How to Download Instagram Reels
Instagram's save button only bookmarks Reels inside the app. To get the actual video file onto your device, use a link-based downloader — here's the full process.
Bookmarking vs. actually downloading
Tapping the bookmark icon on a Reel saves it to a collection inside Instagram — you can't edit it, keep it if it's deleted, or watch it offline. Downloading the MP4 file gives you a permanent copy in your camera roll or downloads folder.
For public Reels, no login is needed: the downloader fetches the file Instagram serves to any viewer.
Getting the audio only
If you just want the trending sound or voiceover from a Reel, the same tool can extract the audio track and convert it to MP3 — no need to download the video and strip the audio yourself.
Step by step
- 1
Copy the Reel link
Tap the share (paper plane) icon on the Reel, then "Copy link". On desktop, copy the address bar URL.
- 2
Paste into the downloader
Open the Reels downloader, paste the link, and press Download.
- 3
Choose MP4 or MP3
Pick the video quality for the full Reel, or the MP3 option for just the audio.
- 4
Move it where you want
On iPhone the file lands in Files (move to Photos via the share sheet); on Android and desktop it goes to Downloads.
Ready to try it?
The instagram reels downloader is free, works in your browser, and takes about 30 seconds per video.
Open the Instagram downloaderFAQ
Can I download Reels from private accounts?
No — only Reels that are publicly viewable without logging in.
Will the creator be notified?
No. Unlike Stories screenshots in some apps, downloading a Reel triggers no notification.
Can I save my own Reels in full quality?
Yes, and it's the cleanest way to re-export your own published Reels without Instagram's compression artifacts from screen recording.