ZDF downloader
Download ZDF Mediathek documentaries, news, and German TV programming as MP4 up to 1080p. Save ZDF content for offline viewing.
ZDF (Zweites Deutsches Fernsehen) is Germany's second public broadcaster and one of the largest in Europe. The ZDF Mediathek offers free access to news, documentaries (ZDFinfo), dramas, comedy (heute-show), and children's programming (ZDFtivi).
Paste a zdf.de URL, choose MP4, and the program saves to your library. Essential for German language learners, expats keeping up with German news, and documentary fans who appreciate ZDF's investigative and nature programming.
Key takeaway: Copy the zdf.de video URL, paste it here, and select MP4 720p for news or 1080p for ZDFinfo documentaries.
Why use our free ZDF downloader
ZDFinfo documentaries
ZDFinfo produces and licenses excellent documentaries on history, science, and current affairs. Save them for offline viewing in full 1080p.
heute-show and news archives
Download heute journal news segments or heute-show comedy clips before they rotate out of the Mediathek.
German language resource
ZDF news uses clear Hochdeutsch. Download broadcasts for German language study with real-world vocabulary.
Subtitle support
Many ZDF programs offer German subtitles (Untertitel). Download SRT files for accessible viewing or language practice.
How to download ZDF Mediathek videos for free
Copy the ZDF Mediathek URL
Open the program on zdf.de and copy the URL from your browser. Video page URLs and Mediathek links both work.
Choose your format
MP4 720p for news. MP4 1080p for documentaries. MP3 320 kbps for radio-style content. SRT for subtitles.
Sign in and download
A free FileFactory account unlocks the download. Signup takes about 10 seconds, and the file saves to your library.
Pro tip: ZDFinfo runs marathon blocks of themed documentaries. Check the Mediathek after these events for a batch of related programs you can download as a viewing series.
ZDF downloader FAQ
- Is the ZDF downloader free?
- Yes. ZDF is publicly funded German television, and FileFactory accounts include a daily fetch allowance.
- Is ZDF content geo-restricted?
- Most news and ZDF-produced documentaries are available globally. Licensed content (films, series) may be restricted to Germany.
- How long are programs available in the Mediathek?
- Typically 7 days for series, 30 days for documentaries, and longer for ZDF originals. Download before the availability window closes.
ZDF is a German public-service broadcaster funded by the Rundfunkbeitrag. Content is intended for personal, non-commercial viewing. Some content is geo-restricted to Germany. Download only freely accessible programs for personal use.