Popular Methods to Convert a YouTube Video to MP4

Reasons to Convert a YouTube Video to MP4

MP4 conversion of YouTube videos has saved many in 2024, and there are quite simple yet powerful reasons for the same. First, it gives you access offline. When you use the “airplane” mode, there is a non-Wi-Fi zone, or you just want to save the data, converting a YouTube video to MP4 format for offline use. The advantage of having your favorite YouTube content without an Internet connection is a huge advantage in many situations.

At the same time, MP4 is quite versatile and works across multiple devices: smartphones, tablets, laptops, and even smart TVs. Besides, you don’t have to bother about the compatibility problems of this format. Its flexibility is welcome if you like watching videos on different platforms or prefer editing clips from YouTube for personal projects.

Of course, another thing to consider is the file size. MP4 offers a good balance between quality and compression. You get high-resolution videos after the conversion without hogging too much storage space. With this format, content creators or social media users can easily edit, share, or archive the videos.

Lastly, there’s the issue of content loss. Many videos on YouTube could be deleted or set to a private playlist at any moment. Download YouTube video to MP4 to preserve any tutorial, music video, or important presentation.

Specifications of YouTube Video Format and MP4 Format

YouTube videos are usually streamed in many formats, depending on the speed of your PC and mobile device. The most common formats of YouTube videos are WebM, MOV, AVI, MPEG, FLV, and even the special version of MP4 – all of them optimized for streaming but not especially for offline use. They are used for advanced bitrate streaming that can automatically change the quality of the video, depending on how good your Internet connection is. While that might be fine when it involves just watching content online, that isn’t great in a situation when someone needs a high-quality, stable video file for offline viewing. Also, the formats used in streaming on YouTube often can be very restrictive regarding using or editing these files.

On the other hand, MP4 is a highly versatile video format for general use. With MP4, viewers can play high-quality videos on a wide range of devices and applications using relatively small file sizes. MP4 files work best for offline use, as they manage to keep their quality uniform without any interference from an unstable internet connection. The format supports multiple audio, subtitles, and metadata, thus becoming ideal for different types of content.

Converting a YouTube video to MP4 will provide you with more control over how and where you will view it. With MP4, compatibility issues over an enormous range of devices will no longer be an issue. Any editing or repurposing that is to be done later might get pretty easy, especially for a content creator or professional video editor. In short, great quality, broad compatibility, and file size efficiency make MP4 a better choice for permanent storage compared to the typical YouTube formats that are targeted for streaming.

Is It Hard to Convert YouTube Video to MP4?

Learning how to convert a YouTube video to MP4 is not an issue in 2024. There are different tools, so even users who have never been tech-savvy can easily convert. Just like with our guide to YouTube to WAV converters, no matter if it is a desktop application, online converter, or browser extension, each of the following solutions is designed to be very user-friendly.

The only thing you must do with an online converter for YouTube video to MP4, like Y2Mate or ClipConverter, is copy the URL of that video, paste it into the tool, select MP4 as your format, and hit the “Download” button. The entire process only takes a few minutes and doesn’t require making any other complex settings.

Even the most advanced methods, like VLC Media Player and AI-powered tools, are simple. Most options really guide you from start to finish ensuring that you get your MP4 file with minimum effort. All in all, the conversion of a YouTube video to MP4 has never been this smooth and accessible.

All the Popular Methods to Convert YouTube Video to MP4

You can convert a YouTube video to MP4 with different tools. They range from desktop applications to online converters, mobile apps, and AI-based solutions. Choose a YouTube to MP4 video converter according to your preferences.

Classic Desktop Solutions

Almost all desktop conversion software has stronger and more featured ways of converting a YouTube to MP4 Wave video. These tools offer you much quicker conversions, higher qualities, and sometimes feature batch downloading and advanced settings related to video.

1) 4K Video Downloader

4K Video Downloader is a very usable utility, simple to use, and has quality downloads. It’s available on such major platforms as Windows, macOS, and Linux. You can download the entire playlists, channels, or even single videos in MP4 format.

How to Convert:

• Go to the official website of 4K Video Downloader and download the software concerning your platform;
• Open YouTube, search for any video you want to convert, and copy its URL from the address bar;
• Open the 4K Video Downloader and click the “Paste Link” button. The software will analyze the URL instantly;
• Choose the format as MP4 and select the video quality you want, such as 720p or 1080p;
• Click “Download” to save the MP4 file on your device;

2) Freemake Video Converter

Freemake Video Converter is one of the most popular converters supported on desktops, with more than 500 formats. It’s for Windows users and has a great reputation for ease of use and versatility.

