Watching videos on YouTube has become part of our daily routine, whether for education, entertainment, or work. However, sometimes you don’t need the entire video—you just want to save a specific clip or moment. Whether you’re using a PC or a phone, capturing part of a YouTube video can be done reliably and in a few different ways. This article will walk you through trustworthy methods to save sections of YouTube videos without violating terms of service or copyright policies.
Contents
Understanding the Legal Boundaries
Before diving into the technical steps, it’s vital to understand what’s legal and safe to do. Downloading entire YouTube videos may infringe copyright unless the content is in the public domain or explicitly permitted by the creator. However, using short clips for personal use, educational purposes, or commentary may fall under “fair use” guidelines. Always use discretion and remain within legal limits.
Saving Part of a YouTube Video on PC
There are various options for saving a portion of a YouTube video on your computer. Here are the most reliable methods:
1. Use Online Clipping Tools
Online tools like YT Cutter, Clideo, and Kapwing allow users to input a YouTube URL and select a specific timestamp to clip and download a part of the video.
- Step 1: Open the video on YouTube and copy its URL.
- Step 2: Go to a trusted clipping site like YT Cutter or Clideo.
- Step 3: Paste the URL, choose the start and end times for the clip.
- Step 4: Download or export the video segment.
Note: These services may have limitations on video length or format for free users.
2. Record Clip with Screen Recording Software
If online tools aren’t sufficient, using screen recording software provides greater control. Programs such as OBS Studio, ShareX, or Camtasia allow users to record only what’s playing on the screen, including a specific YouTube segment.
- Step 1: Open your preferred screen recording application.
- Step 2: Select the recording area to cover only the video player.
- Step 3: Play the desired section of the video, then start and stop the recording accordingly.
- Step 4: Save the recording in your desired format.
This method is great for high-quality retention and can bypass online limitations, but remember to keep recordings short and for personal or permitted usage.
Saving Part of a YouTube Video on Phone
On mobile devices, the process differs slightly due to limited access to desktop-style tools and software.
1. Use Mobile Apps with Clipping Options
Apps such as InShot, Tubemate (for Android), and Documents by Readdle (for iOS) allow you to download and trim videos if permitted legally.
- Step 1: Install a trusted video editing app from your app store.
- Step 2: Import the YouTube video legally (if the app supports YouTube clips or you have downloaded it via official UX).
- Step 3: Use the editing feature to trim and save only the part you need.
Keep in mind that mobile apps often include watermarks or ads in the free version. It’s important to review privacy policies before downloading files through third-party apps.
2. Screen Record the Clip
Most modern smartphones come with built-in screen recorders. This is one of the simplest yet effective ways to save part of a video for personal use without third-party software.
For iOS:
- Go to Settings > Control Center > Add Screen Recording.
- Swipe to access the control panel and tap the screen recording icon.
- Play the YouTube video and stop the recording when done.
For Android:
- Drag down the quick settings menu and tap the screen recording option.
- Start recording, play the desired YouTube clip, and press stop when finished.
After recording, you can edit the clip using your device’s native video editor or third-party apps.
Final Thoughts
Saving portions of YouTube videos is an increasingly common need, especially for educators, content creators, and casual viewers. By understanding both the technical steps and the legal implications, you can clip and store video segments responsibly.
Always verify that the method you’re using respects copyright protections and aligns with YouTube’s terms of service. For any purpose beyond personal viewing, obtaining proper permissions or licenses is not just smart—it’s essential.
Use trusted tools, respect creator rights, and enjoy curated video clips hassle-free.