The Video Downloader Plus Alternative That Actually Works
Video Downloader Plus has 1M+ users but paywalls 1080p/4K downloads and fails on major platforms like Twitter and Dailymotion. Video Downloader Pro delivers reliable downloads with HLS/M3U8 support, no ads, and consistent performance. $6.99/month or $49.99 lifetime.
Last updated: February 16, 2026
TL;DR
Video Downloader Plus (1M+ users, vidow.io) advertises free video downloads but paywalls HD/4K quality and Facebook/Vimeo sources. Independent testing shows it fails completely on Twitter and Dailymotion. Video Downloader Pro supports HLS/M3U8 streaming, works across platforms reliably, and doesn't paywall quality levels. $6.99/month or $49.99 lifetime — no ads, no bait-and-switch.
Why Video Downloader Plus Users Look for Alternatives
HD and 4K downloads are paywalled
Video Downloader Plus is free to install, but downloading 1080p or 4K videos triggers a paywall. Users discover this after installation — the free version only handles lower resolutions, making the 'free' branding misleading.
Fails on major platforms
Independent testing by StreamFab found Video Downloader Plus failed completely in 3 out of 4 core test scenarios — including Twitter videos and Dailymotion. A 4.5-star average rating masks serious reliability issues on specific platforms.
Facebook and Vimeo downloads hit a paywall
Downloading videos from Facebook or Vimeo specifically requires a paid subscription. These are among the most common download sources, yet they're locked behind the paywall — not just quality levels.
No HLS/M3U8 streaming support
Many modern websites use HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) to deliver video. Video Downloader Plus doesn't support HLS/M3U8 formats, meaning it can't download from a growing number of streaming-based sites.
Ads in the free version degrade the experience
The free version of Video Downloader Plus includes ads in the interface. While the paid version removes them, combining ads with limited functionality creates a frustrating user experience.
Video Downloader Pro vs Video Downloader Plus
Feature-by-feature comparison
| Feature | Video Downloader Plus | Video Downloader Pro |
|---|---|---|
| 1080p/4K downloads | Paywalled — free version is SD only | All quality levels included |
| HLS/M3U8 support | No | Yes — handles streaming video |
| Facebook downloads | Paywalled | Included in all plans |
| Twitter/X downloads | Failed in testing | Reliable download support |
| Ads in free version | Yes | No ads on any tier |
| Monthly cost | ~$4.99/month | $6.99/month |
| Annual cost | ~$19.99/year | $29.99/year |
| Lifetime option | Not clearly available | $49.99 one-time payment |
| Chromecast support | Yes — cast to TV | No |
| Format selection | Limited formats | Multiple formats including MP4, WebM |
Pricing: Video Downloader Pro vs Video Downloader Plus
Video Downloader Plus
Video Downloader Plus charges ~$4.99/month, $9.99/quarter, or $19.99/year. Free version is ad-supported with SD-only quality and paywalled platforms.
- Subscription-only pricing
- Lose access when you cancel
Video Downloader Pro
Video Downloader Pro at $49.99 lifetime gives you all quality levels, HLS support, and no ads — compared to Video Downloader Plus's ongoing $20/year with paywalled features.
30-day money-back guarantee
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Is Video Downloader Pro Right for You?
Switch If You...
- You've been frustrated by Video Downloader Plus's quality paywalls after installing the 'free' version
- You need reliable Twitter/X video downloads that actually work
- You need HLS/M3U8 streaming support that Video Downloader Plus doesn't offer
- You want Facebook and Vimeo downloads without hitting a paywall
- You prefer a one-time lifetime purchase over a recurring subscription
- You want an ad-free experience without paying extra
Consider Other Options If You...
- You only download SD-quality videos and the free version meets your needs
- You need Chromecast casting — Video Downloader Pro doesn't include this feature
No paywalled quality. No failed downloads. No ads.
Video Downloader Pro: all quality levels, HLS support, reliable platform coverage. $49.99 lifetime.