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How to Convert and Download YouTube Videos as MP3 Files

As an experienced technology writer and avid YouTube user, I often get asked how to save YouTube videos as MP3 files. While YouTube has made downloading video tricky, it’s actually quite easy to convert YouTube clips to MP3 audio files that you can listen to anywhere. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the entire process step-by-step.

Why Convert YouTube Videos to MP3

There are several great reasons to convert YouTube videos to MP3 audio files:

  • Listen offline: MP3s can be played anywhere, even without an internet connection. You can save YouTube videos for listening offline while commuting, traveling, or anywhere signal is spotty.
  • Save phone storage: Video files take up a lot more storage space than audio files. Converting to MP3 allows you to store more YouTube media on your phone.
  • Audio only: Sometimes you only want the audio from a YouTube video. Converting to MP3 gives you just the sound for listening on the go.
  • Avoid issues: Downloading straight YouTube video can cause playback issues on certain devices. Converting to a universal format like MP3 solves this problem.

Step 1: Copy the YouTube Video URL

The first step is to copy the URL of the YouTube video you want to convert. Here’s how:

  1. Go to YouTube and find the video you wish to convert.
  2. Click the “Share” button below the video frame.
  3. Select “Copy link” from the share menu. This copies the video URL to your clipboard.
  4. Paste this URL somewhere handy like a notepad document. You’ll need it for the next step.

Step 2: Use a YouTube to MP3 Converter Site

There are many free online tools and websites that allow converting YouTube videos to MP3. These YouTube converter sites download the video file from YouTube then extract and encode the audio into an MP3 file for you to save.

Some good YouTube to MP3 converters include:

I recommend ClipConverter.cc as it’s free, fast, easy to use, and does not require an account. But feel free to try any option.

Step 3: Paste the YouTube URL & Convert

Once you’ve selected a YouTube to MP3 converter site, simply paste your copied YouTube video URL into the designated field, then click the “Convert” or “Download” button to start the audio extraction process.

Most converters take 30-60 seconds to process and convert the YouTube video to MP3 format.

Step 4: Download the MP3 File

After the YouTube video has finished processing and converting to MP3, you’ll see a download button appear on the converter site.

Click the download button and save the MP3 file to your computer. That’s it!

You now have the audio from that YouTube video saved as an MP3 file that can be played on any device.

Playing YouTube MP3s on Your Devices

The MP3 file can be transferred to and played on any device that supports the format, including:

  • Smartphones and tablets
  • Digital media players
  • MP3 players
  • Laptops and desktop computers
  • Gaming systems
  • Smart speakers and home audio systems
  • Car audio systems

On mobile devices, the file can be accessed through the native music player app. On computers, it can be played in media programs like iTunes or Windows Media Player.

Tips for Converting YouTube Videos to MP3

Here are some handy tips to get the highest quality MP3 audio when converting YouTube videos:

  • Choose high-definition (720p or 1080p) YouTube videos whenever possible. The audio bitrate will be better than lower quality videos.
  • Avoid converter sites loaded with ads and popups. Stick to reputable sites like the ones mentioned earlier for best results.
  • For very long videos like concerts and lectures, download audio in chunks rather than one long file to avoid processing issues.
  • Double check your downloaded MP3 to make sure the audio converted properly before deleting the original YouTube video.

Converting digital media can sometimes go awry so following these tips will ensure you get perfect MP3 audio every time.

Is Converting YouTube Videos Legal?

There has been considerable debate around the legality of downloading online videos and converting them to other formats.

YouTube’s terms of service explicitly prohibit downloading their videos. However, YouTube to MP3 conversion sites argue they operate legally under public domain and fair use protections.

The consensus of most legal experts is that converting small portions of YouTube videos for personal offline use generally falls into fair use rights. But downloading entire videos or distributing the copies may violate copyright.

As always, it’s best to err on the side of caution. I recommend only converting what you need for personal offline listening based on the fair use doctrine. Avoid mass downloads or uploads of converted YouTube media.

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