15 Best Free Online YouTube Video Downloader Apps (2023)

Downloading videos from YouTube is a common need for many internet users. However, YouTube does not have a built-in option that allows you to save videos offline directly. That’s why a good YouTube video downloader app is essential. In this article, I will share 15 of the best free online YouTube video downloader apps to use in 2023 based on website and mobile usage.

How to Choose A Good Online YouTube Video Downloader App

When picking a YouTube downloader, there are several factors to consider:

Specifically, you’ll want to make sure the YouTube video downloader you choose is fast, contains no malware, works on your device, and lets you download videos in the quality you want. Checking reviews from trusted sites can help avoid poor quality programs.

7 Best Free Online YouTube Video Downloader Apps on Desktop (2023)

1. SSyoutube

SSyoutube lacks advanced options seen in other downloader tools. There is no ad blocker, closed-caption support, or ability to select audio quality. The minimal interface also means a learning curve for less tech-savvy users. Additionally, cropped video issues are occasionally reported.

Pros	Cons
Fast download speeds	No advanced settings options
Simple intuitive interface	Occasional cropped video bugs reported
Direct MP3/MP4 conversion	Confusing for non-tech users

Visit: https://ssyoutube.mobi

2. RipYoutube

While RipYoutube delivers great core performance, it has room to improve in areas like format support and usability. In particular, integration with sites beyond YouTube could be expanded. There have also been some past complaints of the app crashing, though recent updates have addressed this. Finally, the workflow involves more steps than some competitors.

Pros	Cons
Downloads YouTube playlists/channels	Limited to YouTube website
4K quality support	Past crashing issues reported
Editing tools included	Multiple steps for downloading

Visit: https://ripyoutube.com/

3. 4K Video Downloader

The downsides of 4K Video Downloader mostly come down to pricing. While technically free, you need a premium account to utilize some of the best automation features for convenient downloading. There are also occasional bugs reported in keeping subscriptions up to date. Finally, the browser extensions lack capabilities of some rivals.

Pros	Cons
Leading 4K/HD quality	Paid subscription needed for full benefits
Fast batch downloading	Buggy subscription updates
Automation tools	Limited browser extension

4. FLVTO

FLVTO’s link parsing can sometimes fail, causing downloads to get stuck or corrupted. The sheer number of supported sites also means more chance for unpredictable issues versus a dedicated YouTube solution. Lastly, downloading playlists requires manually entering each video URL rather than parsing the full playlist directly.

Pros	Cons
50+ supported platforms	Fails to parse some video links
Browser extensions available	More sites = more bugs
MP3 conversion option	No playlist bulk downloading

5. aTube Catcher

As an older YouTube downloading utility, aTube Catcher lacks some modern conveniences for speed and integration seen in newer apps. Specifically, it can be slower than competitors when downloading multiple videos and has no browser extension for easy one-click downloads. The video conversion functionality also lags tools with hardware acceleration optimization.

Pros	Cons
Simple quick downloading	Outdated/slow performance
Additional utility tools	No browser integration
Established program history	Dated multi-video downloading

6. SaveFrom.net Helper

Since SaveFrom.net Helper only provides core downloading functionality, users needing editing tools or format conversion beyond MP4 may need secondary software. It also frequently tries installing additional programs during setup, requiring diligence to avoid unwanted add-ons. Finally, the website itself contains many ads which detracts from the Helper browser add-on’s convenience.

Pros	Cons
Quick downloads from browser	Lack of video conversion/editing
Adds no watermarks	Unwanted program offers during setup
Free to use	Heavy advertising on site

7. DVDVideoSoft YouTube Downloader

As a web app, the DVDVIdeoSoft YouTube video downloader depends on browser security allowing execution of Adobe Flash. Because many browsers now block Flash for safety, this tool may not work unless settings exceptions are made. Also, lacking a standalone desktop program means no ability to download multiple videos sequentially in the background easily. And advanced users get frustrated by the lack of format quality control compared to installed apps.

Pros	Cons
No installation needed	Relies on outdated Flash technology
Simple single field interface	No background batch downloading
Quick web-based downloading	Few quality control options

8 Best Free YouTube Video Downloader Apps on Phone (2023)

1. SaveFrom

SaveFrom comes from a less reputable publisher compared to apps like KeepVid or InsTube. Its security permissions should be monitored in case of overreach. Additionally, while fast for downloading individual videos, batch/playlist performance could be better optimized based on some user complaints. Finally, complex naming conventions for quality outputs creates confusion for average consumers.

