Yes, it is possible to save a Facebook video as an MP4 file. There are a few different methods you can use to download and convert Facebook videos into the MP4 format on both desktop and mobile.
Why Save Facebook Videos as MP4 Files?
Here are some of the main reasons you may want to save a Facebook video as an MP4 file:
– MP4 is a common video format that can be played on most media players and devices. Saving as MP4 means you can easily watch the video offline.
– The MP4 format provides better quality and smaller file sizes compared to other formats like AVI or WMV. This makes it easier to share and store videos.
– When you save the video as MP4, you have full ownership and control over the file. You don’t need to rely on the Facebook platform to replay or share it.
– MP4 files are also easier to edit using video editing software. You can trim, crop, add effects, and make other modifications.
– Downloading videos from Facebook allows you to archive memorable videos that may get deleted or lost over time if they are only stored on Facebook.
Methods to Save Facebook Videos as MP4
There are several ways you can download and convert Facebook videos into the MP4 format. Here are some of the main methods:
Use a Facebook Video Downloader
One of the easiest options is to use a dedicated Facebook video downloader website or tool. These allow you to simply enter the URL of the Facebook video and it will handle the rest. Some popular options include:
– SaveFrom.net – This free website lets you download videos from Facebook and many other sites. Just paste the video URL, select MP4 format, and click download.
– 4K Video Downloader – This premium software has a specialized tool just for downloading Facebook videos as MP4s. It also lets you download entire albums or playlists.
– FBDown – This free program is designed specifically for downloading videos from Facebook. It converts to MP4 and other formats.
The benefit of using these tools is they fully automate the download process for you in just a few clicks. However, some may have file size or quality limitations.
Use Browser Extensions
There are various browser extensions or add-ons that allow downloading Facebook videos. Here are some top options:
– Video DownloadHelper – This is a popular extension available for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari. When on a Facebook video, you click the extension icon to save as MP4.
– FB Video Downloader – A Chrome extension dedicated to downloading Facebook videos in HD quality. It’s easy to use with just two clicks to save any video.
– Download Facebook Videos as MP4 – This Firefox add-on adds a “Download as MP4” button on Facebook videos for one-click saving.
The advantage of browser extensions is they integrate right into your normal browser, making it seamless to download videos. However, the video quality may be limited compared to other methods.
Use Online Converters
Another option is to use an online file converter tool to transform Facebook videos into MP4 files. Some top converters include:
– Online UniConverter (originally Media.io) – This versatile online converter supports downloading Facebook videos and converting them to MP4. Just paste the video URL.
– Convertio – A free file conversion site that allows you to enter a Facebook video URL and convert to MP4 format.
– Zamzar – Another popular online converter that supports many file types including Facebook video to MP4 conversion.
The benefit of these converters is you don’t need to download any software. The limitation is having to upload the video before you can download the MP4 file.
Use Desktop Software
For enhanced functionality and control, you can use desktop software to download and convert Facebook videos:
– 4K Video Downloader – The desktop version of this popular downloader has advanced options for downloading entire playlists and channels.
– Freemake Video Converter – This program allows importing Facebook videos by URL and converting them to MP4 with custom sizing and quality options.
– Any Video Converter – A straightforward converter that enables downloading Facebook videos and saving as MP4 or other formats.
– FFmpeg – This open source command-line tool can also be used to batch download and convert Facebook videos with scripts and presets.
The advantage of desktop software is you get robust options in a standalone app. The only downside is having to download and install it on each computer you want to use it on.
Use the Facebook Mobile App
On mobile devices, you can save Facebook videos as MP4 using the Facebook mobile app for Android and iOS. Here’s how:
– Tap on the video you want to save to open it.
– Tap on the three dots menu in the top right corner.
– Select “Save Video” from the menu.
– The video will now be saved to your device’s internal storage in MP4 format.
Saving videos directly from the Facebook app is very convenient on mobile. But the quality may be compressed and lower resolution than downloading through other methods.
Tips for Downloading Facebook Videos
To ensure you get the best results when downloading Facebook videos as MP4 files, follow these tips:
– When using an online downloader or converter, copy and paste the video URL instead of typing it. This avoids errors.
– Check the video resolution options in the downloader settings. Choose 720p or 1080p for the best quality MP4.
– The MP4 file will only contain the video, not any audio or captions. Download separate audio files if needed.
– For long videos, like live streams, download in chunks or segments to avoid timeouts or crashes.
– If downloading many videos, use a bulk downloader tool to automate the process and save time.
– When using mobile apps, save videos to external SD card storage if available to conserve device storage.
– Make sure to follow Facebook’s terms of service and properly credit video owners when reusing content.
Troubleshooting Facebook Video Downloads
Here are some common issues and fixes when trying to save Facebook videos as MP4 files:
**Problem:** Video doesn’t download or converter shows an error.
**Solution:** Double check the video URL is complete and correct. Retry downloading. URLs with tracking parameters can cause issues.
**Problem:** Video saves but won’t play properly.
**Solution:** The video file may be corrupted. Try downloading again and check encoder settings if adjustable.
**Problem:** MP4 outfile size is way too large or quality is low.
**Solution:** The source video resolution is likely low. Try a higher quality version of the video if available.
**Problem:** Video download is too slow or keeps pausing.
**Solution:** Check internet connection consistency. For long videos, break into shorter segments. Use a download manager.
**Problem:** Can’t find MP4 video file after downloading on mobile.
**Solution:** On Android, check the Videos app or use a file manager to find downloads folder. On iOS, check Photos app under Videos tab or Files app in On My iPhone storage.
**Problem:** Facebook says video is no longer available when trying to download.
**Solution:** The video was likely removed or made private. Unfortunately you cannot download videos no longer available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about downloading Facebook videos as MP4 files:
Is it legal to download Facebook videos?
In most cases, it is legal to download Facebook videos for personal use under fair use copyright principles. However, you should not re-upload or publicly distribute videos without permission. Always check the video owner’s reuse policies.
Do I need the video URL to download from Facebook?
Yes, the video URL is required to locate and download the file from Facebook’s servers. The URL is usually the web address that plays the video.
What resolution are Facebook MP4 video downloads?
The default resolution varies depending on the uploader’s source video quality. But many download tools allow selecting 720p or 1080p HD quality if available. Lower resolution 360p and 480p options may also be provided.
Can I download Facebook videos in MP3 audio format?
While Facebook videos don’t have standalone audio tracks, you can use video converter tools to extract and convert the video’s audio into an MP3 file after downloading. The MP3 will contain just the audio content.
Do I need a Facebook account to download videos?
In most cases you can download public Facebook videos without needing an account or being logged in. However, for private videos limited to certain friends/groups, you may need to be logged into access them.
What are the best Facebook video downloaders?
Some top-rated options include 4K Video Downloader, SaveFrom.net, FBDown, Video DownloadHelper browser extensions, and online converters like Online UniConverter. Choose one that fits your needs and offers the features you want.
Conclusion
Saving Facebook videos as MP4 files can be very useful for backing up memorable content, making it portable, and enabling offline access. There are now many straightforward tools and methods to download videos from Facebook and convert to MP4 format with just a video URL. Follow the tips above to get the best quality results and avoid common download issues. Just remember to respect content owners and only reuse videos according to their specified policies when sharing or distributing.