How to Convert & Download YouTube Videos as MP4 Files

Download high-quality MP4s of your favorite YouTube videos

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Last Updated: August 2, 2024 Fact Checked

If you want to download a video for later viewing, even online, your best option is to download the movie as an MP4. These files can be viewed on almost all video programs, like Quicktime or Windows Media Player, and you can even put the video on your phone or tablet. Converting YouTube Videos is easy, and simply requires you to use a program or website specializing in the conversions.

Converting YouTube Videos to MP4 files

Pull up the YouTube video you want to convert on YouTube’s app or website.
Copy the video’s URL by right-clicking the address bar or clicking “share” on the app.
Search “convert YouTube to MP4” on Google to find a free conversion site.
Paste the URL into the converter and select MP4.
Click “convert” to convert and download your new MP4 file.

1

Go to the video you want on Youtube.com.

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You can do this in the mobile YouTube app or at YouTube.com.^{[1]
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2

Copy the video's URL.

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If you're using a web browser, right-click the URL in the address bar and select Copy. If you're using the mobile app, tap the Share icon below the video and choose Copy link.

3

Search Google for a free converter website.

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Choose one of the many conversion sites. Search for "convert YouTube to MP4" and you'll find a lot of free sites willing to help out. Some of the most reputable options include OnlineVideoConverter, ClipConverter, YouTubeInMP4, and YtdDownloader. You can use whatever site you want, but stay away from sites that have the following hallmarks of scams:
- Demanding personal information. Most sites will require nothing but the YouTube URL.
- Numerous pop-ups.
- Payment requests. The sites should be free.
- Forced download of programs or converters. While there are programs you can download to get YouTube videos, sites without downloads are much safer.

4

Paste the URL and choose "MP4."

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Once you find a converter, add the video's URL and set the conversion method to MP4. Depending on the site, the method may already be set to MP4.^{[2]
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- Most sites let you input the artists, the name of the video, and any other information you might want to help sort the file when you download it. Change it to your liking, then edit the video quality to fit your desire.
- The higher the video quality, the bigger the resulting MP4 file.
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Brandon Phipps
Technology Specialist
Brandon Phipps is a Technology Specialist based in Bakersfield, CA. He is the owner of Second Star Technologies and specializes in Managed IT Services for small and mid-sized businesses in Bakersfield, CA. With over 23 years of experience, he offers expert cloud computing, cybersecurity, and network management solutions. Brandon is a committed community member and coach who leads and innovates in tech and sports coaching. His dedication to local businesses and communities is evident in his hands-on, tailored approach to IT solutions.

Brandon Phipps
Technology Specialist

The MP4 file format is the international standard for video files across various applications and platforms. This file format is widely preferred due to its remarkable compression capabilities, allowing for smaller video files.

5

Convert the video.

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Hit Start or Convert. Make sure the button you are pressing is part of the site and not a pop up. To be sure of this, make sure it looks exactly like the other buttons on the site, and hover over it with your mouse: you should see the website you're using appear as a URL in the bottom of your screen.^{[3]
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- Some sites require you to click another link after start labeled "Download File." Again, make sure you're downloading from the site, not a pop-up.
- Now that you have the video, it can be viewed whether you are online or not. You can also use iTunes or another media library program to put the MP4 on your phone or mobile device.

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How can you save the file?

Oliver Eilers

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Hit Start or Convert first. Make sure the button you are pressing is part of the converter site and not a pop up. To be sure of this, check that it looks exactly like the other buttons on the site, and hover over it with your mouse: you should see the website you're using appear as a URL in the bottom of your browser window (only on a PC). (On mobile, buttons may not disclose the link; if it is a link, touch and hold on the link: the URL will appear or copy and paste the link). After the conversion is complete, some sites require you to click another link labeled "Download File". Again, make sure you're downloading from the site, not a pop-up.

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If you download YouTube in MP4 regularly, you can turn on "One-click" download mode with the necessary settings and download YouTube in 1 click.

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