Instagram website Reels has taken the social media world by storm, with over 2.35 billion active users engaging with short-form video content daily. Whether you want to save a trending dance, educational tutorial, or funny clip for offline viewing, this comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to download Instagram Reels using official and third-party methods—all while keeping your account safe and respecting copyright laws.
Why Download Instagram Reels?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s explore why you might want to save Reels:
✔ Offline Viewing – Watch without an internet connection during commutes or travel
✔ Content Inspiration – Save creative ideas for your own Reels or stories
✔ Educational Purposes – Keep tutorials, recipes, or fitness guides handy
✔ Reposting (With Credit) – Share valuable content across other platforms
✔ Archiving – Preserve memories or viral moments that may disappear
According to Instagram’s latest transparency report, Reels now account for 30% of all time spent on the platform—making it crucial to know how to save this content properly.
Is it Possible to Download Instagram Reels?
Yes! While Instagram doesn’t offer a direct “download” button for Reels (except for your own content), there are multiple legal ways to save Reels:
✅ Public Accounts Only – You can’t download from private profiles
✅ No Native Option – Requires workarounds (detailed below)
✅ Quality Varies – Some methods preserve HD quality better than others
Instagram’s website online terms allow downloading for personal use, but reposting requires creator permission.
How to Download an Instagram Reel (Official & Third-Party Methods)
Method 1: Using Instagram’s Built-In Save Feature
Best for: Quick saving within Instagram
Limitations: Only accessible in the app (not an actual download)
- Open the Reel you want to save
- Tap the bookmark icon (💾) below the video
- Select a collection or create a new one
Pro Tip: Create themed collections like “Marketing Ideas” or “Workout Routines” for better organization.
Method 2: Screen Recording (No App Needed)
Best for: One-time downloads without watermarks
For iPhone Users
- Enable screen recording:
- Go to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls
- Add Screen Recording
- Swipe down to open Control Center
- Tap the record button (●)
- Play the Reel, then stop recording
For Android Users
- Swipe down the notification panel
- Tap Screen Recorder (varies by brand)
- Adjust settings to record sound if needed
- Play the Reel and record
Editing Tip: Use free apps like CapCut or InShot to trim the recording.
Method 3: Third-Party Downloader Apps & Websites
For direct downloads, these tools work best (for public accounts only):
A. Web-Based Downloaders (No Installation)
- InstaDownloader.io
- Copy the Reel link (tap ⋯ > Copy link).
- Paste it into the website and download it.
- SaveFrom.net
B. Mobile Apps (Android & iOS)
- Snaptik – Removes watermarks.
- Repost for Instagram – Helps reshare with credit.
- InSaver – Downloads Reels in HD.
Warning: Avoid apps that require your Instagram login chrome—they may be unsafe.
How to Use:
- Tap ⋯ > Copy link on the Reel
- Paste into your chosen tool
- Download quickly
Warning: Avoid apps requesting your Instagram login details—they may violate the terms.
How to Download an Instagram Reel on a Desktop or Laptop
Since Instagram’s website online blocks direct downloads, use:
1: Web-Based Tools
- InstaDownloader.io
- SaveFrom.net
2: Browser Extensions
- “Instagram Reel Downloader” for Chrome
3: Developer Trick (For Tech-Savvy Users)
- Right-click page > Inspect
- Search for “.mp4” in Network tab
- Copy the video URL and download
How to Download Instagram Reels Without Watermark
The Instagram watermark can distract from your reposts. Remove it by:
✔ Using Snaptik – Automatically delivers clean videos
✔ Cropping Screen Recordings – Zoom in slightly
✔ Editing Software – Blur/cover watermark with overlays
Ethical Note: Always credit creators even after removing watermarks.
How to Repost Instagram Reels Ethically
Follow these best practices to avoid copyright issues:
- Ask Permission – DM the creator if possible
- Tag Properly – Use “@username in video + caption“
- Add Value – Include your own commentary or reaction
- Use Repost Apps – Apps like “Repost for Instagram” auto-credit
Did You Know? 68% of creators say they’re more likely to allow reposts when asked first.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Downloading Instagram Reels
⚠ Copyright Laws – Personal use is generally safe; commercial use requires licenses
⚠ Account Privacy – Only works on public profiles
⚠ Video Quality – Some methods reduce resolution
⚠ App Security – Avoid suspicious third-party apps
⚠ Storage Space – Reels can consume significant memory
Legal & Ethical Considerations
- Don’t repost without credit – It’s disrespectful and may lead to copyright strikes.
- Avoid spammy tools – Some apps violate Instagram’s terms.
Bonus: How to Create & Optimize Your Own Reels
Want to make viral Reels? Follow these tips:
🎬 Use Trending Sounds & Hashtags
📊 Post Consistently (At least 3x/week)
🔗 Add a Link in Bio – Learn how to add a link in your Instagram bio for traffic.
