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Built a Free, Ad-Free YouTube & TikTok Downloader After Struggling to Find One
r/SideProject
8/15/2025
Content Summary
A Reddit user shared their side project: a free, ad-free YouTube and TikTok downloader. The tool allows users to convert videos to MP3 or MP4 without ads. The creator also added a 'Buy Me a Coffee' option to sustain the service. Users provided feedback on potential improvements such as UX design and security.
Opinion Analysis
Mainstream opinion seems to be positive, with users appreciating the simplicity and lack of ads. Some users raised concerns about the legal implications of downloading YouTube videos, especially in the EU. There was a debate about whether the tool should use client-side or server-side downloading, with some suggesting that client-side might be more secure. A few users questioned the long-term sustainability of the project, noting that it could be attacked or taken down. Overall, the post received supportive comments and constructive feedback.
SAAS TOOLS
| SaaS | URL | Category | Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| yt.anhtuan.space | https://yt.anhtuan.space | Video Downloader | Free, ad-free, supports YouTube and TikTok video downloads to MP3 or MP4 |
| Buy Me a Coffee | - | Donation Platform | Used to support the project's maintenance |
USER NEEDS
Pain Points:
- Struggling to find an ad-free and reliable YouTube/TikTok downloader
- Concerns about sketchy or insecure download tools
- Difficulty in choosing the right format for video/audio downloads
Problems to Solve:
- Need for a clean, user-friendly interface for downloading videos
- Avoiding ads and malicious content from other downloaders
- Ensuring the tool is not blocked by platforms like YouTube or TikTok
Potential Solutions:
- Building a custom, ad-free, and secure downloader
- Using backend processing for better reliability
- Providing a "Buy Me a Coffee" option for sustainability
GROWTH FACTORS
Effective Strategies:
- Focusing on solving a specific user pain point (ad-free video download)
- Leveraging community feedback to improve the product
- Offering a free version with optional donation support
Marketing & Acquisition:
- Sharing the project on relevant subreddits like r/SideProject
- Building a simple, functional product that attracts users
Monetization & Product:
- Using a freemium model with a "Buy Me a Coffee" feature
- Prioritizing user experience and simplicity over complex features
- Demonstrating product-market fit through user engagement
User Engagement:
- Encouraging user feedback to refine the UI and features
- Building a small but active community around the tool