10 BEST YouTube to MP3 converters — Tested and updated for 2026

Most of us have playlists for different situations — work focus, workouts, road trips, or even long-form content for better sleep. But streaming YouTube constantly eats up data and drains your battery. That's where YouTube to MP3 converters become essential tools for Mac users.

With the right YouTube to MP3 app, you can save bandwidth, listen offline anywhere, and create custom playlists without depending on an internet connection. Whether you're archiving educational content, building audio libraries for creative projects, or downloading podcast interviews for your commute, here's my YouTube to MP3 conversion guide for Mac users. 

Quick comparison: find your perfect tool among top 10 YouTube to MP3 converter apps for Mac

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	Price	Best use case	Key differentiator	Platform
Pulltube	Included in Setapp	Playlist downloads with trimming	Audio extraction + editing in one	macOS
Downie	Included in Setapp	Multi-site audio extraction	1,200+ supported sites	macOS
Permute	Included in Setapp	Format conversion powerhouse	Dozens of output document, audio, and video formats	macOS
4K YouTube to MP3	Free / $10+	Channel & playlist archiving	Built-in YouTube search	macOS, Windows, Linux
ClipGrab	Free	Quick multi-site downloads	Integrated search feature	macOS, Windows, Linux
YTMP3	Free	Fast single conversions	Encrypted secure downloads	Web
AISEO	Free	Ad-free online conversion	Zero pop-ups or ads	Web
YT1s	Free	Cloud storage integration	Direct save to Google Drive	Web
EzMP3	Free	Long-form content (12+ hours)	Donation-supported, no ads	Web
EasyMP3Converter	Free	Unlimited conversions	5 quality options	Web

If you want a versatile solution, check out All Video Downloader GPT. This tool helps you find the right tool to download videos from the internet.

Complete guide to 10 essential YouTube to MP3 converters

I chose the best YouTube to MP3 Converters for Mac based on: audio quality, speed, ease of use, batch download, privacy. 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 for flexible audio extraction and editing

Pulltube is my top recommendation. It's secure, efficient, and remarkably versatile. What distinguishes it from other converters is its comprehensive feature set — from downloading your favorite YouTube videos (plus, content from other websites like Vimeo, Dailymotion, Facebook, Instagram, Soundcloud, Cloudmix, Bandcamp, Youku, IQIY, and more) to extracting audio and trimming tracks before saving.

Pulltube is best for: Content creators extracting YouTube audio for video projects, podcast producers archiving interviews, educators downloading lecture materials, and freelancers building audio libraries for client work. Perfect for Mac users who want native app reliability.

Problems Pulltube solves:

• Unwanted intros/outros in downloads: Pulltube's trimming feature lets you cut directly to essential content, saving 2-3 minutes per track that would otherwise require separate editing software.
• Storage space constraints: The "Audio only" option reduces file sizes by 90% compared to video files, allowing you to store significantly more content.
• Time-consuming individual downloads: Paste a playlist link and Pulltube processes all videos automatically, turning hours of manual work into minutes.

Pulltube’s benefits:

• Format flexibility (MP3/M4A): Switch between MP3 for universal compatibility or M4A for better Apple ecosystem integration — M4A files sync seamlessly with Apple Music and often take up 20–30% less space.
• Multi-site support: Works with Facebook, Dailymotion, and hundreds of other platforms beyond YouTube.
• Trimming tool: Remove unwanted sections before downloading, eliminating the need for separate audio editing software.
• Playlist batch processing: Download entire channels or playlists with one click, maintaining original order and metadata.

Pulltube’s strengths:

• Native macOS app with system-wide drag-and-drop support.
• Processes long playlists in just a few minutes on Apple Silicon Macs (25 videos in about 5 minutes in my test).
• No ads, pop-ups, or hidden malware risks.

Pulltube’s limitations:

• The preview feature may occasionally lag if the internet connection is poor.

Using Pulltube in your workflow:

Pulltube integrates seamlessly with macOS. Downloaded files appear instantly in Finder (or any other folder of your choice, including cloud ones) for Quick Look preview. 

Here's how to convert a YouTube video to MP3 with Pulltube:

1. Download, install, and open Pulltube on your Mac.
2. Drag a YouTube video URL into Pulltube. You can paste a link to a playlist as well.
3. Click the drop-down menu next to Quality parameters and select output format: Audio only *mp3.
4. Click the Download button.

The files appear in your Downloads folder, properly named and ready to sync to your devices via Finder.