Conclusion
Downloading Instagram Reels opens up countless possibilities for content inspiration, education, and entertainment—but it’s crucial to do it responsibly and ethically. As we’ve explored, multiple methods exist, from Instagram’s built-in save feature to third-party apps and screen recording, each with its own advantages.
Remember that while public Reels can be downloaded through various tools, private content should always remain off-limits unless you have explicit permission. The Instagram watermark may be removable through certain apps, but crediting original creators isn’t just courteous—it’s often legally required when reposting.
If you’re downloading Reels for business chat or content creation, consider how you can add value before resharing—whether through commentary, reactions, or educational breakdowns. Tools like Snaptik and InSaver simplify the process, while screen recording remains a reliable fallback option.
Before using any third-party service, research its credibility—avoid apps that demand your Instagram website login, as they may compromise your account security. Additionally, be mindful of copyright laws, especially if you plan to reuse Reels commercially.
For those looking to grow their own presence, studying downloaded Reels can provide valuable insights into trends, editing techniques, and engagement strategies. Pair this knowledge with consistent posting and smart hashtag use to boost your reach.
Ultimately, downloading Reels should be about convenience, not exploitation. Whether you’re archiving memories, analyzing trends, or sharing inspiring content, always prioritize fair use and creator rights.
By following this guide, you now have a safe, effective, and ethical approach to saving Instagram Reels. Use these methods wisely, stay updated on Instagram’s policies, and continue enjoying the platform’s best content—both as a viewer and a creator.
Pro Tip: Combine downloaded Reels with your original content strategy for maximum impact. For more Instagram growth techniques, explore our guides on algorithm hacks and engagement boosting. Happy downloading—and creating! 🚀
FAQs
Can I download Reels from private accounts?
No, private account Reels cannot be downloaded using any method. Instagram’s API restrictions and privacy policies prevent accessing content from accounts that aren’t public. Even if you follow the account, you’ll need the creator’s permission to save or repost their content.
Is it legal to download Instagram Reels?
Downloading for personal use is generally acceptable, but redistributing or reposting without permission may violate copyright laws. Instagram’s terms prohibit unauthorized scraping or bulk downloading. Always credit creators when sharing their content elsewhere.
Why can’t I download some public Reels?
Some creators disable downloading through Instagram’s settings. You’ll see a “Download” option missing from the share menu if this is enabled. In such cases, screen recording may be your only option, though ethically questionable without permission.
Do download Reels lose quality?
Most third-party tools preserve original quality (up to 1080p), but screen recordings may reduce resolution slightly. Web-based downloaders typically offer the best quality, while some apps compress files to save storage space on your device.
How can I download Reels without watermarks?
Use specialized apps like Snaptik or InSaver that remove Instagram’s branding automatically. Some websites also offer watermark-free downloads, though be cautious of malicious sites. Editing software can help crop or blur watermarks from screen recordings.
Can I get banned for downloading too many Reels?
Instagram may temporarily restrict accounts making excessive automated download requests. Using official methods like saving to collections has no limits. Spread out downloads when using third-party tools to avoid triggering security measures.
What’s the best method for iPhone users?
Screen recording provides the simplest solution with no app installs. For higher quality, try reputable apps like Reelsaver or use web tools like InstaDownloader. The Instagram save feature works well for in-app viewing without downloads.
How do I download Reels on a computer?
Browser extensions like “Instagram Reel Downloader” for Chrome work best. Alternatively, use web tools by pasting Reel links. Developer mode inspection can extract video files but requires technical knowledge most users don’t have.
Can I edit downloaded Reels before reposting?
Yes, but significant edits may still require creator permission under copyright law. Adding your own commentary, reactions or transformative elements makes it more likely to qualify as fair use. Always maintain the original creator’s watermark when possible.
Why do some download apps require an Instagram login?
Avoid these apps – they violate Instagram’s terms and may compromise your account. Legitimate tools only need the Reel link. Never enter your credentials into third-party applications, as this risks hacking or data theft.
How long do downloaded Reels stay on my phone?
They remain until you delete them, unlike Instagram’s saved collections, which depend on whether the original post stays active. Downloaded files behave like any other video in your camera roll or downloads folder.
What’s the maximum Reel length I can download?
Instagram allows Reels up to 90 seconds, and all download methods support this full duration. Some third-party tools may have their own limits, but most handle standard-length Reels without issues.
Can I download Reels with original audio?
Yes, all methods preserve the original audio unless the creator used copyrighted music that Instagram restricts. In such cases, the download might replace the audio or fail altogether due to copyright protections.
Do downloads work on older Instagram versions?
The built-in save feature requires updated apps, but screen recording works on any version. Third-party tools typically work regardless of your app version since they operate through Instagram’s web interface.
How can I organize hundreds of downloaded Reels?
Create themed folders in your gallery or use apps like Google Photos for automatic organization. Some downloader apps include management features, but manual organization often works best for large collections.
