yt-dlg
yt-dlg: A free, open-source GUI for users who want backend flexibility across desktop platforms. Ranked #113 of 135 in Video Downloaders by our editors (3.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for users wanting a basic cross-platform GUI.
At a glance
- Editor score3.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forUsers wanting a basic cross-platform GUI
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open-source desktop application
- Supports Windows, GNU/Linux, and macOS
- Offers yt-dlp, youtube-dl, and optional FFmpeg integration
Where it doesn't
- Requires a compatible yt-dlp or youtube-dl backend
- FFmpeg post-processing is optional rather than built in
- Desktop-focused, with no mobile platform support
Our verdict on yt-dlg
yt-dlg is an open-source desktop GUI for downloading video and audio from many sites supported by its youtube-dl-compatible backend. It is aimed at users who prefer a graphical interface over command-line tools while still wanting a choice between yt-dlp and youtube-dl. Cross-platform installation covers Windows, GNU/Linux, and macOS, and the interface includes dark theme support. This makes yt-dlg a practical fit for desktop users who want a basic downloader with backend flexibility rather than a broader media-management suite.
Its main strength is the connection between a simple GUI and an established command-line backend model. Users can select yt-dlp or youtube-dl, while optional FFmpeg integration supports post-processing workflows. The project is distributed through source packages, PyPI, Windows packages, Winget, Snap, and the Microsoft Store, giving desktop users several installation paths. That ecosystem fit is useful for people who already understand the role of download backends and want to choose the component handling downloads.
The trade-off is dependency and scope. yt-dlg relies on its selected backend, so the overall experience is tied to backend availability and behavior. FFmpeg is an optional addition for post-processing, and the product is focused on desktop downloading rather than mobile access or AI-assisted workflows. The project has open issues, which is a relevant consideration for buyers evaluating maintenance signals. Choose yt-dlg if you want a free, open-source graphical layer for yt-dlp or youtube-dl on Windows, GNU/Linux, or macOS. Choose an alternative if you need a mobile app, integrated AI features, or a downloader that does not depend on a separate backend.
Your product? Our editors can test yt-dlg in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
yt-dlg pricing
yt-dlg fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Maximum video quality | Not verified |
| Supported sources | many sites supported by the youtube-dl backend |
| Output formats | Not verified |
| Playlist downloads | Not verified |
| Subtitle downloads | Not verified |
| Batch downloads | Not verified |
| Device platforms | Windows, GNU/Linux, macOS |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 3 integrations: yt-dlp, youtube-dl, FFmpeg |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
yt-dlg integrations
yt-dlg lists 3 integrations on its own site.
- yt-dlp
- youtube-dl
- FFmpeg
Alternatives to yt-dlg
- yt-dlpMaximum control for users comfortable with command-line downloading and automation.9.4
- EaseUS Video DownloaderA broad Windows and macOS downloader with playlists, livestreams, subtitles, and 8K support.9.2
- 4K Video Downloader+A broad desktop downloader with a free starter plan and a $60 Pro option.9.0
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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