How to Convert:

• Take the Freemake Video Converter from the official website;
• Open YouTube and copy the URL of your video;
• Open Freemake and click “Paste URL”, and the video will be fetched by the software;
• From the available format list, select MP4;
• Click “Convert” and let the software process and save the MP4 file;

Pros of desktop solutions:

• Quicker conversion with high-quality output;
• Supports batch downloads and high-resolution video;
• No dependence on internet speed once downloaded;

Cons of desktop solutions:

• Needs to be installed;
• Occupies storage space;
• Some features may require premium versions;

Online Converters

Online converters are web-based software that allows you to convert YouTube videos to MP4 without having to download software. They are perfect for users who seek something fast, easy, and free.

1) Y2Mate

Y2Mate is an easy-to-use YouTube video to MP4 converter online. In addition, you don’t have to create an account or even download it. It’s free, and users can directly convert YouTube videos into MP4.

How to Convert:

• Go to YouTube and copy the URL of the desired video;
• Open your browser and type the name of the website Y2Mate in the search bar;
• Paste the copied URL in the box provided by Y2Mate;
• Choose the MP4 as the required format and select the video’s quality;
• Download and wait until it is saved to your PC;

2) ClipConverter.cc

Another favorite online service is ClipConverter, which can use a variety of formats for converting YouTube videos, including MP4.

How to Convert:

• Copy the video link from YouTube;
• Open the website of ClipConverter.cc;
• Enter the URL into the input field;
• Choose MP4 as the format you want and select the resolution.
• Click “Start” and after processing, the MP4 will be ready for download;

Pros of online converters:

• No need to install anything – it works on any mobile device connected to the Internet;
• It is ideal for urgent, one-time conversions;
• Free of cost, no need to create an account;

Cons of online converters:

• Poor conversion speed, with a loss of quality for high-definition videos;
• Free websites may have size limits and possible ad annoyance;

Software-Free Tools

Users who do not want to install anything or use any web application, browser extensions, or in-built options should try software-free solutions for converting YouTube videos to MP4.

1) Video Downloader Professional – Browser Extension

This extension allows users to download YouTube videos directly from their browser with just one click.

How to Convert:

• To install the Extension, search for “Video Downloader Professional” in the Chrome Web Store or Firefox Add-ons and install it;
• Open the video you want to download on YouTube;
• It adds an extension “Download” button below the video. Click it and select MP4 format;
• The MP4 format will be saved to your downloads folder;

2) YouTube Studio (for your videos only)

If you are downloading your videos from YouTube, then YouTube Studio has an inbuilt option.

How to Convert:

• Open YouTube Studio: Log in to YouTube and open YouTube Studio;
• In the “Videos” section, select the video you have uploaded;
• Click the options button-three dots-then click on “Download MP4”;

Pros of software-free tools:

• No installation or any other software is required;
• Simple and quick, especially browser extensions;
• Perfect for occasional needs;

Cons of software-free tools:

• Can support only basic functionalities and nothing more about advanced settings;
• Some browser extensions may not support all formats or resolutions;

AI-Based Methods

AI video converters are new breakthroughs in video conversion technology. They offer speed and intelligent processing for the conversion of YouTube video to MP4.

1) Zeemo.ai

This is an AI-driven platform for converting YouTube videos to MP4, among other added capabilities like subtitle generation.

How to Convert:

• Open YouTube, locate the video, and copy the link;
• Open their website and paste the URL into the converter box;
• Use the dropdown, select MP4 from the formats, and edit any further settings you would like to apply with this format;
• After clicking “Convert”, you will have your MP4 downloaded in just a couple of seconds;

2) DeepBrain AI

DeepBrain AI is an AI-based online tool that provides conversion facilities quickly and efficiently, along with video editing facilities.

How to Convert:

• Copy the link to a YouTube video;
• Paste the link in the input field on DeepBrain AI;
• Choose MP4 – alter any settings related to quality;
• Click “Download” to save the converted video;

Pros of AI-based methods:

• The process would be way faster due to the enhancement of AI;
• Additional features include subtitling of the videos and video optimization;

Cons of AI-based methods:

• Using AI often comes along with a higher pricing strategy;
• Only a few AI tools are available for free;

Mobile Applications

For users who love to convert video files on their mobile phones, mobile applications present a portable solution. There is no need for third-party sites or PCs – it works directly on Android or iOS.

