With the popularity of Facebook, many users want to save or download videos posted on the platform. While Facebook doesn’t offer an official way to download videos, there are some third party apps that can do this for iPhone users.
Why Download Facebook Videos?
There are a few key reasons why you may want to download videos from Facebook:
- Save important memories or events posted by friends and family
- Archive funny or interesting videos to watch offline later
- Share videos with friends who aren’t on Facebook via messaging or email
- Edit or reuse clips from longer videos in your own projects
- Avoid losing access if the video is later deleted from Facebook
Downloading Facebook videos to your iPhone gives you more control over content you care about. However, it’s important to only use them responsibly and avoid redistributing copyrighted material.
Challenges of Downloading Facebook Videos
There are a couple challenges that come with downloading videos from Facebook:
- Facebook intentionally makes it difficult, as they want users to watch and engage with videos on their platform instead.
- Most web browsers don’t allow saving videos shown on Facebook due to security restrictions.
- Facebook videos may be lower resolution or have watermarks when downloaded instead of being streamed.
- Copyrighted videos from media companies are usually restricted from being downloaded.
To get around these limitations, a dedicated third party app with special permissions is needed. The app needs to interface directly with the Facebook API to extract and save video files.
5 Best Apps to Download Facebook Videos on iPhone
After testing many different apps, here are 5 top choices for easily downloading videos from Facebook to your iPhone:
1. FB Video Downloader
FB Video Downloader is one of the most popular and reliable apps for downloading Facebook videos on iOS. Here are its key features:
- Intuitive interface makes it easy to save any public or private video
- Multiple quality options up to 720p HD
- Preserves audio and supports all formats like MP4, MOV, and more
- No watermarks on downloaded videos
One limitation is you need to copy the Facebook video URL to paste into the app. But overall it’s a great choice that consistently works well.
2. Video Keeper
For those wanting a more automated downloader, Video Keeper is a top choice. It has these notable features:
- Built-in browser lets you surf Facebook videos within the app
- Downloads start immediately when you play a video
- Lets you select 720p or 480p quality
- Can bulk download multiple videos at once
Video Keeper takes more of an all-in-one approach, though the interface is a bit busier as a result. But it makes grabbing videos super quick.
3. Video Downloader for Facebook
As the name suggests, this app focuses solely on downloading from Facebook. Benefits include:
- Simple one-tap download button on video pages
- Creates albums to organize your saved videos
- No watermarks or time limits on downloads
- Lightweight app with smooth performance
With no extra bells and whistles, this downloader app sticks to the basics. But it excels at delivering Facebook videos to your camera roll.
4. MsgSaver
MsgSaver is another nice single-purpose tool for grabbing Facebook clips. Standout features:
- Lets you download videos fromGroups and Pages too
- No app installation needed, works through mobile web
- Chrome extension available to download private videos
- Good customer support via email
MsgSaver has a unique advantage of not needing the app installed. Tradeoffs are lower video quality and no offline features.
5. Downloader for Facebook
One last option to consider is Downloader for Facebook. It brings these helpful tools:
- Video downloader and image saver in one
- Backs up all Facebook data including messages
- No account or login required
- Advanced video editing and compression
Downloader for Facebook is great for power users who want to archive more than just videos. But the broader feature set comes with a more complex interface.
Key Considerations for Downloading Facebook Videos
To recap, here are some important factors to keep in mind:
- Only download your own videos or those you have permission to use
- Be aware of lower video quality and watermarks
- Watch out for ads, plus upgrades in “freemium” apps
- Check app security and privacy policies before installing
- Review app ratings and feedback from other users
Following these tips will help ensure you have a smooth experience. And you can enjoy having Facebook videos securely saved on your iPhone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to download Facebook videos?
Technically, downloading videos from Facebook goes against their Terms of Service. However, in most cases it is not illegal, as long as you are downloading your own videos that you have permission to use. Downloading someone else’s videos without permission may violate copyright law.
Does video quality change when downloading from Facebook?
Yes, Facebook compresses videos to optimize streaming on their platform. When downloading, video resolution is usually reduced and watermarks may be added. Expect quality below 720p HD in most cases.
Can you download Facebook videos on iPhone without an app?
There is no way to directly download videos using only iOS and the Facebook mobile site or app. A third party video downloader app is required to integrate with Facebook’s API and save files to your camera roll.
Are Facebook video downloader apps safe?
Most major downloader apps are safe, as long as you download from reputable developers. Be sure to check app reviews and permissions. Avoid shady apps that ask for lots of data access or have intrusive ads.
Why can’t I save or download this Facebook video?
In some cases, Facebook videos are restricted from being downloaded even with an app. This is mostly for copyright reasons, such as media company content. You may also be blocked from downloading private videos.
Conclusion
Downloading videos from Facebook to your iPhone is easy with the right app. FB Video Downloader, Video Keeper, and Video Downloader for Facebook are top choices worth trying out. Just be mindful of only using downloads for personal use and avoiding restricted videos.
Now you can conveniently save memories, funny clips, or any other videos you come across on Facebook. Never lose access to important videos again even if they are deleted from social media. Downloading also lets you easily share videos with friends off of Facebook.
Give one of these handy video saver apps a try the next time you want to store videos from Facebook on your iPhone. Just search for the app name on the App Store and install to get started grabbing videos in just a few taps.