One of the most popular social media platforms is Instagram, & is full of amazing videos. In any case, there are times when you wish you could save a video from Instagram to watch later, whether it be a funny clip, a travel vlog, or a tutorial. However, the problem is Instagram doesn’t offer a download option by default. How to save an Instagram video as an MP4 file?
This guide will show you simple ways to convert Instagram videos to the MP4 format. You don’t need advanced tech skills, you just need to go by the steps and you’ll be saving videos within a blink of an eye!
Why Convert Instagram Videos to MP4?
Now before we jump into the methods let’s talk about why MP4 is the best format to save Instagram videos.
- MP4 is universally compatible: It is suitable for all devices like phones, tablets and computers.
- Small file size: MP4 videos are small and keep excellent quality.
- Better playback: Mostly, MP4 videos can be used by almost every media player and video editing software.
Since you are aware of how great it is to use MP4, let’s shift so you learn more about how to convert Instagram videos.
Steps to Convert Instagram Videos to MP4 Format
1. Using an Online Video Downloader
An online video downloader is the best way to download Instagram videos in MP4 format. These are aimed at working directly from your web browser without requiring the installation of anything. Here’s how:
Steps to Convert Instagram Videos to MP4 Using an Online Downloader:
Copy the Instagram Video URL
- On Instagram, open the video you would like to download.
- Tap the three dots on the top right of the post.
- Select “Copy Link”.
Visit to a Video Downloader Website
- Then open your web browser and search for ‘‘Instagram video downloader.”
- Choose a credible site from the search results.
Paste the Video URL
- If you navigate to the downloader website, you will find the input box.
- Paste the copied Instagram link.
- Click Download or Convert.
Save the MP4 File
- Video will be processed on the site and a download link will be provided.
- Click on the link to save the video in MP4 format on your device.
Tip: Some online downloaders come with ads, so make sure not to click popups or download buttons that bear no relation to the online downloader!
2. Using a Mobile App
If you are looking for a quick solution to save Instagram videos on a phone, an app is the convenient way of doing it. Free apps are available for both Android and iOS.
Steps to Convert Instagram Videos to MP4 Using an App:
Download a Video Downloader App
- Downloaded Google Play Store or App Store.
- Search for “Instagram Video Downloader.”
- Get a good reviewed and trusted app.
Copy the Instagram Video Link
- Find the video on Instagram.
- Tap the three dots and select Copy Link.
Paste the Link into the App
- Open the video downloader app.
- Paste the copied link.
- Tap Download.
Save the Video in MP4 Format
The video will be converted and saved in MP4 format on your phone.
Tip: Be aware that some apps may need to have permissions to access storage, always read their privacy settings when you use one.
3. Using Browser Extensions
A browser extension is a time saver for those who are on a computer and sometimes download Instagram videos regularly. Adds these small extensions which displays a download button just below IG videos.
Steps to Use a Browser Extension to Convert Instagram Videos:
Install a Video Downloader Extension
- Now, open your browser (Chrome or Firefox is best).
- Hit Chrome Web Store or Firefox Add-ons page.
- Search for “Instagram video downloader.”
- Click Add to Chrome or Add to Firefox as shown in the examples.
Find the Instagram Video
- Open Instagram on your browser.
- Find the video you wish to save.
Download the Video as MP4
- Then, simply click the download button which comes under the video.
- Once finished, the video will be saved on your computer as an MP4 file.
Tip: When installing some extensions the page may need to be reloaded before they work.
4. Using a Screen Recorder
If none of the previously mentioned methods achieve this, a screen recording tool is a suitable solution. Fortunately, for most phones and computers built in screen recorders can be used to record Instagram videos.
Steps to Use a Screen Recorder
On a Smartphone:
- Launch Instagram and locate the video.
- Swipe down to get to the control center.
- Tap the Screen Record button.
- Record the Instagram video while playing.
- Stop recording the file and save it.
On a Computer:
- Open Instagram on your web browser.
- To record your screen, you can use a free screen recording tool such as OBS Studio or QuickTime.
- Record and play the video.
- Save the recording and stop the recording as an MP4 file.
Tip: You may have to trim the end of the video so that there is no extra footage before and after the video clip.
Things to Keep in Mind
Here are the important points to keep in mind before downloading Instagram videos.
- Respect Copyright: It’s also important not to download and share videos without an explicit permission from the creator.
- Be Aware of Instagram’s Terms: Since Instagram doesn’t allow direct download, use these methods responsibly.
- Avoid Scam Websites: Oftentimes, however, you can make all the difference by just avoiding untrusted sites and thus prevent the malware and privacy risks attached to them.
Final Thoughts
Using the right tools makes converting Instagram videos to MP4 format an easy task. Whatever your download preference is between mobile apps, browser extensions, online downloader or screen recording, there is a solution for you. Simply following the steps above will enable you to have your favorite Instagram videos saved and ready to watch in no time!
Since you know how to convert Instagram videos to MP4 now, which of the methods will you try first? Let me know in the comments!
FAQs
How to convert video from Instagram to MP4?
To save Instagram videos in MP4 format, you can use the services such as online video downloader, mobile app, or browser extension. All you need is the video link, past it on the tool and the MP4 video will be downloaded.
Can you convert Instagram reels to MP4?
Yes! The same methods on Instagram videos also work for reels. To download the Instagram reels as MP4 files, you can use online tools, apps or extensions.
How do I convert my video to MP4?
If you have a video in a different format, free online video converters such as CloudConvert or VLC Media Player can be used to convert to MP4.
How to save an Instagram story as MP4?
You can use online story downloaders, apps and screen recording methods to take a capture of the story to your device and save an Instagram story as an MP4 file.
