How to Use YouTube on Mac
This guide walks you through downloading, setting up, and using YouTube on your Mac — one step at a time. No tech jargon, just clear instructions.
1Download YouTube
- 1
Open Safari or Chrome on your Mac.
- 2
Go to youtube.com.
- 3
No installation needed — YouTube works in your web browser.
2Set Up Your Account
Visit YouTube
Open your browser and go to youtube.com.
Sign in
Click "Sign In" at the top right and enter your Google account details.
3How to Use YouTube
Search and watch
Type in the search bar and click a video to watch it. Use the spacebar to pause/play.
Full screen
Click the full-screen icon at the bottom right of the video, or press F.
Subscribe
Click "Subscribe" below videos from channels you enjoy.
Use captions
Click "CC" at the bottom of the video for subtitles.
Tips for Seniors
- ✓
Press Command+"+" to zoom in on the page for bigger text.
- ✓
Use Picture-in-Picture: right-click the video twice and select "Enter Picture in Picture" to watch while doing other things.
- ✓
Add youtube.com to your Dock: in Safari, click Share > Add to Dock.
- ✓
The Mac's speakers or connected headphones make for a great listening experience for music videos and podcasts.
Common Issues & Solutions
Videos do not play in Safari▼
Sound is not working▼
YouTube is using a lot of memory▼
Use YouTube on a Different Device
Same app, different device. Pick yours below:
More App Guides for Mac
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