How to Record YouTube in High Quality for Free?

YouTube has become a go-to platform for a wide range of content, including tutorials, entertainment, live streams, and educational materials. But what if you want to capture a video for offline access, note-taking, or future reference? In this guide, we’ll show you how to save YouTube videos in high quality by recording, whether you’re on a Windows PC, Mac, iPhone, or Android.

Whether you’re wondering how to record a YouTube video for later viewing or need a way to record YouTube live stream events as they happen, this article has got you covered.

Part 1: How to Record YouTube Videos on Win/MAC

One of the most efficient ways to record YouTube video content on your computer is by using a professional yet free tool like CleverGet Recorder.

Record YouTube Videos Using CleverGet Recorder

CleverGet Recorder is a user-friendly screen recording tool available for both Windows and Mac. It allows users to record YouTube videos in HD or even 4K quality, making it ideal for content creators, educators, or anyone who wants to store streaming videos offline.

Key Features of CleverGet Recorder:

• Record in resolutions up to 4K
  
• Capture system sound and microphone
  
• Schedule recordings in advance
  
• Export in various formats (MP4, MKV, etc.)
  
• Lightweight interface with customizable settings
  

Steps to Record YouTube Videos on PC/Mac:

1. Download and Install CleverGet Recorder
   Visit the official CleverGet Recorder page and install the software for your operating system.
   
2. Launch the Software
   Open CleverGet and select the “Screen Recorder” feature.
   
3. Adjust Recording Settings
   Choose the recording region — either full screen or a custom area — and set audio input (system sound, mic, or both).
   
4. Start Playing the YouTube Video
   Open YouTube in your browser and cue the video you want to record.
   
5. Click ‘REC’ to Begin Recording
   Start the recording before the video plays to ensure you don’t miss anything.
   
6. Stop and Save
   Once the video finishes, stop the recording. The file will be saved to your designated folder, ready for playback.
   

This method is perfect if you’re looking for a smooth, high-quality way to record YouTube live stream events, tutorials, or any other content from your desktop.

Want to record DRM-protected videos like those on Amazon Prime or Netflix? Learn more about it here.

Part 2: How to Record YouTube Videos on iPhone and Android Smartphones

Not everyone watches YouTube on a computer — smartphones are just as popular. If you’re on the go and need to record YouTube videos from your mobile device, here are two effective methods.

Integrated Screen Recording Functionality

Both iOS and Android come with built-in screen recording tools that make it simple to record YouTube video content.

For iPhone (iOS 11 and above):

1. Add the Screen Recorder to Control Center
   Go to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls and add “Screen Recording”.
   
2. Start Recording
   Swipe down from the top-right (iPhone X or later) or up from the bottom (older models) and tap the “Record” button.
   
3. Record Your YouTube Video
   Launch the YouTube app, play the video, and let the screen recorder capture it in real time.
   
4. Stop and Save
   Tap the red recording indicator to stop. The video will be saved in your Photos app.
   

For Android:

Many Android devices also feature native screen recorders. If your device doesn’t, skip to the next section.

1. Access the Screen Recorder
   Pull down the quick settings menu and tap “Screen Recorder”.
   
2. Enable Audio Settings
   Choose to record with system audio if you want sound from the video.
   
3. Play the YouTube Video and Record
   Start the recording and then open the YouTube video.
   
4. Stop Recording
   Stop the recording from the notification bar and find the video in your gallery.
   

This native feature is ideal for quick recordings but may lack advanced editing or export options.

Use a Recording App Like AZ Screen Recorder

If you want additional features, a dedicated screen recording app like AZ Screen Recorder is a top choice for Android users.

Download from: AZ Screen Recorder on Google Play

How to Use AZ Screen Recorder:

1. Download and Install the App
   Install AZ Screen Recorder from the Play Store and grant the necessary permissions.
   
2. Customize Settings
   You can adjust resolution, frame rate, bit rate, and more for better quality output.
   
3. Start Recording
   Tap the floating icon, then hit “Record”. Go to YouTube and play the video.
   
4. Stop and Edit
   When finished, tap stop. AZ lets you trim, compress, or share the file instantly.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a content creator, student, or casual viewer, learning how to record YouTube videos can be incredibly beneficial. From desktop tools like CleverGet Recorder to mobile apps like AZ Screen Recorder, there are plenty of free options to record YouTube live streams, tutorials, or your favorite entertainment videos.

With built-in screen recorders on iOS and Android, or advanced features on third-party apps, it’s easier than ever to record YouTube video content in high quality — and at no cost.

Just remember: always respect content creators’ copyrights. These methods are intended for personal use and offline reference only.

So now that you know how to record shows on YouTube and other types of content, what are you waiting for? Start recording and build your offline video library today!