10 Smart Ways to Get Clips from YouTube Videos (The Easy Guide)
Introduction: Why You Might Need YouTube Video Clips
Need a short segment from a long YouTube video? Maybe you’re a student grabbing highlights, a content creator referencing material, or just someone who wants to save a funny moment. Knowing how to get clips from YouTube videos can save you tons of time and effort.
Thankfully, there are multiple ways to extract clips from YouTube—whether directly from the site, using tools and apps, or even AI-powered editors like Gemoo. This guide covers 10 proven strategies that are beginner-friendly, efficient, and mostly free!
1. Understanding YouTube’s Terms of Service
Before jumping in, it’s important to stay on the right side of the rules. YouTube’s Terms of Service prohibit downloading or reproducing content unless:
- The feature is built-in (like the Clip or Download option).
- The video is marked as Creative Commons.
- You have permission from the original creator.
Always double-check the usage rights of any video you plan to clip or share.
2. Using YouTube’s Built-In Clip Feature
What is the YouTube Clip Button?
YouTube added a handy Clip button that lets users cut 5–60 second segments from eligible videos. These clips are easily shareable and don’t require any external software.
Step-by-Step: How to Use the Clip Tool
- Open a video on YouTube.
- Click the “Clip” icon below the video (scissors symbol).
- Select the start and end time (5 to 60 seconds).
- Add a title to the clip.
- Click “Share Clip” to copy the link or post it directly.
🔒 Note: Not all videos are eligible for clipping—livestreams and kids’ content may not have the Clip option.
3. Taking Screenshots and Screen Recordings
Sometimes, the easiest way to grab a clip is to record it manually.
Best Tools for Screenshots (Windows, Mac, Mobile)
- Windows: Snipping Tool, Snip & Sketch
- Mac: Command + Shift + 4
- Mobile: Built-in screenshot buttons (Power + Volume Down)
Screen Recording Software (Free & Paid Options)
- OBS Studio (Free, open-source)
- Loom (Free and paid plans)
- Bandicam (Windows)
- QuickTime Player (Mac)
These let you record only a portion of your screen so you can isolate specific moments from a YouTube video.
4. Using Online Video Clipping Tools
If you don’t want to install software, online clippers are fast and accessible.
Best Free Online Tools for Trimming YouTube Videos
| Tool Name | Features | Website |
|---|---|---|
| YTCutter | Trim, crop, and download clips | ytcut.com |
| Clideo | Merge, cut, compress videos | clideo.com |
| Gemoo | AI-powered auto-clipping, trim, and export | gemoo.com |
| Kapwing | Video editor & clipper | kapwing.com |
Pros and Cons of Online Clip Tools
Pros:
- No installation needed
- Fast editing in-browser
- Cloud-based (and AI features with Gemoo!)
Cons:
- Watermarks on free versions
- May have upload limits
5. Downloading Videos Before Clipping
Is it Legal to Download YouTube Videos?
Downloading is against YouTube’s terms unless:
- The content is your own
- It’s under Creative Commons
- You use YouTube Premium
Top YouTube Video Downloaders
- 4K Video Downloader (desktop)
- Y2Mate (web-based)
- SnapDownloader
Once downloaded, you can easily edit or clip offline using editing software.
6. Editing with Video Software After Download
Recommended Software for Basic Edits
- Shotcut (Free, beginner-friendly)
- DaVinci Resolve (Pro-level, free version available)
- Gemoo (AI auto-clipping for quick edits – gemoo.com)
- iMovie (Mac users)
How to Export and Save Clips
- Import the downloaded YouTube video.
- Set your in and out points (or let Gemoo’s AI detect highlights automatically).
- Trim and export the clip in desired format (MP4, MOV, etc.).
You now have a high-quality video clip to reuse legally or privately.
7. Mobile Apps to Clip YouTube Videos
On-the-go? These mobile apps make it super easy.
Best Android and iOS Apps for Video Clipping
- InShot (iOS, Android)
- YouCut (Android)
- Splice (iOS)
Mobile Editing Tips and Tricks
- Use split and trim features
- Export in 720p or 1080p
- Add captions or overlays for clarity
8. Using YouTube Premium Features
YouTube Premium gives you extra control.
Offline Download and Smart Clipping
Premium users can download videos for offline use, which pairs well with screen recording or mobile editing.
How Premium Benefits Content Creators
Clipping legally using YouTube Premium helps support original creators, especially if you’re reusing content in a compliant way.
9. Legal and Ethical Considerations
Fair Use vs Copyright Infringement
You can reuse clips under Fair Use if:
- It’s transformative (like commentary or parody)
- You use only what’s necessary
- You don’t hurt the market for the original
How to Attribute Original Creators
Even when legal, always:
- Credit the creator
- Link back to the original video
- Use clips responsibly and respectfully
10. Alternatives to Clipping YouTube Videos
Sometimes, clipping isn’t necessary at all.
Embedding Videos with Start Times
Instead of clipping, just share the URL with a timestamp. Example:
https://youtube.com/watch?v=abc123&t=90s
Sharing Timestamps Instead of Clips
- Comment with timestamps
- Use descriptions to guide viewers
- Highlight sections in blog posts
Conclusion: Choose the Right Method for Your Needs
Learning how to get clips from YouTube videos doesn’t have to be overwhelming. From using built-in YouTube tools to third-party editors like Gemoo, mobile apps, and AI-powered solutions, there’s a method for every skill level and purpose. Just remember to always clip content legally and ethically. Whether you’re trimming a 60-second highlight with YouTube’s Clip tool or automating edits with Gemoo, you’ve got plenty of smart options!
FAQs
Q1: Can I clip any YouTube video?
Only if it’s enabled by the creator. Otherwise, use screen recording or timestamp links.
Q2: Is it illegal to download YouTube videos?
Yes, unless you’re using Premium or it’s your own/uploaded with permission.
Q3: How long can a YouTube clip be?
YouTube’s built-in clip tool allows 5 to 60 seconds.
Q4: What’s the best free app to clip YouTube videos?
InShot, Kapwing, and Gemoo (gemoo.com) are top choices for beginners.
Q5: Can I monetize videos using YouTube clips?
Only if you meet Fair Use guidelines and add transformative value.
Q6: Do online clip tools affect video quality?
Some free tools may compress videos. Choose high-resolution export settings (or use Gemoo for AI-optimized output).
