YouTube has changed the world when it comes to online videos. Before this site existed, most people hosted video on their own website, or they simply didn’t have videos to share. Today, if you don’t have a video online, you’re living under a rock somewhere (or, maybe, you’re living in a 3^rd world country). But, it’s not just about being able to upload videos anymore. It’s about being able to download them. While YouTube lets you watch almost anything, anytime, anywhere, there are times when you want the ability to download something to your mobile device or tablet.

YouTube doesn’t make that easy – it won’t convert videos for you. Fortunately, it’s not that hard to convert them yourself.

Find Your Video

Finding the video you want to convert shouldn’t be a big hassle. YouTube is owned by Google, and its algorithm is top notch, as such. So, pull up the video you want to convert and give it at least one watch to make sure it’s got everything you want.

While you’re at it, check the copyright status of the video. This is where you need to be careful. Many videos on YouTube are protected by copyright. If you download and distribute them, you could be in violation of the law. Don’t get yourself into any trouble over this. It’s just not worth it.

Copy The URL Of The Video You Want To Convert

Once you have a nice copyright-free video you want to download, it’s time to convert it. Grab the URL and start looking for a free online converter.

Use Free Online Sites To Convert Your Video 

There are so many sites out there that will convert your video for you that you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a service. The only problem you might run into is the quality of those services. Free services tend to have no customer support and long wait times for conversions.

But, what do you want from a free service? If you want something a little more robust, go for paid versions from www.youtubedownloadersite.com or the paid version of Zamzar.

Make sure the service you use has the ability to convert to the file type that you want and need. So, for example, if you’re using a PC and want Windows Media player to play your video, make sure the converter will convert to .wmv.

If you’re using a Mac, and you want Quicktime to play the video, make sure the file converter will play .mov, MPEG formats, or AVI or DV.

Get The Format You Want and Convert The Video 

Select the format you want and start the conversion process. Each player has its own process for converting files, but most of them are pretty straightforward. So, for example, most converters allow you to cut and paste the URL of the video you want to convert into a text box. Then, all you really need to do is hit “convert” or “start” after you’ve selected the video format you want. Easy as pie.

Make sure you respect IP when using downloaded material.

Lisa is a tech whiz. She enjoys blogging about common technology questions for the everyday user.