How to Download TikTok Reels with Music Without Copyright Issues

How to Download TikTok Reels with Music Without Copyright Issues

Social media lovers and creators are all too often caught scrolling through catchy tunes and creative reels on TikTok. Downloading these videos becomes necessary for either inspiration, sharing, or storage purposes.

However, one major roadblock is copyright restrictions, especially when it comes to downloading TikTok reels with music.

As a leading social media marketing service provider, SMMGen understands the importance of utilizing content responsibly and efficiently. Let’s dive into it.

Why Downloading TikTok Reels Can Be Challenging

Rights to use that content on TikTok are heavily protected by copyright laws to protect creators. There’s no official way to download videos that contain music directly from the platform, since this is a breach of copyright without proper authorisation.

However, there are scenarios where downloading TikTok reels is acceptable:

  • Personal Use: Saving videos for personal viewing without redistributing them.
  • Fair Use: All clips used for fair use commentary, criticism, and educational purposes.
  • Licensed Content:  Content you are allowed to use or is made available under some Creative Commons license.

Important: Always check the license or obtain permission from the original owner before using such content for commercial purposes.

Related: How to Get More Views on TikTok in 2025

1. Using the Built-In Download Option on TikTok

The most straightforward way to download a TikTok reel is through the app’s download feature.

Steps to Download with TikTok’s Option

  1. Open the TikTok app and find the reel you want to download.
  2. Tap the “Share” icon on the right side.
  3. Click on “Save Video.”
  4. The video will be saved directly to your phone’s gallery.

Why It Works

In some cases, TikTok creators, who may see more engagement when their videos travel beyond the app, are the ones enabling downloads.

The downloaded video will have the TikTok watermark with the creator’s username to credit the original content owner.

But the major drawback is that not all videos can be downloaded; some uploaders can disable this feature.

2. Using Third-Party TikTok Downloaders (With Caution)

There are multiple third-party websites and apps that you can use to download TikTok reels without watermarks. But the hassle might not be worth it: these tools carry some risks, including copyright infringement and security risks associated with data transmissions.

Recommended Websites

  • SSSTikTok
  • Snaptik
  • SaveTok

How to Use a Downloader

  1. Copy the link to the TikTok video.
  2. Open the downloader website or app.
  3. Paste the link in the designated field.
  4. Click “Download.”
  5. Select the option to save with or without a watermark.
Pros:
  • No watermark, making the video more versatile for personal use.
  • Can download both video and audio.
Cons:
  • Potential copyright infringement if reused improperly.
  • Risk of malware or privacy breaches on unsecured sites.

Pro Tip: Always check the tool’s terms of service and avoid using downloaded content commercially.

3. Screen Recording: A Practical Alternative

When other methods fail, screen recording remains a reliable alternative. Most smartphones now come with built-in screen recording features.

How to Screen Record

  1. Enable screen recording on your device.
  2. Open TikTok and play the reel you wish to download.
  3. Start recording.
  4. Stop recording once the reel ends.
  5. Trim the video if necessary to remove unnecessary parts.

Why It’s Effective

  • Records both video and audio.
  • Can be used regardless of the creator’s download permissions.
Caution:
  • This method does not remove the watermark.
  • The quality may not be as high as the original video.

4. Legal Ways to Use Downloaded Reels with Music

While downloading is one part, using the content legally is another. To avoid copyright issues:
  • Give Credit: Always mention the original creator if you’re reposting.
  • Non-Commercial Use: Stick to personal use unless you have explicit permission.
  • Use Copyright-Free Music: Replace the original track with royalty-free music from sites like Epidemic Sound or Artlist.
  • Purchase Licenses: Some tracks on TikTok are available for commercial licensing.

5. Embedding TikTok Videos Instead of Downloading

Sometimes you don’t need to download a video when you’re just able to embed one. Using TikTok reels will let you share the content in compliance with copyright laws.

How to Embed a TikTok Reel

  1. Tap the “Share” button on the reel.
  2. Select “Copy Link.”
  3. Use the embed code on your website or blog.

Why Embed Instead of Download

  • Maintains credit to the original creator.
  • Avoids copyright infringement.
  • Ideal for websites and social media sharing.

6. Always Check for Licensing and Copyright Terms

Not all music tracks on TikTok are freely usable, even if the video itself is downloadable. Check for the following:
  • Creator’s Licensing Details: Some creators specify usage permissions.
  • Music Rights: Some songs are licensed for non-commercial use only.
  • Creative Commons: Look for reels labelled as public domain or Creative Commons.
Staying informed about the legalities surrounding music on social media can save you from potential copyright issues.

Why Choose SMMGen for Social Media Content Management



At SMMGen, we help businesses navigate the complexities of content creation and copyright compliance. Our services ensure that you can:
  • Access Legal Content: Discover licensed tracks and copyright-free resources.
  • Professional Guidance: Find out how to creatively repurpose social media content legally.
  • Creative Solutions: Get more power for your brand with unique and legal content.
We keep tabs on emerging social media policies to ensure you don’t end up in legal hot water, and to make sure you get the most out of your online service.

Final Thoughts: Respecting Intellectual Property

It might be fun to download those TikTok reels with music, but you should respect copyright laws. The best approach here is to use TikTok’s auto-download function or to rely on the screen recording tool for your personal use.

Always provide appropriate attribution (credit) when citing/using material - and never use content from other published work commercially without obtaining permission first! Embedding rather than downloading can also help keep you on the right side of the law.

With SMMGen, you can navigate the dynamic world of social media with peace of mind, knowing that your content strategy is ethical and fully compliant. Keep the creative juices coming, and the health measures going!