Guide: Download Music from YouTube on Mobile & PC

Key Takeaways
  • YouTube has strict guidelines on downloading content, emphasizing respect for copyright and artist rights, highlighting the need for using legal methods like YouTube Music Premium.
  • Use YouTube Music Premium or other legitimate services for downloading music, prioritizing copyright adherence and artist support.
  • Choose reliable and safe methods for downloading music, considering the quality of the download and the security of the device being used.

Have you ever come across an amazing song or catchy background tune on YouTube and wished you could download it directly to your device? You’re not alone in wanting to enjoy YouTube music offline, but downloading directly from YouTube isn’t as simple as it seems.

Download music from YouTube
Download music from YouTube

However, you can download your favorite YouTube music as MP3s using reliable applications. This guide explains YouTube’s downloading rules, how to use YouTube Music Premium, download options for your computer, other software solutions, online converters, and mobile downloads. With these tips, you can enjoy your YouTube tracks anytime, anywhere.

YouTube’s Music Downloading Policies

Before downloading music from YouTube, it’s important to understand their rules. Not all music videos are downloadable due to strict copyright laws protecting artists and creators. YouTube prohibits downloading audio unless it’s explicitly allowed by YouTube or you have permission from the content owner. Following these guidelines is essential to respect artists’ rights.

YouTube’s music downloading policies

Download Music From YouTube With YouTube Premium

YouTube Premium is a subscription service that allows you to watch videos without advertisements. With YouTube Premium, you can also download music using YouTube Music for offline listening.

This is the most legitimate way to download music from YouTube without violating their policies. By subscribing, you support both the platform and the artists. To download your favorite tracks using YouTube Music, simply follow these steps:

  1. First, open the YouTube Music app on your device. Ensure you’re subscribed to the Premium plan. Locate the song you wish to download.
    Find and play your favorite music
    Find and play your favorite music
  2. Next, tap the three dots beside the song and select the “Download” option.
    Tap on Download
    Tap on Download

The music will begin downloading instantly, allowing you to listen offline even if you’re not connected to the internet. However, note that the downloaded music is only accessible via the YouTube Music app.

Download Music From YouTube on Mobile

Download music from YouTube on mobile

Google and Apple don’t support apps on their stores that allow downloading YouTube audio. Some third-party tools can do this, but they often require altering your phone’s settings.

This may involve jailbreaking your iPhone or permitting Android apps from external sources, which can compromise your phone’s stability and security.

↪ Download Music from YouTube on Android

Even with the restrictions on official app stores, there are still ways to download music from YouTube on your Android device.

NOTE: This method is less recommended due to potential risks from downloading apps from unknown sources. Always exercise caution with APK files to prevent harm to your mobile device.

VidMate

VidMate is an Android app that allows downloading HD videos from platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter. You can find the VidMate APK for Android online. VidMate lets you download videos from YouTube and convert them to MP3 files effortlessly.

Here’s how to use VidMate:

  1. Search for the video using the VidMate app, or copy the YouTube link and paste it into VidMate’s search field before tapping “Go.”
    Tap on Go after adding the URL
    Tap on Go after adding the URL
  2. Select the “Download” button.
    Tap on Download Button
    Tap on Download Button
  3. Opt to save the video as music or in different video resolutions. Choose your preference and press “Download” again.
    Tap on Download again
    Tap on Download again

With VidMate, you can opt to download the entire video or just the MP3 audio. The downloaded music will be saved on your phone and can be accessed anytime.

↪ Other option for Android devices

Aside from VidMate, other reliable options exist for downloading music from YouTube on Android devices. Here’s a trusted recommendation:

SnapTube

SnapTube Android app

SnapTube is a fast, user-friendly Android app for downloading MP3s from YouTube. It sorts videos by categories like most viewed, daily recommendations, and popular, simplifying the search process. Enter the video name in the search bar to find it.

You can download videos for offline viewing, and SnapTube offers various search and download quality options to help conserve space on your Android device.

↪ Download Music From YouTube on iPhone

Download music from YouTube on iPhone

Downloading music from YouTube on an iPhone is more difficult than on Android, mainly due to iOS and App Store restrictions on apps that enable direct downloads. Additionally, iPhones often block apps installed via IPA files.

The most reliable way to download music from YouTube on an iPhone is through a YouTube Music Premium subscription, which legally allows offline song downloads. While you can use web browsers like Safari to convert videos into audio files, be aware of potential downsides like lower audio quality, security risks, and intrusive ads.

