9 BEST YouTube downloaders for Mac: Your complete 2026 workflow guide

Finding a YouTube downloader that actually works on Mac has become frustrating — many tools break when YouTube updates, free options are loaded with ads, and reliable apps cost a fortune. Yet with YouTube constantly updating its platform to block downloaders, finding reliable tools that actually work — and work well — has become increasingly challenging.

This guide provides real-world testing results for the most reliable YouTube downloaders for Mac users in 2026. You'll see exactly which use cases the tools cover, how they fit into Mac productivity workflows, and — most importantly — which ones are worth your time and money.

How to choose the right YouTube downloader

• If you need to download and trim specific video segments for content creation, choose Pulltube. For me, it’s the best downloader with built-in trimming by timecode before downloading.
• If you download from multiple platforms beyond YouTube, choose Downie. It supports 1,200+ sites, including Vimeo, TikTok, and Facebook, with consistent quality.
• If you're on a tight budget and only need occasional downloads, try ClipGrab (free) or Airy's trial (2 free downloads). Both handle basic needs but expect limited features and potential compatibility issues.
• If you prefer command-line tools and want maximum control, choose yt-dlp. It's the gold standard for power users — open-source, ad-free, and powerful.
• If you need automatic downloads from favorite channels, choose 4K Video Downloader's premium tier for subscription-based channel monitoring. However, the free tier was recently reduced from 10 to 3 daily downloads.
• If you primarily use Android, Snaptube provides unlimited mobile downloads, but be cautious of the intrusive ads and past security concerns.
• If you only need quick, one-off downloads without installing software, web-based Y2Mate works in a pinch. However, you may deal with aggressive ads and potential security risks.

Comparison: YouTube downloaders at a glance

App	Price	Best use case	Key differentiator	Platform
Downie	$19.99 standalone or Setapp	Bulk downloading from 1,200+ sites	Fastest download speeds, browser extensions	macOS
Pulltube	$14.99 standalone or Setapp	Trimming videos before download	Split/trim by timecode pre-download	macOS
4K Video Downloader	Free (10 downloads) or $15-$65	Channel subscriptions & playlists	Auto-download from channels	macOS, Windows, Linux, Android
Snaptube	Free (with ads)	Mobile downloading on Android	In-app video recommendations	Android only
Y2Mate	Free (with ads)	Quick web downloads	No installation required	Web-based
YT Cut Golem	$9–$55	Creating video clips	Cut before downloading	Web-based
Airy	$19.95 one-time	Simple YouTube-only downloads	Cleanest interface	macOS, Windows
ClipGrab	Free	Basic downloading with conversion	Built-in format converter	macOS, Windows, Linux
aTube Catcher	Free	All-in-one Windows solution	Screen recording + downloading	Windows only

Too many options? Just describe your use case to the free custom GPT All Video Downloader, and it will suggest the right tool for your needs in seconds.

Downie: The speed champion for Mac power users

Downie stands out for Mac users who need reliable, high-speed downloads from over 1,200 video platforms. The app is highly reliable and adapts to platform changes within hours. It's ideal for downloading large video collections or entire playlists without constant monitoring.

Best for:

Content creators, educators, and Mac users who regularly download videos from multiple platforms for offline viewing, archiving, or repurposing.

Problems Downie solves:

• Platform blocking frustration: While other downloaders break when YouTube updates, Downie typically releases fixes within 24 hours (Reddit users confirm updates usually arrive within hours to a day).
• Slow download speeds: In my testing on gigabit connections, it achieves 50-80 MB/s, downloading 4K videos in minutes rather than hours.
• Multi-platform chaos: Eliminates the need for different tools for YouTube, Vimeo, TikTok, and other platforms.

Downie’s feature benefits:

• Browser extension integration saves time by letting you download directly from Safari, Chrome, or Firefox without copying URLs.
• Audio-only extraction reduces file sizes by up to 90% when you just need podcasts or interviews.
• Subtitle downloading preserves accessibility and helps with language learning or content translation.
• Permute integration enables seamless format conversion without leaving your download workflow.

