YouTube is home to millions of videos covering every topic imaginable. But the platform doesn’t allow directly saving videos offline for playback later. That’s where YouTube to MP4 converters come to the rescue. These nifty tools let you download and convert YouTube videos into MP4 format for offline viewing on any device.
MP4 offers the perfect blend of high compressibility while retaining decent video quality. The format’s wide compatibility across media players and mobile devices makes it the default choice for downloading YouTube videos.
But with so many YouTube to MP4 converters out there, how do you choose the best one for your needs? This comprehensive guide covers the top 20+ software tools for converting YouTube to MP4 in 2023. We compare their key features, pros and cons, limitations, pricing, and more.
Whether you are looking for a lightning fast online converter or a full-featured desktop app, want to download your favorite channel’s entire playlist or just grab some music videos as MP3s, there is a YouTube MP4 solution for everyone in this roundup. Read on to find your ideal YouTube to MP4 video downloader that ticks all the right boxes!
Understanding the MP4 Format
The MP4 format is one of the most popular video formats used online today. MP4 files are highly compressed, so they take up less storage space while maintaining good video quality. They are also supported by most media players, websites, and mobile devices. For these reasons, many internet users prefer downloading YouTube videos as MP4 files. However, YouTube does not allow direct conversion and downloading of its videos. That’s where YouTube to MP4 converters come in handy.
How to Use YouTube to MP4 Converters?
Using a YouTube to MP4 converter is very simple:
- Copy and paste the YouTube video URL into the converter site.
- Select MP4 as the output format. Some converters allow choosing resolution and bitrate.
- Click the “Convert” or “Download” button to start converting the video.
- Once finished, download the MP4 file to your computer or device.
Many converters also support batch processing, whereby you can queue up multiple URLs to convert.
How to Fix YouTube MP4 Converter Video Download Error?
Sometimes the converted MP4 may not download due to an error. Here are some tips to fix it:
- Refresh the converter page and try downloading again.
- Try a different converter website. Some sites get blocked by YouTube.
- Make sure your internet connection is stable.
- Check if your browser/security software is blocking the download.
- As a last resort, record the YouTube video directly using screen recording software.
20+ Best YouTube To MP4 Converters in USA [2023]
Comparison of Top YouTube to MP4 Downloaders
| Tool Name | Best For | Platform | Limitations | Price/Free Trial | Ratings |
| Ripyoutube YouTube video Downloader | Downloading entire playlists | Web-based | Maximum 20 videos for free version | Free version available, paid plans start at $6/month | 4.5/5 |
| ytb.rip YouTube to MP4 Converter | Fast conversion speed | Web-based | No playlists | Completely free | 4.2/5 |
| 4K YouTube to MP4 HD tool | High quality 4K downloads | Windows and Mac | File size limited to 200MB for free users | Free and $19.95 paid version available | 4.1/5 |
| MacX HD Video Converter | Downloads and format conversion | Mac only | Trial version shows watermark | Free trial then $49.95 | 4.5/5 |
| converto | Simple and easy to use | Web-based | Maximum 720p resolution | Free | 4.0/5 |
| 10downloader | Downloading multiple videos | Windows and Mac | Contains ads | Free | 3.8/5 |
| Snap Downloader | Downloading Facebook videos also | Windows | Maximum 10 min length for free | Free and $29 paid version | 3.9/5 |
| Y2mate | Fast downloading | Web-based | Contains ads | Free | 4.1/5 |
| ytbvideoly Downloader | Downloading HD formats also | Windows and Mac | Maximum 30 videos for free version | Free trial then $25 | 4.3/5 |
| ytconverter online | No need to install software | Web-based | Contains ads | Free | 3.5/5 |
| iyoutubetomp4 tool | Simple with no ads | Web-based | Maximum 1 video for free users | Mostly free but offers $4.99 pro version | 4.0/5 |
| YTMP4 converter | Downloading audio in MP3 format also | Web-based | Maximum 10 minutes for free users | Free | 3.7/5 |
| OnlyMP4 downloader | downloader multiple formats | Windows and Mac | Maximum 25 videos for free version | Free trial then $29.95 | 4.2/5 |
| Wave.video | High speed downloading | Web-based | Requires login | Free | 4.3/5 |
| ByClick Youtube video Downloader | Downloading 4k UHD also | Windows and Mac | Contains some ads | Free | 3.8/5 |
1) Ripyoutube YouTube Video Downloader
Ripyoutube is the most popular online Youtube video downloader. It is completely web-based so you can use it from any device without needing to install software. Ripyoutube stands out with its ability to download entire YouTube playlists and channels at once, which saves tremendous time and effort. It can fetch videos in resolutions up to 4K UHD quality. The intuitive browser-based interface makes it easy for novice users to quickly grab videos in MP4 format with just a few clicks. Overall, Ripyoutube is recommended for hassle-free batch downloading thanks to playlist support.
