Instagram Reels have become one of the most popular formats on social media—offering quick, engaging videos ranging from tutorials and travel inspiration to comedy clips and product reviews. Whether you want to save a Reel for offline viewing, reuse it for inspiration, or repost your own content elsewhere, knowing how to download Instagram Reels is incredibly useful.
In this guide, we break down every method, including official in-app tools, iPhone and Android workflows, desktop methods, and how to use tools like CleverGet Video Downloader and CleverGet Recorder to capture any Reel you want.
Can You Download Instagram Reels?
A common question users ask is: can you download a reel from Instagram?
The answer is yes—but with limitations.
Instagram allows you to download your own Instagram Reel directly within the app. You can also download other users’ Reels if the creator has allowed downloading. If the download button isn’t available, you’ll need to use a screen recorder or a third-party downloader.
Here are the main restrictions:
- Some Reels can’t be saved due to privacy or creator settings
- Downloaded Reels may include a watermark
- Business accounts may not always see the same download options
- Not all countries have the Reels download feature enabled
Because of these restrictions, many users search for alternative solutions to download Instagram Reel content or figure out how to download a reel from Instagram when the built-in option isn’t available.
The Official Way: Using Instagram’s Built-In Download Feature
Instagram recently introduced a native download option for Reels, but again, this only applies if:
- The Reel belongs to you, or
- The creator has downloads turned on
How to Download a Reel from Instagram (Official Method)
- Open the Reel you want to save.
- Tap the three dots (⋯) on the right-hand side.
- If downloads are allowed, tap Download.
- The video will save directly to your phone’s gallery or camera roll.
If you don’t see the Download button, creator permissions or regional limitations are blocking it.
How to Download Instagram Reels on iPhone (iOS)
iPhone users have several options depending on whether the download button is available.
Method 1: Use the Official Download Button
If available, follow the steps above to save the Reel directly.
Method 2: Save to Camera Roll via Stories (Workaround)
This works for your own Reels:
- Open your Reel and tap Share.
- Choose Add to Story.
- Pinch the video outward to fill the screen.
- Tap the Download arrow at the top.
This saves it without posting to Stories.
Method 3: Use a Third-Party Downloader (Most Reliable)
For Reels without a download option:
- Copy the link to the Reel (tap Share → Copy Link).
- Paste it into a trusted downloader such as CleverGet Video Downloader.
- Choose your preferred quality and download.
More on that later.
How to Download Instagram Reels on Android
The process is similar to iPhone, but Android gives you more flexibility due to system permissions.
Method 1: Official Download
Tap ⋯ → Download if allowed.
Method 2: Built-In Screen Recorder
Most Android phones now include screen recording:
- Swipe down to open Quick Settings.
- Tap Screen Recorder.
- Play the Reel in full-screen.
- Stop recording and trim the video in your gallery.
Method 3: Use a Third-Party Downloader
Same process as iOS:
- Copy the link
- Paste it into a downloader
- Save the file to your device
How to Download Instagram Reels on Desktop (PC/Mac)
Instagram’s desktop site does not yet allow direct Reel downloads. That’s why tools are essential.
Method 1: Using Third-Party Tools (Recommended)
To download Instagram Reel content on a computer:
- Copy the Reel’s URL
- Paste it into CleverGet Video Downloader
- Select your desired quality
- Download directly to PC or Mac
Working on desktop makes it easier to manage large batches, organize files, and edit videos.
Method 2: Screen Recording
If the Reel cannot be downloaded due to restrictions, you can use recording software like CleverGet Recorder to capture it in HD.
1. Using Third-Party Tools
When Instagram’s built-in download options fail or you want higher-quality files, a reliable third-party downloader is the best solution.
Why Use a Downloader?
- Works even when creators disable downloads
- No watermarks
- Better quality (up to original resolution)
- Saves directly to PC, Mac, iPhone, or Android
- Supports batch downloads
- Great for content creators and marketers
Best Option: CleverGet Video Downloader
CleverGet is one of the most powerful tools for saving Reels and other videos from social platforms.
Key features:
- Supports Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, and more
- High-resolution downloads (including 1080p and above)
- Fast parsing and bulk downloading
- Easy interface for beginners
- Great for long-term archiving or content repurposing
How to Use CleverGet Video Downloader
- Install CleverGet Video Downloader
- Open the app and paste the Reel link
- Let CleverGet detect available playback sources
- Choose your quality and download format
- Save the file to your preferred folder
This method works for any Reel—even those without an official download option.
2. Screen Recording
If you’re wondering how to download a reel from Instagram when literally no download tool works—screen recording becomes your universal solution.
Using Built-In Screen Recorders
iOS and Android both include free native screen recorders. These work fine for single Reels but may lack editing tools.
Best Option: CleverGet Recorder
CleverGet Recorder offers:
- High-quality screen capture
- Scheduled recordings
- HD audio capture
- Automatic saving and file organization
- Perfect for recording Reels that block direct downloads
This is ideal for creators who want to build a personal archive of saved content or remix clips with permission.
FAQs
1. Can you download Instagram Reels directly from the app?
Yes—if the creator allows downloads or if it’s your own Reel.
2. How to download your own Instagram Reel?
Open your Reel → tap ⋯ → tap Download. You can also save through Stories or screen recording.
3. How to download a reel from Instagram without watermark?
Use CleverGet Video Downloader or a screen recorder.
4. Are third-party Reel downloaders safe?
Use reputable tools only. CleverGet is trusted and secure.
5. Can you download Reels on desktop?
Yes, but you must use third-party tools or screen recording since Instagram doesn’t offer a desktop download button.
Conclusion
Downloading Instagram Reels is easier than ever—whether you use Instagram’s built-in features or rely on third-party tools for unrestricted downloading. Now that you understand every method across iPhone, Android, and desktop, you can save any Reel you need for offline viewing, content inspiration, editing, or sharing.
For the most reliable and high-quality experience, CleverGet Video Downloader is the top choice for direct downloads, while CleverGet Recorder is perfect when downloads aren’t available.
