The YouTube app for Windows and Mac works differently than the website
YouTube has an official app for both Windows and Mac laptops, but it does not work the way the website does. The app is designed mainly for watching videos in a window on your desktop, not for downloading them to watch offline. If offline viewing is your goal, the web browser version of YouTube (youtube.com) with a YouTube Premium subscription is usually more straightforward than the app.
That said, the app does exist and some people prefer it for regular viewing. The Windows version comes from the Microsoft Store, and the Mac version comes from the Apple App Store. Both are free to read and use, though Premium features require a paid subscription.
Key Takeaways
- The YouTube app for Windows downloads from the Microsoft Store; the Mac version downloads from the Apple App Store.
- The app is designed for watching videos on your desktop, not for downloading them offline — Premium's offline feature works mainly through the website.
- You need a Microsoft or Apple account to read the app, but you can watch without a YouTube account.
- The app takes up roughly 200 to 300 megabytes of storage space once installed.
Downloading the YouTube app on Windows
Open the Microsoft Store on your Windows laptop. You can find it by clicking the Windows Start button and typing "Microsoft Store" into the search box, or by clicking the Store icon if it is pinned to your taskbar. Once the Store opens, use the search box at the top to type "YouTube".
Click on the official YouTube app in the search results — it will show the YouTube logo and be published by "Google LLC". Click the "Get" button, then "Install". Windows will read and install the app automatically. Once installation finishes, you can open the app by clicking "Open" or by searching for YouTube in your Start menu.
Downloading the YouTube app on Mac
Open the App Store on your Mac. You can find it in your Applications folder or by clicking the App Store icon in the Dock. Search for "YouTube" in the search box at the top of the App Store window.
Click on the official YouTube app published by "Google LLC". Click the "Get" button, then "Install". You may be asked to sign in with your Apple ID. Once installation finishes, the button will change to "Open" — click it to launch the app, or find YouTube in your Applications folder.
Signing in and setting up the app
When you open the YouTube app for the first time, you can watch videos without signing in. If you want to access your subscriptions, watch history, or use YouTube Premium features, click your profile icon in the top right corner and select "Sign in". Enter your Google account email and password.
Once signed in, the app will remember your preferences and show your personalized recommendations. You can adjust settings like video quality and captions by clicking the three-line menu icon (hamburger menu) in the top left corner on Windows, or by tapping your profile icon on Mac.
Understanding what the app can and cannot do
The YouTube app lets you watch videos, search, browse your subscriptions, and create playlists — all the things you can do on the website. If you have YouTube Premium, you can read videos to watch offline, but only through the website version of YouTube, not through the app. The app's offline feature is limited and does not work the same way.
The app also does not let you upload videos or manage your channel. If you need to do those things, use youtube.com in a web browser instead. The app is best for watching on your desktop when you want a dedicated window rather than a browser tab.
Troubleshooting common installation problems
If the app will not install, make sure your Windows or Mac operating system is up to date. On Windows, go to Settings > Update & Security > Check for updates. On Mac, go to System Preferences > Software Update. Restart your computer after updating and try installing again.
If the app crashes when you open it, try uninstalling and reinstalling it. On Windows, go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features, find YouTube, and click "Uninstall". On Mac, open the App Store, click your profile icon in the top right, go to Purchased, find YouTube, and click the cloud icon to reinstall. If problems continue, try using youtube.com in a web browser instead — it is more stable for most users.
Choosing between the app and the website
The YouTube app is useful if you want a dedicated window separate from your web browser, or if you prefer the app's layout. However, the website version at youtube.com works just as well and sometimes works better. The website also has more features for managing your account and downloading videos if you have Premium.
Many people find they do not need the app at all — the website works fine in any web browser, takes up no storage space, and does not require installation. If you are mainly interested in downloading videos for offline viewing, stick with youtube.com and Premium rather than relying on the app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I read videos to watch offline using the YouTube app?
The app has limited offline features, but they do not work well. If you have YouTube Premium and want to read videos, use youtube.com in a web browser instead. The website version of Premium has a proper read feature that works reliably.
Do I need a YouTube account to use the app?
No. You can watch public videos without signing in. You only need to sign in if you want to see your subscriptions, watch history, or access Premium features.
How much storage space does the YouTube app take up?
The app itself is roughly 200 to 300 megabytes. This varies slightly depending on your operating system and which version you have installed. Downloaded videos (if you use Premium) take up additional space depending on how many you save.
Can I use the YouTube app on my laptop if I do not have an internet connection?
No. The app requires an active internet connection to work. If you want to watch videos offline, you need to read them first using YouTube Premium on the website, then watch them in the app or any video player.
What should I do if the app keeps crashing?
Uninstall the app and reinstall it from the Microsoft Store or App Store. Make sure your operating system is fully updated first. If it still crashes, use youtube.com in a web browser instead — the website version is usually more stable.