BigConverter: Features, How It Works & The Best Alternative

Ever tried to save a YouTube video and ended up on a sketchy site filled with pop-ups? You're not alone. Many people turn to free tools like BigConverter for quick downloads in MP3 or MP4 formats. It promises fast, no-cost conversions, but is it really worth it? In this BigConverter review, I'll walk you through exactly how the tool works, what I experienced while using it, and where it falls short. Plus, I'll introduce you to a much safer and smoother option: Toolsmart by WPS.

Part 1: Overview of BigConverter

In this BigConverter review, let's start with what the tool is all about.

BigConverter is a free online YouTube video downloader that allows you to convert and save videos in MP3 or MP4 format. You simply paste the URL of a YouTube video, choose your format, and the tool handles the rest: no login, no installation, and no software required.

It's been featured on several best converter reviews lists for its simplicity and direct approach. However, my personal experience revealed a few things worth knowing before you rely on it as your go-to tool.

Pros of BigConverter

• Free to use: No account or payment required.

• Simple interface: Easy to navigate with basic functionality.

• MP3 & MP4 options: Supports common formats for audio and video.

• Works on browsers: No software installation is needed.

Cons of BigConverter

• Too many pop-ups and ads: Frequent redirects can be frustrating and feel unsafe.

• Inconsistent speed: Sometimes the downloads are fast, but other times it hangs or fails.

• Questionable file quality: The audio and video quality varies based on the source.

• No batch downloads: You can only convert one video at a time.

• Legal grey area: Downloading copyrighted YouTube content can violate terms of service.

Personally, I found BigConverter useful for quick conversions when I was in a pinch. But if you're someone who downloads videos regularly or cares about quality and security, you'll start noticing its flaws pretty quickly.

Part 2: How to Use BigConverter – A Step-by-Step Guide

As part of this BigConverter review, I tested the tool myself to give you a realistic picture of how it works from start to finish.

Below is a simple guide to using BigConverter to convert a YouTube video into MP3 or MP4 format:

Note: Before you begin, I recommend using a browser with an ad blocker enabled. BigConverter tends to trigger pop-ups and redirect ads.

Step 1: Go to the BigConverter website

Visit https://bigconverter.com. You'll land on a minimalistic homepage with a search bar for pasting your YouTube URL.

Step 2: Copy and paste the YouTube link

Find the video you want to download on YouTube. Copy the URL from the address bar and paste it into BigConverter's search field.

Step 3: Select your preferred format

Once the video loads, choose the format you want, either MP3 for audio or MP4 for video. You may also see a dropdown to select file quality (e.g., 128kbps, 720p, etc.).

Step 4: Click "Convert"

Hit the "Convert" button. You may get redirected to an ad or pop-up window; just close it and return to the main tab.

Step 5: Save the file

After processing, your file will be ready. Click the "Download" button, and your browser will begin saving the file to your device.

While the tool does work, my experience was mixed. The conversion speed was decent on smaller files, but anything over 10 minutes took a noticeable amount of time. Also, I was hit with 3 pop-ups before I could even get to the download screen, which raised a red flag.

So, if you're only using it occasionally, it can be tolerable. But if you're looking for something faster, cleaner, and safer, you may want to keep reading, especially if you're browsing for the best converter review options.

Part 3: Toolsmart YouTube Video Downloader - The Best Alternative to BigConverter

After testing and writing this BigConverter review, I knew I needed something better, faster, cleaner, and safer.

That's when I discovered Toolsmart, a free YouTube video downloader developed by WPS. If you're tired of dodging ads and wasting time with unstable converters, Toolsmart might just be the upgrade you're looking for.

What is Toolsmart?

Toolsmart is a browser-based YouTube video downloader designed for simplicity and speed. It doesn't require installation, registration, or any technical know-how; you just copy, paste, click, and download it.

In my opinion, it deserves a top spot among the best converter reviews because of its no-nonsense approach to video conversion.

Top Features:

• 100% free and unlimited: No usage restrictions or hidden charges.

• Secure and ad-free: No pop-ups, no malicious redirects, just clean downloads.

• Fast conversion speeds: Downloads are noticeably quicker than BigConverter.

• No sign-up required: Start downloading instantly; no email or login needed.

How to Use Toolsmart - A Step-by-Step Guide

I tried it myself using the same YouTube video I tested on BigConverter. Here's exactly how it works:

Step 1: Visit the Toolsmart YouTube Downloader

Go to https://www.toolsmart.ai/feature-free-youtube-video-downloader.

Step 2: Copy the YouTube video link

Navigate to your desired video on YouTube and copy its URL.

Step 3: Paste the link into Toolsmart

Paste the link in the input field on Toolsmart's page. The system will begin fetching the video.

Step 4: Click Download and Choose your format (MP3 or MP4)

Select your desired format. Toolsmart offers high-quality audio and video options without any interruptions.

Step 5: Click "Download"

Press the Download button. The file will start downloading instantly, with no pop-ups and no wait time.

Compared to BigConverter, Toolsmart felt like a breath of fresh air. No ads, no waiting around, and best of all, consistent quality. It handled longer videos effortlessly, and the MP3 conversion retained crisp audio quality.

If you're serious about downloading videos regularly or just want a better experience, Toolsmart easily beats most tools mentioned in best converter reviews articles. It's now my default downloader.

Part 4: Comparison of Two Tools

To help you decide which tool fits your needs better, here's a side-by-side comparison based on my personal testing during this BigConverter review.

If you're someone who downloads videos occasionally and can tolerate pop-ups, BigConverter might still serve you well.

However, for users who value speed, reliability, and a cleaner experience, Toolsmart stands out. In fact, after writing this BigConverter review and testing alternatives, I can confidently say Toolsmart deserves a mention in any of the best converter reviews out there.

FAQs

Q1: Is BigConverter safe to use?

While BigConverter functions as expected for converting YouTube videos, it comes with security risks. During this BigConverter review, I experienced multiple pop-ups and redirects that felt sketchy. If you're concerned about privacy and malware, I recommend using a safer tool like Toolsmart.

Q2: Why choose Toolsmart over BigConverter?

Toolsmart offers a completely ad-free, secure experience with faster downloads and better file quality. Unlike BigConverter, it doesn't bombard you with pop-ups or risk taking you to unsafe pages. For anyone exploring the best converter reviews, Toolsmart is a top contender.

Q3: Can Toolsmart download videos in different formats?

Yes! Toolsmart supports both MP3 (audio) and MP4 (video) formats. It lets you pick your preferred format with a single click; no tech skills are required.

Q4: Do I need to install software to use Toolsmart?

Not at all. Toolsmart is entirely browser-based. No installations, no extensions, and definitely no bloatware. Just visit the website, paste your link, and download it; it's that simple.

Summary

After a full hands-on BigConverter review, it's clear that while the tool delivers on its promise of free video conversion, it comes with compromises, frequent ads, inconsistent speed, and questionable safety.

If you're someone who only downloads occasionally and can tolerate some inconvenience, BigConverter may still be serviceable. But for most users, especially those looking for a smooth, secure, and professional experience, Toolsmart is the smarter choice.

With no ads, fast speeds, and high-quality downloads, Toolsmart stands out as one of the best converters available in 2025. Whether you're saving videos for work, study, or offline entertainment, it delivers exactly what you need with no risks and no clutter. Final Word? Ditch the pop-ups. Try Toolsmart.