How to convert YouTube to MP3: find out the best ways for you

This guide profiles some of the top YouTube to MP3 conversion tools available, both online-based and offline desktop applications. It aims to help users find the right fit according to their needs, whether prioritizing conversion speed, output quality, or compatibility. Featured options allow effortless copy-pasting of video URLs or embed codes for converting YouTube to mp3. Some even facilitate batch processing of multiple links simultaneously.

Save MP3 music from YouTube videos

There are the typical steps:

• Copy the URL of the YouTube music video that you want. This can be a single video or an entire playlist.
• Open your preferred YouTube to MP3 converter software or website.
• Paste the YouTube URL into the converter.
• Select MP3 as the output audio format.
• The converter will extract the audio and generate an MP3 file.
• You can then find the downloaded MP3 file on your computer or device for transferring and playing offline.
• Some converters also allow adding ID3 tags like title, artist, and album info to organize music files professionally.
• Batch downloading YouTube playlists is possible with many converters by simply pasting the playlist URL.

Convert YouTube videos to MP3 audio

YouTube to MP3 converter tools allow extracting just the audio from any YouTube video as MP3 format. This is useful for several purposes:

• Listening to podcasts, lectures or tutorials without watching the visuals for convenience.
• Enjoying the background music or soundtracks from video clips offline.
• Saving storage space by removing unnecessary video files.

The typical workflow is:

• Copy the URL of the YouTube video that you want to audio-only MP3 format.
• Open your preferred YouTube to MP3 converter and paste the URL.
• Select MP3 as the output format on the converter.
• Specify if the part of audio to converted using start/end time or full video duration.
• Click convert and the software will extract just the MP3 audio from the video.
• Locate and transfer the downloaded MP3 file to your mobile or other devices.
• The MP3 can now be played without watching the YouTube video it was extracted from.

Top free YouTube to MP3 converters

Here are some of the best free YouTube to MP3 converters to try:

5smp3

Supported sites: YouTube
Supported Formats: MP3, MP4, AVI.

5smp3 is a simple desktop tool for Windows. You can either convert single videos or bulk download entire playlists. The intuitive interface lets you get started within seconds.

Pros:

1. Fast conversion speed
2. Maintains 4K audio quality
3. Simple playlist downloading

Cons:

1. Windows only
2. Minor interface glitches reported

Verdict: For basic yet consistent YouTube to MP3 conversion, 5smp3 proves a reliable option. With regular updates, it continues enhancing the user experience.

Download Cost: Free

ClipGrab

Supported sites: YouTube, SoundCloud, Vimeo
Supported Formats: MP3, MP4, WebM, FLV

ClipGrab lets users download any online audio/video with a full-fledged feature set. Along with conversion, it offers functions like scheduled downloading and customizable output settings. The download manager assists batch conversion of multiple YouTube playlists.

Pros:

1. Comprehensive downloading tool
2. Scheduling for automatic downloads
3. Supports batch playlist conversion

Cons:

1. Frequent ads can be annoying
2. The learning curve for advanced options

Verdict: For power users seeking extra features, ClipGrab delivers value beyond basic conversion. However, occasional ads may not suit all.

Download Cost: Free

OnlyMP3

Supported sites: YouTube
Supported Formats: MP3

OnlyMP3 is a simplified YouTube to MP3 online converter optimized for swift speed. With its clean interface, all one needs to do is paste the video link and download the MP3 instantly. It handles mainstream conversion needs without unnecessary additions.

Pros:

1. Lightning fast speed
2. Simple one-click workflow
3. No installation required

Cons:

1. Lacks additional features
2. Basic conversion quality

Verdict: For sporadic MP3 downloads, OnlyMP3’s no-frills approach offers instant gratification to casual users. Though feature-rich options better serve power users.

Download Cost: Free

Freemake Video Downloader

Supported sites: YouTube, Vimeo, and over 750 sites
Supported Formats: MP3, MP4, AVI, MKV etc.

Freemake is a comprehensive freeware supporting all popular sites. It excels at converting YouTube to MP3 plus varied formats. Additional functions like organizing favorites, and burning videos help repurposing content. The intuitive interface guides users through professional downloading.

Pros:

1. All-in-one downloading solution
2. Wide format and site compatibility
3. User-friendly navigation

Cons:

1. Large program size
2. Interface occasionally bugs

Verdict: For users demanding diverse formats across a multitude of sites, Freemake establishes itself as a one-stop solution. Its advantages outweigh minor interface issues.