A Reddit user says: “Downie. It’s the only piece of software that I've paid for on macOS. YouTube regularly changes their software to break the downloading programs and Downie usually has an updated version within a few hours to a day to adapt.”

Downie’s strengths:

• Fastest download speeds among Mac downloaders (in my tests, consistently 2-3x faster than 4K Video Downloader and ClipGrab).
• Regular updates keep pace with platform changes.
• Clean, native Mac interface that feels like an Apple app.

Downie’s limitations:

• No trimming features — you download the entire video first.
• Higher price point than competitors if purchased standalone ($19.99).

Workflow example with Downie:

Here's how to download YouTube video with Downie:

1. Download, istall and open Downie.
2. Paste links to YouTube videos you need.
3. Select subtitles if needed.

Within minutes, all videos are downloaded and ready for offline viewing. Permute integration allows right-click conversion to HEVC for smaller file sizes without visible quality loss.

Using Downie in your workflow

Downie integrates smoothly with the Mac ecosystem. Downloaded videos can appear in your chosen folder (even in iCloud Drive for cross-device access), and you can use Shortcuts to automate downloads from specific channels. 

Content creators will definitely like the file-saving customization. In the settings, you can choose to sort your downloaded videos by website or by playlist. You can also customize the file name format. For example, it can include playlist information plus the title, the original name, the resolution, the website, and more.

Pricing:

• Standalone license: $19.99 (one-time purchase)
• Setapp subscription: Included with 260+ other Mac apps from $9.99/month

Tip Sometimes when I download a YouTube video, I don’t really need the video itself — just the content. In those cases, I use YouTube Video Summarizer, a free custom GPT tool. I just drop a link to the YouTube video, and the tool gives me a text summary — as detailed as I need, so I don’t have to spend time watching the whole video.

Pulltube: The content creator's precision tool

Pulltube is the best YouTube downloader for Mac that lets you trim videos by timecode before downloading — a significant advantage for content creators who need specific clips. This approach can reduce editing time from hours to minutes by eliminating the need to import, trim, and export full videos.

Pulltube is best for:

Video editors, content creators, social media managers, and educators who need specific segments from longer videos for tutorials, compilations, or reference materials.

Problems Pulltube solves:

• Storage waste from unwanted footage: Download only the segment you need from a longer video.
• Post-download editing time: Skip the import-trim-export cycle by getting exactly what you need upfront.
• Batch processing inefficiency: Queue multiple trimmed segments from different videos for overnight processing.

Pulltube’s feature benefits:

• Timecode precision trimming lets you specify exact start/end points down to the second.
• MP3 conversion extracts audio directly for podcast clips or background music.
• Multi-segment downloading from a single video creates multiple clips in one operation.
• Thumbnail extraction grabs high-quality preview images for your projects.
• Browser extension for Safari, Chrome, and Firefox allows you to download videos from YouTube even faster.

Pulltube’s strengths:

• One of the best YouTube downloader Mac apps with pre-download trimming capability.
• Intuitive visual timeline for selecting segments.
• Supports downloading from over 1,000 video platforms.

"As a video editor, downloading clips from YouTube used to wreck my workflow until I found PullTube on Setapp. What used to take me 2 hours now takes 5 minutes! PullTube lets me download high-quality videos from YouTube and 1000+ sites without the usual editing headaches.", says Alina Shevchenko, Video Editor, Director of photography.

Pulltube’s limitations:

• Preview mode can slightly lag on slower internet connections.
• No download history or library management features.

Workflow example with Pulltube:

Here's how to download YouTube video with Pulltube:

1. Download, istall and open Pulltube.
2. Paste links to YouTube videos you need.
3. Click the scissors next to the video thumbnail. 
4. If needed, scrub to the needed segment, set in/out points.
5. Click Download.

This saves significant time compared to downloading and editing full videos.

Using Pulltube in your workflow

You can set up pulltube to automatically open downloaded files in your chosen player or video editor — for me, that’s CameraBag Pro. Also, if a file is already downloaded on your MacBook, PullTube can automatically skip downloading it, which is great for avoiding clutter when you’re working on big projects.

