How to Download YouTube Audio: 4 Easy Methods

  • 11 September 2024
  • 9 mins read

Table of Content

Table of Contents

YouTube is a great resource for discovering new music, podcasts, and educational information, with millions of videos published daily. 

As of 2024, there were over 2.7 billion active viewers on YouTube, and 600 hours of content were posted every minute. 

But what if you wanted to store informative lectures to listen to later without an internet connection or your favorite songs offline at the campsite?

While downloading YouTube audio can be a great option, it's important to follow YouTube's terms of service and download legally. 

This guide outlines easy ways to download YouTube audio, which you can use to store music, podcasts, or other audio content.

4 Ways to Download YouTube Audio

YouTube has many ways to download music, but each of them has their pros and cons. 

These options include using specialized software and internet converters. 

Here's an overview of 4 super simple ways to quickly and safely download any YouTube audio:

1. Use a Website for YouTube to MP3 Conversion

Getting music from YouTube can be done most easily using an online YouTube to MP3 converter. 

These websites let you copy the YouTube URL and turn it into an MP3 or other audio file. 

Here's how to do it:

Step 1: To convert a YouTube video, copy its URL.

Step 2: Visit a website that converts YouTube to MP3 (ytmp3.cc or y2mate.com).

Step 3: Enter the URL in the converter window and select "Convert."

Step 4: Click download to save the MP3 file to your mobile device. 

Pros: Simple and quick; no software has to be installed.

Cons: Pop-ups and advertisements can be annoying, and some websites can create security hazards.

Topics that may interest you:

2. Get YouTube Premium

The YouTube app lets you download videos immediately with a Premium subscription. 

This option also allows you to download podcasts and music in audio-only format.

Step 1: Find the video you want to watch and download by opening the YouTube app.

Step 2: Click the "Download" link located below the video.

Step 3: If "Audio only" is an option, select it.

Pros: Safe and lawful; encourages content producers.

Cons: A paid subscription is required.

3. Try a Desktop Software

Desktop software like 4K Video Downloader or Any Video Converter provides more control over the download process, including high-quality audio options.

Step 1: Set up the application on your computer after downloading it.

Step 2: Copy the YouTube video's URL.

Step 3: Open the software, paste the URL, and choose "Extract Audio."

Step 4: Select your preferred audio format and quality, then download.

Pros: Faster downloads with additional format choices.

Cons: Software installation is necessary; speed may be slower than web-based converters.

4. Download Browser Extensions

A few browser extensions, such as "YouTube Video and Audio Downloader" for Firefox and "ByClick Downloader" for Chrome, allow users to download audio from YouTube while browsing.

Step 1: From the extension store on your browser, install the extension.

Step 2: Open YouTube and navigate to the video.

Step 3: Choose the audio format and click the extension's download button.

Pros: Easy to use and quick; fits with your browser directly.

Cons: YouTube's regulations can sometimes end in removing extensions from shops.

YouTube audio downloads are convenient, but using third-party software raises privacy issues. Online data protection is essential since privacy violations are becoming more frequent. Making data protection a priority is crucial.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Plus

    It is against YouTube's terms of service to download audio without permission. Downloading content should only be done with the appropriate permit, as through YouTube Premium.

  • Can I use downloaded audio for commercial purposes?

    Plus

    No, if the content creator specifically permits you, downloaded material is usually just for personal use.

  • Are YouTube to MP3 converters safe?

    Plus

    Although most converters are harmless, some might be malicious or provide security problems. Keep your antivirus software up to date and only visit reliable websites.

  • How do I download audio from YouTube on my Mac?

    Plus

    Using a Mac, get audio files from YouTube:
    Log in with your Fireflies.ai account.
    Put the YouTube video up.
    Download the extracted audio file by opening the processed file.

    As an option, you can try desktop programs like 4K Video Downloader.

  • Can I download audio from YouTube to my phone?

    Plus

    Yes, you can use applications like these to download YouTube audio to your mobile device.
    Videoder or TubeMate for Android
    Readdle Documents for iOS

    However, be aware that downloading anything protected by copyright may be against YouTube's terms of service.

  • Can I download copyrighted music from YouTube?

    Plus

    No, downloading copyrighted music without permission is against YouTube's terms of service. Before downloading, always make sure the file is licensed.

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In Conclusion!

Using these methods and being mindful of your privacy, you can download and enjoy your favorite YouTube audio offline while protecting your personal information. 

Maintaining privacy is crucial when downloading YouTube audio, so choose reputable sources and integrate privacy protection apps like PurePrivacy to protect yourself from internet trackers.