Yes, it is possible to download playlists from YouTube Music for free using various methods. While YouTube Music itself does not allow downloading playlists directly, there are some workarounds that let you save playlists offline at no cost.
Use a YouTube to MP3 converter
One of the easiest ways to download a YouTube Music playlist is by using a YouTube to MP3 converter.
These are websites or apps that can extract the audio from YouTube videos and save them as MP3 files. Popular converters like youtube-mp3.org, Video2MP3, and FLVTO allow you to paste in a playlist URL and download all the songs at once.
The advantage of this method is you can get the entire playlist as individual audio files that you can play on any device.
The downside is that you lose the associated video clips from the music videos. Also, while converter sites are usually free to use, the legality of downloading copyrighted content is somewhat ambiguous.
Use a video downloader
Video downloaders like 4K Video Downloader and Freemake Video Downloader let you save both the audio and video content from YouTube playlists.
These tools download the videos in their original format and quality. So you can preserve the music videos in your downloaded playlists if you want.
This gives you more flexibility in where you can play the downloaded playlist.
You aren’t restricted only to audio devices. The video visuals also remain intact. The only real downside is the larger file sizes compared to audio-only formats.
Use online playlist rippers
Some websites are dedicated specifically to ripping playlists from YouTube and other streaming platforms. Tools like PlayListDumps and ListenToYouTube offer the ability to download entire YouTube playlists at once.
You can save the videos or extract just the audio based on your preference.
The advantage of these rippers is you don’t have to download each video individually. You can queue up an entire playlist for download with just the playlist link.
They also offer formats like MP3 and M4A for audio-only saving. The reliability of these sites varies though, and malware risks are always a concern with such tools.
Use desktop applications
For those looking for offline, desktop-based solutions, programs like Free YouTube Download and 4K YouTube Video Downloader support playlist downloads.
After copying a playlist link, you can have the application parse the videos and save them all sequentially onto your computer.
The benefit of desktop apps is you avoid any privacy or malware risks associated with online tools. Large playlists can be comfortably downloaded overnight while your computer is idle.
The drawback is limited format support compared to web-based tools. But essentials like MP3 audio are typically available.
Use mobile apps
On mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, apps like SnapTube, TubeMate, and Videoder Music can download playlists off YouTube Music. Just search for the app in your device’s app store, install it, and then paste in a playlist URL to start downloading.
The convenience of saving playlists right on your mobile device makes this an attractive option for many users. You can also play back the downloaded playlists within the app itself. The main limitations are potential privacy concerns with third-party apps and limited sharing options for the downloaded content.
Use Android file transfer
Users with Android devices can download YouTube Music playlists for offline use directly within the YouTube Music app. The downloaded playlists are saved locally onto your Android phone or tablet.
You can then transfer the downloaded playlist files to a computer using the native Android File Transfer utility for Windows and Mac OS.
Connect your Android device, locate the playlist downloads, and copy them onto your desktop or laptop.
While not the most seamless workflow, this does allow you to ultimately extract playlists downloaded on a mobile device. Saving playlists offline via the official YouTube Music app also avoids any legal concerns.
Use a YouTube Premium subscription
YouTube Premium subscribers have the most official and direct option to download YouTube Music playlists.
The paid service lets you save unlimited playlists for offline playback within the YouTube Music app.
Downloaded playlists are stored locally on your device storage. You can listen to them without an internet connection. YouTube Premium also removes all ads on YouTube and YouTube Music.
The obvious trade-off is the monthly or annual subscription fee. But for heavy YouTube Music users, being able to freely save playlists offline may be worth the cost if you frequently find yourself without an internet connection.
Differences between audio-only and video downloads
When evaluating the various playlist download options, one of the key considerations is whether you want just the audio or the full videos. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Audio-only downloads give you smaller file sizes, faster downloads, and greater compatibility across devices. But you lose the visual content.
- Video downloads allow you to retain the full music video experience. But the files take up more storage space and may not play on some mobile devices.
- Audio formats like MP3 have the most widespread device support. Video formats like MP4 are compatible with fewer players.
- Audio downloads only contain the song itself. Videos include the entire music video footage.
How to choose the best playlist downloader
With the range of playlist downloading tools available, it can be tricky to know which one to rely on. Here are a few key factors to consider when selecting a playlist downloader:
Format options – Can you save just audio or audio + video? What formats are available? MP3, M4A, and MP4 are commonly supported.
Quality – Does the downloader preserve the original audio and video quality? Lower quality can degrade your viewing experience.
Speed – Faster downloads allow you to access your playlists sooner. Make sure the tool utilizes fast servers.
Reliability – Select a downloader with a solid track record for successful downloads. Some tools fail often.
Ease of use – Look for an intuitive interface that lets you download full playlists easily.
Security – Avoid downloaders with a history of malware issues or privacy violations.
Balancing these factors will help lead you to a quality YouTube Music playlist downloader that fulfills your specific needs.
Is downloading YouTube playlists legal?
Legally downloading playlists from YouTube Music falls into a bit of a gray area. YouTube’s terms of service prohibit downloading videos from the platform. However, laws regarding music copyright and fair use vary by region.
In the US, for personal and non-commercial use, downloading playlists may qualify as fair use. But technically the rights belong to the music labels. In parts of Europe, private copying exceptions may permit limited downloads. It’s a complex legal landscape still evolving with streaming and DRM.
Ultimately most casual, individual users are at little legal risk for occasional playlist downloads. Just don’t redistribute downloaded content. But platform owners like YouTube do have technological and legal means to discourage mass piracy. Tread carefully and evaluate your local laws regarding such usage.
Alternative free music sources
While downloading playlists from YouTube Music itself comes with hurdles, there are other sites that legally offer entire playlists and albums free to download, including:
Internet Archive – Massive collection of music, playlists, and albums legally uploaded.
DatPiff – User submitted hip hop mixtapes approved for free sharing.
NoCopyrightSounds – Record label providing free-to-use music playlists.
Free Music Archive – Library of creative commons licensed music and albums.
SoundCloud – Many up-and-coming artists allow free downloads.
Exploring these alternatives can spare you the hassle of extracting playlists from YouTube Music. Just be sure to verify licensing terms on free downloads, as rights still apply.
Final recommendations
In closing, here are some final recommendations when seeking to download playlists from YouTube Music:
- Prioritize reputable, well-known downloaders to stay safe.
- Use audio-only formats like MP3 if you just want the songs.
- Consider a YouTube Premium subscription for easy, legal offline access.
- Mind your local copyright laws and avoid piracy or redistribution.
- Explore dedicated free music sites as an alternative.
With the right approach, you can enjoy your favorite YouTube Music playlists downloaded for free without hassle or legal risks. Just be selective in your tools and mindful in your usage.
