How to Download a Video from Google Drive on PC and Phone

How to Download a Video from Google Drive on Windows and Mac

If you need to download a video from Google Drive to your computer, there are several simple methods available that work on both Windows and Mac. Whether you prefer using a browser, the Drive web app, or a cloud backup tool like CBackup, each option makes it easy to save your files locally. Let’s explore how each method works in detail.

Method 1. Download Google Drive Videos Using a Web Browser

When you want to save a video from Google Drive on Windows or Mac, using a web browser is a simple method that requires no extra software installation. Popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge support this approach, letting you download individual videos quickly for offline viewing or editing. Before saving, make sure you have permission to access the video; otherwise, the download option will not appear. Also, check your device storage and browser’s download folder to prevent issues.

This method doesn’t support downloading entire folders unless they are compressed. Large files may fail if your internet connection is unstable, and Google may block downloads if the file exceeds its quota limit. While effective for occasional use, this method may not be ideal for frequent or large downloads.

🔍 Now that you know the basics, let’s dive into a simple step-by-step guide on how to download videos from Google Drive using a web browser on your computer.

Step 1. Open your web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge) and visit drive.google.com.

Step 2. Enter your Google account email and password to sign in.

Step 3. Browse or search to locate the video file you want to download.

Step 4. Right-click the video file (or click the three vertical dots next to it) to open the options menu.

Step 5. Select Download — the video will start downloading and save automatically to your computer’s Downloads folder.

Method 2. Download Videos from Google Drive Using Desktop App

The Google Drive desktop app lets you easily save video in Google Drive directly to your Windows or Mac computer. After installation, the app creates a folder on your device that automatically stays updated with your cloud files. This setup allows you to access videos offline and download multiple files or folders at once. You can choose between "Mirror files" to keep full local copies or "Stream files" to save space but require internet access.

The app integrates smoothly with your operating system, making file management straightforward. However, syncing large files may take time or slow your system, so it’s important to check your sync status and available storage regularly. This method works best for users who frequently manage videos and want automatic syncing between devices.

🔍 If you want to learn how to save video in Google Drive to your computer, follow these steps:

Step 1. Download and install the Google Drive for Desktop app from the official Google Drive website.

Step 2. Sign in with your Google account credentials.

Step 3. Choose your sync preference: select "Mirror files" to save full copies on your device or "Stream files" to access files without using local storage.

Step 4. Open the Google Drive folder created on your computer.

Step 5. Locate the video you want to save, then copy or move it to any folder on your device to keep an offline version.

Method 3. Use CBackup as a Video Downloader from Google Drive

CBackup is a powerful third-party tool that serves as an efficient video downloader for Google Drive, making it easy to manage and save videos from your cloud storage. Unlike traditional browser or desktop app methods, CBackup allows you to save multiple videos or download entire folders at once, saving time with its batch downloading feature. It also helps you bypass Google Drive’s daily download quota limits, reducing interruptions during large downloads.

With options for cloud-to-local backup and scheduled backups, your videos remain safe and up to date without requiring manual effort. The tool’s simple interface lets you manage and access your files easily without juggling multiple apps. This method is ideal for users who frequently handle large file downloads, creators needing reliable backups, or anyone seeking a hassle-free way to transfer videos from Google Drive to local storage while avoiding download restrictions.

🔍 To download your videos using a reliable Google Drive video downloader, follow these easy steps with CBackup:

Step 1. Open your web browser and go to the CBackup website. Click Sign Up to create a free account or Log In if you already have one.

Step 2. Once logged in, go to the Storage section and select Google Drive from the list. Then click Authorize Now. Follow the prompts to sign in to your Google account and grant CBackup access permissions.

Step 3. After connecting Google Drive, return to the Tasks page and click on your Google Drive account to browse your files. Navigate to the folder containing the videos you want to download.

Step 4. Select the video files by checking the boxes next to them. Then, click the Start Download button to save these videos to your local computer.

Step 5. Monitor the download or backup progress on the dashboard. Once completed, open the designated local folder on your computer to access your downloaded videos.

How to Download Video from Google Drive to iPhone

iPhone users who want to save video from Google Drive to iPhone can do so easily with the Google Drive app. This method provides a simple way to access your videos offline by saving them directly to the Photos app. It works well for personal use, such as saving shared videos, class recordings, or travel clips. The app runs smoothly on iOS and fits everyday needs.

However, you can only download one video at a time, and the Save Video option may not appear for unsupported formats or restricted files. This method suits users who occasionally save individual videos for offline viewing on their iPhone.

🔍 Wondering how to download video on iPhone from Google Drive? Just follow these steps:

Step 1. Open the Google Drive app on your iPhone.

Step 2. Sign in to your Google account if you aren’t already logged in.

Step 3. Find the video you want to download in your Drive.

Step 4. Tap the three-dot menu (⋯) next to the video file.

Step 5. Choose Send a copy, then tap Save Video to download it to your Photos app.

