A YouTube to MKV converter is a software or online tool that allows you to download and convert videos from YouTube into the MKV file format. MKV is a popular multimedia container that stores high-quality video, audio, and subtitle tracks in a single file. It’s widely used for storing high-definition videos and due to its flexibility and support for various codecs. But which tools to use if you want to convert a YouTube video to MKV? We’re about to find out.

How to Choose the Best YouTube to MKV Converter

When picking a YouTube to MKV converter, make sure you check these facets:

Ability to download YouTube videos in multiple formats

Well, this is the primary and most important functionality. YouTube video downloaders and converters allow you to input the URL of a YouTube video and then fetch and download the video file from YouTube's servers.

Support of MKV

Check beforehand if the tool actually can convert the video to MKV, not just download the file in the same format it has been uploaded. MKV files can support various video and audio codecs, so you may have options to choose the quality and format of the output file.

Supported video platforms

Ensure that the converter supports the specific video platforms you want to download content from, such as YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, or others. Some converters are limited to certain platforms.

Video quality

Look for a converter that allows you to select the video quality you prefer. Some converters offer options like 4K, 1080p, or 720p, depending on the source video's availability.

Batch downloading

If you often download multiple videos or playlists, consider a converter that supports batch downloading. This can save you time and effort.

Audio extraction

If you want to extract audio from videos, check if the converter supports this feature and offers various audio formats, such as MP3, M4A, or others.

Updates and support

Ensure that the converter receives regular updates to stay compatible with changes on video platforms. Reliable customer support is also valuable if you encounter issues.

Compatibility

While MKV is a versatile format, not all media players may support it out of the box, for instance, Mac computers. However, many popular media players and devices can play MKV files, and you can find codec packs or plugins to enable support on others.

A few more tips before we start:

But be sure to use such converters responsibly and respect the rights of content creators.
Always exercise caution when downloading software or using online tools, as some may contain malware or engage in questionable practices. It's essential to choose a reputable and trustworthy YouTube to MKV converter if you decide to use one.

8 Best YouTube to MKV Converters

4K Video Downloader+ — Our Choice

4K Video Downloader+ is a popular software application used by millions of people worldwide to download videos from various online platforms, including YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, and others, in high-resolution formats, such as 4K, 8K, and even 360-degree videos.

Here are the key features and functions associated with 4K Video Downloader:

Video download and conversion

The primary function of 4K Video Downloader+ is to allow you to download videos from various websites. It supports a wide range of sources (YouTube, Bilibili, Vimeo, BitChute, Twitch, Facebook, Dailymotion, adult sites, etc.) and video resolutions, including 4K, 8K, 1080p, and more, depending on the availability of the video on the source platform.

YouTube playlists and channels batch download

With 4K Video Downloader+, you can save your favourite YouTube playlist and even entire channels, not just single videos.

Audio download

In addition to downloading video content, the app also enables users to download audio tracks from videos. You can save the audio in various formats like MP3, M4A, OGG, and more.

Subtitles download

You can download YouTube subtitles in various languages along with the video, making it useful if you want to watch foreign-language content with subtitles.

Cross-platform compatibility

4K Video Downloader+ is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it accessible to users on different operating systems.

Smart Mode

4K Video Downloader+ includes a Smart Mode that lets you set your preferred download format, quality, and other settings. You can then apply these settings to all future downloads, streamlining the process.

Ability to download and search for content right in the app

Owing to the in-app browser, you can download videos from multiple sites right within the application with no need to leave it. What’s more, in-app login to these services allows you to access more content, such as private videos and playlists, videos with better quality, and more.

Multiple formats support

You can download and convert videos in MKV and MP4 and audio in M4A, OGG, and MP3.

Tip: If you’re a Mac user and experience issues with playing an MKV file on your computer, check this guide.

How to Convert YouTube in MKV with 4K Video Downloader+

Follow these simple steps to do that:

1. Install and launch 4K Video Downloader+. It's available for macOS, Windows, Linux and Android.

2. Copy the link to the YouTube video you want to download.

3. Click the Paste Link button in the app.

4. Select the MKV format, then choose the quality and output folder.

5. Click Download.

Alternatively, you can find and download YouTube videos in MKV through the in-app browser. This way, you can browse YouTube without leaving the application and download content on the spot.

Tip: Set the MKV format in Smart Mode to convert all your next YouTube videos to MKV by default!

Now, let’s see which alternatives there are.

Any Video Converter

Any Video Converter is a free versatile tool that can download and convert YouTube videos to MKV format, among others. It offers batch processing and supports multiple video-sharing sites. Apart from downloading videos, it allows you to edit and convert them in various formats, too. If, in addition to all these, you’re looking for a screen recording solution, Any Video Converter can do that as well.

Freemake Video Downloader

Freemake is a free video downloader for Windows and macOS that supports downloading YouTube videos in various formats, including MKV. It also has options for converting downloaded videos to different formats, saving videos in HD, MP4, AVI, 3GP, FLV, and other formats, downloading videos from thousands of sites, uploading them in DropBox and Google Drive, saving full YouTube channels, and a lot more stuff.

WinX YouTube Downloader

WinX YouTube Downloader is yet another free tool that allows you to download videos from YouTube and save them in MKV format. This is a versatile video converter that can download videos from YouTube and many other platforms, supports various output formats, offers a simple interface, and batch downloading. You can download videos from Dailymotion, Vimeo, Facebook, YouTube and other sites.

ClipGrab

ClipGrab is a free and open-source video downloader that supports various video-sharing platforms, including YouTube. It can download videos in MKV format and offers the option to convert downloaded videos to other formats. The tool automatically detects the URL copied to the clipboard and almost instantly downloads the file. ClipGrab has a built-in search function, which allows you to conveniently find relevant videos or files on the internet.

DVDFab YouTube to MP3

While primarily designed for extracting audio from YouTube videos, DVDFab also allows you to download YouTube videos in MKV format. With DVDFab, you can download videos from YouTube and other sites, save videos in up to 8K, auto download subscriptions, convert YouTube to MP3, and more.

The tool also claims that it can download YouTube audio in 320 kbps, but it’s not entirely true. Check our article on this popular myth.

iTubeGo

iTubeGo is a YouTube converter that lets you save YouTube videos in a plethora of formats, MKV included. The tool says it can download video and audio files from 1,000 sites, as well as edit the downloaded files and download specific parts of videos. The in-app browser lets you quickly download and access content right from the application.

ByClick Downloader

The last solution you might find useful for YouTube to MKV conversion is ByClick Downloader.

ByClick Downloader offers easy ways to download and convert videos from YouTube. You can even download entire playlists and channels with just a few clicks. ByClick Downloader supports video downloads in resolutions up to 8K and offers a variety of output formats, including MP3, MP4, AVI, FLV, WMV, 3GP, WEBM, MKV, WAV, AAC, and M4A.

Additionally, it allows you to track your downloads and provides personalised recommendations. However, it's worth noting that ByClick Downloader is only available on Windows.