Where Do Downloaded Videos Go? Find Your Files on Any Device
You tap Download, the progress bar finishes, and then the file seems to vanish. It is one of the most common questions people have, and the answer is usually simple: the file went to your browser's default download location.
This guide shows where downloads are saved on Windows, Mac, Android and iPhone, how to open the downloads list in each browser, and what to do when a file still does not appear.
The fastest way: open your browser's downloads list
Every browser keeps a list of recent downloads. From that list you can open the file or jump straight to its folder.
| Browser | Windows | Mac |
|---|---|---|
| Chrome | Press Ctrl + J | Press Cmd + Shift + J |
| Edge | Press Ctrl + J | Press Cmd + Shift + J |
| Firefox | Press Ctrl + Shift + Y | Press Cmd + Shift + Y |
| Safari | Not available | Click the downloads arrow in the toolbar |
Next to each file you will see an option such as Show in folder or Show in Finder. That opens the exact location of the file.
Where downloads go on a computer
Windows
By default, files are saved to the Downloads folder of your user account. Open File Explorer and choose Downloads in the left panel.
Mac
Files go to the Downloads folder, which you can open from the Dock or from Finder in the sidebar.
Where downloads go on a phone
Android
Open the Files app and choose Downloads. In Chrome you can also open the menu and select Downloads. A video may not show in your Gallery right away, so use the Files app first.
iPhone and iPad
In Safari, tap the download arrow next to the address bar to see recent files. Downloads are normally stored in the Files app under Downloads. From there you can play a video, or use the Share button and choose Save Video to add it to your Photos.
How to change where files are saved
On a computer, you can pick a different folder, or make the browser ask each time.
- Open your browser settings and find the Downloads section.
- Choose a new location, or turn on the option that asks where to save each file.
- Download again to check that the new folder is used.
Asking each time is useful if you keep videos, music and documents in different folders.
If you still cannot find the file
- Search by name: use the search box in File Explorer or Finder, or search for the file extension such as .mp4 or .mp3.
- Check the download finished: an unfinished file may have a temporary name or extension. Wait for the download to complete.
- Check your storage: if your device is full, the download may have failed. Free some space and try again.
- Check the browser: the file may be in a different browser's download list than the one you expect.
- Try again: if the download did not start, see our guide to downloads that are not working.
Keep your downloads organised
Once you find your files, move them into folders that make sense, for example by project or by topic. Give files clear names, and delete the ones you no longer need. If a file will not play, the format may be the reason, so see our guide to video formats.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my downloaded video not in my Gallery or Photos?
Downloads usually go to the Downloads folder, not to the photo library. Open the Files app to find it, and on iPhone use Share and Save Video to add it to Photos.
Can I download straight to an SD card or another drive?
On a computer, yes: choose another folder or drive in your browser's download settings. On phones, options depend on the device and the browser.
Why is the downloaded file empty or very small?
The download may have been interrupted. Delete the file and download it again while your connection is stable.
Where do MP3 files go?
They are saved in the same place as other downloads, normally the Downloads folder or the Downloads section of the Files app.
How do I open the downloads folder on a phone quickly?
In Chrome, open the menu and choose Downloads. On iPhone Safari, tap the download arrow next to the address bar.
Only save videos, audio and images that you own or have permission to use. Read our Copyright Policy for what is allowed, and see the DMCA page if you are a rights holder.