All social media platforms allow users to share video content, and Instagram is no exception. However, Instagram videos stand out because they prioritize visual aesthetics and storytelling. Moreover, they’re professional, polished, and informative, as each brand tries to outdo its competitors.
As a result, you’ll come across quality videos that resonate with you when surfing the platform. The only challenge is when you want to add a video to your local storage library. Unfortunately, there’s no direct way of doing so. Granted, you can add the video to Instagram’s collection, but if the owner deletes it, you’ll lose access to it as well.
The best solution is to use an Instagram video downloader. Here, we’ll discuss how this tool works and more.
How to Use an Instagram Video Downloader
An Instagram video downloader lets you save any IG video outside the platform. The modern tools are usually web-based and don’t require installation. Plus, you can use them on any device, whether a smartphone, tablet, or PC. To complete the download, you’ll need a browser and a stable internet connection. Once you’re ready, do the following:
- Go to your Instagram account and open the video you want to download.
- Tap the “Share button” at the bottom of the video.
- From the pop-up menu that appears, select “Copy link.” If you’re using a PC, you can also get the link by tapping the “ellipses menu” at the bottom right of the video.
- Open your browser and search for an Instagram video downloader of your choice.
- Paste the link on the downloader’s link text box.
- Tap the download button and follow the on-screen prompts, such as previewing the video, choosing video quality, and more, until you initiate the download.
- Monitor the download and find the video on your local storage.
Understanding the Legality of Downloading IG Videos
Like other social media platforms, Instagram doesn’t have a built-in download feature for a purpose – to avoid infringing on privacy and copyright issues. When using a third-party video downloading tool, you might be at risk of violating Instagram’s rules.
Technically, the legality of downloading IG videos depends mostly on whether you have permission from the owner and the purpose of the video download.
Downloading Copyrighted IG Videos
By default, all Instagram videos have copyright protection. This means only the original creator can alter, redistribute, and reproduce the video. As such, if you download any video without permission from the creator and want to share it further or include it in one of your projects, you’ll be infringing on their copyrights. Before downloading any video, it’s advisable to get in touch with the owner to avoid getting into trouble.
Downloading IG Videos for Personal Use
Downloading IG videos for offline use or to add them to your collection isn’t illegal. Essentially, no one will know you downloaded the video because Instagram doesn’t share your activities on the platform with other users. Be that as it may, it’s courteous to ask for permission from the video’s owner. Moreover, if you want to share the video, you should give credit to the owner.
Downloading IG Videos for Commercial Purposes
Using another person’s video for commercial purposes is a complex issue. Without permission from the owner, it could land you a heavy fine since you’re essentially redistributing the video as your own. As such, you should always ensure you have the go-ahead from the owner.
Downloading your Own IG Videos for Cross-Posting
If you’re a content creator who edits videos using Instagram’s built-in reels editor and want to upload the same video to other platforms, these video downloaders will make that super easy. To get more engagement on your content, consider boosting your follower count to reach more people.
Considerations to Make When Choosing an Instagram Video Downloader
Although all web-based video downloading tools use the same principle to save Instagram videos, it’s important to note that they come from different developers. For instance, they might have unique features that affect your downloading experience.
A User-Interface Free of Ads
Well-established brands usually offer a clean platform that guarantees ease of download. Typically, such sites have other services from which they generate income, such that they don’t have to rely on advertising on the downloading site. They mostly offer downloading services as a bonus.
Conversely, unreputable brands will clutter their sites with all sorts of ads and popups. Besides being annoying, clicking such ads can potentially give viruses access to your device. So, it’s important to conduct thorough research to find a reliable tool.
Security Features
Encryption is of utmost importance on any site you’re using. Without encryption, malicious actors can intercept data transmission and access your browsing history, login credentials, and payment details. But how do you know whether a site is secure? The URL can tell you all. A secure site will have a URL starting with “HTTPS” and a padlock in front. Conversely, an insecure site will have “HTTP” and won’t have a padlock.
Fast Downloads
Nothing is more frustrating than waiting for a short Instagram clip to download for minutes. In most cases, the site can’t process multiple videos from different users. To avoid wasting time, always go for a fast downloading tool.
A Variety of Video Quality Options
Video quality matters. It determines whether your download is clear or not. Be that as it may, having a variety of video quality options is paramount as you can settle for a quality that won’t strain your storage space.
Although high-quality videos give the best picture clarity, they require a lot of storage space and might take longer to download. On the other hand, the lowest video quality might not have the best picture clarity but won’t take up much space. With this in mind, you can always decide which video quality will meet your needs and preferences.
FAQs
How does a web-based Instagram video downloader differ from a mobile app downloader?
A web-based Instagram video downloader differs from a mobile app downloader in its mode of operation. A web-based tool doesn’t require any app installation, while a mobile app requires installation. In addition, a mobile app only operates on a smartphone, while a web-based tool operates on any device, including smartphones and PCs.
Do I have to pay to use a web-based Instagram video downloader?
You don’t have to pay to use an Instagram video downloader. You can find free tools online that are secure and user-friendly.
Watching Instagram Videos Offline
Every time you visit Instagram, you’ll find videos that interest you. Rather than saving them on the platform where you’ll need the internet to access them, you can use an IG video downloading tool. To be on the safe side, always ask for permission before downloading the video and recognize the creator when you reshare.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
