Whether you’re storing video content for offline viewing, creating a compilation or just saving a clip from a YouTube video to watch later, having the option to download videos in MP4 format can come in handy. The versatile, space-efficient file format makes it compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems.
Luckily, there are many options available to convert YouTube videos into the MP4 format. These include online YouTube converters, desktop apps, and browser extensions and add-ons. Some of these tools are free, while others require registration. The best YouTube converters offer a simple and user-friendly approach, with streamlined workflows for downloading multiple videos at once.
YouTube converter websites allow you to paste the video URL and choose your desired output file type and quality. The process may take a few seconds to a few minutes, depending on the length and size of the video. The best converters have no ad interruptions and can be used on any device. However, it’s important to keep in mind that using a website that requires you to install an extension or add-on can expose your device to potentially harmful malware or intrusive ads.
For advanced users, you can use command line tools to convert YouTube videos into the MP4 format. The youtube-dl tool offers a variety of fallback formats, including the more traditional MP3. To use it, navigate to the directory where you installed youtube-dl using the cd command, then enter the following command: youtube-dl -f mp4 [YouTube Video URL]. Once the download is complete, you can locate the converted video file in your preferred location. youtube downloader mp4