Microsoft Edge is the default web browser that comes pre-installed on Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices. It replaced Internet Explorer as Microsoft’s flagship browser starting with Windows 10. One of the most common uses of web browsers today is to view videos online, whether it be on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter or any number of other video hosting platforms. A useful feature that many browsers offer is a built-in video downloader, which allows users to save videos from these platforms directly to their device for offline viewing. In this article, we will examine whether Microsoft Edge has its own integrated video downloader tool.
What is a browser video downloader?
A browser video downloader is a tool built into a web browser that allows users to download videos from online platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Reddit and more. Without a downloader, users would have to rely on third party websites and apps to save videos to their device. A native downloader integrated into the browser provides a much more seamless and convenient way to perform this task.
Some key features of typical browser video downloaders include:
– Ability to download videos from major online platforms with just a click or tap. This includes YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, Twitch, Vimeo and more.
– Downloads videos in their original quality, including HD resolutions when available.
– Option to download just the audio track of a video as an MP3.
– Fast and simple one-click downloads without having to copy link addresses.
– Saves downloads conveniently within the browser’s downloads manager.
– Allows downloading multiple videos in sequence.
– May allow users to select specific video and audio formats.
– May include basic video conversion features.
Having this functionality baked right into the browser provides a frictionless way for users to download online videos to watch offline or save permanently.
Does Microsoft Edge have a built-in video downloader?
The default install of Microsoft Edge does not currently include an integrated video download function. Unlike some other major browsers like Firefox and Opera, there is no clear option within Edge to simply download a YouTube or Facebook video.
However, this does not mean there are no video downloader options available within Microsoft Edge. The browser supports installing third party extensions from the Microsoft Edge Add-ons store. There are several downloader extensions available that will give Microsoft Edge video saving capabilities.
Some popular video downloader extensions for Edge include:
– __VideoDownloader__ – Allows downloading videos from YouTube, Facebook, Dailymotion and Vimeo. Includes options for quality and format.
– __FastestTube__ – Simple one-click video downloads from YouTube, Facebook, Vimeo, Twitter and more.
– __Ninja Video Downloader__ – Downloads from 1000+ sites. Supports 4K/8K UHD quality.
– __EagleGet__ – Advanced downloader supporting 600+ sites in original quality.
– __Video Downloader Professional__ – Downloads from 1000+ video sites. Option for MP3 audio download.
These extensions work much like integrated downloader features other browsers have. Once installed, they will detect when you are on a supported video platform and provide an obvious download button/option within the Edge toolbar.
Installing a video downloader extension
Adding a downloader extension to Microsoft Edge takes just a few simple steps:
1. Open the Microsoft Edge browser.
2. Click on the 3-dot menu button in the top right and select “Extensions” from the menu.
3. On the Extensions page, find one of the downloader extensions from the Microsoft store.
4. Click “Get” to install the extension you want.
5. A dialog will appear. Click “Add extension” to confirm installation.
6. The extension’s icon will now be available from the main Edge toolbar for quick access.
With the extension installed, you can start using it to download videos in Edge just like any integrated browser downloader. Look for a prominent download button on video pages that wasn’t there before. The extension will also add options to the right-click menu in many cases.
Configuring settings and actual download use will vary slightly for each extension. Refer to the developer’s instructions for specifics. But all of the top-rated downloader extensions make the process of saving videos pretty straightforward.
Key advantages of using a downloader extension
While native integrated downloaders have some advantages, utilizing a downloader extension in Microsoft Edge has some useful benefits:
– __More powerful features__ – Many extensions support advanced downloads from a wider range of sites compared to simple native tools. This includes options for quality, format and audio conversion.
– __Frequent updates__ – Extensions are updated more frequently by developers compared to browser native tools. This means faster improvements and compatibility with new video sites.
– __Edge compatibility__ – The extensions are designed specifically for Microsoft Edge, ensuring full compatibility. Some native tools in other browsers may not work perfectly in Edge.
– __Active support__ – Developer support teams handle issues and provide helpful user instruction manuals. Native tools often lack dedicated support.
– __Extra functionality__ – Extensions like Ninja and EagleGet have lots of bonus features like video conversions, internet music downloads and screenshots.
– __Reviews and ratings__ – The Microsoft Edge Add-ons store shows user reviews and ratings. This helps identify the highest quality options.
– __Easy to add/remove__ – It only takes a few clicks to install or uninstall an extension. Native integrated tools can’t be removed if you decide you don’t need them anymore.
So while Microsoft Edge lacks a built-in downloader like some competing browsers, Edge extensions provide an excellent alternative solution for fast, full-featured and customizable video saving capability.
Should Microsoft Edge integrate a native downloader?
