How to download YouTube videos in 4K UHD
4K UHD is the highest quality available on YouTube for most channels. If you have a big TV, a 4K monitor, or want to archive content at max quality, downloading in 4K makes sense. But it's NOT always worth it. In this guide I'll explain when to download in 4K, when NOT to, and how.
What is 4K UHD?
4K UHD stands for "Ultra High Definition" at 3840×2160 pixels. That's four times the pixels of 1080p Full HD. The difference is huge in terms of:
- Visual definition (on big screens)
- File size
- CPU requirements for playback
- Download time
How to download 4K with YTSavr
1. Copy the YouTube link
In the app, Share → Copy link. In the browser, copy the URL.
2. Paste it in YTSavr
Go to ytsavr.com, paste the link and tap Search video.
3. Check if 4K is available
When quality options appear, look for:
- 2160p (4K UHD)
- 1440p (2K QHD)
- 1080p Full HD
- 720p HD
- 480p SD
- Audio MP3
If you DON'T see 2160p, it means the creator didn't upload in that quality. There's no way to download 4K if the source isn't 4K.
4. Download
If available, tap 4K UHD and then Download. Important warnings:
- Takes longer: big files = slower download
- Needs space: have at least 1-2 GB free
- Wi-Fi recommended: 4K over mobile data eats a LOT
Real 4K sizes
- 1 minute in 4K: 100-200 MB
- 5 minutes in 4K: 500 MB - 1 GB
- 10 minutes in 4K: 1-2 GB
- 30 minutes in 4K: 3-6 GB
- 1 hour in 4K: 6-12 GB
When 4K IS worth it
- You have a real 4K TV or monitor (3840×2160)
- You'll edit the video and need resolution for zoom or crop
- Long-term archive (better to keep max quality for the future)
- Professional demos on big screens
- Film production where 4K is standard
When it's NOT worth it
- 1080p screen or lower: your screen literally can't display all pixels
- Phone playback: even the newest iPhone doesn't visually benefit
- Limited space: if you have to free up space for 4K, not worth it
- Slow internet: you'll wait a long time
- Old PC: 4K codecs (H.265 HEVC) require a decent CPU
The 4K "standard" trick
Not all "4K" is created equal. YouTube offers 4K in different codecs depending on the case:
- VP9 4K: modern codec, better compression, compatible with most software
- AV1 4K: newest codec, better quality per bit, needs modern CPU
- H.264 4K: old codec, bigger files, maximum compatibility
YTSavr picks the most suitable codec for your browser. If your PC has trouble playing the file, try a different quality or convert with HandBrake.
Recommended 4K players
- VLC Media Player (free): plays any 4K on any platform
- mpv (free): minimalist, excellent for 4K
- PotPlayer (Windows, free): great compatibility
- Apple TV / IINA (Mac): Apple-native
Frequently asked questions
How big is a 4K video?
Roughly 100-200 MB per minute. A 10-minute 4K video can weigh 1-2 GB. For long videos, make sure you have enough space.
Are all videos in 4K?
No. Only videos the creator originally uploaded in 4K appear at that quality. If they uploaded in 1080p, that's the max available.
Is 4K worth it on a 1080p screen?
Not really. Your screen can only display 1080p, so you're downloading data that doesn't show. Better to download 1080p and save space.
Can my old PC play 4K?
Depends on the CPU. PCs before 2017 can struggle with H.265 4K codec. If playback stutters, download in 1080p.