Pulltube pricing: Pulltube is available through Setapp from $9.99/month, which includes 260+ other Mac apps — eliminating the need to purchase individual licenses. Standalone price on the developer’s website is $19.99.

#2. Downie for high-quality extraction from 1,200+ sites

Downie is a comprehensive download solution for Mac users — it works with over 1,200 websites, including YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, and Instagram. Whether you need a full 4K video or just audio extraction, Downie handles both efficiently through its drag-and-drop interface. 

One of the features I love most is that Downie can automatically add downloaded files to Apple media applications such as Music, iTunes, or TV. You can enable this option in Downie > Settings > Postprocessing.

Downie is best for: Power users who download from multiple platforms daily, researchers who archive content from various sources, content creators who need diverse media sources, and Mac users who value seamless app integration.

Problems Downie solves:

• Platform-locked content: Extract audio from Facebook Live sessions, Instagram videos, or platform-specific content that other converters can't access.
• Preserves the original bitrate up to 320 kbps, maintaining studio-quality sound for professional use.
• Tedious URL management: Drag videos directly from Safari into Downie without switching windows or copying links.

Downie’s benefits:

• 1,200+ website compatibility: From mainstream platforms to niche educational sites, with regular updates adding new sites.
• In-app search: Search YouTube directly within Downie, preview thumbnails, and download without opening a browser.
• 4K video support: Download at maximum quality for archival purposes, then extract audio at full fidelity.
• Smart naming: Automatically names files with video title, channel, and date for organized libraries.

Downie’s strengths:

• Integrates perfectly with Permute for format conversion.
• Maintains download history for easy re-downloading.
• Supports downloading private videos you have access to.

Downie’s limitations:

• 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.

One user shares: "I use Downie mainly to download the audio from YouTube videos for use in the gym or when running. I download videos from financial websites as well, and they come in a variety of formats." This captures Downie's versatility — providing easy access to both audio and video content with minimal effort.

Using Downie in your workflow: Search for relevant content in Downie, preview in the built-in player, download full videos of important sources, then extract audio segments. The app remembers your preferred settings, streamlining repetitive tasks.

To download MP3 from YouTube with Downie:

1. Download, install and open Downie,
2. Paste or drag and drop a YouTube link into Downie.
3. Click the drop-down menu and select Extract Audio Only.

Downie excels when paired with other Mac apps. Configure it to save files to specific iCloud folders for automatic syncing or directly to your Apple Music.

Downie’s pricing: Downie is included in the Setapp subscription at $9.99/month, which provides access to this and 260+ other apps. Standalone license costs $19.99 but doesn't include the valuable Permute integration.

#3. Permute for ultimate format conversion versatility

If you already have a list of files you want to convert, I can’t imagine a better tool than Permute. The app easily converts video files to MP3s, but that’s just the beginning. It can handle almost any conversion we need in everyday life or at work, including videos, audio files, PDFs, subtitles, images, and more.

Permute is best for: Everyday users, video editors, podcast producers, content creators juggling multiple file formats, and professionals who need reliable conversion beyond just YouTube to MP3. Essential for users already using Downie.

Permute has garnered praise from Setapp users for its efficiency and versatility. One user shared, “Permute is a lifesaver. I simply use this application every single day. When I download a file, about 80% of the time, macOS will say it can't be opened. As soon as I drop it into Permute, it is converted immediately! Highly recommend this app!”

Another user said, “It’s one of the most useful apps I’ve downloaded from this service. If I need to convert something — ANYTHING, even images and PDFs — I need to Permute it.” 

Problems Permute solves:

• Library clutter: Permute can automatically add converted items to Apple Music and remove them from your downloaded files after they’ve been added.
• Format incompatibility issues: Convert between 70+ formats, handling everything from obscure client files to modern codecs without compatibility errors.
• Bloated file sizes: Converting screen recordings from MOV to MP4 reduces file sizes by 60% without quality loss, crucial for sharing and storage.
• Complex beyond-YouTube audio extraction: Drop video files into Permute for instant MP3 extraction without command-line tools.

Permute’s benefits:

• 70+ format support: Handles everything from ancient AVI files to modern HEVC, plus audio formats like AAC, FLAC, OGG, and WAV.
• Batch processing: Convert entire folders at once for efficient workflow management.
• Preset profiles: One-click optimization for mobile devices, iPhone, Apple TV, and more.
• Video editing tools: Merge clips, add subtitles, or prepare files for DVD burning without separate software.

