11 best YouTube to MP3 converters: Desktop and online tools

If you’re like me, you’ve got a playlist for everything — work, workouts, road trips, and even that 10-hour white noise track to help you sleep. But sometimes, you just want to enjoy the audio without keeping a video running or burning through data. That’s where YouTube to MP3 converters come in. 

So, whether you need a calming meditation track or want to build the ultimate car karaoke playlist, here’s my guide to the best YouTube to MP3 converters — tested and approved.

The 11 best YouTube to MP3 converters

I value your time, so I've organized all the solutions from this article into a short list to help you find the best tools quickly and easily. 

App	Desktop or online?	Best for…	Pricing
Pulltube	Desktop	Downloading and trimming YouTube videos in audio formats like MP3 and M4A.	Available on Setapp from $9.99/month
Downie	Desktop	Extracting high-quality audio directly from over 1,200 websites.	Available on Setapp from $9.99/month
Permute	Desktop	Converting videos to multiple formats and extracting audio effortlessly, especially when paired with Downie.	Available on Setapp from $9.99/month
4K YouTube to MP3	Desktop	Downloading entire playlists and channels with a built-in search for easy access.	Free with paid plans from €10
ClipGrab	Desktop	Quick downloads from YouTube, Vimeo, and more, with a built-in search feature for convenience.	Free
YTMP3	Online	Fast, free, and secure online YouTube to MP3 conversion with minimal steps.	Free
AISEO	Online	Hassle-free YouTube Shorts, playlists, and video-to-MP3 conversion with no ads or sign-ups.	Free
Yt1s	Online	Saving YouTube MP3 files directly to Google Drive or Dropbox for easy cloud storage.	Free
EzMP3	Online	Downloading ad-free, high-quality MP3 files, even for videos up to 12 hours long.	Free
Converto	Online	Quick and convenient conversion with added options to trim videos and edit metadata for better organization.	Free
EasyMP3Converter	Online	Unlimited conversions with multiple quality options.	Free

What is a YouTube to MP3 converter?

But first, let’s break it down: a YouTube to MP3 converter is basically the ultimate hack for extracting the soundtrack of your favorite videos. This tool transforms that video into an MP3 file you can take anywhere — offline and (hopefully) ad-free.

These converters come in two types: apps with MP3 conversion as one of their features (like multitasking YouTube downloaders) or services where you paste a link, press a button, and boom — you’ve got an MP3. 

Here’s what you need to know before diving in:

• Safety first. This one’s a biggie, and I learned it the hard way. When I first started using online converters, I wasn’t too careful, clicked on random pop-ups, and had a minor freak-out moment. Lesson learned: not all converters are your friends. Stick to trusted apps, avoid sketchy pop-ups, and never download files unless you’re 100% sure they’re legit. 
• Speed is everything. No one has time to wait hours for conversions, especially when you have a whole playlist. A solid converter should handle ten 3-minute videos in under a minute. 
• Keep the quality high. The best converters preserve the original sound quality.

Whether you’re looking for fast downloads, high-quality audio, or just a safe way to save your favorites, there’s something here for everyone. 

Is YouTube convert to MP3 legal?

The answer isn’t as straightforward as we’d like. YouTube’s terms of service are pretty clear, and downloading videos or audio without permission (unless you’re using YouTube Premium’s offline feature) is a no-go. So, technically, using a converter for copyrighted content? Not allowed.

But if you’re converting your videos, public domain content, or royalty-free music, you’re all good. For example, I’ve downloaded background tracks from royalty-free music channels for editing Reels and TikToks. Just make sure the creator allows it.

Avoid the temptation to convert that trending track from a music video unless you want to deal with legal drama. Stick to content you know is free to use or your uploads. 

Top picks: Best YouTube to MP3 converters

Next, I’ll share why I picked these apps and tools and what I like and don’t like about them, starting with my favorite one.

