Instagram Reels have become one of the most popular ways to share short, engaging videos. However, Instagram does not provide a built-in option to download Reels directly to your device. While many third-party apps claim to help, not everyone wants to install additional applications due to privacy concerns and storage limitations.
If you’re looking for ways to download Instagram Reels without using any app, this guide will provide you with several methods that work seamlessly on mobile and desktop.
Why Download Instagram Reels?
Before diving into the methods, let’s quickly go over some common reasons why users want to download Instagram Reels:
- Save for Offline Viewing: Watch your favorite Reels anytime without an internet connection.
- Share with Others: Share interesting content with friends or on different social media platforms.
- Repurpose Content: Save and reuse videos for educational or creative purposes (with proper credit).
- Store for Inspiration: Keep a collection of engaging videos for future reference.
However, it’s important to respect copyright and privacy policies when downloading and sharing content.
Method 1: Using Online Websites (Works on Mobile & PC)
One of the easiest ways to download Instagram Reels without any app is by using Instagram reels downloader websites. These sites allow you to paste the Reel link and download the video in a few steps.
Steps to Download Reels Using a Website
- Open Instagram: Launch Instagram on your phone or web browser.
- Copy the Reel’s Link:
- Tap the three dots (⋮) at the bottom right of the Reel.
- Select Copy Link from the options.
- Visit an Instagram Reel Downloader Website:
- Open your web browser and visit a free Reel downloader such as:
- SnapInsta
- SaveInsta.app
- IGDownloader.app
- Open your web browser and visit a free Reel downloader such as:
- Paste the Link: Enter the copied link into the search bar.
- Click Download: The site will process the link and generate a downloadable video file.
- Save the Video: Tap the download button to save the Reel to your phone or computer.
Pros & Cons
✅ No need to install an app
✅ Works on any device (Android, iPhone, PC)
❌ Some websites have ads or require verification
Method 2: Download Instagram Reels Using Inspect Element (PC Only)
If you’re using Instagram on a desktop, you can download Reels without any external tools by using the Inspect Element feature in your web browser.
Steps to Download Reels via Inspect Element
- Open Instagram Web: Go to Instagram on a Chrome or Firefox browser.
- Find the Reel: Locate the Reel you want to download.
- Inspect the Video:
- Right-click on the Reel and select Inspect.
- Press
Ctrl + Shift + I
(Windows) orCmd + Option + I
(Mac) to open Developer Tools.
- Find the Video URL:
- Look for the tag in the Elements tab.
- Copy the video source URL (ends in .mp4).
- Download the Video:
- Open the copied URL in a new tab.
- Right-click the video and select Save Video As to download it.
Pros & Cons
✅ No third-party tools required
✅ High-quality video download
❌ Only works on a PC
❌ Might be difficult for beginners
Method 3: Using Telegram Bots (Works on Mobile & PC)
If you use Telegram, you can leverage Telegram bots to download Instagram Reels without installing any extra apps.
Steps to Download Reels via Telegram Bots
- Open Instagram and copy the Reel link.
- Open Telegram and search for a bot like Instagram Save Bot or InstaSave Bot.
- Start the bot and paste the copied link in the chat.
- The bot processes the link and sends back the downloadable video.
- Save the video to your phone or gallery.
Pros & Cons
✅ No need for external apps
✅ Quick and simple process
❌ Requires a Telegram account
❌ Some bots may stop working occasionally
Method 4: Screen Recording (Last Resort)
If the above methods don’t work, you can always record the screen while playing the Reel and then save it as a video.
How to Record Instagram Reels
- On iPhone:
- Open Control Center and tap Screen Recording.
- Play the Reel and stop recording when it finishes.
- The video will be saved to the Photos app.
- On Android:
- Swipe down from the top and tap Screen Recorder.
- Start recording and play the Reel.
- Save the recorded video.
- On PC/Mac:
- Use built-in tools like Xbox Game Bar (Windows + G) or QuickTime Player (Mac).
Pros & Cons
✅ Works on any device
✅ No need for external websites
❌ Lower quality compared to direct downloads
❌ Captures UI elements (like likes and comments)
Conclusion:
Downloading Instagram Reels without any app is easier than you might think. Depending on your device and preference, you can choose from multiple methods:
- Online Websites (Simple & fast for all devices)
- Inspect Element (Best for PC users)
- Telegram Bots (Quick alternative for Telegram users)
- Screen Recording (A universal last resort)
Make sure to respect copyright laws and creator rights when downloading and sharing content. If you plan to repost or use a video for any purpose, always give proper credit to the original creator.
Now that you know how to download Instagram Reels hassle-free, go ahead and save your favorite videos for offline viewing or inspiration!
Myself Ritika Singh Author and Founder of this blog Snapseed.online, being a professional photographer; has enormous experience about professional photography, this special blog is specially designed for those who are truly passionate as well as persistent about photography.
I stepped into professional photography in the year 2005 and since then I have been learning several technicalities involved in photography.