How to Save Video in Google Drive to Android

For Android users looking to Google Drive download video to phones, the Google Drive app provides a convenient and direct way to save videos without extra tools. The app links to your Google account and stores videos automatically in your Gallery or Files app for easy access. This method supports common video formats and works well for personal and work-related files.

One drawback is that it only allows downloading one video at a time, making it slower than third-party tools that support batch downloads. Overall, this method balances simplicity and reliability, making it a good choice for occasional downloads but less efficient for handling many large videos.

🔍 Follow these simple steps to download video in Google Drive using the Google Drive app:

Step 1. Open the Google Drive app on your Android device.

Step 2. Sign in with your Google account if you aren’t already logged in.

Step 3. Find the video you want to download in your Drive.

Step 4. Tap the three-dot menu (⋯) next to the video file.

Step 5. Select Download and wait for the video to save to your device’s Gallery or Files app.

Why Can't I Download a Video from Google Drive?

Many users face difficulties when trying to download videos from Google Drive, which can be frustrating, especially when they need quick offline access. This problem often arises due to several common issues related to permissions, device limitations, or connectivity.

Here are the main reasons why you can’t download a video from Google Drive, along with advice to fix each:

🚫 Restricted Download Permissions

Sometimes, the owner of the video disables downloading to protect their content. If you lack permission, Google Drive won’t allow you to save the file. Contact the owner and ask them to grant download access or share the file differently.

💾 Insufficient Device Storage

Downloading large video files requires enough free space on your device. If storage runs low, the download will fail or stop midway. Check your device’s available storage and delete unnecessary apps, photos, or files to free up space.

📶 Unstable Internet Connection

A slow or unstable internet connection can interrupt the download process, causing it to fail or pause repeatedly. Switching to a stronger Wi-Fi network or waiting for better connectivity can help complete the download successfully.

🌐 Unsupported Video Format or Browser/App Issues

Some browsers or Google Drive apps may not support certain video formats or experience bugs that block downloads. Trying a different browser, clearing cache, or updating your app to the latest version can resolve these problems.

👨‍💻 Temporary Google Drive Glitches

Google Drive occasionally faces service interruptions or temporary bugs that affect file downloads. Checking Google’s service status page can confirm outages. Waiting and trying again later usually fixes the issue.

⏳ Outdated App or Browser Version

Using outdated versions of the Google Drive app or web browser can cause compatibility problems and prevent downloads. Always keep your apps and browsers updated to ensure smooth functionality.

Conclusion

In this post, we covered multiple ways on how to save a video from Google Drive on both PC and phone. Whether you use a web browser, the Google Drive app, or third-party tools like CBackup, each method offers unique benefits depending on your needs. On phones, using the app or browser lets you download videos easily, while desktop options provide more flexibility for large files. Choose the method that fits your device and file size for smooth downloading. With these options, saving your Google Drive videos has never been easier.

Learn More About Saving Google Drive Videos

Some users may still feel uncertain even after trying the methods above. To help clear up common confusion, the following FAQs address the most frequent questions about downloading videos from Google Drive.

1. How to Download View Only Video from Google Drive?

Many users run into issues when they try to download a view-only video from Google Drive, since the file owner has restricted downloads to protect their content. Google applies these limits to uphold privacy and sharing controls. Without permission, there’s no official or ethical way to save the video locally.

However, if the owner agrees, they can change the settings. Here's how to download view-only video from Google Drive (with permission):

• 1. Ask the owner to open the video in Google Drive.
• 2. Have them click the Share button.
• 3. In the pop-up, they should click the gear icon in the corner.
• 4. Make sure they check "Viewers and commenters can see the option to download".
• 5. Once saved, you can refresh the page and use the Download option from the three-dot menu.

2. How to Download Protected Video File from Google Drive?

Some users try to download a protected video file from Google Drive, only to find that the download option isn’t available. This happens when the file owner has set restrictions to prevent unauthorized access. Google enforces these settings to protect content ownership and privacy.

The proper way to access and download the video is by requesting permission. Then, you can follow the steps:

• 1. Open the protected video file in Google Drive.
• 2. Click the "Request access" button if it appears.
• 3. Wait for the file owner to approve your request.
• 4. Once access is granted, open the file again.
• 5. Tap the three-dot menu (⋮) and select Download.

3. How to Download Video from Google Drive Without Download Button?

When the Download button is missing in Google Drive, it's usually because the file owner has disabled downloading to protect the content. However, if you have permission or can request it, there’s still a proper way to access and save the video. Follow these steps to get the videos:

• 1. Open the video file in Google Drive.
• 2. Click the "Request access" button if the file is restricted.
• 3. Wait for the owner to approve your request.
• 4. Once approved, reopen the file link.
• 5. Click the three-dot menu (⋮) and choose Download if it now appears.

If the download option remains hidden, ask the owner to adjust the sharing settings to allow downloads. Always respect file permissions.