Permute’s strengths:

• Lightning-fast conversion process.
• Preserves metadata and album artwork during conversion.
• Queue management for overnight batch processing.

Permute’s limitations:

• Requires Downie or another downloader for online videos.
• No advanced audio editing beyond basic conversion.

Workflow example: Permute serves as the conversion hub in your Mac workflow. Set up custom conversions with multiple presets, work with rare file formats, send converted files to a selected folder, and more.

Here’s how to convert YouTube to MP3 audio format with Permute:

1. Install and open Permute.
2. Drag the downloaded video into the app.
3. Choose the MP3 format from the drop-down menu.
4. Click the Convert button, and your audio file will be ready in seconds.

"With Permute, I extract audio, shrink file sizes, and convert anything for Final Cut in minutes, so I can focus on creating instead of troubleshooting", shares Thomas, NighTech Channel creator.

Permute pricing: Included in Setapp for $9.99/month, providing access to 260+ apps total. A standalone purchase is $14.99 but lacks the seamless Downie integration.

#4. 4K YouTube to MP3 for playlist and channel downloads

For users who manage extensive playlists for various activities, 4K YouTube to MP3 offers efficient playlist and channel download capabilities. The free plan allows up to 5 downloads daily, suitable for casual use, while the premium plan unlocks unlimited processing.

Best for: Playlist curators, music collectors, podcast archivists, and YouTube channel subscribers who want to archive entire collections. Ideal for users who prefer built-in search over URL copying.

Problems solved:

• Content preservation: Archive entire channels before they're removed or made private, protecting valuable content from disappearing.
• Repetitive URL copying: Built-in search eliminates tab-switching — search, preview, and download without leaving the app.
• Inconsistent audio quality: Smart quality detection automatically selects the best available bitrate for optimal results.

Feature benefits:

• Channel subscriptions: Automatically download new videos from subscribed channels for continuous content updates
• Smart search: Find videos without opening YouTube, with thumbnail previews and duration information
• Playlist parsing: Downloads maintain playlist order and can skip already-downloaded tracks
• Multiple format options: Choose between MP3, M4A, and OGG based on device compatibility needs

Strengths:

• Clean, user-friendly interface with clear onboarding.
• In-app proxy support for region-locked content.
• Auto-downloads run in the background without interrupting work.

Limitations:

• Free tier's 5-daily limit restricts heavy usage
• Some users report quality inconsistencies with certain videos

While I haven't personally experienced issues with 4K YouTube to MP3, I did come across a review that highlights a potential concern users should be aware of. One user stated, “I downloaded a bunch of tracks last night, but when I went to listen to them this morning, they all sounded terrible. I have it set to download at the best quality, but they sound blatantly different than the actual YouTube video. It sounds like it's adding unnecessary amplification, so it's clipping and crunchy sounding no matter which player I use to play the file.”

Using in your workflow: You can configure 4K YouTube to MP3 to automatically add downloads to Apple Music with proper tags and album art. Set up smart playlists that automatically include new downloads.

Pricing: Free version: 5 downloads daily. Paid license: $10–$65, with high-quality audio available only in the higher-tier plans from $45.

#5. ClipGrab for quick multi-platform extraction

ClipGrab is a free video downloader and converter that works with YouTube, Vimeo, and other popular sites. The built-in search functionality lets you find and download tracks directly in the app. I believe that for budget-conscious users, this is one of the best free YouTube downloaders out there.

Best for: Casual users who occasionally need audio from various video platforms, students downloading educational content, and budget-conscious users who can navigate around ads carefully.

Problems solved:

• Platform fragmentation: Access content from YouTube, Vimeo, and Dailymotion through one interface instead of multiple tools.
• Format confusion: The app automatically suggests optimal formats based on your selection, simplifying decisions for non-technical users.
• Search inefficiency: Built-in multi-platform search eliminates the need to check each website separately.

Feature benefits:

• Multi-site search: Search YouTube, Vimeo, and others simultaneously from one search box.
• Format variety: Supports MP3, OGG, WMV, and MPEG for different device requirements.
• Quality selection: Choose from multiple bitrate options to balance quality versus file size.
• Clipboard monitoring: Automatically detects copied video URLs for one-click downloading.

