What Makes IGTV Different?
When Instagram first launched IGTV back in 2018, it was meant to compete with YouTube. While the standalone app didn't quite take off, IGTV content itself found its home within the main Instagram platform. Unlike Reels that are short and punchy, IGTV videos can be anywhere from a minute to an hour long.
This makes them perfect for in-depth tutorials, interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and mini-documentaries. But here's the thing: because they're longer, you definitely don't want to rely on streaming them every time you want to watch. Data limits, spotty connections, and offline travel all make downloading essential.
The Challenge with IGTV Downloads
Instagram doesn't distinguish between video types when it comes to downloads—there's still no official "Save to Device" button. This means you need workarounds, just like with Reels and regular posts. But because IGTV files are larger, you need to be a bit more careful about which method you use.
Best Method: Using InstaKeep for Long-Form Content
Here's why a dedicated downloader is your best friend for IGTV:
- File Size Management: IGTV videos can be hundreds of megabytes. InstaKeep optimizes the download stream so you're not sitting there waiting forever.
- Quality Retention: Longer videos tend to get compressed more by Instagram. We pull the highest bitrate version available.
- No Time Limits: Screen recording a 20-minute video? Not practical. With InstaKeep, you just paste the link and walk away.
Step-by-Step Process
- Open the IGTV Video: Navigate to the video within Instagram. You can find IGTV content on profiles under the IGTV tab or in your feed.
- Copy the Link: Tap the three dots (⋯) and select "Copy Link." The URL will look something like instagram.com/tv/ABC123...
- Paste Into InstaKeep: Head to our homepage, paste the link, and hit the download button.
- Choose Your Quality: If available, we'll give you options. Pick based on your storage space and internet speed.
- Download: Click the final download button and the video will save to your device.
Pro Tips for IGTV Content
Check Your Storage First: A 30-minute IGTV video in HD can easily be 200-500MB. Make sure you have enough space.
Wi-Fi is Your Friend: Downloading large files over cellular data will burn through your plan. Wait until you're on Wi-Fi if possible.
Organize Your Downloads: IGTV videos are often educational or important. Create folders on your phone like "Tutorials" or "Interviews" to keep things tidy.
What About Copyright?
Good question. If you're downloading IGTV content created by someone else, it's for personal use only. Don't re-upload it to your own channel or use it commercially without permission. Respect the creator's work—that's just good internet etiquette.