Pros:
- Downloads full playlists
- Good download speeds
- No need to install software
Cons:
- Free version limits you to 20 videos
- Contains ads
2) ytb.rip YouTube to MP3 Converter
ytb.rip focuses on one thing and does it very well – fast and simple conversion of YouTube videos to MP3 or mp4 format. The completely web-based converter offers blazing fast MP3 conversions without the hassle of installing software. It’s also a nice Youtube to mp3 converter. The no-frills site may look basic but the MP4 encoding speeds are unmatchable. ytb.rip is great for urgent situations when you need to download a YouTube video quickly as MP4 with minimum fuss. Just paste the link and click Convert – within seconds you can download the video in crisp MP4 format. The lack of ads and clutter-free interface allow distraction-free downloading. If your need is speed and convenience, ytb.rip is the way to go.
Pros:
- Downloads full playlists
- Good download speeds
- No need to install software
Cons:
- Free version limits you to 20 videos
- Contains ads
3) 4K YouTube to MP4 HD Tool
As the name suggests, 4K YouTube to MP4 HD downloader is purpose-built for downloading high quality videos. It can grab YouTube videos in HD, Full HD and even 4K UHD 2160p resolution. The downloads are crystal clear thanks to lossless conversion and preservation of 5.1 surround sound audio. 4K YouTube to MP4 HD works on both Windows and Mac computers with a consistent user experience. It gives premium features like multi-threaded intelligent downloading and hardware acceleration support. For discerning users who want the maximum quality MP4 videos, coupled with format flexibility and high-end technical features, this downloader hits the sweet spot.
Pros:
- Downloads full playlists
- Good download speeds
- No need to install software
Cons:
- Free version limits you to 20 videos
- Contains ads
4) MacX HD Video Converter Online
MacX HD Video Converter Online brings professional-grade video downloading and conversion capabilities right inside your Mac browser. The web-based tool eliminates the need to install cumbersome software on your Mac. It can download and convert YouTube videos to MP4 and MOV formats customized for Mac devices. Users can do quick bulk downloads thanks to the fast multi-threading conversion engine. Useful touches include the ability to edit and enhance the videos with filters and effects before downloading. Overall, MacX HD Video Converter Online unlocks full-fledged online video conversion that takes full advantage of Apple’s Metal graphics technology – perfect for tech-savvy Mac users.
Pros:
- Downloads full playlists
- Good download speeds
- No need to install software
Cons:
- Free version limits you to 20 videos
- Contains ads
5) Converto
If you’re looking for a no-frills, hassle-free YouTube to MP4 converter that gets the job done in the simplest way possible, converto is the tool for you. It embodies simplicity and efficiency at its finest. The intuitive browser-based converter needs nothing more than the YouTube URL – just paste it and click Download. Within seconds, you can download the YouTube video in MP4 format upto 720p HD quality without any complex settings or registration requirements. Converto’s minimalist interface may seem too simple but that’s the beauty of it – no confusing buttons or advanced features. Even the most technologically challenged users will feel at ease. When basic functionality and ease of use are paramount, converto fits the bill nicely.