Strengths:

• Completely free with no daily limits
• Compatibility with various operating systems (macOS, Linux, Windows)

Limitations:

• Potential bundled software requires careful installation. While it wasn't my case, users on Reddit mentioned this problem many times.
• Intrusive pop-ups that require careful navigation

Using in your workflow: ClipGrab functions as a standalone tool, with downloads going to your Downloads folder.

Pricing: Completely free, ad-supported.

#6. YTMP3 for online YouTube conversion

YTMP3 provides fast, straightforward online conversion without registration requirements. The clean interface and SSL encryption address common security concerns about online video converters.

Best for: Travelers needing quick downloads on any device, users on restricted work computers without installation permissions, and anyone wanting a fast conversion process without creating accounts.

Problems solved:

• Software installation restrictions: Works perfectly through any browser when you can't install desktop apps.
• Storage optimization: Intelligent compression creates manageable file sizes without noticeable sound quality loss.
• Cross-device accessibility: Convert on Mac, iPhone, or any computer with a web browser.

Feature benefits:

• No registration required: Start converting immediately without providing personal information.
• Mobile optimization: Works flawlessly on iPhone and iPad Safari.
• Speed optimization: Converts most 5-minute videos in under 10 seconds.

Strengths:

• Clean interface without typical online converter chaos
• Consistent uptime and reliability
• Supports long videos
• High-quality audio options: up to 320kbps.

Limitations:

• Occasional server overload during peak hours
• No batch processing or playlist support
• Limited to MP3 and MP4 only
• Online conversion may take longer than conversion with desktop tools

Using in your workflow:

YTMB3 is a great option if you can’t or don’t want to install a desktop app, or only need to download files occasionally. The app works directly in your browser, which means you can use it on iOS, iPadOS, Windows, Linux, etc. Another great feature is that you can close the page while a download is in progress, and it will continue in the background without interruption.

Pricing: Completely free.

#7. AISEO for zero-ads YouTube conversion

AISEO stands out in the crowded converter market by offering a completely ad-free experience. No pop-ups, no sign-ups — just clean, efficient conversion.

Best for: Privacy-conscious users, mobile users who need clean conversion on-the-go, and anyone tired of accidentally clicking malicious pop-ups. As Reddit users note, finding "ad-free, safe, easy-to-use" video converter is increasingly rare.

Problems solved:

• Ad fatigue and safety concerns: After dealing with pop-up-heavy converters that pose security risks, AISEO's clean interface offers a safer conversion experience.
• Mobile conversion hassles: Works perfectly on iPhone Safari without desktop mode tricks or app downloads.
• YouTube Shorts downloads: Reliably handles YouTube Shorts for quick social media audio clips.

Feature benefits:

• True ad-free experience: No pop-ups, banners, or redirects that plague other online converters.
• YouTube Shorts support: Specialized handling for short-form content.
• High-quality preservation: Maintains up to 320kbps sound quality without re-encoding artifacts.
• No data collection: Respects user privacy without requiring personal information.

Strengths:

• Fast conversion speeds — usually under 5 seconds for short videos
• Works identically across all devices and browsers I tried
• No account or personal information required

Limitations:

• Lacks frequent updates for YouTube changes
• No advanced features like trimming or metadata editing
• Single file conversion only

Using in your workflow:

I believe social media content creators will love it. With AISEO, you can quickly find background music in YouTube Shorts, convert it on your iPhone, and import it directly into your editing apps. The whole process takes under 30 seconds. 

I’d bookmark this tool for quick conversions when I’m away from my Mac setup, and would also use it as my go-to converter on public or shared computers.

Pricing info: Free with no ads, premium tiers, or hidden costs.

#8. YT1s for cloud storage integration

YT1s is a YouTube to MP3 converter that offers a unique feature for online converters: direct cloud storage integration. This eliminates the download-then-upload workflow many users face.

Best for: Cloud storage power users, remote workers needing files accessible everywhere, and anyone managing limited device storage by keeping files in the cloud.

Problems solved:

• Device storage limitations: Convert and save directly to Google Drive or Dropbox, accessing files only when needed.
• Multi-device syncing: Files saved to cloud storage instantly appear on all connected devices.
• Backup concerns: Automatic cloud saves protect downloads from local device failures.

Feature benefits:

• Direct cloud saves: Files go straight to Google Drive or Dropbox without local downloading.
• Universal compatibility: Works on every browser and device.
• Audio quality options up to 320kbps: Choose your preferred balance between quality and file size.
• No conversion limits: Convert videos without limits.

