Easily Download YouTube Videos With yt-dlp

Downloading YouTube videos can be a challenge, especially when desktop tools come with paid limitations or lack the necessary features. For Windows users seeking a reliable solution, yt-dlp is a robust and versatile tool that simplifies the process. Whether you prefer the default settings for ease or want to delve into advanced features, yt-dlp makes downloading videos straightforward. With just a simple command, you can easily save your favorite content.

1. Introduction to yt-dlp and ffmpeg

yt-dlp is a command-line program that allows users to download videos from YouTube and many other video platforms. It is a fork of the popular youtube-dl, offering enhanced performance and additional features. Another essential tool is ffmpeg, which handles multimedia data and is often required for video format conversions. Both programs work together to provide a seamless downloading experience.

2. Installation and Usage of yt-dlp and ffmpeg

2.1 Download and Installation

To get started, you need to download yt-dlp and ffmpeg.

Step 1: Visit the yt-dlp GitHub page to download the Windows version.

Step 2: Extract the files to a convenient directory.

Step 3: For optimal compatibility, download the recommended version of ffmpeg.

Step 4: Extract it as well.

2.2 Configuration

Next, you must configure the system's environment variables to include the paths for both yt-dlp and ffmpeg.

1. Add the directory where yt-dlp is located to your system’s PATH environment variable.

1. Search "Advanced system settings" in the search box, then hit "View advanced system settings" option to open the System properties window.
2. Select the "Environment Variables" option in this window.

3. Double click on the "Path" item in the "System variables" field of the "Environment Variables" window.
4. Click "New" option, then type the path where yt-dlp.exe is located.
5. Click "OK" button three times to apply changes.
6. Running yt-dlp command in Command Prompt to check whether the configuration is successful.

2. Do the same for the ffmpeg directory. Like this.

Note: Use ffmpeg command to check whether the configuration is successful.

2.3 Usage

Now you’re ready to start downloading!

1. Display Video Information:

Use the -F parameter to see available formats without downloading.

yt-dlp -F <video_url>

2. Specify Download Location:

Method 1: Use the -P parameter to specify the storage location.

yt-dlp -P C:\Users\DEMO\desktop <video_url>

Method 2: Change the directory using the cd command before executing the download.

cd /d D:\YT-videos

Tip: Get more advanced tips to specify storage location in output templates.

3. Download a Single Video or Playlist:

By default, yt-dlp downloads the best quality available.

yt-dlp <video_ulr or playlist_url>

Tip: Check format options for more settings.

4. Download Multiple Videos:

Separate URLs with spaces, or create a text file (e.g., "url.txt") with each URL on a new line and use:

Note: Use the full path of "url.txt" or place it in the current working directory.

yt-dlp url1 url2 ……
yt-dlp -a url.txt

5. Download Audio Only:

To extract audio from a video, use:

yt-dlp -x --audio-format mp3 <video_url>

6. Download Thumbnails and Subtitles:

To download just the thumbnail:

yt-dlp --write-thumbnail --skip-download <video_url>

For subtitles:

yt-dlp --write-subs --skip-download <video_url>

For auto-generated subtitles:

yt-dlp --write-auto-subs --skip-download <video_url>

7. Using a Proxy:

If you need to bypass regional restrictions or enhance privacy, use a proxy:

yt-dlp --proxy "http://127.0.0.1:7890" <video_url>
Replace the underlined part with your actual proxy server.

Note: Get more details in the official "Usage and Options" section.

3. Uninstallation of yt-dlp and ffmpeg

If you decide to uninstall yt-dlp, simply delete the corresponding environment variables and remove the downloaded files from your system.

4. Conclusion

yt-dlp is an incredibly powerful tool for downloading YouTube videos with ease. Even users who are not tech-savvy can quickly grasp the basic commands for downloading multiple videos or entire playlists. For those looking for more customization, yt-dlp offers a plethora of options to suit your needs. With its simple interface and powerful features, yt-dlp is the ultimate solution for all your video downloading needs.