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How to Download YouTube Videos as MP4 in 2025

Download YouTube Videos as MP4
author jenny
Jenny
2025-03-14
 
10 min read
 

YouTube, as one of the most popular video-sharing platforms globally, offers a vast library of content, from educational tutorials to entertaining vlogs and from the latest music videos to classic movie trailers. However, the need to have a stable internet connection to watch these videos can be a significant drawback.

A YouTube MP4 downloader solves this problem by allowing you to download videos in the MP4 format, which is widely compatible with various devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs. This means you can enjoy your favorite YouTube content anytime, anywhere, without relying on an internet connection.

Moreover, a YouTube MP4 downloader can also be a great tool for content creators. If you want to analyze a particular video’s editing style, learn from a professional’s filming techniques, or simply save a video as reference material, downloading it in MP4 format gives you the freedom to study it offline at your own pace. So, let’s dive deeper into the world of YouTube MP4 downloaders and explore how they work, the best ones available, and how to use them effectively.

Why You Need a YouTube MP4 Downloader

YouTube is the internet’s ultimate video library, but relying on Wi-Fi to watch tutorials, music, or documentaries is like depending on the weather for a picnic. YouTube MP4 downloaders let you save videos permanently, turning your device into a portable cinema. Here’s why they’re essential:

1.Watch Offline: This is Perfect for flights, road trips, or rural areas.

2.Avoid Ads: Skip interruptions like “RAID: Shadow Legends” #12.

3.Archive Classics: Save rare videos before they’re removed.

4.Share Easily: Send MP4 files via email, USB, or apps like WhatsApp.

Methods to Download YouTube Videos in MP4 Format

Online Video Downloaders

Online video downloaders are one of the simplest ways to obtain YouTube videos in MP4 format. Take MP4saver, for example. First, you visit the MP4saver website. Then, head over to YouTube, find the video you want to download, and copy its URL from the address bar. Paste this URL into the input box on the MP4saver site. Next, you’ll be presented with various options for video quality, such as 1080p Full HD, 720p HD, or 360p SD.

You can also choose to download the audio in high-quality 320 kbps or lower-quality 96 kbps formats if you prefer just the sound. Once you’ve made your selections, click the “Download” button, and the video will be saved to your device.

Browser Extensions

Browser extensions provide a convenient way to download YouTube videos right from your browser. After installing the extension, when you open a YouTube video in your browser, the Video Download Helper icon in the browser toolbar will become active if the video can be downloaded.

Click on this icon, and it will present you with a list of available download options, including different video formats and qualities. You can then select the MP4 format and the desired resolution, like 720p or 1080p, and click the download button to save the video to your computer.

Dedicated Software

Dedicated software offers more advanced features compared to online downloaders and browser extensions. Programs like 4K Video Downloader and Winx YouTube Downloader are powerful tools for downloading YouTube videos in MP4 format.

Mobile Apps

For those who prefer to download YouTube videos on their mobile devices, there are several apps available. TubeMate, Snaptube, and VidMate are some of the popular choices.

TubeMate allows you to download YouTube videos directly to your Android device. It has a simple interface where you can search for YouTube videos within the app or paste in the video URL. You can then choose the MP4 format and the quality of the video, ranging from low-resolution options suitable for mobile data-saving to high-definition 1080p for a better viewing experience.

Here is a comparison table to summarize the different methods:

Method

Ease of Use Features

Cost

Compatibility
Online Video Downloaders

High (simple steps)

Basic video and audio download, some with limited format options Free Web-based, accessible on most devices with a browser
Browser Extensions High (one-click download) Download directly from browser, limited format and quality options Free Specific to browsers, they are installed on
Dedicated Software Medium (more settings) High-quality downloads, playlist/channel downloads, format conversion Free/Paid Compatible with desktop operating systems
Mobile Apps High (designed for mobile) Mobile-friendly interface, background downloads Free (some with in-app purchases) Android and iOS devices
YouTube Premium High (official and seamless) Ad-free, background playback, exclusive content, offline downloads Monthly subscription fee All devices with YouTube app or website access

Top 7 YouTube MP4 Downloaders for 2025

Tool Features Best For Price

4K Video Downloader

4K/8K support, playlists, subtitles

HD enthusiasts

Free (ads)

YT1D

Web-based, no install, 50+ sites

Quick downloads

Free

Snaptube

Mobile app, background downloads

Android users

Free (ads)

JDownloader

Open-source, batch downloads

Tech-savvy users

Free

ClipGrab

Converts to MP3, AAC, WMV

Music lovers

Free

WinX YouTube Downloader

320+ site support, 5x speed

Windows users

Free (ads)

Why These Tools?

4K Video Downloader: The Swiss Army knife—supports 8K and playlists.

4K video

YT1D: Like a vending machine—paste, click, done.

YT1D

Thordata Proxies: Rotate IPs to download 100+ videos/hour without bans.

Thordata

Step-by-Step: Download MP4 with Thordata Proxies

1.  Install yt-dlp

bash

pip install yt-dlp  

2. Configure Thordata Proxies

python

import yt_dlp  

proxies = {  

    ‘http’: ‘http://user:pass@residential.thordata.com:9999’,  

    ‘https’: ‘http://user:pass@residential.thordata.com:9999’  

}  

ydl_opts = {  

    ‘proxy’: proxies,  

    ‘format’: ‘bestvideo[ext=mp4]+bestaudio[ext=m4a]/best[ext=mp4]/best’,  

    ‘outtmpl’: ‘downloads/%(title)s.%(ext)s’,  

}  

with yt_dlp.YoutubeDL(ydl_opts) as ydl:  

    ydl.download([‘https://youtube.com/watch?v=ABC123’])  

3. Download Safely

Thordata’s IP rotation mimics organic traffic, avoiding bans.

How to Download YouTube MP4 Videos Legally

1. Use Official Methods: YouTube Premium ($13.99/month) allows offline downloads.

2. Fair Use: Download for education, critique, or parody (e.g., reaction videos).

3. Avoid Monetization: Never repost others’ content for profit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a YouTube MP4 downloader is an incredibly useful tool in today’s digital age. It offers the convenience of offline viewing, freedom from ads, easy shareability, and the ability to archive valuable content.

Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a content creator, or just someone who wants to have a personal collection of favorite videos, having a reliable YouTube MP4 downloader at your disposal can enhance your video-watching experience.

This is where Thordata proxy service shines. Its ability to bypass restrictions, provide a stable connection, and offer customization makes it an ideal choice for those downloading YouTube videos hassle-free.

Whether you’re facing regional blocks or want a more stable and efficient download experience, Thordata can be your go-to solution. So, explore the world of YouTube MP4 downloading with caution, and make the most of the available tools and services, like Thordata, to enjoy your favorite YouTube content in the best way possible.

Frequently asked questions

Can I download age-restricted YouTube videos?

 

Only with the uploader’s permission. Avoid tools claiming to bypass this—they’re scams.

Why does my downloader fail with 4K videos?

 

Update to the latest version of 4K Video Downloader or yt-dlp.

Are mobile apps like Snaptube safe?

 

Mostly, but sideload APKs cautiously. iOS users should jailbreak only if tech-savvy.”

About the author

Jenny is a Content Manager with a deep passion for digital technology and its impact on business growth. She has an eye for detail and a knack for creatively crafting insightful, results-focused content that educates and inspires. Her expertise lies in helping businesses and individuals navigate the ever-changing digital landscape.

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