Last time on the train, I tried to watch an episode of an American TV series I'd saved on Plex, but when I opened it, I discovered there was no internet connection and the video wouldn't load. I initially thought it was a glitch with the app, but later I discovered that Plex doesn't support offline playback of the movies and TV shows it offers.

This got me thinking: Can Plex actually download videos? If not, is there a way to save them and watch them later? This article is a comprehensive analysis of the pitfalls I encountered and the tools I've tried.

how to download from plex

Can You Download Movies from Plex?

Plex's official "Download Feature" does exist, but it only works for content you've uploaded to your Plex Media Server and requires a Plex Pass membership.

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Plex Pass is a premium feature subscription for Plex (the latest price in 2025 is $4.99 per month), including downloads, hardware-accelerated transcoding, mobile synchronization, live recording, and more.

How do I download private media using the Plex official app?

Step1
Open your phone and install the official Plex app (iOS/Android).
Step2
Log in to your Plex account and make sure you're connected to your Plex Media Server.
Step3
Browse your media library to find your uploaded content (note: this is not the content provided by Plex).
Step4
Tap the "More" button (...) → Select "Download." Once the download is complete, you can watch it offline in the app.
📌 Important Note:
  • Officially, exporting downloads as MP4/MKV files is not supported.
  • Free Plex movies, TV shows, and live streams (such as "Three-Body" and "The Limitation Game") cannot be downloaded.
  • Downloaded content is encrypted and can only be played in the app.

On Reddit, there are many posts discussing whether Plex can be downloaded. For example, this user mentioned that he has a lifetime membership but still cannot download. Other users also commented on him. This situation is very inconvenient for people who really have personal needs.

How to Download Movies from Plex?

How to Download Plex Videos and Keep Them Permanently?

Saving Plex content into MP4 will become easy and fast with StreamFab DRM MPD Downloader, it enables you to download content from Plex and also from YouTube, FaceBook and 1000+ sites.

download plex movies: streamfab

StreamFab DRM MPD Downloader

Effortlessly download videos from hundreds of DRM MPD websites, including Plex, Udemy, BBC etc. 
Features:
  • Download Plex videos without ads
  • Downloads with 720p/1080p/4k resolution
  • Support EAC3 5.1 or AAC 2.0 audio track
  • 10X faster download speed
  • MP4 or MKV output
  • Download Plex movies with metadata and subtitles
  • Free trial for 30 days

Steps of using StreamFab

Step1
The first step is to install StreamFab DRM MPD Downloader on your computer with the buttons below. And you will have the free trial opportunity to download Plex movies.
  Free Download 
  100% safe & clean
Learn More 
  Money-back guarantee
Step2
Once the software is installed, launch it and paste the official URL of watch.plex.tv into it. Upon clicking on it, you will be taken directly to the Plex.
download plex movies: streamfab
Step3
For first-timers, you will need to sign in to your Plex account. Once you’ve successfully logged in, navigate the Plex library and find the movie or TV show that you wish to download.
download plex movies: streamfab
Step4
Move your cursor over the movie and play it, then StreamFab will start analyzing the video’s information, a pop-up window will appear allowing you to select the video quality and audio tracks. Make your selections based on your preference and then click on 'Download Now'.
download plex movies: streamfab

Why StreamFab is the Best Plex Movies Downloader?

 
  • StreamFab provides one of the most effective ways to download Plex movies in both MP4 and MKV formats, offering users flexibility without sacrificing quality.

  • It removes ads from Plex videos during download, ensuring a smooth, uninterrupted viewing experience offline.

  • With support for batch downloading, users can save entire seasons of TV shows at once, making it ideal for binge-watchers.

  • A 30-day free trial and refund policy (7-day for monthly plans, 14-day for lifetime licenses) let users try it risk-free before deciding to commit.

In addition to StreamFab, some users try to save Plex videos using screen recording tools (such as OBS Studio, Xbox Game Bar) or online download sites (such as Y2Mate). You can refer to this radar chart for specific data to choose the tool that suits you. If it is a short-term need, you can consider trying online tools. If you have high-definition and long-term needs, it is recommended to use a safe download tool.

how to download plex videos?

FAQ

Is Plex Pass Worth it?

It is really worth it if you like to use Plex to record Live TVs. But if you prefer better video quality, this may not that suitable for you.

Is StreamFab DRM MPD Safe?

Yes, StreamFab is safe to use. This software is tested by many antivirous softwares and has SSL secure certificates. 

Conclusion

StreamFab's unique features and customer-friendly policies make it the best Plex downloader. It's not just about downloading, it's about offering a seamless and quality viewing experience. Why not start your free trial?