Convert YouTube to MP4

A device-by-device walkthrough: from copying the link to finding the finished MP4.

Only download videos you own, have permission to use, or that are licensed for reuse (for example Creative Commons). See our terms and copyright policy.

Windows

  1. In Chrome, Edge or Firefox, open the YouTube video and copy the address from the address bar.
  2. Paste it into the box above and press Convert to MP4.
  3. Click Download MP4. The file goes to This PC → Downloads.
  4. Double-click it to play in the Media Player app, or open it with VLC.

If a 4K file won't play in Media Player, install the free AV1 Video Extension from the Microsoft Store, or convert again at 1080p.

Mac

  1. Copy the video address in Safari, Chrome or Firefox.
  2. Paste, convert and click Download MP4.
  3. The file lands in Finder → Downloads. QuickTime Player, Photos and iMovie open it directly.

Macs with Apple M3 chips or later play 4K AV1 files natively; on older Macs, use VLC or stick with 1080p.

Android

  1. In the YouTube app, tap Share → Copy link.
  2. Open this page in Chrome, paste the link and tap Convert to MP4.
  3. Tap Download MP4. Chrome shows a notification when it finishes.
  4. Find the video in the Files app under Downloads, or in Google Photos → Library → Downloads.

iPhone and iPad

  1. In the YouTube app, tap Share → Copy link.
  2. Open this page in Safari (not the YouTube app's built-in browser), paste and convert.
  3. Tap Download MP4, then Download when Safari asks.
  4. Open the Files app → Downloads, tap the video, then Share → Save Video to put it in Photos.

Common snags and fixes

What happens What to do
Nothing happens when I tap Download Make sure you're in a full browser, not an in-app browser. Copy this page's address into Safari or Chrome.
The file has no sound Download it again. If it keeps happening, try 720p.
"This video is unavailable" It may be private, removed or region-blocked. Try another video.
It's taking a long time Long and high-resolution videos take longer. Keep the tab open.
The 4K file won't open Your device can't decode AV1. Convert again at 1080p.

Need help choosing a quality or format? The YouTube video to MP4 converter page has a full guide, and the YouTube MP4 downloader page compares online tools with apps and extensions.

FAQ

Does converting YouTube to MP4 reduce quality?

No. The video stream is copied into the MP4 as it is, without re-compressing. You get the same picture YouTube plays at the resolution you choose.

Can I convert YouTube to MP4 on a Chromebook?

Yes. Use Chrome as on any other computer; the file saves to the Downloads folder in the Files app.

Why does my iPhone say the video can't be saved?

Usually the file is a 4K AV1 video, which older iPhones can't play. Convert again at 1080p, which uses H.264 and saves on every iPhone.

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