如何在Windows 10 S系统中运行youtube-dl?
Great question! Windows 10 S’s strict focus on UWP apps from the Microsoft Store makes running traditional tools like youtube-dl a bit tricky, but there are workarounds and alternatives to get the job done. Let’s walk through them:
1. Use the UWP Python App from the Microsoft Store
Since youtube-dl is a Python-based script, you can use the official UWP Python distribution to run it:
- First, install Python from the Microsoft Store (ensure it’s the UWP version, not the desktop installer).
- Launch the Python command prompt from your Start menu once installation finishes.
- Run
pip install youtube-dlto install the tool directly in the UWP Python environment. - After installation, you can use standard youtube-dl commands like
youtube-dl https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exampleto download videos. - Note: UWP apps run in a sandbox, so downloaded files will default to the app’s private directory. To save videos to a more accessible location (like your Documents folder), use the
--outputflag and grant the Python app file system access via Settings > Privacy > File System.
2. Upgrade Windows 10 S to a Full Windows 10 Edition
If you don’t need to stay on the restricted Windows 10 S mode, upgrading to Windows 10 Pro/Home unlocks full desktop functionality:
- Go to Settings > System > Activation, then click "Go to Store" to follow the upgrade prompts (you may need a valid product key, though temporary free upgrades are sometimes available for testing).
- Once upgraded, install the standard desktop Python, open Command Prompt or PowerShell, and run
pip install youtube-dljust like on any regular Windows system. This is the most straightforward option if you can move beyond Windows 10 S.
3. Use UWP Video Downloader Alternatives
If command-line tools aren’t your style, there are UWP apps in the Microsoft Store that offer similar YouTube video downloading functionality:
- Look for apps like Youtube Downloader (always check user reviews and confirm the app complies with YouTube’s terms of service before using).
- These apps provide a graphical interface, making video downloads more intuitive for users who prefer not to work with commands.
Important Note: Ensure you only download videos you have explicit permission to access, or that are allowed for download under YouTube’s terms of service.
内容的提问来源于stack exchange,提问作者tejasvi

