Freemake Video Downloader Review: How to Use and Best Alternative!
Summary: Today, we will review the "Freemake Video Downloader", a complimentary tool that enables you to download videos from various sources such as YouTube, Vimeo, Dailymotion, etc.
Table of Contents
What Exactly is Freemake Video Downloader?
Since installing Freemake, I've discovered its one-click download feature. It's compatible with over 10,000 video sites like YouTube, Vimeo, and Dailymotion, and supports common formats like MP4, MP3, MKV, and AVI, making the download process relatively simple.
However, it currently only runs on Windows, with no dedicated version for macOS. This is one of the reasons many users report, "I can't use it," and it's also one of the reasons I can't use it!
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This review of Freemake is grounded in authoritative sources and our rigorous testing, guaranteeing the integrity and reliability of the information concerning Feemake. We aim to provide an authentic and worthwhile assessment of this product.
Is it really "free"?
I initially thought Freemake was free software, but after checking TechRadar's reviews, I discovered that the free version only allows downloads of videos under three minutes long and adds a watermark to the opening and closing credits. To remove the watermark, you'll need to upgrade and pay. This really isn't "free means everything."
Freemake also offers a seven-day for $0.95 trial, but many users on Trustpilot mentioned "auto-renewal" and unclear cancellation procedures. Before signing up for a trial, I recommend confirming whether your subscription will automatically renew and keeping screenshots or records to prevent future disputes.
Is It Really Safe?
I personally haven't encountered any viruses or hijacked pages during my use, and iMyFone has been praised for its "clean interface, no suspicious pop-ups," and its added value plugins. However, for added security, I recommend always downloading from the official website and using the installer's "Custom Install" feature to remove unnecessary plugins or advertising components.
Pros & Cons: Actual Test Experience
After thoroughly understanding Freemake's core features and usage scenarios, I decided to use it for a while to see how it performs in real-world situations. To help you quickly assess its performance, I've compiled my personal experience into a straightforward pros and cons list—a clear overview of its strengths and weaknesses.
- The tool can convert to common video file types
- The tool works with all popular video platforms
- The tool supports popular formats
- Easy to use, even a novice can quickly get started with the download process
- The tool has a three-minute time limit in free version
- The tool adds a watermark to downloaded videos
- Freemake video downloader for Android and iOS is not available, even macOS
How to use Freemake Video Downloader？
Now that you had a look at the review of the tool, let us have a look at how to use this tool.
- I’ve experienced Freemake download failures like parsing errors or interruptions. The official blog says they “fix capture issues as quickly as possible” and prompt updates in-app. If that fails, restarting, reinstalling, and rebooting often works. Since Freemake’s free version is limited, full videos may require an upgrade. If problems persist, check for DRM protection, confirm your upgrade status, then contact support or switch to a more reliable alternative.
Best Alternative to Freemake Video Downloader
As mentioned earlier, Freemake Video Downloader clip grab comes with various limitations. This includes the addition of a branded watermark to the starting and ending of your downloaded video.
In addition to this, the latest update indicates that users can no longer download videos more than three minutes in length without updating to the paid version. To overcome these limitations, users are in dire need of an alternative.
Downloads videos in lossless 1080p/4k/80 resolution and does not leave any watermark. Also, the tool downloads whole videos, regardless of the video length, unlike Freemake.
- The ability to automatically detect the videos via the in-built browser from 1000+ sites
- Download DRM-encrypted files and save them in MKV or MP4 format.
- Support EAC3/AC3 5.1 or AAC 2.0 audio tracks and will download them side by side.
- It allows users to download videos in up to 8k lossless quality.
- The tool will get rid of ads from your downloaded videos.
- Select subtitles as per their requirements.
Comparison Table about Two Tools
| Dimension | Freemake Video Downloader | StreamFab Video Downloader |
|---|---|---|
| Supported Platforms | Windows only | Windows & macOS (cross-platform support) |
| Watermark | Free version has watermark (intro/outro), removed in paid version | No watermark (even in trial version) |
| Audio Support | Common formats (MP3, AAC, etc.) | EAC3/AC3 5.1 or AAC 2.0, supports multiple audio tracks |
| Video Quality | Free version limited to first 3 minutes; paid version supports full video (up to original quality) | Up to 8K, lossless quality |
| Ads | May include ad components during installation (can be unchecked) | No ads, can remove embedded ads from videos |
| Free Trial | $0.95 / 7-day trial, auto-renews unless canceled manually | Full-featured free trial, can download 3 complete videos |
FAQs
Similar to numerous other free video conversion software that add watermarks to the converted videos, Freemake Video Converter applies a distinct logo to the converted clips. If you prefer to avoid the presence of the Freemake watermark, you will need to make a financial investment to obtain a valid Freemake license key.
No. At the moment there is no Freemake for Mac. The development team of Freemake has responded to requests and feedback for Freemake for Mac, claiming that they have considered of developing it, but require to gather the resources and funds required to do so before starting the development.
Conclusion
Above, we have thoroughly elucidated the usage, security, and evaluation of Freemake Video Downloader. If you are unsure about using Freemake Video Downloader, please compare it with StreaFab Video Downloader to choose the appropriate tool.