Tip: Got unique workflows on Mac or specific work needs? Build your own toolkit in just a few seconds with a free, fast tool — the Setapp Toolkit Builder. Just describe your use case or name your profession, and it will create the perfect toolkit for you.

Pulltube pricing:

• Standalone license: $19.99 (one-time purchase)
• Setapp subscription: Included with 260+ other Mac apps for $9.99/month

4K Video Downloader: The channel subscription specialist

4K Video Downloader specializes in automatic channel subscriptions — set it up once, and new videos from your favorite creators download automatically. However, the recent reduction from 10 to 3 daily downloads on the free plan significantly limits functionality for regular users, with Reddit threads showing complaints about the limitation.

Best for:

YouTube power users who follow specific channels and want automatic offline archives of new content.

Problems solved:

• Manual checking for new videos: Automatically downloads new uploads from subscribed channels.
• Quality inconsistency: Preset configurations ensure every download uses your preferred resolution and format.
• Playlist organization chaos: Downloads entire playlists with proper numbering and folder structure.

Feature benefits:

• Smart Mode applies your preferred settings to all downloads automatically.
• 8K support future-proofs your video archive for ultra-high-resolution displays.
• In-app proxy bypasses regional restrictions without separate VPN software.
• Subtitle synchronization downloads and embeds subtitles directly into video files.

Strengths:

• One of the best automatic channel monitoring among all downloaders.
• Cross-platform availability (macOS, MS Windows, Ubuntu) maintains consistency across devices.
• Detailed quality options including 60fps preservation.

Limitations:

• Free plan severely limited (3 downloads/day, no simultaneous downloads).
• Premium pricing varies by tier, ranging from $15 to $65, with the best features — like in-app YouTube subscriptions or high-quality audio — available on the priciest tiers.

Workflow example:

Here's a typical workflow example: Subscribe to your favorite YouTube channels though 4K Video Downloader. The app automatically checks for new videos and downloads them to your chosen folder in 1080p with embedded subtitles, ready for offline viewing.

Using in your workflow:

4K Video Downloader works well with cloud storage services. Point it to your Dropbox or Google Drive folder for automatic syncing across devices.

Pricing info:

• Free: 10 downloads, single downloads only
• Lite: $15/year 
• Personal: $25/lifetime
• Pro: $60/lifetime
• Bundle: $65/lifetime (includes all 4K Download apps)

Snaptube: Android's controversial favorite

Snaptube is one of the most popular downloaders for Android. This app offers high-speed free downloads from all major platforms, including YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Vimeo, Dailymotion, and many more. 

While some long-term users remember Snaptube as an app with security concerns back in 2019, it seems to have been on the right track since then. The app doesn’t require you to register or share any personal information, and it claims to be fully local and private. Its official APK files are certified with developer signatures and are designed to prevent infections or malicious code injection.

Best for:

Android users who prioritize free, unlimited downloads. 

Problems solved:

• Mobile download limitations: Downloads directly to Android devices without computer transfer.
• Platform variety on mobile: Supports 100+ video platforms beyond YouTube.
• Discovery paralysis: Built-in recommendation engine suggests content based on preferences.

Feature benefits:

• Unlimited downloads with no daily restrictions or file size limits.
• Multiple quality options from 144p to 4K for bandwidth management.
• Background downloading continues even when using other apps.
• Built-in media player eliminates need for separate video apps.

Strengths:

• Completely free with no premium tiers.
• Supports 40+ languages.
• Downloads playlists.

Limitations:

• The app isn’t available on the Google Play Store because it violates Google’s policies, and there may be malware-infected clones if it’s downloaded outside the official website. You should be careful not to download a third-party APK that could be infected.
• Intrusive ads.

Workflow example

Android users report downloading entire playlists before flights. Open the app, search for your playlist, select quality, and queue all videos. The app downloads in the background, ready for offline viewing.

Using in your workflow

Since Snaptube is Android-only, Mac users can transfer videos via Google Drive or AnyDroid. For better Mac integration, Downie or Pulltube offer cleaner, safer experiences with native Mac apps.

