Do Vimeo Videos Download as MP4 Files?

One of the many features of the Vimeo platform is the ability for users with paid memberships to download content for offline viewing. This makes the videos accessible when a connection to the platform is unavailable, whether due to an outage or no internet connection. If you have access to videos you want to download and their creators have enabled the option, you can use Vimeo to easily save the files to your device. When the option is unavailable, you can use several other methods to download your video.

Vimeo downloads are only available in mp4 format. In addition, most third-party tools used for downloading content also offer the mp4 file format. You can use alternative means of capturing Vimeo videos to save them in other formats, depending on your preferred option. However, mp4 is the most commonly used and supports file type, which is why Vimeo and most third-party tools use it.

This article will provide insight into obtaining mp4 files from the Vimeo platform, including direct downloads from Vimeo and using third-party options. It will also explain alternative capturing methods for saving downloaded videos in other formats. Read on to learn more information about downloaded Vimeo video files.

Downloading video with the Vimeo platform

Vimeo requires any user who wants to download content to have a paid account. You must have a Starter or higher account. This includes downloading your own uploaded content. Free users cannot download any content with the Vimeo platform. In addition, for content to be downloaded, the creator must have enabled the download option.

To download a video from Vimeo, you'll need to open it with the platform's video player. If it can be downloaded, the option will be on the lower portion of the player. Based on the options the content creator has allowed, you can choose the video quality you will save.

The options can include SD 240p, SD 360p, SD 540p, HD 720p, HD 1080, and the original video; however, the creator does not have to allow access to all choices. Once you select your chosen file, you can save it directly to your computer or device. From there, you can open it and play it instantly. The file will be saved as mp4 with no alternative options available.

Downloading with a third-party option

Unlike Vimeo, third-party options often require you to download and install the software. However, there are some free online tools you can use. What's interesting about some of these solutions is they offer a workaround for videos that don't have the download option. Of course, Vimeo does not endorse or support them, so users must be prepared to handle all associated risks. However, if there's a video you want to save for later but Vimeo won't let you download, you may find a third-party option that allows you to do this.

As with the Vimeo platform, you can typically select the resolution of the file you're saving. Many solutions also offer the option to download multiple videos at once, making the process more efficient. Once you've selected your resolution and all the files you want to download, they'll be saved to your device in mp4 format.

Capturing Vimeo videos for offline use

An alternative method of downloading video for later is capturing it with screen recording. Vimeo does not restrict the use of screen recordings like other video hosting and sharing platforms. In addition, there is a Vimeo Record extension that works with the Chrome browser. It will allow you to record your screen, camera, or both. It also enables the recording of your microphone. Many use this option to create video messages to streamline the communication process within their companies.

When you find a video you like, you can screen record with the Vimeo Record extension for Chrome, a third-party screen recording app, or your device's built-in screen recording tool. With this option, you don't have to choose mp4 as your designated file format. However, many users do because it is so widely accepted and supported. You'll need to enable your device's access to the microphone and camera to ensure you get the best recording.

Benefits of downloading Vimeo videos

Vimeo isn't always available. Occasionally, the platform will be down for maintenance, or you may be in an area without an internet connection. In these situations, you won't have access to stream content. Having your desired videos downloaded to your device beforehand will allow you to watch them at your convenience. Videos on Vimeo aren't always permanent. They can expire under certain conditions, and they can be deleted. Saving a copy of your favorite content means you will always have access to it. In addition, if you don't have the original video from your library saved, downloading a copy can ensure you always have your own content. If something happened to your account, such as an accidental lapse to another plan, you could lose access to some of your videos.

Because Vimeo and most third-party options provide downloads in mp4 format, you can easily use the services of transcription solutions, such as Happy Scribe. The Happy Scribe solution can transform your mp4 file into a reliable transcript that can be used for reference or to make subtitles for the video.

MP4 is the most common video download format for Vimeo videos

While mp4 is one of the most widely accepted and supported video file formats, it is also the one most commonly downloaded for Vimeo videos. When using the Vimeo platform for downloads, it's the only option. Depending on the options the content creator has enabled, you can select your resolution, but the platform predetermines the file format. Additionally, if you choose a third-party solution to allow you to download Vimeo videos, you will likely receive the mp4 file format.

If you want a different format, you'll need to convert the downloaded file or choose to screen-record the video. Unlike other video hosting platforms, Vimeo does not restrict the use of screen recording. With screen recording, there are typically several options for the file format of the video you will be saving. Vimeo makes the process straightforward for downloading and playing videos content creators have shared. Because mp4 is one of the most popular and widely used file formats, most users will not have difficulty finding a compatible player for their saved files. This makes using the platform even more accessible.