How to download your favorite TikTok videos in case they disappear
Love a TikTok so much that you want to keep it on your phone and treasure it forever? You can do that with the save video function built right into the app.
"Save video" allows you to save your favorite TikToks to your phone's photo library. Downloading TikTok videos allows you to have access to a TikTok even if the user deletes it, or if TikTok takes it down or removes the sound. Though this seems less likely now with an inked deal, it also preserves your favorite TikTok videos in case the platform is ever banned, which has been a real possibility for years. Downloading a TikTok video can also streamline sharing it with your more offline friends who may not have The Clock App.
Unfortunately, you can't save all TikToks — the user who posts a TikTok has to allow downloads for their video. If the "Save video" option doesn't come up, that means the TikTok user doesn't have downloads turned on for their account.
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In that case, you could always screen record the TikTok instead. (We've got you covered on how to do that, too.)
To save a TikTok, follow the steps below.
How to download a TikTok video
- 2 min
- Smartphone
- TikTok app
Step 1: Open the TikTok app
Go to the app and open it as usual.
Step 2: Navigate to the video you want to save.
Hopefully you have it saved.
Step 3: Tap the white "Share" arrow on the right side of the screen.
It will bring up a number of options.
Step 4: Tap the arrow button above "Save Video" or "Download"
"Save Video" uses an easily recognizable download symbol. The option may also be listed as "Download," making your job even easier.
This article was originally published in 2021 and was most recently updated in September 2025.
Topics Social Media TikTok
Tim Marcin is an Associate Editor on the culture team at Mashable, where he mostly digs into the weird parts of the internet. You'll also see some coverage of memes, tech, sports, trends, and the occasional hot take. You can find him on Bluesky (sometimes), Instagram (infrequently), or eating Buffalo wings (as often as possible).
Elena is a tech reporter and the resident Gen Z expert at Mashable. She covers TikTok and digital trends. She recently graduated from UC Berkeley with a BA in American History. Email her at [email protected] or follow her @ecaviar_.
