Facebook can be a treasure trove of interesting videos — be it a funny clip, an inspiring tale, or a how-to you plan to take action on later. The problem, though, is that Facebook doesn’t let you download your data directly. So, how can you safely and easily download Facebook videos? This guide includes various ways for desktop, iPhone, and Android.
Why Download Facebook Videos?
Here’s why downloading Facebook videos can be useful before we dive into the steps.
- Watch Offline: View your favorite videos without an internet connection.
- Share Across Platforms: That video that I would like to send to a friend over WhatsApp or Instagram? Downloading makes it easy.
- Save Important Videos: There might be special videos you want to save before they disappear or get removed.
- Educational & Creative Use: Do you need a clip for a presentation or research? Downloading is useful for accessibility (while respecting copyrights).
Now that we understand the benefits, let’s explore how to download Facebook videos on different devices.
How To Download Facebook Videos On Desktop
When it comes to downloading Facebook videos on a desktop, things aren’t as complicated, and third-party tools are not always needed. There are two methods that work well:
Method 1: Download Without Third-Party Tools
Step 1: Find the Facebook video you wish to download.
Step 2: Click the three dots (⋯) in the top-right of the post.
Step 3: Select “Copy Link.”
Step 4: Open a new tab in your browser and paste the link in the address bar. Then press Enter to open it.
Step 5: Change “www” to “mbasic” in the URL. If the link looks like fb.watch/…, just press Enter at the end of the link to update it with “www.”
Step 6: The page will reload in a mobile-friendly format. Click on the video to play it.
Step 7: Play the video, and then right-click on it and select “Save Video As.”
Step 8: Choose a location, give your file a name, and click Save.
💡 Pro Tip: This method works best for public videos and avoids any security risks from third-party tools. In my tests, this worked seamlessly for public clips, though I once struggled with a video that required refreshing the mbasic page twice before the “Save Video As” option appeared.
Method 2: Using Online Downloaders
If you want a fast way, there are many online tools:
- SnapSave (HD quality support)
- FBDownloader (Simple and fast)
- Getfvid (Works with both public and private videos)
Steps:
- Copy the Facebook video link (same as above).
- Open a trusted video downloader site.
- Paste the link into the input box.
- Click Download and select the preferred quality.
🚨 Caution: Some online downloaders contain intrusive ads. Always use a reputable site.
How To Download Facebook Videos On iPhone or Android Device
Downloading Facebook videos on mobile requires a different approach. Here are two effective methods:
Method 1: Using Friendly Social Browser (Best for Mobile Users)
Step 1: Get a Friendly Social Browser on iPhone from the App Store or on Android from the Play Store.
Step 2: Launch the app and log into your Facebook account.
Step 3: Firstly, search for the video that needs to be downloaded.
Step 4: Press the download button (this will typically be a cloud or arrow icon).
Step 5: Select the destination to save the video:
- On iPhone: Select “Save to Photos” or “Save to Files.”
- On Android: The video will be stored in your gallery.
Method 2: Using Online Video Downloaders
For those who don’t want to install an extra app, a mobile-friendly downloader is another option.
Steps:
- Copy the video link from Facebook.
- Open your mobile browser and visit an online downloader like SnapSave or FBDownloader.
- Paste the link and click Download.
- Choose your video quality and confirm the download.
📱 Pro Tip: If your iPhone blocks downloads, use the Documents by Readdle app to save videos.
Tips for Downloading Facebook Videos Safely
To ensure a smooth downloading process, keep these tips in mind:
1. Be mindful of copyright: Download the video for your personal use or with the video creator’s permission.
2. Video quality: When downloading the videos, select the best quality available for the optimal viewing experience.
3. Use a Secure Connection: Be careful about sketchy sites that contain malware.
4. Make sure to use a Wi-Fi network whenever possible: Use Wi-Fi to download video and avoid using mobile data.
5. Be cautious with third-party apps: Only use reputable apps and read reviews before installing.
FAQs On How To Download Videos On Facebook
Can I download private Facebook videos?
No, private videos require permission from the owner to download or share.
Is it illegal to download Facebook videos?
Downloading for personal use is usually fine, but distributing copyrighted content is illegal.
Can I download Facebook live videos?
Yes, but only after the live stream ends. You can use the same methods mentioned above, but live videos may take some time to process before becoming available for download.
Why is my downloaded Facebook video low quality?
Some videos on Facebook are uploaded in low resolution, which means they cannot be downloaded in HD. To get better quality:
- Choose HD quality if the online downloader provides an option.
- If using the browser method, ensure you open the video in full resolution before downloading.
Where do downloaded Facebook videos go on my phone?
- Android: Usually in the Downloads folder or Gallery/Videos section.
- iPhone: If downloaded using a browser, it may appear in Files → Downloads. If using an app, check the app’s storage settings.
Can I download Facebook Reels?
Yes! The methods in this guide work for Facebook Reels as well. However, some Reels may be restricted from downloading, depending on privacy settings.
What is the safest way to download Facebook videos?
Using browser-based tools or trusted apps is the safest way. Avoid shady websites to protect your device from malware.
Conclusion
Downloading Facebook videos is a convenient way to save, share, and watch content offline. And whether with browser yields or the use of third party tools, always ensure to focus protection and honor copyright rules. Give these methods a try for easy video downloads!
Which method worked best for you? Let us know in the comments!
The first method, using ‘mbasic’ doesn’t seem to work anymore.
Anybody else noticed that?? I had been using that method for months