Process
How PasteGrab downloads work
A step-by-step guide to saving public media with PasteGrab — from paste to finished file, on desktop or mobile.
PasteGrab is a link-first downloader. You bring a public URL; we fetch metadata with yt-dlp, prepare the format you chose, and return a file you can save locally. No desktop installer is required.
Before you start
- Use a public link that plays in an incognito browser window without logging in.
- Use a modern browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or Edge) with JavaScript enabled.
- Confirm the host is on our supported platforms list.
01
Paste the link
Copy a public video or audio page URL from a supported site and paste it into the field on the homepage. Rotating placeholder examples show the link shapes we expect. On mobile, use Share from the source app, then paste, or tap the Paste button when your browser allows clipboard access.
02
Analyze and choose a format
Click Analyze. PasteGrab resolves the page on our servers and shows the title, duration, and available formats. Pick Best quality, MP4, MP3, 720p, or smallest file using the format chips. You can change your selection before starting the download.
03
Download the file
Click Download. We queue a job, process the media remotely, and show progress in the inline panel on the homepage or on the job page if you follow a direct link. When processing completes, use the save link to download MP4 or MP3 to your device.
Understanding format options
Format chips appear after analysis. Common presets include best combined quality, standard MP4, audio-only MP3, 720p MP4 for smaller files, and smallest file size when bandwidth matters. Not every host exposes every preset; yt-dlp returns what the public page actually offers. See supported formats for definitions.
Mobile tips
On phones, the URL field appears above the headline for quick access. Use your platform's Share action, copy the link, then return to PasteGrab and tap Paste. Downloads save through your browser's normal file flow — check Downloads or Files after the job completes.
Job progress and history
Most visitors see progress in the inline panel on the homepage. If you open a job link directly, progress appears on /jobs/[id]. Signed-in owner accounts can review past jobs on history. Output files are temporary — see limits for retention on staging.
Troubleshooting
- Private or login-only video — PasteGrab cannot fetch content that requires your personal session. Open the URL in a private window to verify it is public.
- Unsupported host — Check platforms or the host-specific downloader pages for URL examples.
- Slow or stuck job — Large files on free infrastructure can take several minutes. See FAQ and limits.
- Format missing — Try Analyze again or choose Best quality; some pages only expose a single stream.
Responsible use
Only paste URLs you are allowed to download. PasteGrab is a tool, not permission to copy restricted media. Read our Acceptable use policy for boundaries, and responsible downloading on the blog for practical guidance.
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