Are you looking for ways to save your favorite YouTube videos for offline viewing on your iPhone? Check out these 15 free YouTube video downloader apps for iPhone, plus essential tips on staying within legal guidelines.

If you’ve ever found yourself wanting to watch a YouTube video on your iPhone when you have no internet connection—say, on a plane, a road trip, or during a commute—you’re not alone.

Do you need immediate help to download Youtube video, if yes, simply engage trusted freelancers from Fiverr to help you right now.

While YouTube Premium does offer offline viewing, not everyone wants to subscribe. This is where YouTube video downloader apps can come into play.

However, there’s a big disclaimer up front: Downloading YouTube content typically violates YouTube’s Terms of Service (unless the video is copyright-free or you have explicit permission).

Many “downloader” apps have been removed from the App Store over time. That said, if you’re looking to save non-copyrighted material or personal projects you’ve uploaded yourself, or you have the rights to the video, there are still some options (and clever workarounds) on iPhone.

Read Also: 3 Ways to Stop YouTube ads as Viewer

15 best free YouTube video downloader apps for iPhone

1. Documents by Readdle

One of the best free YouTube video downloader apps for iPhone:

• Free and highly reputable file manager app.
• Built-in browser allows you to navigate to a third-party video downloading website.
• Easily save videos within the app or move them to your Camera Roll.

How to Use It:

1. Install Documents by Readdle from the App Store.
2. Open the app and tap on the built-in browser (the compass icon).
3. Visit a reputable online video downloader website.
4. Paste the YouTube video URL and choose your download format.
5. Save the file, and you can later move it from Documents to your Photos app.

Caution: Be mindful of third-party sites. Some can be laden with ads or malicious pop-ups.

2. Shortcuts App (iOS Shortcut)

Why It’s Great:

• Native iOS app created by Apple.
• You can use user-created “Download YouTube” shortcuts that let you save videos directly.

How to Use It:

1. Open the Shortcuts app (pre-installed on iOS; if not, download it from the App Store).
2. Search online (e.g., “Download YouTube iOS Shortcut”) for a reputable shortcut. You’ll often find these on sites like RoutineHub.
3. Add the shortcut to your Shortcuts Library.
4. When you find a YouTube video you want, tap Share → More → Shortcuts → select the downloader shortcut.
5. The video should then download to your Camera Roll.

Caution: These shortcuts can break if YouTube changes its code. Make sure you trust the source of the shortcut.

Read Also: 6 Steps to Block Channels on YouTube on Desktop, Mobile App and YouTube Studio

3. Total Files

Why It’s Great:

• A file manager with a built-in web browser.
• Similar functionality to Documents by Readdle.
• Easy to navigate and store your files in organized folders.

How to Use It:

1. Download Total Files from the App Store.
2. Use the in-app browser to find an online video downloader.
3. Paste the YouTube link, select your format and quality, and download.

Caution: If you notice suspicious ads or links, avoid them. Always stick to safer websites.

4. Amerigo File Manager

One of the best free YouTube video downloader apps for iPhone:

• Another popular file manager with advanced features like cloud integration.
• Offers a built-in browser so you can download videos from various sources.

How to Use It:

1. Install Amerigo from the App Store.
2. Within the app, open the browser tab.
3. Paste your YouTube link on a third-party downloader site.
4. Download the video, and it will be saved in Amerigo’s folders.

Caution: Basic version is free, but additional features may require in-app purchases.

5. Browser and File Manager for Documents

Why It’s Great:

• Straightforward and free to download.
• Acts similarly to Documents by Readdle, offering a built-in browser.

How to Use It:

1. Install “Browser and File Manager for Documents” from the App Store.
2. Access the browser within the app.
3. Visit a trusted YouTube downloader website and download your file.
4. Store the video locally within the app.

Caution: Watch out for pop-up ads that appear on free downloader sites.

Read Also: 15 best FREE Ad Blocker Browser Extensions to Stop YouTube Ads as Viewer

6. Video Saver Pro+

Why It’s Great:

• Allows you to download and organize videos from various sources.
• Cloud sync support, so you can access your files from multiple devices.

How to Use It:

1. Download Video Saver Pro+.
2. Use the in-app browser to find a download link for your YouTube video.
3. Save the file, and watch offline whenever you want.

Caution: The free version may have limitations or ads, so be prepared for potential upgrades.

7. Video Downloader & Video Cast

Why It’s Great:

• Known for its straightforward interface and easy-to-use layout.
• Capable of streaming to different devices in addition to downloading.

How to Use It:

1. Install Video Downloader & Video Cast from the App Store.
2. Use the integrated browser to find your video.
3. Download the video and save it locally on your iPhone.

Caution: Some features (like video casting) might require a premium upgrade.

