Last updated: January 2026
Looking for the best Instagram Reels downloader or a way to save Instagram Stories? Whether you want to keep memories, save content for later viewing, or download your own posts, you need a reliable tool that works. In this guide, we'll show you how to download Instagram Reels and Stories for free using BlackHole.
Why Download Instagram Reels and Stories?
Instagram doesn't offer an easy way to save Reels or Stories to your device. The built-in save feature only bookmarks content within the app — it doesn't download the actual video file. Here's why you might want to download Instagram content:
- Stories disappear in 24 hours — Save them before they're gone forever
- Keep memories — Download your own content as a backup
- Offline viewing — Watch favorite Reels without internet
- Create compilations — Make video edits or compilations from saved content
- Cross-platform sharing — Share to TikTok, YouTube Shorts, or other platforms
- Save inspiring content — Keep workout videos, recipes, or tutorials
Best Free Instagram Downloader: BlackHole
BlackHole is the easiest way to download Instagram Reels and Stories. It's completely free, works on any device, and delivers high-quality downloads in seconds.
Why BlackHole is Perfect for Instagram Downloads:
- ✅ 100% free — No hidden costs or premium tiers
- ✅ HD quality — Full resolution downloads
- ✅ No watermarks — Clean, original videos
- ✅ No app required — Works in any browser
- ✅ Private & secure — Free account in seconds, no data stored
- ✅ Fast downloads — Videos ready in seconds
- ✅ All devices — iPhone, Android, PC, Mac
How to Download Instagram Reels
Downloading Instagram Reels is quick and simple with BlackHole:
Step 1: Find the Instagram Reel
Open the Instagram app or website and navigate to the Reel you want to download.
Step 2: Copy the Reel Link
On Mobile (Instagram App):
- Tap the three dots (⋯) on the Reel
- Tap Copy Link or Share → Copy Link
On Desktop (instagram.com):
- Click on the Reel to open it
- Click the three dots (⋯)
- Select Copy Link
- Or copy the URL from your browser's address bar
Step 3: Download with BlackHole
- Open your browser and go to blhole.com
- Paste the Instagram Reel link into the input field
- Click Download
- Select your preferred quality
- Your Reel downloads automatically!
That's it — five simple steps to save any Instagram Reel.
How to Download Instagram Stories
Want to save Instagram Stories before they vanish in 24 hours? Here's how:
Method 1: Download Public Stories
- Open the Story you want to save
- Tap the three dots (⋯) in the top right
- Select Copy Link
- Go to blhole.com
- Paste the link and download
Method 2: Save Your Own Stories
If it's your own Story, you can also:
- Open your Story
- Tap the three dots (⋯)
- Select Save or use the Archive feature
For the best quality, use BlackHole even for your own Stories.
Download Instagram on iPhone (iOS)
Saving Instagram Reels and Stories on iPhone is seamless:
- Copy the Instagram link (Reel or Story)
- Open Safari and visit blhole.com
- Paste the link and tap Download
- Select quality (HD recommended)
- The video saves to your Photos or Files app
Troubleshooting iPhone downloads:
- If the video doesn't appear in Photos, check Files → Downloads
- Make sure you've granted Safari permission to download files
- Try using the "Download and Open in New Tab" option
Download Instagram on Android
Android makes Instagram downloads even easier:
- Copy the link from Instagram
- Open Chrome and go to blhole.com
- Paste the URL and download
- Choose your preferred quality
- Find your video in Downloads or Gallery
Pro tip: Enable "Download complete" notifications in Chrome to know exactly when your video is ready.
Download Instagram Audio Only (MP3)
Sometimes you just want the audio from a Reel — maybe it's a trending song or a voiceover you love:
- Copy the Reel link from Instagram
- Visit blhole.com
- Paste the link
- Select the Audio/MP3 option
- Download the audio file
Perfect for saving songs, podcasts clips, or ASMR content!
Download Instagram Carousel Posts (Multiple Images/Videos)
Instagram Carousel posts with multiple slides require a slightly different approach:
- Copy the link to the carousel post
- Paste it into BlackHole
- Download each slide individually
- Some carousels may download as a compilation
Instagram Downloader Comparison
| Feature | Instagram Save | Screenshots | BlackHole |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downloads video file | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Full HD quality | N/A | ❌ Low quality | ✅ Yes |
| Works offline | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Audio extraction | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Stories download | ❌ Only own | ❌ Partial | ✅ Yes |
| Cost | Free | Free | Free |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to download Instagram Reels?
Downloading content for personal use is generally acceptable. However:
- Always credit creators when reposting
- Don't use content commercially without permission
- Respect copyright and creators' wishes
- Don't claim others' content as your own
Can I download private Instagram content?
No. Private accounts' content is protected and cannot be accessed by external tools. Only content from public accounts can be downloaded.
How do I download Instagram Reels without losing quality?
Use BlackHole! It downloads videos in the original quality they were uploaded in — no compression or quality loss. Select the highest quality option when downloading.
Can I download Instagram Highlights?
Yes! Story Highlights work the same way:
- Open the Highlight story
- Copy the link
- Paste into BlackHole
- Download
Is BlackHole safe for Instagram downloads?
Absolutely! BlackHole is completely safe:
- Works in your browser — no sketchy apps to install
- No login or Instagram credentials required
- HTTPS encryption for secure connections
- No personal data collected or stored
- No ads, pop-ups, or malware
Why can't I copy Instagram links?
If you're having trouble copying links:
- Make sure you're tapping the three dots (⋯) menu
- Try refreshing the app
- Update Instagram to the latest version
- Try using Instagram on web instead
What video quality can I download?
BlackHole downloads in the highest available quality — typically 1080p HD or the original upload quality. Instagram compresses some videos, but you'll get the best quality available.
Tips for Instagram Downloads
- Act fast on Stories — They disappear in 24 hours!
- Save your own content — Back up your Reels before deleting them
- Organize downloads — Create folders for different content types
- Check storage — HD videos take up space, especially on mobile
- Respect creators — Always give credit when sharing others' work
Why Choose BlackHole Over Other Instagram Downloaders?
No Shady Apps Required
Many "Instagram downloader" apps are full of ads, track your data, or even contain malware. BlackHole works in your browser — no installation needed.
Actually Works
Unlike apps that break when Instagram updates, BlackHole is web-based and consistently works with current Instagram formats.
Completely Free
No "10 downloads per day" limits, no premium tier for HD quality. BlackHole is genuinely free with full features.
Fast & Simple
Paste, click, download. Free account in seconds, no surveys, no waiting. Your video is ready instantly.
Privacy-Focused
BlackHole doesn't require your Instagram login. Your credentials and data stay private.
Download Instagram Reels and Stories Now
Ready to save your favorite Instagram content before it disappears?
👉 Try BlackHole Free — Download any Instagram Reel or Story instantly!
No app needed, free account in seconds, no payment asked. Just paste the link and download in HD quality.
Related Guides
- How to Download YouTube Videos
- Download TikTok Videos Without Watermark
- Save Reddit Videos with Audio
BlackHole is a free video downloading service. Please respect creators' rights and only download content you have permission to save.