Converting YouTube videos to MP3 format is a valuable tool for music enthusiasts, podcasters, and anyone who wants to enjoy audio content offline. This guide delves into the top YouTube to MP3 converters available today, providing a thorough analysis of their features, pros, and cons. By leveraging this information, you can select the optimal tool to meet your needs.
Best Desktop YouTube to MP3 Converters
1. Airy: The Premier YouTube to MP3 Converter
Airy stands out as a powerful tool for downloading and converting YouTube videos into MP3 format. It offers versatility in handling both individual videos and entire playlists or channels.
Key Features
- Playlist MP3 Conversion: Convert entire playlists to MP3 with ease.
- Unlimited Queue: Add multiple videos to the download queue without restrictions.
- Multiple Downloads: Supports simultaneous downloads of several videos.
- Optional Browser Button: Quick access for downloads directly from the browser.
Pros
- Efficient playlist conversion.
- No limitations on the number of videos in the queue.
- Quick download button enhances user convenience.
Cons
- Paid software with a limited free trial.
- Exclusively converts YouTube videos, lacking broader format support.
Supported OS
- macOS
- Windows
How to Use Airy
- Copy the URL: Find the YouTube video you wish to convert and copy its URL from the address bar.
- Paste the URL: Open Airy and paste the link into the application.
- Select Quality and Format: Choose MP3 format and desired quality settings from the drop-down menu.
- Start Download: Initiate the download process and wait for the conversion to complete.
2. YT Saver Video Downloader
YT Saver provides a comprehensive solution for downloading and converting videos from a vast array of websites, including YouTube. It supports various formats and includes a built-in browser for convenience.
Key Features
- Wide Range of Supported Sites: Works with over 10,000 websites.
- Built-in Browser: Facilitates direct media file downloads from video/audio sharing sites.
- Multiple Formats: Converts videos to MP3, MP4, M4A, AAC, WAV, and more.
- Playlist and Channel Download: Supports downloading entire playlists and channels.
Pros
- User-friendly and feature-rich.
- Built-in browser simplifies the media downloading process.
- Supports high-quality downloads up to 320kbps.
Cons
- Trial version limits to 3 downloads and 1 playlist.
Supported OS
- macOS
- Windows
How to Use YT Saver
- Download and Run: Install YT Saver on your computer.
- Copy Video URL: Open YouTube, copy the link of the desired video.
- Paste and Convert: Paste the URL into YT Saver, select MP3 format, and start the download.
3. iTubeGo
iTubeGo excels as a simple yet effective downloader, offering a seamless conversion process from various online sources, including YouTube.
Key Features
- Fast Download Speed: Quick conversion and download process.
- Supports 1000+ Sites: Handles videos from over 1000 websites.
- Batch Download: Download multiple files simultaneously.
Pros
- High-speed downloads.
- Extensive site support.
- Batch processing capability.
Cons
- The PRO version is relatively expensive.
- Not compatible with iPhone.
Supported OS
- macOS
- Windows
- Android
How to Use iTubeGo
- Copy the URL: Obtain the YouTube video URL.
- Paste URL: Launch iTubeGo and paste the video URL.
- Select MP3: Choose the MP3 option and start the download.
4. Downie
Downie is a robust Mac application known for its support of numerous websites and high-definition video downloads. It also allows audio extraction from video files.
Key Features
- HD Video Support: Handles videos up to 4K resolution.
- Built-in Search: Search for content directly within the app.
- Simple UI: User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality.
Pros
- Supports over 1,000 platforms.
- High-definition video downloads.
- Built-in search function.
Cons
- Requires Setapp subscription for full access.
Supported OS
- macOS
How to Use Downie
- Install Downie: Download and set up Downie on your Mac.
- Drag and Drop: Drag the YouTube video link to Downie’s window or Dock icon.
- Extract Audio: Set Downie to download only the audio from the video.
5. Pulltube
Pulltube is designed for Mac users and offers robust features for video and audio downloads, including video trimming and subtitle capturing.