Pros	Cons
Downloads many platforms	Questionable publisher reputation
Feature-packed	Overreaching permissions possible
Good for single video grabs	Batch downloading optimization lacking

2. InsTube

As a lesser-known app, InsTube suffers from multiple fake copycats trying to deliver malware or otherwise compromised versions. Ensuring you only install from verified sources is essential. Next, while supporting many sites, niche Asian platform compatibility in particular could be improved. Finally, some users report problems logging in to download age-restricted content.

Pros	Cons
4K quality downloads	Many unsafe fake app clones
Built-in media players	Buggy with niche Asian sites
Private browsing mode	Login issues reported occasionally

3. SnapTube

A key downside for SnapTube is needing to root Android devices to enjoy full functionality – limiting users ability to safely download restricted content. The amount of permissions required also raises some eyebrows regarding privacy. Finally, SnapTube’s own ad placements create visual clutter interfering with otherwise smooth YouTube video saving convenience.

Pros	Cons
Audio MP3 extraction	Root required for full access
Multi-platform support	Heavy ad presence
Downloader + editor	Excessive permissions

4. Y Music

As a specialized YouTube to MP3 conversion app, Y Music lacks complete video saving functionality of broader downloader tools. Its focus on music also means less active development attention on maintaining compatibility with YouTube compared to video-centric apps. Finally, while it avoids ads itself, some converted streams still contain source ads needing removal.

Pros	Cons
Clean dedicated MP3 interface	No full video downloads
Fast straightforward grabbing	YouTube updates break music saving
Ad-free experience	Saved music retains some ads

5. Video Downloader Professional

While convenient for quick grabs directly in the browser, Video Downloader Professional lacks versatility compared to standalone mobile YouTube savers. For example, background downloading and video format conversions are not supported currently. The UX is also dated compared to slicker modern apps focused solely on downloading rather than web enhancements generally.

Pros	Cons
Browser-based convenience	No background downloading
Batch video downloading	Lacks video conversions
Simple fast interface	Dated UX design

6. KeepVid

On iOS devices, KeepVid can only save YouTube videos and lacks support for other major platforms available on the Android version. Additionally, video quality maxes out at 1080p – lagging apps with 4K. Finally, features like simplify heating videos to MP3s involve cumbersome workarounds worse than purpose-built converter competitors.

Pros	Cons
Web app requiring no install	Limited to YouTube on iPhone
Supports 500+ sites on Android	Max 1080p quality on iOS
Workarounds for basic conversions	Needs hacks for MP3 saving

7. VidMate

While VidMate delivers well on its core offerings, aspects like its outdated design, lack of casting capabilities, and reliance on third party libraries contribute downsides. In particular, infrequent UI refresh lag competitors focused solely on downloader functionality. So some seek alternatives unless needing editing tools or music format conversion specifically that VidMate prioritizes.

Pros	Cons
Leading YouTube to MP3 app	Stale outdated UI
Video editing tools included	No casting support
Strong music format support	Depends on dubious libraries

8. EasyVideoHelper

EasyVideoHelper’s open source nature results in many modified APKs circulating outside Google Play with increased malware potential for those avoiding main release channels. Additionally, inconsistent support across Android OS variations causes compatibility issues for niche device users. Finally, while fast actually downloading, site link parsing struggles compared to other apps.

Pros	Cons
Leading video/audio downloader	malware in unofficial APKs
Supports many quality options	Buggy behavior on rare Android devices
Actively developed	Slower link processing

Is It Safe to Use A YouTube Video Downloader?

When downloading copyrighted material from YouTube or other streaming sites, you should only do so for personal use under fair use policies. Circumventing streaming platform restrictions can constitute piracy based on your region. Many tools on this list provide disclaimers that you are responsible for lawful usage. As long as you only utilize YouTube video downloaders to store videos offline for your own legal personal viewing, most carry little risk. However, some third-party download programs do contain malware and should be avoided for safety.

Last Word

Now you have an arsenal of 15 highly capable YouTube video downloader tools for both web and mobile platforms in 2023. The best options provide great download speeds minus intrusive ads or malware. Just be aware of copyright laws when saving online videos offline. With this list, finding an excellent free YouTube video downloading solution that meets all your needs should now be straightforward.