how to save a youtube video to google drive

Daniel Parker

3 min read

·

31-01-2025

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Saving YouTube videos to Google Drive offers a convenient way to access your favorite content offline. This guide will walk you through several methods, highlighting their pros and cons to help you choose the best approach for your needs. Whether you want to save a music video for offline listening or a tutorial for later viewing, we've got you covered.

Method 1: Downloading with a Third-Party Tool (Not Officially Supported)

Many third-party apps and browser extensions claim to download YouTube videos directly. However, be cautious. Using unauthorized methods can violate YouTube's terms of service and potentially expose your device to malware. While some tools are reputable, others may be harmful. Proceed with extreme caution and only use well-reviewed and trusted options.

Pros: Potentially faster download speeds than other methods. Cons: Risks violating YouTube's terms of service; potential malware risk; may not always work due to YouTube's updates.

Steps (General - specific steps vary per tool):

1. Find a reputable downloader: Research and choose a downloader with positive reviews.
2. Install and open the tool: Follow the instructions provided by the tool's developer.
3. Copy the YouTube video URL: Locate the URL of the YouTube video you want to save.
4. Paste the URL into the downloader: Most tools have a space to paste the video link.
5. Select the desired quality and format: Choose the quality (e.g., 720p, 1080p) and file format (e.g., MP4, MP3).
6. Start the download: Initiate the download process.
7. Locate the downloaded file: Once the download is complete, find the downloaded video file on your computer.
8. Upload to Google Drive: Open Google Drive, upload the downloaded file, and organize it into folders as needed.

Method 2: Recording the Screen (Reliable but Lower Quality)

This method uses your computer's built-in screen recording capabilities to capture the video. While not ideal for high-quality preservation, it's a reliable method that avoids any potential copyright issues or software risks.

Pros: Reliable, avoids potential legal issues; works on any device with screen recording. Cons: Lower video quality; can be time-consuming; requires additional storage space.

Steps (using built-in Windows screen recorder as example):

1. Open the YouTube video: Start playing the YouTube video you want to save.
2. Initiate screen recording: Use the Windows Game Bar (Win + G) or QuickTime (macOS) or another screen recording software.
3. Record the video: Record the entire video. Ensure your microphone is muted unless you need audio commentary.
4. Stop recording: Once the video finishes playing, stop the recording.
5. Locate the recording: Find the recorded video file on your computer.
6. Upload to Google Drive: Upload the recorded video to your Google Drive.

Method 3: Using YouTube Premium (Official and High Quality)

If you subscribe to YouTube Premium, you can download videos directly through the official YouTube app. This is the safest and highest quality method.

Pros: Official method, high quality, supports offline playback; no third-party tools needed. Cons: Requires a YouTube Premium subscription.

Steps:

1. Subscribe to YouTube Premium: Sign up for a YouTube Premium subscription.
2. Open the YouTube app: Open the official YouTube app on your mobile device or computer.
3. Find the video: Locate the video you wish to save.
4. Download the video: Tap or click the download button (usually a downward-pointing arrow) under the video.
5. Access offline: Access the downloaded video offline within the YouTube app. While technically downloaded, it's not directly in your Google Drive. You can however share links to it.

Choosing the Right Method

The best method depends on your needs and priorities. For highest quality and ease of use, YouTube Premium is ideal, although it costs money. If you're on a budget and willing to compromise on quality, screen recording is a safe and reliable alternative. Third-party downloaders offer a potentially faster download but carry risks. Remember to always respect copyright laws and YouTube's terms of service.

Remember to always respect copyright laws. Downloading copyrighted material without permission is illegal. This guide is for informational purposes only. Use these methods responsibly.