1. Pulltube: Download YouTube videos in audio format, plus trimming

Pulltube is hands down my favorite. It’s safe, fast, and super reliable. But what really sets it apart is how much it can do. Need to download a YouTube video? Check. Want to extract just the audio? Done. Oh, and trimming the track before you save it? Easy. 

Here’s how to turn YouTube into MP3 with Pulltube:

1. Paste or drag your video link into the app.
2. Click HQ, then select Audio only.
3. Click Download, and you’re good to go.

Pros:

• Format flexibility. You’re not stuck with just MP3. You can save audio tracks as MP3 or M4A, depending on your need. This is perfect for switching between devices or platforms.
• So many websites. Pulltube works with hundreds of them, not just YouTube. I’ve used it to grab audio from Facebook, Dailymotion, and even some niche platforms.
• Trimming and subtitles. 

Cons:

• Browser extensions. Pulltube offers browser extensions for downloading, which sounds convenient, but let’s be honest — browser extensions can feel sketchy. I avoid them and stick to the app.
• No preview option. 

Overall, it’s a fantastic app, but a few tweaks could make it even better.

2. Downie: Extract high-quality audio directly from the video.

Downie is my second go-to app for downloading videos on my Mac — it works with over 1,200 websites, including big names like YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, and Instagram. Whether I need a full 4K video or just the audio, Downie has me covered. You just drag and drop a URL, and Downie takes care of the rest. Plus, if you’re using Setapp, Downie integrates seamlessly with Permute, a powerful media converter. Together, they form the ultimate duo for converting videos to any format you need.

How to convert with Downie and Permute:

1. Copy the link to the video you want.
2. Paste it into Downie or drag and drop the URL directly into the app.
3. In Downie, click the drop-down menu (it starts with No Postprocessing).
4. Select Extract Audio Only.

Pros:

• Amazing integration with Permute (we’ll speak about it next). Together, they can handle any audio or video format you need.
• Search directly in-app.
• High-quality downloads (4K resolution).
• Simple drag-and-drop.

Cons:

• The app would benefit from other popular file formats.
• Browser extension concerns. Downie offers extensions for faster access, but you might prefer the manual drag-and-drop method if you're wary of extensions.

3. Permute: Converting video to multiple formats

Here’s the dream team setup: use Downie to download your favorite YouTube videos, then let Permute extract the audio as MP3. Once Downie grabs the video, just send it to Permute, pick your desired format, and let it work magic.

How to Convert YouTube to MP3 with Permute and Downie:

1. Copy the YouTube link, paste it into Downie, and download the video.
2. Open Permute and drag the downloaded video into the app.
3. Choose the MP3 format from the drop-down menu.
4. Click Convert, and your audio file will be ready in seconds.

Pros:

• Multi-format support.
• Speedy conversions.
• Merge videos, add subtitles, or even prepare files for DVD burning. 

Cons:

• Requires Downie for downloads. If you want to extract audio from online videos, you’ll need Downie to download them first.
• No advanced editing features. 
• File management is needed.

4. 4K YouTube to MP3: Download playlists in different formats

As someone who loves creating playlists for everything (work, gym, road trips — you name it), 4K YouTube to MP3 has been a lifesaver. The free plan allows up to 5 downloads daily, perfect for my needs when curating a vibe or saving a few tracks for offline listening. I’ve even used it to grab audio from entire playlists or channels — it handles it all.

Here’s the cool part: I can paste a video link directly or search for my video in the app. Once I pick my audio format (usually MP3), I just click download and boom — my file is ready.

Pros:

• Easy for beginners. The app’s onboarding is clear, and the interface is straightforward, so there’s zero confusion.
• Built-in search. You don’t need to switch between the app and YouTube — it’s all in one place.

Cons:

• Free plan limit. With 5 daily downloads, I sometimes wish for more, especially on playlist-heavy days.
• Some users complain it poorly re-encodes the audio to MP3, depending on your extraction option.

If you’re someone who appreciates convenience and security, 4K YouTube to MP3 is a solid pick.

