The YouTube app is a free download available for all Switch models, including the original, Lite, OLED, and even newer patched iterations. YouTube for Nintendo Switch - Nintendo Official Site
If you've decided that homebrew is the path for you despite the risks, here's a high-level overview of what you'll need to do to get YouTube video downloading working on a "patched" Switch.
If you see forum posts about "YouTube downloader homebrew" (like YT-DL for Switch homebrew), those require an unpatched Switch or a modchipped Switch. On a stock, patched Switch, those tools do not run. download youtube on nintendo switch patched
Let's get the official stance out of the way. Nintendo Support explicitly states that . While you can download the official YouTube app from the Nintendo eShop, that's where the flexibility ends.
How to Download the Official YouTube App on a Patched Switch The YouTube app is a free download available
: Ensure your console is connected to a stable internet connection. Sync Date and Time
A step-by-step guide to follow:
: Choose the user profile you want to use for the download. This profile must be linked to a active Nintendo Account.
If you want a legal alternative, here are safe options: On a stock, patched Switch, those tools do not run