Pricing:

• Completely free (ad-supported)
• No premium version available

Y2Mate: The Quick and Dirty Web Solution

Y2Mate can serve as an emergency option when other tools aren't available, though the security risks make it unsuitable for regular use. While the service is functional, its behavior is frustrating. It constantly redirects you to other pages in new windows after each click, makes you confirm that you’re human, uses aggressive advertising, and forces you to wait 15 seconds before each download starts.

Best for:

Occasional users who need one-off downloads and are prepared to manage advertising and security risks.

Problems solved:

• Software installation barriers: Works entirely in your browser.
• Cross-platform needs: Functions identically on any OS with a web browser.
• Quick single downloads: Faster than installing an app for one video.

Feature benefits:

• URL trick functionality (add "sos" before "youtube") enables downloading with less clicks.
• Built-in search finds videos without leaving the site.
• Multiple format options including MP3 audio extraction.
• No registration required for anonymous downloading.

Strengths:

• No download limits or restrictions.
• Works on any device with a browser.
• Supports basic format conversion.

Limitations:

• Opens new ad tabs with every download attempt.
• Reports of fake security warnings and malware in ads.

Workflow example:

Y2Mate can serve as an emergency option when other tools aren't available. Here’s how to download video with Y2Mate:

1. Copy the YouTube URL.
2. Paste it into Y2Mate.
3. Close the ad tabs that open.
4. Select your desired format, and download. 

Alternatively, add “sos” befor”youtube” in the URL, for example: https://www.sosyoutube.com/watch?v=abcdefg.

The process is functional but comes with significant security trade-offs.

Using in your workflow:

If you must use Y2Mate or similar downloaders, protect yourself: use an ad blocker and avoid clicking on ads or warnings. For regular use, a desktop app is safer and more efficient.

Pricing:

• Free (heavily ad-supported)
• No premium option available

YT Cut Golem: The clip specialist

YT Cut Golem fills a unique niche — creating short clips from YouTube videos without downloading the full file. While limited in features, it excels at its singular purpose.

Best for:

Social media managers and content creators who need quick GIFs or short clips for posts and presentations.

Problems solved:

• Full video storage waste: Extract only the clip you need.
• GIF creation complexity: Convert video segments directly to GIF format.
• Quick social media content: Create shareable clips in under a minute.

Feature benefits:

• Direct GIF conversion creates social-media-ready content instantly.
• No software installation — works entirely in your browser.
• Multiple output formats (MP4, MP3, GIF) from a single interface.
• Free 4K downloads when you need maximum quality clips.

Strengths:

• Simple, focused interface without feature bloat.
• Good GIF quality optimization.

Limitations:

• Manual timeline scrubbing lacks precision (no timecode input).
• Slow processing, especially for longer clips.

Workflow example

You can easily download short clips from YouTube and convert them on the go. One of the best use cases that comes to mind is creating GIFs for reactions in conversations. For example, here’s how to create a reaction GIF for Slack:

1. Create an account in YT Cut Golem website and subscribe for the service (you can get refund during 7 days).
2. Paste a YouTube URL into YT Cut Golem.
3. Isolate the desired segment.
4. Select GIF output and gownload. 

The process is quick and the resulting GIF is ready for messaging apps.

Pricing:

• $9/month, $18/year, or $55 for lifetime access.

Airy: The minimalist's choice

Airy works well for users who prefer simplicity over advanced features. With the cleanest interface among all YouTube downloaders I’ve seen, it focuses solely on YouTube and does it well — though the 2-download trial is limited.

Best for:

Casual users who value simplicity and only need YouTube downloads without extra features.

Problems solved:

• Interface overwhelm: Clean design requires no learning curve.
• YouTube-only focus: No confusion about platform compatibility.
• Age-restricted content: Built-in authentication handles restricted videos.

Feature benefits:

• One-click downloading with smart quality detection.
• Playlist support downloads entire collections with proper ordering.
• MP3 extraction for music and podcasts.
• Browser integration adds download button directly to YouTube.

Strengths:

• No need to log in.
• Easiest YouTube downloader to use.
• Native Mac app with excellent performance.
• Reliable subtitle downloading with language selection.