Download Cost: Free

Convert2MP3

Supported sites: YouTube
Supported Formats: MP3

Convert2MP3 delivers swift yet high-quality YouTube to MP3 conversion. Users gain control over ID3 tags and extracted audio duration. An optimized online experience completes extraction within minutes regardless of internet speeds.

Pros:

1. Fast and high-quality conversion
2. Customizable ID3 tags and duration
3. Online conversion saves disk space

Cons:

1. Frequent popup ads can disturb workflow
2. Lacks playlist downloading

Verdict: For precise yet speedy conversion, Convert2MP3 proves a reliable option. However, occasional popup promotions may irritate some.

Download Cost: Free

YTMP3cc

Supported sites: YouTube
Supported Formats: MP3

YTMP3cc provides an online solution requiring no software. Users can directly paste YouTube links and get MP3s from any web browser. It serves a specific audience preferring instant extraction over additional perks.

Pros:

1. Cloud-based – works from any device
2. Simple one-click workflow
3. No installation or sign-up

Cons:

1. Slower conversion than dedicated apps
2. Lacks additional features

Verdict: For the convenience of online-only playback, YTMP3cc satisfies those seeking hassle-free MP3 downloads within browsers.

Download Cost: Free

MP3convert

Supported sites: YouTube
Supported Formats: MP3

MP3convert specializes in batch-converting YouTube playlists to MP3 format through an easy interface. It efficiently downloads multiple videos simultaneously while maintaining audio quality. Additional options like custom file naming add usability.

Pros:

1. Fast bulk playlist conversion
2. High-quality MP3 output
3. Customizable file naming

Cons:

1. Frequent ads during conversion
2. The interface could be more intuitive

Verdict: By facilitating rapid playlist extraction, MP3convert addresses power users’ needs. However, occasional ads may frustrate some and stall workflow.

Download Cost: Free

Comparison of the 7 YouTube to MP3 converters

Download YouTube videos MP3 in seconds

Converting YouTube videos to MP3 format can be done lightning-fast with the right converter. Here are the typical steps:

• Copy the URL of the YouTube video that you want as MP3.
• Open your preferred YouTube to MP3 software and paste the link.
• Select MP3 as the output audio format.
• Click on the start or convert button to initialize the extraction process.
• The converter will start downloading the audio from the YouTube video.
• Extraction speeds vary depending on factors like internet speeds and video length.
• However, most good converters can complete short videos within 10-15 seconds.
• Once extracted, the MP3 file is automatically saved on your device.
• You can then play, transfer or share the MP3 without an internet connection.

User reviews and experiences

Gauging user reviews is invaluable for understanding the real-world YouTube to MP3 conversion experience:

• Satisfaction:
  • 5smp3, ClipGrab, and Freemake generally receive praise for reliable functionality and quality output.
• Speed:
  • Users note converters like OnlyMP3 and Convert2MP3 excel at lightning-fast speed.
• Audio quality:
  • Reviews suggest 5smp3, Freemake, and ClipGrab best preserve audio fidelity through MP3 extraction.
• Interface & learning curve:
  • Simple tools like OnlyMP3 receive props for beginner-friendliness while advanced options in ClipGrab pose challenges.
• Bugs & errors:
  • Some complain of occasional glitches in YTMP3cc, MP3Convert, and interface lag in Freemake.
• Advertisements:
  • Excessive popups in Convert2MP3 and MP3Convert are called annoying compared to others.
• Support:
  • 5smp3, ClipGrab gains nods for regular updates addressing issues swiftly.

The tips for choosing the best app to convert YouTube to MP3

• Consider your needs – Casual or power user? Prioritize speed, features or simplicity.
• Research file formats supported – MP3 sufficient or need other types?
• Check supported websites – Only YouTube or multi-site compatibility required?
• Consider platform – Web, Windows, Mac, Android options available?
• Read reviews from different sources – Compare experiences on software websites and forums.
• Test multiple free converters – Hands-on helps assess pros and cons better than specs.
• Evaluate interface and learning curve – Simple or advanced options preferred?
• Check for regular updates – Frequently updated tools ensure long-term bug fixes.
• Consider advertisement annoyances – Excess popups defeat the purpose of free software.
• Assess brand reputation – Well-known developers are more likely to offer support.

Final words

Converting YouTube to MP3 is an easy and handy way to save music from YouTube or listen to video soundtracks offline. This article has introduced seven prominent free YouTube to MP3 converters and discussed their pros and cons based on features and reviews. Choosing the right one depends on your specific conversion needs. Try different options to determine the best YouTube to MP3 solution.