In the digital age of streaming, platforms like Crunchyroll have become go-to destinations for anime enthusiasts and fans of Asian dramas worldwide. It offers a vast library of content, from the latest releases to classic series, making it a valuable service for viewers who want to explore different genres and stories.
However, one common issue users face is the desire to watch their favorite shows on Mac without an internet connection. This is where the need to download Crunchyroll episodes on Mac comes into play. In this guide, I’ll test three practical solutions that provide you with the successful implementation of downloading Crunchyroll anime episodes to your Mac.
Can You Download Crunchyroll Episodes on Mac Officially?
According to the Official explained, Crunchyroll offline downloads are available through its mobile applications, which are designed to provide a legitimate way for subscribers to enjoy content offline. However, when it comes to MacBook users, the situation is different.
Limitations of the official download method
As of 2025, Crunchyroll does offer an official offline download feature, but the feature is exclusively for mobile devices such as iOS and Android devices. Additionally, these features are limited to users with a premium subscription and do not support direct downloads on Mac or other desktop devices. That means users can't download anime directly on Mac through Crunchyroll's app or website for offline viewing.
Download Crunchyroll episodes on Mac Alternatives
Despite this restriction, alternative save methods exist for Mac users who still wish to download Crunchyroll episodes. These ways involve leveraging third-party tools and online methods that can bypass the official limitations.
Best Methods to Download Crunchyroll Episodes on Mac
Using Third-Party Software (Recommended Method)
One of the most reliable ways to download Crunchyroll episodes on a Mac is by utilizing third-party software specifically designed for this purpose. Among the various options available, KeepStreams for Crunchyroll stands out as a popular choice due to its comprehensive features and ease of use.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Download and Installation: Begin by visiting the official website of KeepStreams for Crunchyroll. From there, locate the download section and select the appropriate version for your Mac operating system. Once the download is complete, open the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the software on your computer.
Launching the Software: After installation, launch KeepStreams for CrunchyRoll from your Applications folder. The main interface will present you with various options and tools related to video conversion and downloading. Find Crunchroll and login to your account.
Preparing the Download: To start the download process, copy the URL of the Crunchyroll episode you wish to download. This can be found by navigating to the episode on Crunchyroll's website or app and copying the link from the address bar.
Initiating the Download: Paly the anime your wish to save, wait for seconds to analyze the URL and click on the "Download" option located in the main menu.
Customizing Settings: Before starting the download, you have the option to customize various settings. This includes selecting the quality (resolution) you prefer, download the updated episodes authomatically and specifying whether you want to include subtitles in the download.
Starting the Download: Once you've configured the settings to your satisfaction, click the "Start" button to begin the download process. The software will handle the rest, retrieving the video from Crunchyroll's servers and saving it to your specified location on your Mac.
- Ad Free
- Batch Downloading
- Adding Subtitles
- Format Conversion
- Schedule New Episodes Downloading
Download from Crunchyroll Using YouTube-dl (Command Line Method)
For users who are comfortable with command-line interfaces and prefer a more technical approach, YouTube-dl offers a powerful solution for downloading Crunchyroll episodes on Mac. This open-source tool has gained popularity for its ability to download videos from numerous websites, including Crunchyroll, directly through terminal commands.
How to Install it on Mac?
- Installing Homebrew: Open the Terminal application and run the following command to install it:
/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"
- Installing YouTube-dl: Use the following command to install YouTube-dl
brew install youtube-dl
How to Download Videos Using Terminal Commands?
- Copying the Episode URL
- Opening Terminal
Launch the Terminal application on your Mac. If you're not familiar with Terminal, it's located in the Utilities folder within your Applications.
- Running the Download Command
In the Terminal window, type command youtube-dl [paste URL], replacing "[paste URL]" with the actual URL of the Crunchyroll episode. Press Enter and YouTube-dl will connect to Crunchyroll's servers and begin downloading the episode.
- Customizing the Download
YouTube-dl offers numerous options to customize your download. Specify the output format using the -f option, choose the quality with the -q option, or add subtitles using the --write-sub option.
Online Crunchyroll Downloaders (No Software Required)
If you prefer not to install any software on your Mac or are looking for a quick solution without technical complexity, online Crunchyroll downloaders provide a convenient alternative. These web-based tools allow you to download videos directly through your browser without the need for additional installations.
- Very. Ninja: This user-friendly online downloader supports multiple video formats and is designed to be intuitive for users of all technical backgrounds. Simply visit the website, paste the Crunchyroll episode URL, select your desired format and quality, and initiate the download process.
- OnlineVideoConverter.Party: Another popular option, this converter enables you to convert and download videos directly within your browser. It offers a straightforward interface where you can input the video URL, choose conversion settings, and download the file without leaving your browser.
Pros & Cons Summary
The primary advantage of online downloaders is their accessibility. Since they operate through your web browser, you can use them on any device with internet access, regardless of the operating system.
They also eliminate the need to install software, which is beneficial for users who prefer to keep their systems clean or don't have administrative privileges to install programs.
One significant drawback is the potential limitation on download speed and file size, especially for longer episodes or higher-quality videos.
Additionally, uploading the video to the online converter's server raise privacy concerns, as the content passes through a third-party service. There's also encountering ads and pop-ups during the process, which can be distracting.
FAQs
Q1. Can I Download Crunchyroll Episodes on PC?
A1. Yes, similar methods apply to PC. You can use third-party software like KeepStreams for Crunchyroll Downloader or online tools to download Crunchyroll episodes on Windows or Linux. The process involves similar steps: copying the episode URL, using the chosen tool to initiate the download, and customizing settings as needed.
Q2. Is it legal to download Crunchyroll content?
A2. While fair use exceptions exist for personal, non-commercial purposes, it's always best to check your local laws and Crunchyroll's policies. Always respect the rights of content creators and distributors by using official methods when available or ensuring you have proper permission for any downloads.
Q3. Can I download Crunchyroll episodes without a premium account?
A3. Most official download methods require a premium account, including Crunchyroll. The download feature on Crunchyroll is included in the premium plan, but the third-party Crunchyroll download tools, like KeepStreams, are available without a subscription.
In Summary
Crunchyroll downloaders for Mac can be accomplished through various methods, each offering distinct benefits and challenges. When choosing a method, consider your technical comfort level, the importance of file customization, and your willingness to install additional software.
Always remember to respect copyright laws and the terms of service set by platforms like Crunchyroll. By selecting the appropriate method and using it responsibly, you can enjoy your favorite Crunchyroll content offline on your Mac while supporting the creators and industry that bring these shows to life.