5. ClipGrab: Extract audio in various formats.

ClipGrab is a free video downloader and converter that works with YouTube, Vimeo, and a handful of other popular sites (which is cool!). The built-in search sets it apart, so you can find and download tracks directly within the app. 

Here’s how I’ve used it: Type your video’s title or keywords into the app’s search bar, pick the video from the results, select Audio only for the format, and click Grab this clip. Super simple.

Pros:

• Multiple formats. You’re not stuck with just MP3. ClipGrab also supports OGG, WMV, and more.

• User-friendly. Search, select, download — this app is straightforward and perfect for quick tasks.

Cons:

• Annoying popups.
• Sketchy reputation. While the Mac version seems safe, the Windows version has faced accusations of spreading malware.

6. YTMP3 — safest online YouTube to MP3 converter

YTMP3 is a free online tool. It’s fast and doesn’t make you jump through hoops to get your download (plus, I’m in love with their interface!). I’ve used it a few times when I wanted to grab an audiobook or a chill playlist for offline listening.

One standout feature of YTMP3 is its balance of speed and quality. The tool compresses the file size without compromising the sound, which is great if you’re downloading a lot of content or have limited storage.

How to use YTMP3:

1. Copy the YouTube video URL from the app or site.
2. Paste the link into YTMP3’s input box.
3. Select MP3 or MP4 as your format.
4. Click the download button, and voilà, it’s ready in seconds.

Pros:

• Free and easy to use. No hidden fees or complicated steps.
• They promise encrypted links, which adds peace of mind when downloading.
• Fast conversion. Even long videos take just a few seconds to convert.

Cons:

• Occasional disruptions or delays in converting YouTube videos to MP3 files may appear.
• No advanced features.

7. AISEO: Zero ads YouTube to MP3 converter

When I stumbled upon AISEO, I was skeptical — aren’t all these YouTube to MP3 converters the same? It turns out that this one is a rare find. There are no pop-ups, ads, or sign-ups—just pure convenience.

Here’s how I’ve used it: I often need background tracks or podcast clips on the go, and with AISEO, I can quickly grab high-quality audio files directly to my phone. It's my secret weapon for building a mini offline playlist without breaking a sweat.

Pros:

• No need to pay, sign up, or worry about hidden fees.
• Quick conversions. Lightning-fast processing, even for longer videos or playlists.
• Ad-free experience. 
• High-quality audio.

Cons:

• Have limited support for converting specific video formats or resolutions.
• Can have a lack of frequent updates or improvements, which may result in compatibility issues with the latest YouTube changes.

8. YT1s: Save MP3 straight to Google Drive or Dropbox

Let’s talk about Yt1s — yes, another YouTube to MP3 converter with a name that sounds like it was chosen by a random generator. But hey, the name doesn’t matter as long as it gets the job done, right? And Yt1s really does. It’s fast, free, and works seamlessly on any device. 

How to Use Yt1s to convert YouTube videos to MP3

1. Copy the YouTube video link you want to convert.
2. Paste the link into Yt1s’ input box on their website.
3. Choose audio quality.
4. Click Convert.
5. Download the file to your device or save it straight to Google Drive or Dropbox.

That’s it — no apps to install, no sign-ups, and no unnecessary steps. Just click, convert, and enjoy.

Pros:

• No limits on how many videos you can convert.
• High-quality audio options: up to 320kbps.
• Works on Android, iPhone, Mac, PC, and every browser under the sun — Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and more.
• Cloud storage integration. Save your MP3 files directly to Google Drive or Dropbox.

Cons:

• It can have intrusive ads or redirects on the website.
• The design is functional, but nothing to write home about.

9. EzMP3: Download up to 12 hours of audio 

EzMP3 is the kind of YouTube to MP3 converter that feels like it was built with people like me in mind — those who just want things to work without jumping through a million hoops. It’s ad-free (yes, really), fast, and ridiculously easy to use. Whether I’m downloading a podcast to listen to during my commute, an audiobook for a long drive, or some white noise to drown out city chaos, EzMP3 gets it done without any drama.

