How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP4: The Ultimate Guide
# How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP4: The Ultimate Guide
## Introduction
YouTube is one of the most popular websites in the world, with millions of users watching and sharing videos every day. While the website is great for watching videos, it does not offer an option to download them. This can be frustrating if you want to save a video to watch offline or share it with others who do not have internet access.
Fortunately, there are many ways to convert YouTube videos to MP4, which is a common video format that can be played on most devices. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to convert YouTube videos to MP4.
## Method 1: Using Online Conversion Services
The easiest way to convert YouTube videos to MP4 is by using an online conversion service such as OnlineVideoConverter, KeepVid, SaveFrom.net, or ClipConverter. Here are the steps:
1. Open the YouTube video that you want to convert in a new tab.
2. Copy the video’s URL from the address bar.
3. Go to the website of your preferred online conversion service.
4. Paste the video URL into the provided field on the website.
5. Select “MP4” as the output format.
6. Click the “Convert” button.
7. Wait for the conversion to complete.
8. Download the converted MP4 video to your computer.
## Method 2: Using Video Downloading Software
Another way to convert YouTube videos to MP4 is by using video downloading software such as 4K Video Downloader, Freemake Video Downloader, or YTD Video Downloader. Here are the steps:
1. Download and install your preferred video downloading software.
2. Open the YouTube video that you want to convert in a new tab.
3. Copy the video’s URL from the address bar.
4. Paste the video URL into the provided field on the software.
5. Select “MP4” as the output format.
6. Click the “Download” button.
7. Wait for the download and conversion to complete.
8. Watch the converted MP4 video on your computer.
## Method 3: Using a Browser Extension
If you prefer not to use an online conversion service or video downloading software, you can install a browser extension such as Video DownloadHelper or Download YouTube Videos as MP4. Here are the steps:
1. Go to the website of your preferred browser extension.
2. Install the extension on your web browser.
3. Open the YouTube video that you want to convert in a new tab.
4. Click the icon of the browser extension in your browser toolbar.
5. Select “MP4” as the output format.
6. Click the “Download” button.
7. Wait for the download and conversion to complete.
8. Watch the converted MP4 video on your computer.
## Method 4: Using VLC Media Player
If you have VLC Media Player installed on your computer, you can use it to convert YouTube videos to MP4. Here are the steps:
1. Open VLC Media Player on your computer.
2. Go to “Media” > “Open Network Stream”.
3. Copy the YouTube video URL from the address bar.
4. Paste the URL into the “Network URL” field in VLC.
5. Click “Play”.
6. Wait for the video to start playing.
7. Go to “Media” > “Convert/Save”.
8. Click “Add” and select the YouTube video that is currently playing in VLC.
9. Click “Convert/Save”.
10. Select “MP4” as the output format and choose a destination folder for the converted video.
11. Click “Start”.
12. Wait for the conversion to complete.
13. Watch the converted MP4 video on your computer.
## Conclusion
Converting YouTube videos to MP4 is a great way to watch videos offline and share them with others who do not have internet access. There are many ways to convert YouTube videos to MP4, including online conversion services, video downloading software, browser extensions, and VLC Media Player. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so choose the one that works best for you based on your needs and preferences.
## FAQs
### Q1. Is it legal to convert YouTube videos to MP4?
A1. It is legal to convert YouTube videos to MP4 for personal use only. It is not legal to share or distribute copyrighted material without permission.
### Q2. Can I convert YouTube videos to other video formats besides MP4?
A2. Yes, many conversion services and software support other video formats such as AVI, WMV, MOV, and more.
### Q3. Do I need to pay for online conversion services or video downloading software?
A3. Many online conversion services and video downloading software are free. However, some may offer premium features or require payment for unlimited use.
### Q4. Can I convert YouTube videos to MP4 on my smartphone or tablet?
A4. Yes, many online conversion services and video downloading software have mobile versions or apps that can be used on smartphones and tablets.
### Q5. Can I convert YouTube videos to MP4 in high quality?
A5. Yes, many online conversion services and video downloading software support high-quality video resolutions such as 720p, 1080p, and 4K. However, the video quality may depend on the original video’s quality and your internet connection speed.