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# Top YouTube Apps: Best Platforms for Watching Videos on the Go
There’s something almost magical about having the world’s biggest video library right in your pocket. Whether you’re killing time on your commute, learning a new skill, or just binge-watching your favorite creator’s latest uploads, YouTube has become a daily habit for millions. But here’s the thing—not all YouTube apps are created equal.
Sure, the official YouTube app does the job, but what if you want background playback without paying for Premium? Or maybe you’re tired of ads interrupting your music playlists. Maybe you’re looking for a more streamlined experience with fewer distractions. That’s where third-party YouTube apps come in.
Over the years, I’ve tested dozens of YouTube alternatives—some amazing, some forgettable, and a few that were downright sketchy. If you’re looking for the best YouTube apps to enhance your viewing experience, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down the top options for Android, iOS, and even desktop.
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## Why Use a Third-Party YouTube App?
Before we dive into the list, let’s address the big question: *Why even bother with a third-party YouTube app when the official one exists?* Fair point. The official app is polished, reliable, and gets regular updates. But it also comes with limitations:
– **Ads, ads, and more ads** (unless you pay for Premium)
– **No background playback** for free users
– **Limited customization** (dark mode is great, but what if you want more?)
– **Data-heavy autoplay** that eats through your mobile plan
Third-party apps solve many of these pain points. Some block ads, others let you play videos in the background, and a few even allow downloading for offline viewing. Of course, not all of them are legal (more on that later), but there are plenty of legit alternatives worth checking out.
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## The Best YouTube Apps for Android
### 1. **YouTube Vanced (Discontinued, but Still Functional for Some Users)**
For years, YouTube Vanced was the holy grail of third-party YouTube apps. It offered ad-free playback, background play, and even a built-in sponsor-block feature. Sadly, Google shut it down in 2022, but if you already have it installed, it might still work (for now).
**Pros:**
– No ads
– Background playback
– AMOLED dark mode
– SponsorBlock integration
**Cons:**
– No longer updated
– Not available for new downloads
### 2. **NewPipe (Open-Source & Privacy-Focused)**
If you want a lightweight, no-nonsense YouTube experience, NewPipe is a fantastic choice. It’s open-source, meaning no shady data collection, and it strips away all the bloat.
**Pros:**
– No ads
– Background & pop-up playback
– Download videos & audio
– No Google account needed
**Cons:**
– No sign-in (no access to subscriptions)
– UI isn’t as polished as official YouTube
### 3. **Revanced (The Spiritual Successor to Vanced)**
Since Vanced got the axe, ReVanced has stepped up as the next best thing. It’s a modified version of the official YouTube app with similar perks—ad-blocking, background play, and more.
**Pros:**
– Ad-free experience
– SponsorBlock support
– Regular community updates
**Cons:**
– Requires manual patching (not as simple as downloading an APK)
– Slightly technical setup
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## The Best YouTube Apps for iOS
Apple’s walled garden makes it harder to sideload apps, but there are still solid alternatives.
### 1. **YouTube Premium (The Official Ad-Free Solution)**
Yes, it’s paid, but if you watch a lot of YouTube, it’s worth every penny. No ads, background play, and access to YouTube Music.
**Pros:**
– No interruptions
– Supports creators (they still get ad revenue)
– Works seamlessly across devices
**Cons:**
– Costs money (starting at $11.99/month)
### 2. **uYou+ (Jailbreak or Sideload Option)**
For those willing to sideload, uYou+ is the best ad-free YouTube experience on iOS. It’s packed with features like background play, video downloading, and even a built-in ad blocker.
**Pros:**
– No ads
– Background & PiP playback
– Download videos
**Cons:**
– Requires sideloading (AltStore, TrollStore, or jailbreak)
– Not on the App Store
### 3. **Brave Browser (Workaround for Background Play)**
If you don’t want to jailbreak or sideload, Brave Browser lets you play YouTube videos in the background by simply keeping a tab open.
**Pros:**
– Free & easy
– Built-in ad blocker
**Cons:**
– Not as seamless as a dedicated app
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## Best for Desktop: Browser Extensions & Alternatives
### 1. **Enhancer for YouTube (Browser Extension)**
This Chrome/Firefox extension supercharges YouTube with:
– Ad-blocking
– Auto HD playback
– Custom playback speed
### 2. **FreeTube (Privacy-Focused Desktop App)**
If you want to ditch Google tracking, FreeTube is an open-source YouTube client that doesn’t require an account.
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## The Legal Gray Area
Before you jump into third-party apps, know this: many violate YouTube’s Terms of Service. Google has cracked down on apps that block ads (since that’s how creators make money). Using them isn’t illegal, but your account *could* get flagged.
If you want to support creators, YouTube Premium is the best legal option. But if you’re looking for free alternatives, now you know the best ones.
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## Final Thoughts
The best YouTube app depends on what you value most:
– **No ads?** ReVanced (Android) or uYou+ (iOS).
– **Privacy?** NewPipe or FreeTube.
– **Official experience?** Stick with YouTube Premium.
At the end of the day, YouTube is a platform built for viewers *and* creators. If you can, supporting them with Premium is the best way to enjoy an ad-free experience guilt-free. But if you’re exploring alternatives, tread carefully—and enjoy your binge-watching!
Got a favorite YouTube app I didn’t mention? Drop it in the comments!