Mastodon is distributed across independent servers, so public post URLs vary by instance. FbDown can inspect a supported public status page and identify an attached video when the instance exposes it.
How to download public Mastodon posts with video attachments
- Copy the complete video link. Open the original post in its web browser view and copy the full instance URL. Use the source status rather than a timeline, profile, boosted copy, or application-only link.
- Open the FbDown downloader. Follow the link above, paste the URL into the input, and select Analyze video.
- Choose a format and quality. Select MP4 for broad compatibility or WebM when preferred, then choose Best available or a listed resolution.
- Download the file. Select Download now and keep the browser open while the preparation and transfer progress finishes.
Choosing the best Mastodon video quality
Mastodon attachments usually provide the uploaded rendition rather than many quality levels. Choose Best available to keep the accessible source dimensions.
Quality labels describe the height of the available video stream. A larger number can provide more detail, but it also creates a larger file and takes longer to download. For phones and everyday offline viewing, 720p is often a practical balance. Choose 1080p when it is offered and the extra detail matters.
Why might a Mastodon download fail?
Followers-only, direct, deleted, remote-only, sensitive-gated, unsupported-instance, or login-required posts may not expose a public attachment.
Start by opening the link in a private browser window. If it cannot play without signing in, a public downloader cannot access it either. Also check that you copied the individual post rather than a profile, feed, channel, search result, or collection page.
Supported formats and devices
FbDown currently offers video downloads in MP4 and WebM. MP4 generally plays on iPhone, iPad, Android, Windows, macOS, smart TVs, and most editing applications. WebM is an efficient open format supported by modern browsers and many desktop players. The downloader runs in the browser, so there is no separate app or extension to install.
Download responsibly
Only download videos you created, public-domain media, or content you have explicit permission to save. A public link does not automatically grant permission to copy, republish, redistribute, or use a creator's work commercially. Respect copyright, privacy, the creator's wishes, and Mastodon's terms.