Download music from YouTube on Desktop

Downloading music from YouTube onto your computer can be tricky, as many websites offering conversion services are unreliable or unsafe due to intrusive ads and harmful links. Alternatively, consider using “4K YouTube to MP3,” a reliable desktop program.

The program is user-friendly and available for both macOS and Windows platforms. Here’s how you can utilize it:

  1. Visit the 4K Download website, find “Get 4K YouTube to MP3,” and download it for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Ubuntu).
    Go to the 4K Download website look for Get 4K YouTube to MP3
    Go to the 4K Download website look for Get 4K YouTube to MP3
  2. Open the installer after downloading and follow the on-screen instructions. Allow the program to open after installation.
    After downloading open the installer and follow the instructions
    Open the installer and follow the instructions
  3. Identify a YouTube video that’s free to use, and copy its URL from your browser or use the Share button underneath the video.
    Copy the URL of the music video
    Copy the URL of the music video
  4. Launch the “4K YouTube to MP3” application and click on “Paste Link.”
    Click Paste Link
    Click Paste Link
  5. This action will initiate the conversion of the video to MP3 format, followed by the download.
    This will start the process
    This will start the process
  6. Once the download is complete, you can play the MP3 in the program or locate the file on your computer by selecting “Show in folder.”
    You can play the MP3 in the program or find the file on your computer by clicking Show in folder
    Click Show in folder
  7. You can adjust the audio quality and format in the Preferences section. Select different qualities and formats like MP3, MP4, or OGG, and specify where to store your downloads.
    You can change the audio quality and format in the Preferences area
    You can change the audio quality and format in the Preferences area

↪ Other software options

For alternatives to 4K YouTube to MP3, consider these software programs. They provide similar capabilities for converting YouTube videos into audio files on your computer.

1. Cisdem Video Converter

Cisdem Video Converter Homepage

Cisdem Video Converter is well-suited for both Windows and Mac users looking to download music from YouTube. It supports video and audio downloads from over 1000 websites, including YouTube, offering a wide range of accessible content.

This software is proficient in converting downloads into various audio formats such as MP3, M4A, and FLAC without compromising quality. Its straightforward interface makes it a favorite among those seeking an uncomplicated way to download and transform YouTube music for offline enjoyment.

2. Macsome YouTube Music Downloader

Macsome YouTube Music Downloader Homepage

Macsome YouTube Music Downloader is a convenient desktop application perfect for downloading and converting YouTube Music into popular audio formats like MP3, FLAC, WAV, AAC, AIFF, and ALAC. Remarkably, it doesn’t require a premium subscription to be effective. It retains essential ID3 tags and lyrics, ensuring a comprehensive offline listening experience.

Known for its speedy conversion capabilities and built-in music player, Macsome is a complete solution for those eager to enjoy YouTube music offline across different devices. It’s a practical, user-friendly tool for music enthusiasts.

Download Music from YouTube with Online Music Converter

Online YouTube to music converter

Online YouTube converters can quickly turn video music into MP3 files. Most converters can easily handle this task, and some even offer the option to save music in various file formats.

For high-quality audio, consider trying out these websites:

For lower-quality audio, these sites might be useful:

Many YouTube to MP3 websites exist, but not all are safe. It’s essential to use antivirus protection when downloading from these sites.

Choose a converter from the list, but remember that online downloaders may not always be legal, and they could be shut down at any time. Using an ad blocker is advisable, as these sites often have numerous ads, some of which may be harmful.

FAQs

Are YouTube music downloaders safe to use on my device?

While some YouTube music downloaders are safe, others may come with risks like ads or malware. It’s best to use well-known downloaders with a good reputation to ensure safety. Keeping your antivirus program updated can provide extra security.

Is it legal to download music from YouTube using third-party websites?

The legality of downloading music from YouTube using third-party websites is a complex issue. Generally, downloading content from YouTube without permission violates YouTube’s terms of service. It’s important to respect copyright laws and only download music in the public domain or for which you have explicit permission from the copyright holder.

Why can’t I find an app on the App Store to download music from YouTube?

Apple’s App Store policies are strict regarding apps that enable downloading content from YouTube, as this often violates YouTube’s terms of service. As a result, you will not find apps on the App Store that allow you to download music directly from YouTube.

Can I transfer downloaded music from YouTube Music Premium to other devices?

The music downloaded via YouTube Music Premium is designed to be played within the YouTube Music app and is typically protected by digital rights management. It cannot be transferred directly to other devices or played using different software.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Khalid Ali


Khalid is a versatile analyst honing his expertise for the past 5 years. With certifications from Google and IBM to back him up, his knowledge extends far beyond the routine coverage of the latest trends and in the industry.