The top YouTube downloaders for Windows users in 2024 include:
Softorino YouTube Converter 2 (SYC2)
This is a powerful and easy-to-use YouTube downloader for Windows 7, 8, and 10. It allows you to download YouTube videos in MP4 format directly to your computer. Key features include:
- Download individual videos or entire playlists with just a few clicks
- Convert YouTube videos to audio files like MP3
- Create GIFs from YouTube videos
- Free 24-hour trial, then $19.95 to purchase
SSYouTube
SSYouTube is a great free alternative to Y2Mate that lets you download videos from YouTube and other sites without signing up. It’s user-friendly and automatically detects video links. However, it doesn’t support full playlist downloads.
SnapDownloader
SnapDownloader is another comprehensive Y2Mate alternative with an easy interface. It can download videos up to 8K resolution, has a built-in video trimmer, and offers 24/7 customer support. But the free trial is limited to 48 hours.
10Downloader
10Downloader is a 100% free YouTube downloader that can grab videos, playlists, and Shorts in MP4 format. It offers high-quality downloads, but the free version is limited to 720p.
ClipConverter
ClipConverter is a simple, user-friendly online tool for quickly downloading videos from YouTube, Dailymotion, Facebook and more. It lets you choose from various video qualities and formats like MOV, AVI, and MP4. It also has a browser extension.
SaveFrom
SaveFrom is another free online YouTube downloader with a browser extension. It has a simple interface and works across many web browsers, but is limited to 720p downloads and has some pop-up ads.
KeepVid
KeepVid is a versatile site for downloading online videos and managing your video collection. It supports common formats like MP4 and MP3, but works with fewer websites compared to some other options.
In addition to these, some other top YouTube downloaders for Windows include:
4K Video Downloader
A powerful desktop app with features like 4K/360 video support, playlist downloads, and video/audio conversion. The free version has ads and limits.
aTube Catcher
A comprehensive tool with a converter, screen recorder, and DVD creator, though the interface is a bit dated.
Allavsoft Video and Audio Downloader
A freemium tool that works on Windows and Mac, compatible with many sites.
YTD Video Downloader
A freemium desktop and mobile app for downloading YouTube videos.
Freemake Video Downloader
A simple, easy-to-use app for batch downloading YouTube videos.
When it comes to Y2Mate and Save2MP3 specifically:
Y2Mate was a popular online YouTube downloader, but has faced increasing issues with reliability and safety in recent years. Many users have sought out alternative tools like the ones mentioned above that offer a safer, more stable experience. The key advantages of Y2Mate alternatives are:
- No need to deal with ads, pop-ups, or potential malware from sketchy sites
- Ability to download higher quality videos, playlists, and even 360/VR content
- More features like video conversion, GIF creation, and offline viewing
Save2MP3 was another well-known YouTube to MP3 converter, but has similarly fallen out of favor due to reliability problems and security concerns. The safer options today provide a better experience:
- Ability to download both video and audio from YouTube
- Conversion to a wider range of formats beyond just MP3
- Faster, more reliable downloads without the risk of malware
In summary, while services like Y2Mate and Save2MP3 were once popular, the best YouTube downloaders for Windows users in 2024 are desktop apps and online tools that offer a safer, more feature-rich experience. Softorino YouTube Converter 2, SSYouTube, SnapDownloader, and 4K Video Downloader are among the top choices that deliver high-quality downloads without the hassles.