6) 10downloader
Tired of websites that allow downloading just one video at a time? 10downloader is your answer. As the name hints, it’s specifically designed for easily downloading multiple videos together from YouTube and 1000+ other streaming sites. Bulk downloading entire playlists or channels is a breeze with 10downloader. The desktop app sports a streamlined interface that lets you queue up and download videos in parallel without slowing down your PC. An embedded browser simplifies grabbing videos from different sites. For the impatient users out there wanting batch downloads rather than one at a time, 10downloader delivers solid results. Just be prepared to dismiss some ads and popups that come along to keep the tool free.
Pros:
- Downloads full playlists
- Good download speeds
- No need to install software
Cons:
- Free version limits you to 20 videos
- Contains ads
7) Snap Downloader
If you’re looking for an all-in-one download manager for YouTube, Facebook, Vimeo, and DailyMotion, Snap Downloader is a worthwhile contender. It can download and convert videos from all these major sites. The conversion choices include MP4 for video and MP3 for extracting audio. Handy touches like a built-in search bar, VPN access, and proxy support give you more downloading options. Snap Downloader markets itself as a 4K downloader but that feature requires upgrading to the paid version. Some ads and random popups do creep up on the free version occasionally. But overall, Snap Downloader provides a unified solution for your multimedia downloading needs beyond just YouTube MP4s.
Pros:
- Downloads full playlists
- Good download speeds
- No need to install software
Cons:
- Free version limits you to 20 videos
- Contains ads
8) Y2mate
Y2mate has established itself as one of the most popular web-based converters for downloading YouTube videos as MP4 and MP3 files. It has garnered a strong word-of-mouth reputation thanks to its reliable downloads and fast converting speeds. The browser-based Y2mate tool works on all devices without needing an app installation. It can reliably rip even lengthy 4K videos from YouTube with its robust servers. Users will need to dismiss some of the third-party ads on the site which is how Y2mate makes money. The tradeoff is worth it for the ability to quickly download HD quality MP4 and MP3 files from YouTube sans registration or software downloads – perfect for casual use.
Pros:
- Downloads full playlists
- Good download speeds
- No need to install software
Cons:
- Free version limits you to 20 videos
- Contains ads
9) ytbvideoly Downloader
ytbvideoly Downloader is a feature-packed YouTube downloading solution for power users. Unlike simpler converters that just do basic downloads, ytbvideoly provides fine-grained control over video resolution, codec, compression, FPS and other technical parameters. You can customize every aspect of the MP4 conversion. It can also download 4K UHD videos efficiently. Additional touches like a built-in video player, ability to edit metadata, subtitles downloader, queue support, proxies and auto-retries make ytbvideoly a premium solution. Of course these features come at a slight learning curve. But overall, ytbvideoly brings professional-level conversions catering to discerning enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Downloads full playlists
- Good download speeds
- No need to install software
Cons:
- Free version limits you to 20 videos
- Contains ads
10) ytconverter online
Don’t want to deal with downloading and installing software just for converting YouTube videos? ytconverter online is your hassle-free solution. As an online tool accessible right inside your browser, it avoids the frustration of registering accounts or downloading apps. Simply head to the ytconverter website, paste the YouTube video URL and click Convert – within seconds you’ll have the MP4 file ready to download. The browser-based app simplifies downloading from any computer or mobile device that has internet access. The tradeoffs are average conversion speeds and lack of advanced features. But if an easy learning curve and minimal setup are key priorities, ytconverter online fits the bill.
Pros:
- Downloads full playlists
- Good download speeds
- No need to install software
Cons:
- Free version limits you to 20 videos
- Contains ads
11) iyoutubetomp4 tool
Sometimes a converter’s name says it all. As evident from the name itself, iyoutubetomp4 does one thing and it does it well – fast YouTube to MP4 conversions. The tool lives up to its name with its no-nonsense conversion speeds. Once pasted, your YouTube link gets converted to MP4 swiftly without annoying ads or confusing settings. Free users do get limited to just one daily conversion. But the focus on delivering reliably quick results minus any distractions is appreciated. For users who just want a quick YouTube MP4 once in a while without registrations or downloads, iyoutubetomp4 is a direct and fuss-free experience.
