Did you know you can download YouTube videos using VLC Media Player? Yes, that’s right! No need for third-party software or sketchy websites. VLC, the trusty media player, can do more than just play videos. It can also help you save them to your device.
Follow this simple guide to download YouTube videos using VLC.
Step 1: Install VLC Media Player
Before we begin, make sure you have VLC installed on your computer. If you don’t have it yet:
- Go to the official VLC website: www.videolan.org.
- Download and install the latest version for your operating system.
Once installed, you’re ready to go!
Step 2: Copy the YouTube Video URL
Now, find the YouTube video you want to download and copy the URL:
- Open YouTube and search for your desired video.
- Click on it, then copy the link from the address bar.
Simple, right?
Step 3: Open VLC and Paste the Link
Now, let’s bring VLC into the picture.
- Open VLC Media Player.
- Click on Media in the top menu.
- Select Open Network Stream.
- Paste the copied YouTube URL into the text box.
- Click Play.
Your video should start playing inside VLC. If it does, you’re on the right track!
Step 4: Get the Direct Video URL
Now, we need the direct link to the video file.
- While the video is playing, click Tools in the top menu.
- Select Codec Information.
- At the bottom, you’ll see a long link in the Location field.
- Copy this entire link.
Almost done!
Step 5: Download the Video
Time to grab the video file!
- Open your web browser.
- Paste the copied link into the address bar and press Enter.
- The video should start playing directly in the browser.
Now, just right-click on the video and choose Save Video As…. Pick a destination on your computer and click Save.
Alternative: Using VLC Playlist
In some cases, the steps above might not work due to YouTube’s streaming restrictions. If that happens, try this method:
- In VLC, go to View and select Playlist.
- The video will appear in the playlist.
- Right-click the video and choose Save.
This method doesn’t always work, but it’s worth a shot!
Why Use VLC to Download YouTube Videos?
There are many reasons to use VLC for this:
- It’s free. No need to pay for expensive software.
- No ads. Say goodbye to annoying pop-ups and fake download buttons.
- Safe and secure. Unlike shady websites, VLC keeps your device safe.
Legal Note
Before downloading videos, remember to respect copyrights. Many YouTube videos are protected, and downloading them without permission might violate YouTube’s terms of service. Always make sure you have the right to download a video.
Final Thoughts
Downloading YouTube videos using VLC is quick and easy. No external tools needed! Just follow the steps, and you’ll have your favorite videos saved in no time.
Now, go ahead and give it a try. Happy downloading!