Here’s what makes EzMP3 stand out: it doesn’t try to trick you with pop-ups or annoying ads. It’s fully supported by donations, which means you get a clean, safe experience every time. Oh, and did I mention you can convert videos up to 12 hours long?

Pros:

• Ad-free. No pop-ups, no sneaky redirects, just pure functionality.
• It handles long videos (up to 12 hours!) with impressive speed.
• From 64 kbps to 320 kbps.
• Completely free. Supported by donations, so you’re never forced to pay.

Cons:

• Lacks advanced features or customization options compared to other YouTube to MP3 converters.
• Can limit user preferences for specific audio outputs.

10. Converto: Quick and convenient YouTube to MP3 Converter

Converto is a simple online tool that gets straight to the point: converting YouTube videos to MP3 or MP4. What makes it stand out is the ability to trim your video and edit metadata before downloading. If you’re like me and have playlists full of random audio tracks, this feature is a lifesaver for keeping things neat and organized.

Here’s how it works: paste your YouTube link, choose MP3, and click the settings button to crop the video or tweak metadata like titles or artist info. Once you're done, just click Convert. It’s as easy as it sounds.

Pros:

• Metadata editing. 
• Fast conversion online.

Cons:

• While using Converto, you may encounter annoying popups. Just be cautious — one wrong click can result in downloading something sketchy.
• Limitations in handling large or lengthy video conversions.

11. EasyMP3Converter: No limitations on conversions and nice UI

This is one of those tools I use when I’m in a rush and just want something quick and uncomplicated. No sign-ups or weird hoops to jump through. I’ve downloaded playlists for long car rides and some white noise tracks to help me sleep. It’s smooth and doesn’t feel like it’s trying too hard to get my info, which is rare for free services.

How to convert YouTube videos with EasyMP3Converter: Paste your YouTube link and click the dropdown button to select quality > Download.

Pros: 

• 5 different quality formats: 64kbps, 128kbps, 192kbps, 256kbps, and 320kbps.
• Compatible with all major browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Microsoft Edge, and Opera. 
• Automatic fetch. 
• There is no limit. You can convert as many videos as you want free of charge.

Cons: 

• May display ads or pop-ups during the conversion process.
• May not efficiently handle multiple or large file conversions simultaneously.

Key features to look for in a YouTube to MP3 converter

Look, I’ve spent way too many late nights hunting for the perfect YouTube to MP3 converter. Between popups, sketchy ads, and features that don’t deliver, it’s a jungle out there. So, to save you from endless frustration, I’ve put together this quick cheat sheet:

Feature	Why it’s important	My top picks!
Output formats	Because sometimes you need an MP3, and other times you want something fancy like WAV.	Pulltube, Downie, Permute, 4K YouTube to MP3
Sound quality	No one wants a low-quality version of their favorite playlist. High bitrate (320kbps) = happy ears.	Pulltube, EasyMP3Converter
Speed	Fast tools = more time to go live life.	Pulltube, Downie, 4K YouTube to MP3
UI	Clean and simple apps make converting a breeze, even at 2 a.m.	Pulltube, EasyMP3Converter
Batch conversion	For when you stumble on a 30-song YouTube playlist and want them all. At once.	4K YouTube to MP3
Ad-free experience	Avoid the chaos of popups and sketchy redirects. No ads = no stress and no malware.	Pulltube, Downie, Permute, EzMP3, 4K YouTube to MP3

I hope you’ve found your perfect YouTube to MP3 converter match by now. So, it’s time to sum it up.

Finding a perfect YouTube to MP3 converter: Completed

Converting YouTube to MP3 doesn’t have to be a stressful treasure hunt. The trick is finding a tool that fits your workflow (and doesn’t bombard you with sketchy popups). For me, it’s all about balance — safety, speed, and those little extras like trimming or metadata editing that make a difference.

With Setapp’s free 7-day trial, you can test premium apps like Pulltube, Downie, and Permute to see which works best for you. Plus, you can test other 250 macOS and iOS tools that best suit your needs and workflow.