SaveFrom is one of the most popular online YouTube video downloaders. However, while convenient, it does raise some security concerns. In this article, we’ll review it and look at 5 alternative secure Youtube video downloaders for 2023.
What is SaveFrom
SaveFrom is a free online tool that allows users to download videos from YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and many other sites. Users simply copy and paste a video URL into it, and can then download the video file in their preferred format and quality. The service is very easy to use and supports downloading videos in MP4, MP3, AVI and other common formats.
What’s “wrong” with SaveFrom?
While SaveFrom is popular for its convenience, it does have some drawbacks. Most notably, questions have been raised over the years about whether it is actually legal and secure to use. Some critics argue that SaveFrom enables piracy by letting users download copyrighted YouTube videos without permission. There are also concerns over privacy and security, as it requires users to visit third-party sites to download videos after entering a URL.
What is YouTube Video Downloader
A YouTube video downloader is software or an online tool that allows users to save videos hosted on YouTube locally to their own device. This enables offline viewing and gives users full control over the video file. There are many free YouTube video downloader tools available, both as web applications and software programs.
Save video from YouTube videos in high quality
Downloading YouTube videos in high resolution is easy with the right tools. Here are 3 key steps:
Step 1. Find a YouTube video downloader that supports HD formats – Look for tools like Softorino and KeepVid that enable selecting 1080p or 720p quality. Avoid sites only offering 480p.
Step 2. Copy the YouTube video URL to paste into the downloader – Locate the share option under YouTube videos to copy the URL. Paste this into your chosen downloader site.
Step 3. Select the HD format option before starting the download – In the downloader interface, choose 720p or 1080p quality. Then proceed to download the YouTube video in HD format.
Tips
- For the highest quality, 1080p Full HD is ideal but 720p HD also looks great.
- Avoid downloader tools only offering lower resolutions like 144p or 240p.
- Downloading HD videos takes longer and takes up more drive space than lower quality.
- Have a good internet connection for smooth HD video downloads.
- Some YouTube videos may only be available in certain resolutions based on upload quality.
SaveFrom alternative: The top 5 Youtube Video Downloader
If you’re looking for safer, legal alternatives to SaveFrom for downloading YouTube videos, here are 5 of the top options to consider in 2023:
1. SaveFrom.rip
SaveFrom.rip is a free online tool presented as a legal alternative. It allows you to download YouTube videos by keywords rather than needing specific URLs.
Downloading YouTube videos can be tricky due to copyright issues. SaveFrom.rip aims to make it easy by letting you search for and download videos by keywords. It’s a good option for conveniently finding and saving videos without needing specific URLs.
Pros
- Supports YouTube keyword searches for finding videos
- Integrated MP3 audio converter
- Claims to comply with YouTube’s terms of service
Cons
- Requires copying video URL to download after searching
- Contains some banner ads
- Lacks advanced features of premium tools
2. Y2mate
Y2mate is a popular free online downloader supporting hundreds of sites beyond just YouTube. It’s versatile and easy to use.
Y2mate stands out as one of the fastest and most versatile online YouTube downloader tools. It supports quick one-click downloads in multiple formats from hundreds of sites. Y2mate is great for easily grabbing videos including live streams and age-restricted content.
Pros
- Fast one-click downloads in multiple formats
- Can download live streams and age-restricted videos
- No need to install software
Cons
- Contains some popup and banner ads
- Malware risks from external download sites
- Quality limited to 1080p HD
3. ClipConverter
ClipConverter is a simple online video download site supporting many formats. It’s easy to use with no account needed.
For a straightforward and adaptable tool, ClipConverter is a top choice. It enables downloading videos in just about any format you need. ClipConverter excels in converting both YouTube and many other streaming sites.
Pros
- Supports MP3, AVI, MOV, MP4, and more
- No limits on download lengths
- Able to handle even 8K videos
Cons
- Contains ads on the site
- Requires copying and pasting video URLs
- Limited to only a few sites beyond YouTube
4. Softorino
Softorino YouTube Converter 2 is a premium desktop app for fast, high-quality downloads. It goes beyond just YouTube as well.
If you want a smooth, premium downloading experience, Softorino YouTube Converter 2 is a leading option. It provides incredibly fast yet high-quality batch downloading capabilities. Softorino also makes it easy to clip and convert videos for versatile use.
Pros
- Downloads from over 30 sites besides YouTube
- Smooth HD downloading experience
- Added editing features like clipping
Cons
- Paid software costing $19.95
- Desktop-only, no web interface
- Limited to personal use on 1 computer
5. KeepVid
KeepVid provides a polished online YouTube video downloader with a clean interface. It makes downloading easy.
Those wanting an attractive and simple tool should consider KeepVid. It has one of the cleanest and most professional looking interfaces. KeepVid also streamlines downloading videos, playlists or entire channels in seconds.
Pros
- Attractive and professional looking site
- Easy process to paste in URL and download
- Can download entire playlists or channels
Cons
- Contains some banner ads
- Requires copying and pasting of URLs first
- Limited to downloading from YouTube
Is SaveFrom a secure platform for downloading videos?
Due to the aforementioned concerns, cybersecurity experts generally recommend against using SaveFrom routinely to download videos. The third-party sites and links used to download files after entering a URL may contain malware or other security risks. For peace of mind, it’s better to use trusted legal downloaders like the alternatives covered in this article.
Final thought about SaveFrom review
While SaveFrom may be popular, it’s not the most advisable choice for securely and legally downloading YouTube videos. For your safety and compliance, consider migrating to one of the 5 recommended alternatives for a smooth downloading experience. These tools give you all the features of it, such as converting to MP3 and downloading HD quality, while ensuring better privacy, security, and adherence to copyright law. Choose the right tool for smarter video downloads.
Also read: Best Free 5 Youtube to MP3 Converter Online in 2023