Video DownloadHelper
ActiveOverview
Video DownloadHelper is a browser extension that enables users to download videos from over 1,000 websites, including support for various streaming formats (Dash, HLS, MPD) and live streams. The extension has been in active development for over 10 years and is trusted by approximately 7 million users. It supports high-definition video downloads and format conversion to MP4, MKV, WebM, and other formats, as well as audio extraction to MP3.
Key Features
- Multi-format support - Supports 1,000+ websites including Dash, HLS, and MPD streaming formats
- Live stream downloading - Enables offline viewing of live streams
- HD video download - Downloads videos in high-definition quality
- Format conversion - Converts downloaded videos to MP4, MKV, WebM, and other preferred formats
- Audio extraction - Extracts audio from videos and saves as MP3 files
- YouTube support - Downloads videos from YouTube (Firefox version; Chrome version does not support YouTube)
- Privacy-focused - No tracking, all downloads remain private
- Companion app - Optional desktop application for enhanced functionality
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | All core features including video downloads, format conversion, audio extraction, and live stream support |
Platforms & Requirements
Video DownloadHelper is available as a browser extension for Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge on Windows, macOS, and Linux. The extension requires a companion application (available for Windows, macOS, and Linux) to enable full functionality. The Chrome version does not support YouTube downloads, while the Firefox version includes YouTube support.
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Browser integration (Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge)
- Companion desktop application for Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Format conversion to MP4, MKV, WebM
- Audio extraction to MP3
- Live stream capture
Alternatives
| App | Difference |
|---|---|
| youtube-dl | Command-line tool focused on YouTube and other video sites; requires technical knowledge to operate |
| 4K Video Downloader | Standalone desktop application with GUI; broader platform support but requires separate installation |
| JDownloader | Multi-purpose download manager supporting videos and other file types; more complex interface |
| Freemake Video Downloader | Desktop application with built-in video editing features; Windows-focused |
Reputation
Video DownloadHelper is widely recognized as a reliable video downloading solution with a long track record spanning over a decade. Users appreciate its ease of use, broad website support, and privacy-first approach with no tracking. The extension maintains active development and regular updates. However, some users report occasional compatibility issues with certain websites and the need for a companion app installation for full functionality on some platforms.
Sources (9)
- https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/video-downloadhelper/lmjnegcaeklhafolokijcfjliaokphfk?hl=en
- https://www.downloadhelper.net
- https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/video-downloadhelper/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5WkvIDxK9I
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQTwOVbjUwE
- https://lists.fedoraproject.org/archives/list/users@lists.fedoraproject.org/thread/IMJTAEYYL4AOZDU3COOXIDNFHWZISIGW/
- https://github.com/aclap-dev/video-downloadhelper/discussions/840
- https://groups.google.com/g/video-downloadhelper-q-and-a/c/BbrWxPzUb8k
- https://microsoftedge.microsoft.com/addons/detail/video-downloadhelper/jmkaglaafmhbcpleggkmaliipiilhldn