1) TubeMate (Android)

TubeMate is a very popular YouTube video downloader for Android. It can download YouTube videos directly in an MP4 format after a quick conversion.

How to Convert:

• Download the application from any trusted third-party website;
• Search for the YouTube video using TubeMate;
• Select MP4 as the format and choose the quality;
• The video will be automatically downloaded on your phone in MP4 format;

2) Documents by Readdle (iOS)

Documents by Readdle offers an easy way of downloading YouTube videos in MP4 on iOS devices.

How to Convert:

• Download Documents by Readdle from the App Store.
• Launch the application and open the in-app browser. Open any online converter, such as Y2Mate;
• Repeat the same process as you would have done while converting through any online converter, and download your MP4 file;

Pros of mobile apps for conversion:

• Lightweight;
• Works straight out of your mobile device;

Cons of mobile apps for conversion:

• Constrained by processing and storage of mobile devices;
• Some apps necessitate downloading from third-party websites that can be dangerous;

If you still don’t know what to choose to convert a YouTube video to MP4, check the following comparison table. 

While high-quality conversions of the desktop software are professional and robust, online converters fit perfectly for quick tasks. Moreover, AI tools are on the edge of innovation, while mobile apps give the best on-the-go solutions.

How to Convert YouTube Video to MP4 – Tips for First-Time Users

If you are doing it for the first time, it shouldn’t freak you out – it’s way easier than it sounds. First of all, you should understand what approach would serve you best. For fast conversions, online converters like Y2Mate will always do a great job. Just copy the link from YouTube, paste it into the YouTube video converter to MP4, select the format (MP4), and download the converted file. That is easy for everyone.

Also, we recommend reading this Reddit thread about how to download and convert YouTube video to MP4. 

Of course, installing the desktop software will take more effort and time, but it’s more powerful and flexible. For more frequent use or better quality, desktop software like 4K Video Downloader offers higher resolutions to download YouTube videos to MP4 and includes such features as batch conversions.

If you do not want to install anything to convert a YouTube video to MP4, then an extension for your browser like Video Downloader Professional will automate the process right from within your web browser. If you are on a mobile device, applications such as TubeMate for Android or Documents by Readdle for iOS will let you download videos on the go.

Important notice! Always use some sort of reliable tool to avoid malware or ads. Only convert videos that you are authorized to download, as YouTube policy protects copyrighted content. 

Do not forget to select the correct resolution – the higher quality means a larger file, so balance clarity with the storage available on your device.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is converting YouTube video to MP4 legal?

Converting YouTube videos to MP4 is allowed provided the video content does not fall under the ambit of copyright protection or perhaps you have gotten permission from the content owner. The YouTube terms of service directly prohibit the downloads of videos that are not explicitly available for offline use – through YouTube Premium. 

Can YouTube videos be converted into MP4 high-quality?

Yeah, you can convert YouTube videos to MP4 in high quality but depending on the original resolution available in a YouTube video. At the time of conversion with most of the tools, such as 4K Video Downloader or ClipConverter, you can choose resolutions like 1080p or 4K.

Which is the best tool for downloading YouTube videos in bulk?

For batch downloads, it is better to use the desktop software. 4K Video Downloader allows downloading of whole playlists or a number of videos at once in the MP4 format. You can download an entire playlist from YouTube will be so much easier to use these services when you need to convert many videos quickly. Most online converters do not support bulk downloading – in that case, desktop software will offer more convenience and speed.

What is the free software to convert a YouTube video to MP4?

Sure, there are plenty of free tools to help you download a YouTube video in MP4 format. Some of the more popular options include Y2Mate and ClipConverter. Neither of these tools requires installation nor even a sign-up. Most free tools have drawbacks such as poorer download speeds, ads, or lower conversion quality. The paid tools do not have such cons.

Can I convert a YouTube video to MP4 on my mobile?

Of course, there are mobile applications that make it easier to convert YouTube videos into MP4 format, such as TubeMate for Android or Documents by Readdle for iOS. These apps you can download the video right onto your phone and in any resolution that you want. Mobile converters are great if you happen to travel a lot, but remember, download only from reputable sources to avoid malware or other security issues.

Conclusion

Conversion of YouTube videos into MP4 is relatively easy in 2024. Each method and tool that we described above has advantages – ranging from the flexibility of desktop solutions to the convenience of mobile apps. You can enjoy offline access, high-quality downloads, and easy sharing once you choose the right tool for your needs. Just keep in mind the copyright rules and make use of trusted tools to convert a YouTube video to MP4 safely.