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10 Best Online Video Downloaders — Octo Browser

JANUARY 29, 2025 • EXPERT OPINION • AFFILIATE MARKETING

Top X Best Online Video Downloaders — Octo Browser

Nikolai Izoitko

Content Manager, Octo Browser

YouTube is the most popular video hosting platform in the world with over 2.7 billion monthly active users. Here, you’ll find everything you need: from tutorials and music videos to vlogs and documentaries. But let’s say you’re heading on a trip with unstable connectivity or urgently need an offline video guide: you’ll quickly find out that there are no free built-in features for downloading videos, so today we’ll explore reliable and convenient methods to access YouTube video content on PC, Mac, iPhone, and Android.

Important Note: Downloading videos without the copyright owner's permission may violate YouTube's terms of service and local laws. We recommend downloading only those videos for which you have permission or that belong to you. Additionally, you may use content licensed under Creative Commons CC0 (Public Domain) or CC BY (Attribution). Such videos can be found by applying the "Creative Commons" search filter on YouTube.

YouTube search filters

The applicable license is indicated under the video

Top 10 Best Video Downloaders

YouTube Video Downloader

Browser extensions are convenient tools that integrate directly into your web browser, allowing you to download videos directly from YouTube. In addition to YouTube, these extensions often support video content downloads from popular social media and other platforms.

Key points to consider when choosing an extension:

A large number of downloads.
High ratings and positive reviews.
Compatibility with the latest browser version.

Tip: If you experience issues with Google Chrome, install the extension from the developer's official website in Firefox or Microsoft Edge.

Most plugins work similarly, and a universal downloader like YouTube Video Downloader is a great option. It is compatible with most popular browsers, although Chrome may still present certain challenges. Videos can be downloaded in resolutions up to 4K in MP4, MKV, and AVI formats, with the option to select specific video segments. Additionally, this extension enhances the YouTube interface with features like one-click dark and cinematic modes.

Additional interface options available with YouTube Video Downloader

How to Download YouTube Videos Using YouTube Video Downloader:

Download the extension. If you are not using Mozilla Firefox, the Foxified extension will also be installed.
Navigate to the YouTube video you wish to download.
Click on the extension icon or the integrated button.
Select quality and format. Additional options can be found in the Advanced dropdown menu (e.g., Convert or Trim).
Download the file to the desired location.

YouTube Video Downloader advanced options

SaveFrom

For those who don’t want to install anything, online services are an excellent alternative for downloading videos. These platforms let you download files directly in your browser without requiring additional software or plugins. Things to keep in mind here include:

Ads: such sites are often overloaded with pop-ups and fake buttons, sometimes opening new tabs with ads.
Security: use an ad blocker, avoid suspicious links, and ensure the downloaded file matches the selected format.
Compatibility: for Mac and iPhone users, such online services will typically work only with the Safari browser.

A well-known and simple solution is SaveFrom, which supports multiple formats. However, videos above 720p can only be downloaded without audio. It is also available as a browser extension. To use it without navigating to their website, add the letters "ss" before "youtube" in the video URL: e.g., https://www.ssyoutube.com/watch?v=oKNEbaR30So.

How to Download YouTube Videos Using SaveFrom:

Copy the URL of the desired video.
Open the official website of the service.
Paste the URL into the input field.
Choose the desired format and resolution.
Click the Download button to save the file to your device.

Downloading videos with SaveFrom

noTube

Another browser-based downloader is noTube. This service displays ads before generating a download link. It offers a good range of formats and allows downloading audio tracks separately. However, you may encounter issues with certain copyright-protected videos.

How to Download YouTube Videos Using noTube:

Copy the URL of the desired video.
Open the official website of the service.
Paste the URL into the input field.
Choose the desired file format.
Click the OK button to save the video to your device.

Downloading videos with noTube

Y2Down

Another excellent online video downloader is Y2Down, notable for its wide range of supported audio file formats. It also allows saving videos in 4K (in WEBM format). We have not encountered any issues with protected videos, and this service offers one of the fastest download speeds.

How to Download YouTube Videos Using Y2Down:

Copy the URL of the desired video.
Open the official website of the service.
Paste the URL into the designated field.
Select the desired file format and resolution.
Click the Download button to save the video to your device.

Downloading videos with Y2Down

4K Video Downloader Plus

If you need to save YouTube videos frequently, specialized software can make the process much more efficient. Consider the following:

Choose software offering an intuitive interface and sufficient features for your needs.
Ensure the chosen software supports your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).
Download software only from official websites to avoid malware.

One of the most popular YouTube video download services is 4K Video Downloader Plus, which supports high-resolution video downloads. It offers options to download entire playlists, audio tracks, and subtitles. The free version is limited to 10 downloads per day.

How to Download YouTube Videos Using 4K Video Downloader Plus:

Download and install the software on your device.
Launch it and configure the necessary parameters (quality, format, OS, etc.).
Copy the URL of the desired YouTube video.
Click the Paste Link button in the app to save the file to your device.

