The Video DownloadHelper Alternative Without the Watermark
Video DownloadHelper stamps a QR code watermark on your downloads unless you pay for a premium license. Video Downloader Pro downloads clean, watermark-free video in HD, 4K, and 8K from 1,000+ websites.
Last updated: February 8, 2026
TL;DR
Video DownloadHelper (2.8M+ users) has drawn widespread criticism for adding large QR code watermarks to downloaded videos and requiring an external companion app. Video Downloader Pro is a Chrome extension that downloads videos in HD/4K/8K from 1,000+ websites — no watermark, no companion app, no extra software. Smart video detection with 4 proprietary methods. Free tier: 5 downloads per week. Pro: $6.99/month or $49.99 lifetime.
Why Users Are Leaving Video DownloadHelper
The QR code watermark is aggressive
Video DownloadHelper adds a large QR code watermark to every download unless you purchase their premium license. Users call this a 'dirty practice' and 'borderline scam' — you install a free extension expecting free downloads, then find your videos branded with unwanted watermarks.
The companion app requirement
To unlock full functionality, Video DownloadHelper now requires installing a separate companion application on your computer. This adds complexity, potential security concerns, and defeats the purpose of a simple browser extension.
HLS downloads are throttled
On the free version, HLS streaming video downloads are restricted to once every 2 hours on Chrome. If you regularly download streaming content, this limitation makes the tool nearly unusable without paying.
Users report slow downloads and glitches
Reviews consistently mention slow download speeds, frozen processes, and glitchy playback on downloaded videos. Quality and reliability have declined as the extension has grown more complex.
Video Downloader Pro vs Video DownloadHelper
Feature-by-feature comparison
| Feature | Video DownloadHelper | Video Downloader Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Watermark on downloads | Yes — large QR code on free tier | No watermark, ever |
| Companion app required | Yes — separate desktop application | No — extension only, nothing else to install |
| Supported websites | 1,000+ (Dash, HLS, MPD) | 1,000+ (MP4, WebM, HLS, DASH, AVI, MOV, MKV, FLV) |
| Max resolution | HD/4K | HD, 4K, and 8K Ultra HD |
| Video detection | Standard detection | 4 proprietary detection methods (smart detection) |
| HLS download limits | Once every 2 hours (free Chrome) | No arbitrary time limits |
| Batch downloads | Limited | Yes (Pro feature) |
| Thumbnail preview | Basic | Yes — preview before downloading |
| YouTube downloads | No | No (respects YouTube ToS) |
| Pricing | Free + premium license (price varies) | $6.99/mo or $49.99 lifetime |
Pricing: Video Downloader Pro vs Video DownloadHelper
Video DownloadHelper
Free tier has watermarks and restrictions. Premium license required to remove watermark and unlock full features.
- Subscription-only pricing
- Lose access when you cancel
Video Downloader Pro
Clean downloads from day one. No watermarks on any tier, including free.
30-day money-back guarantee
Is Video Downloader Pro Right for You?
Switch If You...
- You're tired of QR code watermarks on your downloads
- You don't want to install a separate companion application
- You download HLS streaming videos and need more than one download every 2 hours
- You need 8K Ultra HD support
- You want a one-time lifetime purchase instead of recurring fees
- You prefer smart video detection that finds videos automatically on any page
Consider Other Options If You...
- You're already paying for Video DownloadHelper's premium and are satisfied with the quality
- You specifically need Firefox support — Video Downloader Pro is Chrome-based
Download videos without watermarks. No companion app needed.
Video Downloader Pro: HD/4K/8K from 1,000+ websites. Clean downloads, smart detection, one Chrome extension. Try free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Switch?
Install Video Downloader Pro free from the Chrome Web Store. No credit card required.