Key Features
- Video Trimming: Trim videos to the desired length before conversion.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Use gestures and shortcuts for efficient operation.
- Browser Extensions: Extensions for popular browsers to simplify the download process.
Pros
- Easy to use with intuitive controls.
- Supports a wide range of websites.
- Useful video trimming feature.
Cons
- Limited format options.
Supported OS
- macOS
How to Use Pulltube
- Install Pulltube: Download and install the application on your Mac.
- Copy and Paste URL: Copy the YouTube video URL and paste it into Pulltube.
- Convert: Alternatively, drag the video link into the Pulltube window to start the download.
Additional Converters
6. 4K Video Downloader
4K Video Downloader is a versatile tool supporting various websites and offering smart mode for quick operations.
Key Features
- Smart Mode: Streamlined settings for fast conversions.
- Playlist Downloads: Supports entire playlist downloads.
Pros
- Fast and simple to use.
- Multi-website support.
Cons
- Paid application.
- Similar in functionality to other 4K tools.
Supported OS
- macOS
- Windows
- Ubuntu
7. Softorino YouTube Converter
Softorino YouTube Converter focuses on convenience for mobile device users, with features like automatic transfer to iOS devices.
Key Features
- Automatic Transfer: Sends converted files directly to iOS devices.
- Cover Art Recognition: Automatically adds cover art to files.
Pros
- Supports over 60 non-YouTube sources.
- Wi-Fi/USB transfer to iOS devices.
Cons
- Subscription-based with a high cost for a permanent license.
- Limited customization options.
Supported OS
- macOS
- Windows
- iOS
- iPadOS
8. YTD Video Downloader
YTD Video Downloader combines video downloading with basic playback and conversion features.
Key Features
- Integrated Media Player: Includes a basic media player.
- Download Manager: Manage downloads with options to pause and resume.
Pros
- Multifunctional with playback capabilities.
- Convenient download management.
Cons
- Basic audio conversion features require a Premium upgrade.
Supported OS
- macOS
- Windows
- Android
- iOS
9. 4K YouTube to MP3
4K YouTube to MP3 offers a straightforward solution for extracting MP3 files from YouTube videos.
Key Features
- Simplicity: Easy-to-use interface for single downloads.
- Quality Options: Includes various quality and format settings.
Pros
- Affordable personal license.
- Simple and effective for single downloads.
Cons
- Limited to one download at a time.
- Lacks advanced features.
Supported OS
- macOS
- Windows
- Ubuntu
10. Wondershare UniConverter
Wondershare UniConverter is a comprehensive multimedia tool supporting a wide array of formats and features beyond simple YouTube to MP3 conversion.
Key Features
- Broad Format Support: Over 1000 video and audio formats.
- Video Editing Tools: Includes tools for editing and recording videos.
Pros
- Extensive feature set.
- Modern interface and design.
Cons
- Expensive and complex for casual users.
Supported OS
- macOS
- Windows
11. Any Video Converter
Any Video Converter provides a wide range of functionalities including video conversion, DVD burning, and editing.
Key Features
- Versatile Conversion: Supports multiple formats and editing options.
- Batch Processing: Allows simultaneous conversion of multiple files.
Pros
- High-speed performance.
- Quality preservation during conversion.
Cons
- Be cautious of additional software bundled during installation.
Supported OS
- macOS
- Windows
- Ubuntu
12. ClipGrab
ClipGrab is a free and compact tool for downloading and converting videos to MP3 format.
Key Features
- Free and Compact: No cost and minimal resource usage.
- Flexible Settings: Allows for adjustable download settings.
Pros
- Free of charge.
- Efficient and user-friendly.
Cons
- May include unwanted software during installation.
Supported OS
- macOS
- Windows
Conclusion
Choosing the right YouTube to MP3 converter depends on your specific needs, including platform compatibility, feature set, and cost considerations. This comprehensive guide covers the best tools available, each offering unique features and benefits to cater to various preferences.