Is YouTube Premium Worth It in Saving Video?: Get the Best Free Alternative
YouTube Premium has long been a popular subscription for those wanting an ad-free experience, background playback, and offline video access. However, recent changes to YouTube’s family sharing policy — particularly restrictions on cross-region family groups — have left many users wondering: Is YouTube Premium worth it anymore?
As the platform tightens its rules and continues to increase prices, more people are looking for YouTube Premium alternatives that provide similar benefits without a monthly fee. In this article, we’ll explore the features and limitations of YouTube Premium, and then introduce a free tool—CleverGet Recorder—that allows you to record YouTube for free and enjoy your favorite content offline without paying a cent.
Part 1: YouTube Premium Pros & Cons
Before diving into alternatives, let’s take a balanced look at YouTube Premium features, what you gain with a subscription, and where it falls short.
✅ What You Get with YouTube Premium
- Ad-free viewing: All YouTube videos play without ads, including pre-roll, mid-roll, and banner ads.
- Offline downloads: Download videos and playlists to watch offline on mobile devices.
- Background play: Videos and music can continue playing while you use other apps or turn off your screen.
- YouTube Music Premium: Included access to the YouTube Music app without ads and with download options.
- Access to YouTube Originals: Exclusive content and early access to some shows.
According to this YouTube Premium review, these features work best for mobile users, frequent commuters, and those using YouTube as their main music or video source.
❌ The Drawbacks
- High cost: $13.99/month for individuals and $22.99/month for families.
- Family sharing restrictions: As reported by CNET, YouTube is cracking down on cross-region family groups. If members live in different regions or countries, accounts may be paused or terminated.
- Limited download options: Offline viewing only works in the mobile app—not on desktop—and videos can expire after 30 days.
- No permanent downloads: You’re not truly saving videos—you’re temporarily caching them within the app.
So, is YouTube Premium worth it in 2025, especially just for video downloads? Maybe not—especially when you compare it to what a free alternative like CleverGet Recorder can offer.
Part 2: Free Alternative to YouTube Premium in Saving Video
If you’re tired of paying monthly fees or facing regional limitations, it’s time to consider a YouTube Premium alternative that lets you keep your favorite videos forever.
💡 Meet CleverGet Recorder
CleverGet Recorder is a powerful, user-friendly video recording tool designed to record YouTube for free and save content in high quality directly to your computer. Unlike temporary downloads in the YouTube app, CleverGet allows you to permanently save videos in formats you choose.
📌 What You Get with CleverGet Recorder
- Record YouTube videos in up to 4K resolution
Capture any video from YouTube with crisp quality and smooth playback. - Download videos from over 1,000 sites
Not just YouTube—you can also save videos from Facebook, Twitch, Twitter, TikTok, and more. - Permanent file storage
Save files in popular formats like MP4, MKV and keep them forever. - High-speed, stable recording
Supports multi-thread and hardware acceleration for faster downloads. - Built-in browser
Watch and download videos directly in the app without needing to open YouTube separately. - No regional or family-sharing limitations
One tool works for all users, regardless of location.
🛠️ How to Save YouTube Video with CleverGet Recorder?
Saving your favorite videos with CleverGet is easy. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Download and Install CleverGet
Visit the official site and download the tool for Windows or macOS.
Step 2: Open the Built-in Browser
Launch CleverGet and use the built-in browser to open YouTube.
Step 3: Find and Play the Video
Navigate to the YouTube video you want to save.
Step 4: Click the Download Button
The tool automatically detects the video and shows available formats and resolutions. Choose your preferred option.
Step 5: Save to Your Device
Click “Record,” and the video is saved permanently to your local folder.
For a full tutorial, check out this helpful guide on how to record YouTube for free.
Part 3: Conclusion
So, what’s the final verdict in the debate over YouTube Premium vs. free alternatives?
If you only care about ad-free streaming and background playback on mobile, YouTube Premium is still a decent choice—if you’re willing to pay and stay within their rules. But if your main reason for subscribing is to save YouTube videos and avoid ads, CleverGet Recorder offers a far better long-term solution.
With YouTube tightening its grip on family sharing and download restrictions, many are re-evaluating their subscriptions. If you’re wondering “is YouTube Premium worth it?”, the answer really depends on how you use the service. But for most users who just want to save videos and skip ads, a free YouTube Premium alternative like CleverGet Recorder is a smarter choice in 2025. Not only does it provide better long-term value, but it also ensures you won’t lose access due to policy changes, region locks, or subscription cancellations.
So ditch the monthly fee, take control of your content, and record YouTube for free with CleverGet.
