How to Download YouTube Shorts (2026 Guide)

What Are YouTube Shorts?

YouTube Shorts are vertical short-form videos up to 60 seconds, designed to compete with TikTok and Instagram Reels. They live under the Shorts tab on YouTube and are also shown in the regular feed. Despite their popularity, YouTube's app and website offer no native download button for Shorts — the same limitation as regular YouTube videos.

How to Download a YouTube Short

Step 1: Copy the Short's URL

On mobile: tap Share under the Short, then tap Copy Link. The URL format is youtube.com/shorts/VIDEO_ID. On desktop: the URL is visible in the address bar when you're watching a Short — just copy it.

Step 2: Paste into ClipSave

Go to ClipSave's YouTube downloader. The tool handles Shorts URLs natively — the same pipeline that handles regular YouTube videos works for Shorts. Paste the URL and click Fetch.

Step 3: Download

Select your preferred quality (Shorts are typically up to 1080p vertical) and click Download. The file saves as an MP4.

Shorts vs. Regular YouTube Videos — Any Difference?

Technically, Shorts are regular YouTube videos in a vertical container (9:16 aspect ratio). They use the same CDN and video format as regular videos. Downloading a Short gives you the same quality vertical MP4 you see in the player.

Can You Download Shorts on iPhone Without an App?

Yes. ClipSave is a web-based tool — open it in Safari on your iPhone, paste the Short's link, and download. The MP4 saves to the Files app > Downloads folder. From there, you can use iOS's Files app to move it to your Camera Roll if needed.

Quality of Downloaded YouTube Shorts

YouTube Shorts are typically available in 1080p (full HD vertical) because most creators film on modern smartphones. Some older or lower-quality Shorts may only be available at 720p or 480p. ClipSave will show you all available resolutions.