Pros:
- Downloads full playlists
- Good download speeds
- No need to install software
Cons:
- Free version limits you to 20 videos
- Contains ads
12) YTMP4 converter
YTMP4 converter targets YouTube users who want to extract and download audio in MP3 format along with the usual MP4 video. It can strip the audio portion from YouTube videos and convert it to MP3 music files. You also have the option to download the original video file in MP4 format. The browser-based tool works across devices without installing software. While it delivers the core functionality well, free users have to contend with daily conversion limits. Some ads are also noticeable during the conversion process. But on the plus side, the downloader works reliably well and lets you quickly grab audio and video content from YouTube with minimal fuss.
Pros:
- Saves as both video and audio
- Fast conversion
Cons:
- 10-minute limit for free users
13) OnlyMP4 downloader
As the name implies, OnlyMP4 focuses specifically on downloading YouTube videos as MP4 files. Beyond just MP4, it can also download in other formats like AVI, FLV, MOV, etc. But MP4 is its strength. The software is light-weight without too many buttons or menus. You can directly copy-paste URLs and select MP4 for quick downloading. Useful touches include a built-in search bar, support for 4K UHD videos, queue/batch processing, metadata editing and thumbnail previews. OnlyMP4 delivers these premium features without slowing down your system unlike some complex competitors. Overall, OnlyMP4 provides a solid package of MP4 downloading and format conversion capabilities in a compact shell.
Pros:
- Can download in various formats
- Good features in free version
Cons:
- 25 video limit in free version
14) Wave.video
Looking for blazing fast YouTube to MP4 conversions without plodding software downloads? Wave.video is the online tool you need. It uses advanced cloud encoding technologies to deliver insanely fast conversions right inside your browser. Upload speeds are impressively fast as well thanks to distributed servers. Being totally web-based, it works smoothly across devices. The clean and minimalist interface lets you focus on swift downloads rather than navigating complex settings. Free users have unlimited conversions but have to register for a account. Also, daily conversion limits apply unless you upgrade to a paid pro account. But as a cloud-based solution, Wave.video ticks all the boxes for performance and reliability.
Pros:
- Can download in various formats
- Good features in free version
Cons:
- 25 video limit in free version
15) ByClick Youtube Video Downloader
ByClick Youtube Video Downloader markets itself as an all-in-one Youtube video downloader on your Windows or Mac PCs. True to its name, it can download YouTube videos in a click with formats ranging from MP4, FLV, 3GP up to 4K UHD quality. The software also allows downloading entire YouTube playlists and channels with some premium features. Overall, ByClick delivers on fast MP4 conversions and broad format support. But it does push some ads and software bundles during installation. The interface could be simpler with so many options and buttons. However, ByClick still adds value for power users wanting rich feature set beyond basic MP4 downloads.
Pros:
- Can download in various formats
- Good features in free version
Cons:
- 25 video limit in free version
FAQ About YouTube to MP4 Converters
Is downloading Convert YouTube Videos to MP4 legal?
Technically, it violates YouTube’s terms of service. However, many laws like fair use allow downloading small portions for personal use. But it is still a gray area, so utilize these tools responsibly.
What functions does the YouTube to MP4 Converter offer?
These tools allow not just converting but also downloading YouTube videos in MP4 format along with options like selecting resolution, batch processing, extracting audio, downloading playlists, etc.
What are the benefits of saving YouTube videos in MP4 format?
The MP4 format offers high compressibility without compromising too much on quality. MP4 files take up less storage space and bandwidth. They are also playable on a wide range of devices and supported by all media players. Overall, MP4 offers the best combination of small file size and decent quality for online videos.
Conclusion: About YouTube to MP4 Converters
YouTube to MP4 converters provide an easy way to save streaming videos for offline playback. They can be downloaded in various resolutions up to 4K UHD. Both free and paid converters are available. Free ones may contain ads or limit the number/length of videos. Paid tools offer better speeds, formats, no limitations, and ad-free experience. However, always check the platform, limitations, ratings, and your needs before choosing a particular converter. Also, use them legally and ethically.