Downloading videos with 4K Video Downloader Plus

ClipGrab

ClipGrab offers a minimalistic interface with fewer options but has no download limits. It is a simple no-frills free YouTube video downloader without unnecessary features.

How to Download YouTube Videos Using ClipGrab:

Download the software and install it on your device.
Copy the desired YouTube video URL.
Launch ClipGrab and open the Downloads tab.
Paste the link into the input field.
Wait for the video to load, specify the desired format and quality.
Click Grab this clip! and choose the saving location on your device.

Downloading videos with ClipGrab

If your system resources are limited, the internal search feature can be an additional advantage. The interface of this downloader allows you to find the desired video without opening your browser.

Due to App Store policies, options involving third-party apps or plugins won't work for Apple users. Use the built-in Safari browser in combination with online video download services like SaveFrom, Y2Down, noTube, etc.

VidMate

You can download videos to your phone using the browser and online services described above. Alternatively, you can use specialized YouTube video downloader apps. Choose the video downloader software based on the convenience of its interface and required features availability. Here are a few options worth considering.

VidMate offers a user-friendly interface and file manager. In addition to YouTube, it supports downloads from popular messengers and some other sites. There is a dedicated section for 18+ rated content.

Snaptube

Snaptube’s main advantage is the absence of ad banners in the app. Besides downloading YouTube videos, it supports downloads from WhatsApp, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook via the Share button. It doesn’t work in China and India.

TubeMate

Despite the abundance of ads, TubeMate offers extensive website support, including platforms in China and Vietnam. However, TubeMate requires more permissions, such as access to calls and files.

How to Download YouTube Videos Using VidMate/Snaptube/TubeMate:

Allow the installation of apps from external sources.
Download the app’s APK from the developer's website (these apps are usually not on Google Play).
Install the app (ignore any potential security warnings).
Open the app and grant it permission to manage files.
Find the desired YouTube video using the downloader’s internal search.
Click the download button.
Choose the quality and format.
Wait for the file to be saved in your Gallery.

Downloading videos with VidMate/Snaptube/TubeMate

YouTube Premium

YouTube Premium is a paid subscription that allows you to legally save YouTube videos for offline viewing on any popular platform. However, the file itself will not be accessible; it is temporarily saved in the app and cannot be transferred or edited.

How to Download YouTube Videos Using YouTube Premium:

Purchase a YouTube Premium subscription.
Open the video you want to save.
Click Download from the dropdown menu in the browser or the corresponding button in the app.
Find the downloaded video on the Downloads page.

Downloading videos with YouTube Premium

Download YouTube videos using Octo Browser

Using an anti-detect browser allows you to bypass regional restrictions on accessing YouTube or any of the services mentioned above. For more details on bypassing YouTube restrictions, consult our article. If online privacy is essential to you, Octo Browser provides all the tools you need for maintaining anonymity.

How to choose the best YouTube video downloader

One of the reviewed top 10 YouTube video downloaders is certain to meet your needs. But how do you choose the best YouTube video downloader? Consider the following:

Security: Ensure the downloader is safe and free of viruses, spyware, malware, or adware. Use reputable websites and software with good reviews.
Functionality: Can a service download videos in the required format (MP4, MKV, AVI)? Does it allow downloads in the desired quality? Can you download just audio or subtitles if needed? Does it support downloading entire playlists or all channel videos?
Convenience: The interface should be intuitive, with video downloads performed in just a few clicks.
Platform compatibility: Make sure the YouTube video downloader supports your device, whether it’s Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS.
Reviews and reputation: Read user reviews of the selected YouTube video downloader to learn how it works in practice and whether it has any hidden issues. You can also refer to guides like this one to rely on expert advice.

Conclusion

Sometimes Internet access or connectivity can be limited, making the ability to download YouTube videos in advance invaluable. Using the downloaders reviewed in this article, you can save helpful video tutorials, favorite music videos, or video content that may be removed from the platform. Use safe and reliable methods to enjoy your favorite videos anytime, anywhere.

FAQ

Which is the best online video downloader?

There’s no definitive answer to this question since different downloaders are suited for various purposes. When choosing a video downloader, consider its functionality, security, and ease of use. Additionally, check user reviews and ensure the chosen video downloader is compatible with your platform.

How do I download a video from a website?

You can use browser plugins, online services, or specialized apps. We’ve covered the most popular YouTube video downloader types in this article.

Is it legal to download YouTube videos?

Downloading videos without the creator's permission may violate copyright laws. However, you’re unlikely to face legal issues if you don’t use such YouTube video materials for commercial purposes.

Which is the safest online video downloader?

To ensure security of your device, choose a video downloader that minimizes risks like malware, spyware, pop-up ads, and privacy issues. Download apps and plugins from official stores or developer websites. Be extra cautious with pop-up banners, fake buttons, and phishing links.

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