How to download YouTube videos

The short answer

Copy the YouTube link, paste it into the box above and tap Download next to a size. The MP4 saves to your device. The steps below show where to copy the link and where to find the video afterwards.

iPhone and iPad

1. In the YouTube app, tap Share under the video, then Copy link.
2. Open Safari, go to this page and paste the link in the box.
3. Tap Download on a size. If Safari asks, tap Download again.
4. Open the Files app, then Downloads. To move the video to Photos, open it, tap Share and choose Save Video.

Android

1. In the YouTube app, tap Share, then Copy link.
2. Open Chrome, come to this page and paste the link.
3. Tap Download. Chrome shows the progress in your notifications.
4. The video is in your Downloads folder and in your gallery app.

Windows

1. Open the video on youtube.com and copy the address bar.
2. Paste it here and click Download on a size.
3. The MP4 is in your Downloads folder. It plays in the Media Player app or VLC.

Mac

1. Copy the video address from Safari or Chrome.
2. Paste it here and click Download.
3. Find it in Downloads. It opens in QuickTime Player.

Fixing common problems

Nothing happens after I tap Download

Wait a few seconds, then check your browser's downloads list. If it still hasn't started, tap the "Start the download again" link that appears, or try another browser.

It says the server is busy

Many people are downloading at once. Stay on the page and your download will start by itself, or try again in a few minutes.

The video is too long

Videos up to 60 minutes come in HD. Videos up to 120 minutes come in 360p or 480p. Longer videos can't be downloaded.

The file won't play on an older TV

Try 720p or 480p. Some older TVs and media players can't handle 1080p files.

For vertical videos, the Shorts downloader has its own phone steps.