How to download YouTube videos legally (YouTube Premium)

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To download YouTube videos legally, you need a YouTube Premium subscription, which allows you to save videos for offline viewing directly within the YouTube app on supported devices. This feature is available on both mobile and desktop platforms, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite content without an internet connection.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start downloading YouTube videos, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •A valid YouTube Premium subscription (monthly fee applies).
  • •Compatible device: Android (5.0 or higher), iOS (11.0 or higher), or desktop (Windows 10/11, macOS).
  • •Latest version of the YouTube app installed on mobile devices or a compatible web browser on desktop.
  • •Sufficient storage space on your device for downloaded videos.

Method 1: Downloading Videos on Mobile Devices

This method is ideal for users who primarily watch YouTube on their smartphones or tablets. YouTube's mobile app provides a straightforward way to download videos for offline viewing.
  • •Step 1: Open the YouTube app on your mobile device.
  • •Step 2: Search for the video you want to download using the search bar at the top.
  • •Step 3: Tap on the video to open it, then look for the 'Download' button (downward arrow icon) located below the video player.
  • •Step 4: Select the desired video quality (e.g., 144p, 360p, 720p) from the pop-up menu.
  • •Step 5: Wait for the download to complete. You can check the progress in the 'Library' tab under 'Downloads'.
  • •Step 6: To verify it worked, go to the 'Library' tab and select 'Downloads' to see your downloaded videos.
  • •Step 7: If the download fails, ensure you have a stable internet connection and sufficient storage space.

For Android Devices

Android users can follow these specific steps:
  • •Ensure the YouTube app is updated to the latest version via the Google Play Store.
  • •If you encounter issues, try clearing the app cache by going to Settings > Apps > YouTube > Storage > Clear Cache.

For iOS Devices

iOS users should follow these specific steps:
  • •Ensure the YouTube app is updated to the latest version via the App Store.
  • •If the download option is not visible, check your Premium subscription status in the app settings.

Method 2: Downloading Videos on Desktop

This method is suitable for users who prefer watching YouTube on their computers. The desktop version allows for easy video downloads directly from the browser.
  • •Step 1: Open a web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) and navigate to the YouTube website.
  • •Step 2: Log in to your YouTube account with your Premium subscription.
  • •Step 3: Search for the video you want to download.
  • •Step 4: Click on the video to open it, then look for the 'Download' button (downward arrow icon) located below the video player.
  • •Step 5: Choose the video quality you wish to download.
  • •Step 6: The video will begin downloading, and you can check the progress in your browser's download manager.
  • •Step 7: To verify it worked, navigate to your downloads folder to find the video file.
  • •Step 8: If the download fails, ensure your browser is up to date and that you have sufficient storage space.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while trying to download videos, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Download failed' - Solution: Check your internet connection and ensure you have enough storage space.
  • •Issue: 'Download button not visible' - Fix: Ensure you are logged into your Premium account and that the video is eligible for download.
  • •Problem: 'Video not downloading' - Workaround: Restart the YouTube app or refresh the browser page and try again.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your YouTube experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Ctrl + Shift + D' (Windows) or 'Command + Shift + D' (Mac) - Quickly open the Downloads section in the YouTube app.
  • •Hidden feature: Background play - Enable this in the YouTube app settings to listen to videos while using other apps.
  • •Command line: Use browser developer tools (F12) to inspect elements if you encounter issues with the download button.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best downloading experience, always ensure your app is updated and check your internet connection before downloading.