Strengths:

• Cloud integration genuinely improves workflow efficiency
• No software to update or maintain
• Works on restricted corporate networks

Limitations:

• Interface feels dated compared to modern apps
• Ads require careful navigation. One user reported, “Be careful with YT1s… my iPhone was getting a lot of attempted tracking and suspicious activity, so I deleted all my downloads from the website and now all those problems are gone. I did nothing else to fix it besides deleting those files.”

Using in your workflow:

For collaborative projects, this service can be a lifesaver, especially when you’re working on a shared computer and don’t want to install your own apps or share your credentials on third-party websites. You can convert YouTube content to MP3, save it directly to a shared Dropbox or Google Drive folder, and give your team instant access without any extra file transfers.

Pricing info: Free with unlimited conversions, supported by advertising. 

#9. EzMP3 for long-form content downloads

EzMP3 is designed for users who prioritize simplicity and reliability over complex features. It's ad-free through donation support and handles extremely long content that breaks other converters.

Best for: Audiobook listeners, podcast marathoners, educators downloading lectures, and anyone working with long-form content, such as conference sessions or meditation tracks.

Problems solved:

• Long video failures: Successfully processed my 8-hour sleep soundtracks and lengthy lectures that crashed other converters. One Redditor shared their experience, saying, “Amazing. The only tool that was able to download 6+ hours of video flawlessly.”
• Ad-clicking accidents: The donation-supported model means no ads or pop-ups to accidentally click.
• Quality uncertainty: Clear quality options from 64 to 320 kbps let you optimize for content type.

Feature benefits:

• 12-hour video support: Handles extremely long content reliably.
• Multiple quality tiers: Five bitrate options for different use cases.
• Clean, focused interface: No distractions from the conversion task.

Strengths:

• Most reliable online tool for long-form content
• Transparent funding model builds trust

Limitations:

• Basic features only — no trimming or editing
• Can't customize audio output beyond bitrate
• Occasionally gets blocked and changes its domain name.

Using in your workflow:

If I didn’t already have Downie, Permute, and PullTube, I would use this tool to archive my educational content. I’d convert full-length conference recordings, lecture series, or audiobooks and organize them into my content library. On top of that, I’d convert the audio files I need into text using audio-to-text tools for easier access. If you’re a student, I’d recommend this workflow as well.

Pricing info: Free, with optional donations.

#10. EasyMP3Converter for unlimited simple conversions

EasyMP3Converter is designed for straightforward, no-frills conversion when you need quick results. No sign-ups or complex settings — just paste and convert.

Best for: Casual users needing occasional conversions, people who value simplicity over features, and anyone wanting multiple quality options without complexity.

Problems solved:

• Quality confusion: Five clear bitrate options (64-320kbps) eliminate guesswork about output quality.
• Conversion limits frustration: Unlike tools with daily caps, convert entire playlists without restrictions.
• Browser compatibility issues: Works perfectly across Safari, Chrome, and Firefox.

Feature benefits:

• 5 quality presets: From 64kbps (voice) to 320kbps (music videos), clearly labeled for different use cases.
• Automatic metadata fetch: Pulls video title and channel info for basic file naming.
• No registration walls: Convert immediately without creating accounts.
• Unlimited conversions: No daily limits or upgrade prompts.

Strengths:

• Genuinely unlimited free conversions
• Clear, simple interface perfect for all skill levels
• Consistent performance across browsers

Limitations:

• Redirects to other pages several times during conversion
• Ads can be intrusive during conversion
• No batch processing despite unlimited conversions
• Basic features only

Using in your workflow:

EasyMP3Converter serves as your quick solution for single files. Keep it bookmarked for when you need one file fast. Downloads go directly to your default folder.

Pricing: Free with unlimited conversions, ad-supported.

How to choose the perfect 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

Your decision checklist:

• Frequency of use: Daily users need desktop apps; occasional users can use online tools.
• Volume: Batch processing requires Pulltube, Downie, or 4K YouTube to MP3.
• Audio quality requirements: 320kbps support is essential for music; 128kbps works for spoken content.
• Security concerns: Stick to Setapp apps or ad-free online converters
• Budget: While individual apps cost $10-65, Setapp bundles multiple tools for $9.99/month.
• Mac integration: Desktop apps integrate with Finder, Apple Music, and Shortcuts.

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

With Setapp’s free 7-day trial, you can test apps like Pulltube, Downie, and Permute to see which works best for you. Plus, you can test the other 260 macOS and iOS tools that best suit your needs and workflow.