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SlateHollis's avatar
SlateHollis
Iron Contributor
Jul 17, 2025

How to download youtube video on mac with 4k or 1080p

Hi all, Currently, I have a new programming course this semester and to get me more prepared, I want to learn the basic by myself. Actually, I found a couple of very interesting videos on youtube an...
Reitdba's avatar
Reitdba
Iron Contributor
Jul 17, 2025

On a Mac, you can use the built-in Screenshot tool to record YouTube videos by capturing your screen. This is an indirect but safe way to free download youtube video on mac without any software.

  • Shift + Command + 6: Record a selected portion of the screen.
  • Shift + Command + 7: Record a specific window.

These shortcuts are part of macOS Sonoma and later. After pressing the shortcut, a recording toolbar will appear, allowing you to start and stop the screen recording easily. The captured video will be saved to your desktop by default. No youtube downloader software required!!!

Cons of video recording

❌ Low quality – Records at screen resolution, not original video quality.
❌ No audio (unless enabled in settings, but may have sync issues).
❌ Time-consuming – Requires real-time playback.

Note: This method is useful for personal use (like offline viewing or taking notes), but it’s important to respect copyright laws when downloading or recording content from YouTube.

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