How to Download Xiaohongshu Videos: A Complete Tutorial
What Is Xiaohongshu?
Xiaohongshu (小红书), also known as RedNote or simply XHS, is a Chinese social media platform that has become very popular around the world in recent years. The app combines features of Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok into one experience focused on lifestyle, beauty, travel, food, and product reviews. With over 300 million users, the platform is a treasure trove of videos and images.
Many users want to save Xiaohongshu videos for offline viewing, language learning, content reference, or creative inspiration. This complete tutorial will show you exactly how to do it.
Method 1: Use a Web-Based Downloader
The simplest and safest way to download Xiaohongshu videos is through a free online downloader. This method works on every device and requires no software installation.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Open the Xiaohongshu app or website and find the video you want.
- Tap or click the share button on the video.
- Select "Copy Link" from the share menu.
- Open your web browser and visit a Xiaohongshu video downloader website.
- Paste the copied link into the input box.
- Click the download button and wait a few seconds.
- When the video appears, tap or click "Save" to download it to your device.
That is the entire process. It usually takes less than a minute from start to finish.
Method 2: Download on iPhone
iPhone users can use Safari or any browser to access an online downloader. Once the video is processed, long-press the download link and choose "Save to Files" or "Add to Photos" depending on the option that appears. The video will be saved to your iPhone storage.
Method 3: Download on Android
Android phones and tablets handle downloads natively. Open Chrome or any browser, use the online downloader, and tap the download link. The video will save to your Downloads folder automatically. From there you can move it to any other folder or share it.
Method 4: Download on Desktop
Desktop computers are great for organizing many videos. Use Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari to visit an online Xiaohongshu downloader. Paste the link, click download, and right-click the result to save it to your preferred folder. You can build a library of videos this way.
What File Format Will I Get?
Xiaohongshu videos are usually stored in the MP4 format, which is the most widely compatible video format in the world. MP4 files play on every modern device, every operating system, and every video editing application without any conversion needed.
Can I Download Photos Too?
Yes. Xiaohongshu has many image-only posts, and good downloaders can save those too. The process is exactly the same: copy the link, paste it into the downloader, and save the images one by one or all together.
Tips for the Best Results
- Always copy the original link, not a screenshot or text description of it.
- Make sure the post is public, not private. Private content cannot be downloaded.
- Use a stable internet connection for faster processing.
- If a download fails, wait a few seconds and try again. Xiaohongshu's servers occasionally rate-limit requests.
- Update your browser regularly for the best compatibility.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Downloading without permission: Only save videos you have the right to view and store.
- Reuploading content: Never repost someone else's video as your own.
- Removing watermarks for commercial use: The platform watermark may be removed by the downloader, but the creator still owns the video.
- Using shady downloaders: Stick to reputable sites with HTTPS and clear privacy policies.
Why Use an Online Downloader?
Online downloaders have several advantages over apps or extensions:
- No installation, so no risk of malware or unwanted software.
- Works on any device with a browser.
- Free to use for personal viewing.
- Updated automatically as Xiaohongshu changes its system.
- Does not store your data on your device.
Privacy and Safety
When using any online tool, make sure the website is secure. Look for the lock icon in your browser's address bar. Never enter personal information like passwords or payment details on a video downloader site. A real downloader only needs the public link to a video, nothing more.
Final Thoughts
Downloading Xiaohongshu videos is straightforward when you use the right tools. Web-based downloaders are the easiest and safest option for most people. Always remember to download responsibly, respect the rights of the creators, and only save videos you have permission to use.