How to Download Instagram Reels
Instagram Reels are short videos shared in a vertical format. Because Instagram does not offer a built-in download button on every account, people often look for a straightforward way to keep a copy of a Reel they are allowed to save. This guide explains the practical steps and what to check first.
Before you start: make sure the Reel is public
You can only save a Reel that is publicly accessible. Reels from private accounts, or Reels that Instagram has removed or restricted, cannot be downloaded by third-party tools. SaveThisIG only processes public content, so always confirm the account is public and the Reel is still live in the app before you try.
Get the direct link to the Reel
Every Reel has a URL that looks like instagram.com/reel/ followed by a short code. To copy it, open the Reel in the Instagram app or on the website, tap the share button, and choose Copy Link. You can also open the Reel on a desktop browser and copy the address from the address bar.
- Open the Reel you want in Instagram.
- Tap the paper-plane share icon at the bottom of the post.
- Choose Copy Link from the sharing sheet.
- Paste the link into the downloader on the Reels page.
Download with the Reels downloader
Visit the Instagram Reels Downloader page, paste the link you copied, and run the downloader. You will see a preview of the video before anything is saved, which is a useful way to confirm you have the right clip. Then use the Download button to save the file to your device.
The download is served from a short-lived, signed link, so it can only be used briefly. If the link expires, simply run the downloader again.
What to do when a Reel will not download
- Check that the account is public. This is the most common reason.
- Confirm the Reel was not deleted or made private after you copied the link.
- Make sure you copied the full link, including the code after /reel/.
- Wait a moment and retry — providers can hit Instagram rate limits.
Downloading on mobile
The same steps work on phones and tablets. Copy the link in the app, paste it into the downloader in your browser, and the file lands in your browser's download folder. On iOS you may see the clip in the Downloads area of your browser; on Android it usually appears in the Downloads app.
Keep it respectful
Only save content you have permission to save. Respect the creator's rights and follow copyright rules, just as you would for any other media.
Downloading a Reel does not make it yours to republish. If you plan to share or remix what you saved, ask the creator first and follow their wishes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an Instagram password to download a Reel?
No. Downloading a public Reel requires only the Reel's link. Never share your Instagram credentials with any tool or website.
Why does my Reel download as a different format?
The exact resolution and container depend on what Instagram exposes for that clip at the moment. SaveThisIG returns what the provider can retrieve, and never invents a quality that does not exist.
Can I download Reels from private accounts?
No. Private accounts are never accessed. SaveThisIG only processes publicly accessible content.