Limitations:

• Limited to YouTube only (no other platforms).
• Restrictive trial (only 2 downloads) makes evaluation difficult.

Workflow example:

Airy works well for users who prefer simplicity over advanced features. Install the browser extension, and simply click the "Download with Airy" button on YouTube. The app selects the best quality and downloads to your chosen folder—no configuration needed.

Pricing:

• Trial: 2 free downloads
• Personal License: $19.95 (one-time purchase)
• Family Pack (3 Macs): $39.95

ClipGrab: The free alternative that (mostly) works

ClipGrab remains one of the few genuinely free YouTube downloaders without ads or premium upsells. However, irregular updates mean it occasionally breaks when YouTube changes its system.

Best for:

Budget-conscious users who can tolerate occasional downtime and don't need advanced features or regular updates.

Problems solved:

• Cost barriers: Completely free without hidden charges or premium features.
• Format confusion: Built-in converter handles format selection automatically.
• Multi-platform needs: Downloads from YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, and others.

Feature benefits:

• Integrated format conversion eliminates need for separate apps.
• Built-in search finds videos without visiting YouTube.
• Clipboard monitoring automatically detects copied video URLs.
• MPEG4 and MP3 presets optimize for common use cases.

Strengths:

• Truly free with no ads or premium versions.
• Cross-platform across Mac, Windows, and Linux.
• Lightweight app with minimal system requirements.

Limitations:

• Irregular updates can lead to compatibility breaks.
• No advanced features.

Workflow example:

If you’re using Windows or Linux machine, you might appreciate ClipGrab's reliability. Copy a YouTube URL, and ClipGrab detects it and prompts for download. Choose your format and quality, and download. When it works, it's simple and effective.

Pricing:

• Completely free (donations accepted)
• No premium version exists

aTube Catcher: Windows' swiss army knife

aTube Catcher attempts to be everything — downloader, converter, screen recorder, and DVD burner. While feature-rich, you may consider its interface cluttered and a bit inconvinient.

Best for:

Windows users who want an all-in-one media tool and are comfortable with careful installation to avoid bundled software.

Problems solved:

• Tool proliferation: Replaces multiple separate applications.
• Screen recording needs: Captures screen alongside downloading capabilities.
• Format compatibility: Supports obscure formats like 3GP and MKV.

Feature benefits:

• Screen recording captures tutorials and presentations.
• Audio recording from system or microphone.
• DVD/VCD/SVCD burning for physical media creation.
• Batch processing handles multiple files simultaneously.

Strengths:

• Comprehensive feature set unmatched by other free tools.
• Supports downloading from dozens of video platforms.
• Includes basic video editing (trim, merge, resize).

Limitations:

• Windows-only with no Mac or Linux versions.
• Reports of malware in installer require careful attention (to be on the safe side, I decided to check for malware before using the app, and I was relieved to find that everything was okay.)

Workflow example

Windows users report using aTube Catcher as a complete media solution: download a tutorial, record your screen, trim and merge clips, then burn to DVD — all in one application. However, since aTube Catcher is Windows-only, Mac users should look elsewhere.

Pricing:

• Free, no premium version available

Making your final decision on the best YouTube downloader in 2026

After testing dozens of YouTube downloaders, the choice depends on your specific workflow needs and platform preferences.

• For Mac users: The Downie and Pulltube combination through Setapp provides comprehensive value — both specialized tools plus 260+ other apps. Downie handles bulk downloads and multi-platform needs, while Pulltube's trimming capabilities save hours in post-production.
• For those seeking free options: ClipGrab offers the best balance of features and safety, though be prepared for occasional compatibility issues. Web-based tools like Y2Mate work in emergencies but come with security trade-offs.

The key is matching the tool to your needs: content creators need trimming and quality preservation (Pulltube), bulk downloaders need speed and reliability (Downie), and casual users need simplicity (Airy or ClipGrab).

For a comprehensive video downloading solution, Setapp includes both Downie and Pulltube alongside 260+ other productivity tools with a 7-day free trial. This combination provides a complete solution for most YouTube downloading needs. Try Setapp for 7 days free so you can figure out which one works best for you.