On desktop, Facebook video downloads are usually easier because the browser shows download progress and lets you choose where files land. The bigger issue is choosing the right workflow for the link.
The desktop workflow
Open the Facebook video in your browser, copy the page URL, then paste it into a downloader.
If the preview shows multiple buttons, save only what you need. A video, audio track, and background image are separate outputs for some reels.
Three tools to try
Desktop is a good place to compare tools because downloads are easier to inspect and rename.
Start with the tool that matches the content type, then use another option if the public page exposes a file that the first tool misses.
Keep the downloads folder clean
Rename files after downloading, especially when saving multiple videos from the same page or campaign.
If a file opens in a new tab instead of downloading, use the browser download control or try another resolved format.
Use the right page first
A Facebook reel should go through a reels workflow, a photo post should go through a photo workflow, and a story should go through a story workflow while it is still available.
Using the right page first reduces false failures and makes the preview buttons easier to understand.