8. FileMaster

Why It’s Great:

• A robust file manager that supports multiple file types.
• Built-in browser for downloading videos and documents.

How to Use It:

1. Install FileMaster.
2. Open the in-app browser, go to your YouTube download site of choice.
3. Paste the video URL, and download to FileMaster’s folder system.

Caution: Make sure you remain in compliance with all copyrights.

9. Video Downloader Pro (Free Version)

Why It’s Great:

• Simple UI, making it easy for beginners.
• Additional features like password-protection for private videos.

How to Use It:

1. Install Video Downloader Pro (free version).
2. Use its browser to navigate to a trusted site for YouTube downloads.
3. Download and organize your videos in password-protected folders if desired.

Caution: Watch out for in-app advertisements.

Read Also: How to Turn on Comments on YouTube

10. Offline Files & Downloader

Why It’s Great:

• Designed to handle multiple files offline.
• Supports background downloading and offline playback.

How to Use It:

1. Install Offline Files & Downloader from the App Store.
2. Within the app, use the browser or connect to cloud services.
3. Download videos directly into the app and watch them offline.

Caution: Some advanced features might be locked behind a paywall.

11. Video Player – Media Manager

Why It’s Great:

• Focuses on both downloading and playing media files seamlessly.
• Comes with a clean interface and easy categorization.

How to Use It:

1. Install Video Player – Media Manager.
2. Access its built-in browser to locate and download your YouTube video.
3. Create playlists or folders for easy viewing.

Caution: Some features or file formats might not be supported in the free version.

12. Mirmay Downloader

Why It’s Great:

• A well-known, older app that still floats around for basic file downloads.
• Organizes downloads and supports multiple file formats.

How to Use It:

1. Search for Mirmay Downloader in the App Store.
2. Once installed, open the browser feature and navigate to a downloader site.
3. Save your YouTube video file within the app.

Caution: Check if it’s still actively updated to avoid security issues.

13. Video Downloader for Social Media

Why It’s Great:

• Often promoted for saving content from various social media platforms, including YouTube (via web browsers).
• Free, though it might include ads.

How to Use It:

1. Download Video Downloader for Social Media from the App Store.
2. In the browser, go to the YouTube downloader site.
3. Paste your link, pick format/quality, and save.

Caution: Always respect the content creator’s rights and platform rules.

14. Cloud Video Player Pro

Why It’s Great:

• Offers integration with popular cloud storage platforms like Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.
• Allows offline video playback once videos are downloaded or synced.

How to Use It:

1. Install Cloud Video Player Pro.
2. You can download videos by uploading them to your cloud first or using an in-app browser to get them from third-party downloader sites.
3. Store them in your cloud folder for easy access across devices.

Caution: Make sure you’re not violating any cloud service’s policies regarding copyrighted media.

15. VLC for Mobile (Workaround)

Why It’s Great:

• VLC is a versatile media player that can play almost any video format.
• While it doesn’t directly download YouTube videos, you can import videos downloaded via a browser or from your computer.

How to Use It:

1. Download the video through a browser-based method (e.g., Documents by Readdle).
2. Share or move the video file to VLC for Mobile.
3. Enjoy offline playback with VLC’s user-friendly controls and wide format support.

Caution: VLC is not a downloader; it’s a player. Use a separate method to save the videos first.

Important Tips & Cautions

1. Respect Copyright: Most YouTube videos are protected by copyright. Always check if you have the rights or permission to download.
2. YouTube Terms of Service: Downloading videos without permission can violate YouTube’s policy. Use these apps only for personal or non-copyrighted content.
3. Beware of Ads & Malware: Many third-party sites are loaded with ads or contain malicious scripts. Stick to reputable downloader websites and keep your antivirus software updated.
4. Check App Store Policy: Apple often removes apps that violate guidelines, so your favorite downloader might vanish or stop working. Keep an eye on updates and user reviews.
5. Shortcuts & Automation: If you’re tech-savvy, consider using iOS Shortcuts for a streamlined experience. Just ensure the shortcut source is trustworthy.

Final Thoughts

Finding a reliable (and free!) YouTube video downloader app for your iPhone can be tricky due to Apple’s strict guidelines and YouTube’s Terms of Service. However, the methods and apps listed above can help you legally download or save content for offline viewing—provided you have the rights to do so. Always make sure you’re respecting copyright rules, and if you’re ever unsure, it’s best to watch videos online or opt for YouTube Premium.

Have any favorite iPhone downloaders or insider tips? Feel free to share them! In the meantime, enjoy your offline videos responsibly.

By following the above suggestions, you’re on your way to a seamless offline viewing experience—no subscription required. Stay safe, respect copyright laws, and happy video watching!

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