you specify 1080p output.
- MP4s may lose subtitles, captions, chapters, or secondary audio tracks that are on the YouTube video page. Double check important accessibility options are preserved.
- MP4 files can take up significant storage space depending on length and quality. A 1 hour video in 1080p may require 1-2GB of free disk space.
- Some YouTube videos are blocked from being downloaded by the creator. Conversion tools cannot bypass this restriction.
- Avoid questionable third-party downloaders that promise exaggerated claims or try installing bloatware. Stick to reputable tools for best results.
- Update media player apps like VLC or QuickTime if you have trouble playing the new MP4 files. Codecs may need updating over time.
Final Thoughts About YouTube to MP4
Based on the versatility of the MP4 format, it’s easy to see why converting YouTube videos can be beneficial for many situations. Whether you want to archive your favorite clips, make video edits, reduce streaming data usage, or simply need a reliable sharing format, downloading YouTube as MP4 is a handy option to have.
Fortunately, there are great YouTube to MP4 converter tools that make the process fast and seamless. Some even go beyond basic conversion and provide video editing abilities right within the app. Look for converters that are well-reviewed and trusted to avoid stability or malware issues.
With the right YouTube to MP4 converter tool, you’ll be able to unlock the full potential of YouTube videos in MP4 format. Just remember to use them legally and store