Since extensions provide such effective video downloading functionality, is there any reason for Microsoft to add a native integrated video downloader tool to Edge? There are reasonable arguments on both sides of this question:
Reasons why Microsoft Edge _should_ add a native downloader:
– It would provide a seamlessly built-in tool that just works out of the box. No installing extra extensions required.
– A truly native tool may offer tighter browser integration and faster performance.
– It would match the functionality of competitors like Firefox and Opera without needing extensions.
– Casual users may not think to install extensions or see the need for them.
– Microsoft may be able to build a better tool than any individual third party extension developer.
Reasons why a native tool may _not_ be necessary:
– High quality extensions already fill the need effectively for the majority of users.
– Extensions allow for frequent third party development improvements. A native tool likely wouldn’t see updates as often.
– Extensions work on all platforms. A Microsoft-developed downloader may not be cross-platform compatible.
– Adding new functionality could bloat the codebase and size of Microsoft Edge itself.
– Other features have a higher priority for Edge development than duplicating extension capabilities.
There are good points on both sides. A built-in tool would be simpler and more discoverable for average users. But browser extensions are already meeting the core need.
Ultimately, it comes down to Microsoft’s development priorities and available resources. Given the availability of quality third party options, focusing efforts on other improvements rather than duplicating downloader extensions may be the right move. But a basic integrated downloader could be a nice additional option directly from Microsoft in a future update.
Top tips for using a Microsoft Edge video downloader
To get the best experience using a video downloader extension in Microsoft Edge, keep these top tips in mind:
– __Check supported sites__ – Be sure the extension you choose works with the video platforms you want. YouTube is universally supported but others may vary.
– __Read the instructions__ – Take a minute to review options and how to download properly for your chosen extension. Features and steps can vary.
– __Allow notifications__ – Enable browser notifications access when prompted after installing an extension. This allows extensions to notify you when downloads complete.
– __Know where videos save__ – Downloads save to your standard browser download folder location by default. You can change this in Edge settings if desired.
– __Change quality if needed__ – Lower video quality settings will result in smaller files. Useful if you just want to preview a video.
– __Grab audio only__ – If you just want the audio track, most extensions give you the option to download as MP3.
– __Install multiple if desired__ – There’s no problem having several downloader extensions added in Edge for expanded features.
– __Disable when not needed__ – You can temporarily disable downloader extensions within Edge’s Manage Extensions section if you don’t need them active.
– __Update when available__ – Make sure to update your extensions occasionally when new versions are released for best functionality.
– __Use original sites when possible__ – If a site like YouTube gives its own downloader option, use that for guaranteed quality and compatibility.
– __Don’t violate copyrights__ – Only download videos you have permission to use. Avoid illegally sharing downloaded content.
Following these tips will help you enjoy a smooth video downloading experience with Microsoft Edge. The browser’s support for robust third party extensions means you can equip it with excellent downloader capabilities to rival other browsers with built-in tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an extension-free way to download videos in Edge?
Unfortunately no, there is currently no native built-in video downloader functionality in Microsoft Edge without utilizing a third party extension. Edge will not let you directly save streaming video files without an add-on. Extensions are an easy way to gain downloader capabilities.
What sites and services can I download from?
Extension support varies, but most major downloaders support all of the top video services including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Reddit, TikTok, Twitch, Vimeo, Dailymotion, SoundCloud and many more. Specific niche sites may not be supported. Double check your chosen extension’s compatibility list.
Will downloader extensions slow down my browser?
A quality video downloader extension from a top developer will have very minimal impact on browser performance when installed. The download process itself will utilize bandwidth, but this is the same with any file downloading within a browser. Just be sure to disable the extension when you aren’t actively using it.
Is it legal to download videos with an extension?
Technically you can download any video you are able to access online, but legitimate use cases vary. Downloading your own videos that you have rights to is always legally acceptable. For third party content, you should follow that service’s terms of use for what is allowed. In some cases, downloading for personal offline use may be permitted. Commercial use is typically prohibited without consent.
Can I use a downloader extension on mobile Edge browser?
Yes, Microsoft Edge mobile browser has support for adding extensions, including video downloaders. Look for the same extensions within the mobile Add-ons menu. Functionality is essentially the same, just optimized for touchscreens. Note that mobile operating systems and storage may impose limits on resolution/file sizes.
Conclusion
While Microsoft Edge does not have an out-of-the-box integrated video downloader, utilizing one of the many excellent downloader extensions available within the Microsoft Edge Add-ons store provides equivalent functionality. Top extensions like VideoDownloader, FastestTube, and EagleGet offer one-click simple video saving from all popular online platforms.
Extensions match or exceed what any native integrated tool could provide, with benefits like more features, frequent updates, and broader device/platform support. Downloader extensions paired with Microsoft Edge deliver everything needed for easily saving online videos, making a built-in tool not an absolutely necessary addition. But the option of a basic first-party downloader could potentially still add value for Edge in the future.