For a while, Instagram has been focusing heavily on videos. Instagram Reels dominate the platform, and you might want to edit these videos. If you see an Instagram video you’d like to download, there are several methods available. Though many older methods no longer work or require you to grant access to untrusted apps, there are still ways to download Instagram videos without many complications, including methods that don’t require login.
The official way to download Instagram videos:
There’s an official way to download Instagram videos, but it’s not always available. If a creator allows downloads, you can save their videos using Instagram’s mobile app by following these steps:
1. Open the Instagram app on iPhone or Android.
2. Log in to your account if necessary.
3. Open a public Instagram video and tap the Share button (paper plane icon).
4. Swipe left in the bottom row until you see the Download option.
5. If available, tap Download to save the video to your gallery.
This method has two limitations: the video’s creator must enable downloads, and saved videos have a TikTok-style watermark. Alternatively, you can record your screen on iPhone or Android to capture the video, though UI elements might appear. If this is inconvenient, third-party options are available.
Downloading Instagram videos via third-party websites:
I’ve found FastDL and SnapInsta to be effective for downloading Instagram videos without installing apps, setting up automations, or granting account access. They worked seamlessly, allowing me to download various stories, videos, and photos without additional files or antivirus warnings. Always check user feedback to ensure safety as these tools can change.
Steps for FastDL:
1. Copy the URL of the Instagram Reel, story, or post.
2. Open FastDL in a browser.
3. Choose the appropriate tab for the content type (e.g., Video for Reels).
4. Paste the link and click Download.
The site lets you download videos to your phone or computer and offers a carousel tab for multiple photos and videos. It cannot download from private accounts.
SnapInsta also handles Instagram downloads well, but lacks a viewer tab and deals with multiple items differently than FastDL. It’s useful if FastDL isn’t accessible.
Steps for SnapInsta:
1. Copy the URL of the Instagram video or post.
2. Open SnapInsta and paste the link in the text box. Click Download.
3. The page refreshes to show the post’s thumbnail. If there are multiple items, they’ll list individually. Click Download for the desired items to save them.