How to Install YouTube in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / October 22, 2025

If you love watching YouTube videos, live streams, tutorials, or music playlists, you probably wish you could have YouTube installed as an app on your Windows 11 computer — instead of opening it through your web browser every time.

Good news: you can!

In this detailed guide, we’ll show you how to install YouTube in Windows 11 using different methods — from installing it as a Progressive Web App (PWA) in Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome, to creating a desktop shortcut or using the YouTube app via the Microsoft Store.

Whether you’re a casual viewer or a content creator, this step-by-step guide will help you turn YouTube into a smooth, app-like experience on your PC.

What Is YouTube and Why Install It on Windows 11?

YouTube is the world’s largest video-sharing platform, offering billions of videos across every imaginable category — from entertainment and education to news and tutorials.

While you can easily access YouTube through any web browser, installing it as an app on Windows 11 gives you a smoother, faster, and more immersive experience — just like a native desktop application.

Installing YouTube means you can:

  • Launch it directly from your desktop.

  • Get fewer distractions (no browser tabs!).

  • Enjoy better performance and offline-like functionality.

Benefits of Installing YouTube as an App

Here’s why installing YouTube as an app on your Windows 11 computer is worth it:

Benefit Description
🖥️ Dedicated Window YouTube opens in its own window — no tabs or browser clutter.
⚡ Faster Access Launch instantly from your Start menu or taskbar.
🔔 Notifications Receive video upload alerts, comments, and live stream notifications.
📱 PWA Functionality Works like a mobile app — lightweight and efficient.
🧩 Multitasking Friendly Easier to manage alongside other desktop applications.

System Requirements for YouTube Installation on Windows 11

Before installing YouTube as an app, make sure your system meets these simple requirements:

Requirement Minimum Specification
Operating System Windows 11 (any edition)
Browser Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome (latest version)
RAM 2 GB minimum (4 GB recommended)
Internet Connection Stable broadband or Wi-Fi
Storage Space Less than 200 MB

💡 Tip: Always keep your browser updated for the best YouTube PWA experience.

Different Ways to Install YouTube in Windows 11

There are several methods to install or access YouTube conveniently on your PC. Here’s a quick overview:

Method Description
1. Chrome PWA Method Use Google Chrome to install YouTube as a Progressive Web App.
2. Edge PWA Method Install YouTube using Microsoft Edge.
3. Pinning Pin YouTube to the Start Menu or Taskbar for quick access.
4. Desktop Shortcut Manually create a clickable shortcut to YouTube.
5. Microsoft Store Apps Download unofficial YouTube apps from the Store.

Let’s go through each method step-by-step.

Method 1: Install YouTube Using Google Chrome (PWA Method)

The easiest and most recommended way to install YouTube on Windows 11 is by using Google Chrome’s PWA feature.

Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Open Google Chrome on your Windows 11 PC.

  2. Go to the official YouTube website: https://www.youtube.com.

  3. Once it loads, click the three-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner.

  4. Select “Save and share” → “Install YouTube” (or “Install app” depending on your Chrome version).

  5. A popup will appear — click Install.

  6. YouTube will open in its own dedicated window, just like an app.

That’s it! 🎉 You now have YouTube installed on your Windows 11 system.

📌 Pro Tip:

You can find the installed app in your Start Menu → All Apps → YouTube, and even pin it to your taskbar.

Method 2: Install YouTube Using Microsoft Edge

If you prefer using Microsoft Edge, Windows 11’s default browser, you can install YouTube as a PWA from there too.

Follow these steps:

  1. Open Microsoft Edge.

  2. Go to https://www.youtube.com.

  3. Click the three-dot menu (⋯) in the upper-right corner.

  4. Hover over Apps → Install this site as an app.

  5. A small window will appear — rename it to “YouTube” (optional).

  6. Click Install.

Now, YouTube will launch in its own app window, and Windows 11 will automatically add it to your Start Menu and Desktop.

🧠 Bonus:

Edge gives you the option to auto-start the app at login — perfect for creators who use YouTube frequently.

Method 3: Pin YouTube to Taskbar or Start Menu

Want even faster access? You can pin YouTube directly without installing it as a PWA.

Here’s how:

  1. Open YouTube in your browser.

  2. Click the three-dot menu.

  3. Select More tools → Create shortcut (Chrome) or Pin to Start (Edge).

  4. Choose where to place it: Taskbar, Start Menu, or both.

Now, one click will instantly open YouTube in your browser window.

