Facebook Reels have quickly become one of the most popular content formats on the platform. Short, engaging, and often highly creative, Reels are used for entertainment, education, marketing, and storytelling. As Reels continue to dominate Facebook feeds, many users want to save them for offline viewing, content inspiration, or personal collections. That’s why searches like facebook reels download, download facebook reels video, and how to download facebook reels have become increasingly common.
However, downloading Facebook Reels is not always straightforward. Facebook does not provide a universal native download option, which means users often rely on third-party tools. In this guide, we’ll walk through all the best ways to download Facebook Reels on PC, Android, and iPhone, including online tools, desktop software, mobile apps, and screen recording solutions—along with their pros and cons.
1. Can You Download Facebook Reels Directly?
Before exploring third-party methods, it’s important to understand what Facebook officially allows when it comes to saving Reels.
1.1 Does Facebook Allow Native Downloads of Reels?
Facebook does offer a built-in Save feature, but it’s often misunderstood.
How Facebook’s Save Feature Works
- When you tap Save on a Reel, it’s added to your saved items within your Facebook account.
- You can access it later from the “Saved” section.
- The Reel remains hosted on Facebook’s servers.
Limitations of Native Saving
- Saved Reels cannot be accessed offline
- The video is not stored as a file on your device
- If the creator deletes the Reel, it disappears from your saved list
- You cannot share the saved video outside Facebook as a file
In short, Facebook’s Save feature is more like bookmarking than a true facebook reels download option.
1.2 Why Facebook Reels Cannot Be Downloaded Natively
Facebook restricts native downloads of Reels for several reasons:
- Copyright protection: Reels often include licensed music and original creator content.
- Platform control: Keeping videos on Facebook helps maintain engagement and ad revenue.
- Privacy and ownership concerns: Downloading content directly could lead to misuse or unauthorized redistribution.
Because of these restrictions, users who want to download facebook reels as actual video files usually turn to external tools.
2. Best Ways to Download Facebook Reels (Updated Guide)
Below are the most effective methods available today. Each option includes recommended tools, step-by-step instructions, and key advantages and limitations.
2.1 Download Facebook Reels Using Online Downloader Websites
Online downloaders are popular because they don’t require installation and work on almost any device.
Recommended Tools
- SaveFrom
- FBDown
- SnapSave
These services function as a facebook reels download online solution.
How to Download Facebook Reels Using Online Tools
- Open Facebook and copy the Reel’s link.
- Visit an online downloader website.
- Paste the link into the input field.
- Choose video quality (if available).
- Click Download and save the file.
Pros
- No software installation
- Works on PC, Android, and iPhone
- Quick and beginner-friendly
Cons
- Limited video quality options
- Ads and pop-ups may appear
- Some sites fail with private or high-resolution Reels
- Not ideal for bulk downloads
Online tools are best for casual users who only need to download facebook reels video occasionally.
2.2 Download Facebook Reels with Desktop Software
For users who want higher quality, stability, and batch downloading, desktop software is the most reliable option.
Recommended Tools
- CleverGet Video Downloader
- 4K Video Downloader
Why Use Desktop Software?
Desktop programs offer advanced features that online tools cannot match, especially for professional or frequent users.
How to Download Facebook Reels Using CleverGet Video Downloader
- Install CleverGet Video Downloader on your PC or Mac.
- Open the built-in browser inside the software.
- Log in to Facebook if needed.
- Play the Reel you want to download.
- Let CleverGet analyze the video.
- Select resolution and format.
- Start the download.
Advantages
- Supports HD and high-bitrate videos
- Faster and more stable downloads
- Can download private Reels you have access to
- Better audio-video sync
- Ideal for content creators and marketers
Disadvantages
- Requires installation
- Desktop-only solution
If you’re serious about facebook reels download in high quality, desktop software is one of the best choices.
2.3 Download Facebook Reels Using Mobile Apps
Mobile apps are perfect for users who prefer downloading directly on their phones.
2.3.1 Best Facebook Reel Download Apps for Android
Android users benefit from more flexible file access and downloader apps.
Recommended Apps
- Video Downloader for Facebook
- FastVid
How to Download Facebook Reels on Android
- Copy the Reel’s link from Facebook.
- Open the downloader app.
- Paste the link.
- Tap Download.
- Save the video to your gallery.
Pros
- Direct file access
- Easy sharing and storage
- Supports background downloads
Cons
- Ads in free versions
- Quality may vary
- Some apps may be removed from app stores over time
Android apps are an efficient way to download facebook reels without needing a computer.
2.3.2 Best Facebook Reel Download Apps for iPhone (iOS)
iOS has stricter system limitations, but downloads are still possible.
Recommended Apps
- Reposter for Facebook
- MyMedia
How to Download Facebook Reels on iPhone Using MyMedia
- Copy the Reel link from Facebook.
- Open MyMedia.
- Use its built-in browser.
- Visit an online Facebook Reels downloader.
- Paste the link and download the video.
- Save it to Files or Photos.
Pros
- Works within iOS restrictions
- No jailbreak required
- Safe for personal use
Cons
- Extra steps compared to Android
- File management is less flexible
- Limited format options
Although iOS is more restrictive, these apps still make how to download facebook reels possible on iPhone.
2.4 Record Facebook Reels Using Screen Recording Tools
When downloads fail or the Reel is restricted, screen recording is a reliable fallback.
Built-In Screen Recording
- iOS: Control Center → Screen Recording
- Android: Quick Settings → Screen Recorder (varies by brand)
Steps:
- Start screen recording.
- Play the Facebook Reel.
- Stop recording when finished.
- Edit the video if needed.
Third-Party Screen Recording Software
For higher quality and more control, desktop screen recorders are ideal.
Recommended Tool
Why Use CleverGet Recorder?
- Records in high resolution
- Captures system audio
- No watermarks
- Ideal for protected or un-downloadable Reels
Pros
- Works even when download links fail
- Bypasses platform restrictions
- Great for tutorials and archiving
Cons
- Requires real-time playback
- Manual trimming may be needed
Screen recording is especially useful when traditional facebook reels downloader tools don’t work.
Conclusion
Downloading Facebook Reels may not be officially supported by Facebook, but there are plenty of effective and practical solutions available. Whether you prefer online tools, mobile apps, desktop software, or screen recording, there’s a method that fits every device and user need.
Quick Recap
- Online downloaders: Fast and convenient for occasional use
- Desktop software: Best quality and reliability (especially CleverGet Video Downloader)
- Mobile apps: Ideal for on-the-go downloads on Android and iPhone
- Screen recording: The most flexible option for restricted Reels, especially with CleverGet Recorder
Final Recommendation
For the best balance of quality, speed, and stability, desktop tools like CleverGet are highly recommended. Mobile users can rely on trusted apps, while screen recording remains a dependable backup option.
By choosing the right method, you can safely and effectively manage your facebook reels download needs—no matter which device you use.