How to copy an Instagram Reel or video link
To copy an Instagram Reel or video link, tap the Share icon (the paper plane) or the ··· menu on the post and then Copy link. On a computer, copy the URL from the address bar. With that link you can paste it into a downloader like PullVid and save the video.
Why do you need to copy the link?
The link is the unique address of each Reel, video or post on Instagram. Copying it is the first step to download it to your device, share it over WhatsApp or send it to someone outside the app. To save a Reel you need to paste its link into a downloader; without the URL there's no way to process the video.
Copy the link in the Instagram app (Android and iPhone)
The steps are the same on Android and iPhone:
- Open the Instagram app and go to the Reel, video or post you want to save.
- Tap the Share icon (the paper plane) below the content, or the ··· menu (three dots) at the top right.
- In the menu that appears, tap Copy link.
- You'll see a 'Link copied' notice. The URL is now on your clipboard, ready to paste.
It works the same with Reels, feed videos and IGTV, as long as the account is public.
Copy the Instagram link in your browser (PC or Mac)
If you open Instagram on a computer:
- From the address bar: open the Reel or post on instagram.com, click the address bar, select the whole URL and copy it with Ctrl+C (Cmd+C on Mac).
- With the ··· menu: click the three dots on the post and choose Copy link.
How to use the link to download the video
With the link copied, saving the Reel or video is instant with the Instagram downloader:
- Open PullVid in your phone or computer browser.
- Paste the link into the search field (long-press and choose Paste, or use Ctrl+V).
- Wait a few seconds for the content to process.
- Choose the quality and tap Download.
You don't need to install anything or sign up, and you won't see banners or fake download buttons.
Common problems when copying the link
- You copied the profile link, not the video: if you copy from a user's page you get their profile link. Open the specific Reel or video first and copy from there.
- The 'Copy link' option is missing: on private accounts or some stories, Instagram doesn't offer to copy the link. In that case the content isn't public and can't be downloaded.
- It says 'invalid link': this is usually due to an incomplete URL or content from a private account. Copy it again with Share → Copy link and, if it still fails, see why you can't download a video.
Frequently asked questions
Why does it say the Instagram link is invalid?
Usually because the URL is incomplete or the content belongs to a private account. Copy it again with the Share → Copy link button in the app to make sure you have the complete address.
Does the link I copy from the Instagram app work?
Yes. The Share → Copy link from the app works perfectly in PullVid for public Reels, feed videos and IGTV. It's the most reliable way to get the correct URL.
Can I copy the link of a Reel from a private account?
On private accounts Instagram usually doesn't offer the option to copy the link, and even if you have it, that content can't be downloaded because it requires permission to view. Only public accounts work.
Is the profile link the same as the Reel link?
No. The profile link goes to the user's page; the Reel link goes to that specific video. To download you need the Reel or video link: open it first and copy from there.
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