Method 4: Create a YouTube Desktop Shortcut Manually

Prefer old-school shortcuts? Here’s how to create one yourself:

  1. Right-click an empty space on your desktop.

  2. Choose New → Shortcut.

  3. In the location field, type:

    https://www.youtube.com

  4. Click Next.

  5. Name it YouTube.

  6. Click Finish.

Now, you’ll see a YouTube shortcut icon on your desktop. Double-click it anytime to launch YouTube in your default browser.

Method 5: Install YouTube via Microsoft Store (Unofficial Apps)

Currently, Google doesn’t offer an official YouTube desktop app on the Microsoft Store. However, you may find third-party YouTube client apps such as:

  • myTube!

  • Awesome Tube

  • Pro Tube

  • Perfect Tube

⚠️ Important:

These apps are unofficial and may have limited features compared to the browser version. Always check ratings and developer details before installing.

How to Uninstall YouTube PWA or Shortcut in Windows 11

If you decide to remove YouTube later, here’s how to uninstall it:

Method 1: From Chrome or Edge

  1. Open Chrome or Edge.

  2. Go to chrome://apps (in Chrome) or edge://apps (in Edge).

  3. Right-click on YouTube.

  4. Click Remove from Chrome/Edge → confirm.

Method 2: From Windows Settings

  1. Open Settings → Apps → Installed Apps.

  2. Search for YouTube.

  3. Click Uninstall → confirm.

And you’re done — clean removal with no leftover files.

How to Enable Notifications for YouTube App

Want to get updates when your favorite YouTubers upload new content?

Enable Notifications in Chrome or Edge:

  1. Open the YouTube app window (PWA).

  2. Click the lock icon (🔒) in the address bar.

  3. Select Site Settings.

  4. Under Permissions, set Notifications → Allow.

  5. Restart the YouTube app.

Now, you’ll receive real-time alerts for uploads, comments, and messages.

Troubleshooting YouTube Installation Issues

Encountering problems while installing YouTube on Windows 11? Here’s how to fix common issues:

Problem Cause Solution
❌ “Install” option missing Browser not updated Update Chrome or Edge to the latest version
⚠️ YouTube opens in browser tabs Didn’t install as PWA Reinstall using PWA method
🔕 No notifications Permissions blocked Enable notifications in browser settings
🧩 App missing from Start menu Shortcut not created Reinstall and enable shortcut creation
🐢 App running slow Cache overload Clear cache/cookies or reinstall the app

Tips for a Better YouTube Experience on Windows 11

Boost your productivity and video enjoyment with these pro tips:

  • 🎬 Enable Dark Mode → Easier on your eyes.

  • ⌨️ Use Keyboard Shortcuts → “K” to pause, “F” for fullscreen, “J/L” to skip 10 seconds.

  • ⚙️ Adjust Playback Quality → Use HD only when needed to save bandwidth.

  • 🔒 Sign In → Get personalized recommendations and synced watch history.

  • 🚀 Use Picture-in-Picture Mode → Watch videos while multitasking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I install YouTube as an app on Windows 11?

Yes! You can install YouTube as a Progressive Web App (PWA) using Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

2. Is there an official YouTube app for Windows 11?

No official desktop app exists yet, but installing YouTube as a PWA provides the same native-like experience.

3. Will YouTube work offline on Windows 11?

Not fully — YouTube requires an internet connection to stream videos, though you can preload pages temporarily.

4. How do I uninstall the YouTube app?

Go to chrome://apps (Chrome) or edge://apps (Edge), right-click YouTube, and select Remove.

5. Is it safe to use third-party YouTube apps from Microsoft Store?

Most are safe, but always check user reviews and developer credentials before downloading.

Conclusion

Installing YouTube in Windows 11 is quick, safe, and incredibly useful. Whether you prefer Chrome, Edge, or a desktop shortcut, you can enjoy YouTube just like a native app — without opening your browser every time.

To recap:

  • The PWA method gives you the best, lightweight app-like experience.

  • Pinning and shortcuts offer one-click access.

  • Edge and Chrome both support installing YouTube as an app easily.

With these methods, you can transform YouTube from just a website into an everyday desktop experience — perfect for entertainment, learning, or content creation.

🔍 Key Takeaways

  • ✅ Best Method: Use Google Chrome or Edge to install YouTube as a PWA.

  • ⚙️ Quick Access: Pin it to your taskbar or Start menu.

  • 🔔 Enable Notifications: Stay updated with your favorite channels.

  • 🚫 Uninstall Easily: Remove anytime via browser or app settings.

  • 💡 Enjoy Native Feel: Launch YouTube in a distraction-free window.

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