ZclippervsYouTube Clips
The YouTube Clips alternative that saves a real file
Since April 2026, YouTube no longer lets viewers create Clips, and Share at Timestamp only links to a start point. Zclipper cuts a start-to-end segment of any public YouTube video and saves it as an MP4 or WebM file, free and without an account.
| Feature | Zclipper | YouTube Clips |
|---|---|---|
| Can viewers create clips? | Yes, from any public video | No, retired in April 2026 Source 1 |
| Start and end point | Yes | Share at Timestamp sets a start only Source 1 |
| Clip length | Up to 10 minutes | 5 to 60 seconds (old Clips) Source 2 |
| What you get | MP4 or WebM file on your device | A link that plays on YouTube Source 2 |
| If the video is deleted or made private | Your file still plays | The clip stops working Source 2 |
| Account | Not needed | Was required Source 2 |
| Live streams | Live and embed links work | Only with DVR, inside the DVR window Source 2 |
| Clipping your own channel | Works the same way | YouTube Studio Video Clips Source 1 |
| Works on a phone | Preview and pick times; record on desktop Chrome or Edge | Was available on phones Source 2 |
| Price | Free | Free |
- 1 9to5Google, Apr 17, 2026
- 2 YouTube Help: Learn about managing Clips
- 3 Android Authority, Apr 17, 2026
Zclipper vs YouTube Clips: questions
What happened to YouTube Clips?
In April 2026, YouTube removed the option for viewers to create new Clips and replaced it with Share at Timestamp, which only sets a start point. Clips made before the change still play. Creators can still clip their own uploads in YouTube Studio with Video Clips.
Why can't I clip YouTube videos anymore?
The Clip button was removed for viewers in April 2026, so it no longer appears under videos. To save a segment now, paste the video link into Zclipper, set a start and an end, and save the clip as an MP4 or WebM file.
How do I clip a YouTube video now?
Paste the link into Zclipper, drag the two handles or type the start and end times, and click Clip it! Choose This Tab in the share dialog. The segment records while it plays and downloads to your device. Recording needs Chrome or Edge on a desktop.
Do my old YouTube Clips still work?
Yes. Clips created before April 2026 still play as long as the original video stays public. If the video is deleted or made private, the clip stops working. A clip saved with Zclipper is a file, so it keeps playing either way.
Can I clip more than 60 seconds?
Yes. YouTube Clips were limited to 5 to 60 seconds. Zclipper saves up to 10 minutes per clip.
Is Share at Timestamp the same as a clip?
No. Share at Timestamp creates a link that opens the video at a chosen second. It has no end point and produces no file. It works well when you only need to point someone to a moment.
When are YouTube's own tools the better choice?
Use Share at Timestamp to point someone to a moment without saving anything. If you own the channel, YouTube Studio Video Clips republishes a segment on YouTube itself. On a phone with no desktop nearby, YouTube's share link is quicker.
Can I clip a video that isn't mine?
That depends on what you clip and how you use it, and it is your responsibility. Short excerpts for study, commentary or private reference may be allowed where you live. Never re-upload other people's videos as your own.
YouTube is a trademark of its owner. Zclipper is not affiliated with YouTube. Facts checked on from the linked sources. Spot something out of date? support@zclipper.video