How to Download YouTube Videos on Mac

Quick Search:

• Preface
• Why Download YouTube Videos on a Mac?
• Is It Legal to Download YouTube Videos?
• [4 Best Methods] How to Download YouTube Videos on Mac
• How to Choose the Right Downloader
• Common Problems and How to Fix Them
• Conclusion
• FAQs

Preface

So, you found a YouTube video you absolutely love and want to save it on your Mac to watch later, even when you're offline? Yep, we’ve all been there. Whether it's for learning, entertainment, or just saving a cool tutorial, downloading YouTube videos can be super handy. Let’s walk through exactly how to download YouTube videos on a Mac in the simplest, safest ways possible.

Why Download YouTube Videos on a Mac?

Good question! There are a bunch of reasons why you might want to:

• Watch videos without buffering (hello, slow internet!)
• Save your favorite content before it gets deleted
• Rewatch educational videos offline
• Avoid annoying ads
• Create offline playlists for travel

Whatever your reason, it's totally doable on a Mac — and easier than you think.

Is It Legal to Download YouTube Videos?

Let’s clear the air: downloading videos from YouTube for personal use only (like watching offline) usually falls into a legal gray area. YouTube’s terms of service say you shouldn’t download unless they offer a download button. So, while it’s not a crime to save a TED Talk for your next flight, don’t go re-uploading or selling them. Fair? Cool. Let’s move on.

[4 Best Methods] How to Download YouTube Videos on Mac

There are four main ways to get those videos off YouTube and into your Mac. Some are faster, some are more flexible, and some don’t even need extra apps.

1. Use a YouTube Downloader App

These are apps made just for this job — simple, fast, and reliable.

– Top Mac YouTube Downloaders

• 4K Video Downloader – Slick interface, supports subtitles, playlists, even 8K.
• YTD Video Downloader – Easy to use, built-in converter.
• iTubeGo – Batch downloads, supports multiple formats.

How does it work?

Step 1. Install your app of choice.

Step 2. Copy the YouTube video URL.

Step 3. Paste it into the app.

Step 4. Choose format (MP4, MP3, etc.) and resolution.

Step 5. Hit download. Done!

2. Online YouTube Downloader - MultCloud’s EasySaveVideo

If you don’t feel like installing anything and just want something quick and effective, MultCloud’s EasySaveVideo is a total game-changer.

This free online tool makes it ridiculously simple to grab YouTube videos directly through your browser. No pop-ups, no shady ads — just paste and download.

Why EasySaveVideo Rocks for Mac Users?

• ✅ 100% Free with no registration
• ✅ Works on Safari, Chrome, or Firefox
• ✅ Lets you pick your video resolution (including HD)
• ✅ Supports MP4 and MP3 formats
• ✅ Clean, ad-free interface — yes, finally!

How to Use It:

Step 1. Go to the EasySaveVideo by MultCloud.

Step 2. Copy the YouTube video link you want to save.

Step 3. Paste it into the input box on the site.

Step 4. Choose your desired format and quality, then click the download button.

Boom — it’s on your Mac! Whether you want to save a tutorial, a lecture, or your favorite music video, EasySaveVideo gives you everything you need in just a couple of clicks — no installations, no fuss.

3. Browser Extensions for Safari and Chrome

Want to keep it inside your browser? Extensions can help. Many are, but always download from official sources (like Chrome Web Store). Some good ones:

• Addoncrop YouTube Video Downloader
• Video DownloadHelper

These let you download videos straight from the YouTube page — super convenient!

4. Using VLC Media Player

VLC isn’t just a video player — it can download YouTube videos too. Here's how:

Step 1. Open VLC.

Step 2. Go to File > Open Network.

Step 3. Paste your YouTube video link. Click Open.

Step 4. While the video plays, go to Window > Media Information.

Step 5. Copy the full video URL at the bottom.

Step 6. Paste it into your browser to open. Right-click the video and Save As.

Boom. You’ve got it.

How to Choose the Right Downloader

Not all tools are created equal. Here’s what to look for:

– Speed

Nobody likes waiting 10 minutes for a 3-minute video. Choose tools that are optimized for fast downloads.

– Video Quality

Make sure it lets you pick HD, 4K, or even 8K. Don’t settle for blurry!

– Format Options

MP4, MP3, MKV, AVI — more formats mean more flexibility.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

– Download Failed

Check your internet connection or try a different tool. Some videos are region-blocked or restricted.

– No Audio

Oops! You might’ve downloaded a video-only stream. Choose a combined video/audio format or try MP4.

Conclusion

There you have it — now you know exactly how to download YouTube videos on a Mac. Whether you go with a dedicated app, an online tool, or VLC magic, you’ve got options galore. Just remember to use these tools responsibly and stay safe while doing it.

So next time you’re stuck on a flight or without Wi-Fi, you’ll still have your favorite videos just a click away.

FAQs

1. Can You Download YouTube Shorts on Mac?

Absolutely! Shorts are just like normal YouTube videos with a vertical format. Copy the link, paste it into your tool, and you’re good to go. Some tools even auto-detect Shorts and adjust the size or aspect ratio.

2. Is there a way to download only the audio from a YouTube video?

Absolutely. Most tools offer MP3 conversion for audio-only downloads.

3. Are these download tools safe for Mac?

Yes, as long as you download from official sources or reputable websites. Avoid cracked versions.