TL;DR: There is a way to download ESPN+ videos that is different for each device. You can download the official ESPN app on iOS and Android phones, but you can only watch shows inside the app. (Part 1)
For PC or Mac users, or to save videos permanently as MP4 files without expiration, you need a specialized tool like KeepStreams. (Part 2-1) This guide covers both the official mobile method (Part 2-2) and the desktop solution for offline viewing.
As a sports fan, I realized that while the mobile app is great for a quick subway ride, it doesn't help when I want to watch a game on my laptop screen or archive a classic match before it disappears from the library.
If you are looking to download ESPN Plus videos or figure out how to download videos from ESPN to your computer, I've tested the working methods for 2026 so you don't have to face that same buffering wheel.
Can I Download Videos from ESPN Plus?
Note:
- On Mobile: Use the official ESPN App. Look for the "Download" icon on eligible content (Originals/30 for 30). Live sports cannot be downloaded directly.
- On PC/Mac: There is no official "Download" button. You must use a specialized media downloader tool to save streams as local MP4 files due to DRM protection.
Absolutely! Downloading from ESPN Plus is indeed possible. The official download feature permits downloading ESPN Plus videos on supported mobile devices, such as iPhones, iPads, Android phones, tablets, and Amazon Fire tablets.
However, apart from the device limit I mentioned above, there are many other restrictions of the ESPN+ official download feature. For example, it only allows you to watch the downloaded shows in the app, you need a subscription to use the download service, the downloaded titles will expire after a while, and not all ESPN+ shows are available to download.
No worries. If you're bothered by these limits, I also get methods to help you bypass them. The alternative tool I will present in the following section enables downloading from ESPN Plus on Windows computers. This grants you the flexibility to download from ESPN Plus on almost any device according to your preferences and avoid ESPN Plus not working.
How to Download ESPN Plus Videos?
Note: If you are just looking to watch a 30 for 30 documentary on your iPhone during a commute, the official app is your best bet. Since the official app ignores desktop users, we need a different approach: KeepStreams.
Here is a complete, step-by-step guide on how to download videos from ESPN Plus. If you don't have an internet connection, you can still use these steps to enjoy ESPN Plus.
Download ESPN Plus Videos on Computers (The Working Solution)
When it comes to downloading ESPN Plus videos on computers, the official download feature has its limitations. For a better experience, I suggest using KeepStreams for ESPN Plus as an alternative solution.
I use this tool specifically when I want to watch on a larger laptop screen or when I want to keep a copy of a game forever (bypassing the 30-day expiration). It doesn't "record" the screen. It downloads the source video file directly.
Here's my step-by-step test to download ESPN Plus videos on my computer using KeepStreams:
Step 1: Launch KeepStreams and select ESPN+ from the VIP Services list.
Step 2: Log into your ESPN account within KeepStreams and browse ESPN Plus videos you want.
Step 3: Play the desired video, and KeepStreams will analyze it instantly.
Once the analysis is complete, a download page will appear, allowing customization of download settings such as Video, Audio, and Subtitle.
Step 4: Click Download Now to initiate immediate download or use the Add to Queue button to download the videos later.
Download ESPN Plus Videos on Mobile Devices with Official ESPN App
To download ESPN Plus videos on mobile devices, follow these steps:
- Download and install the ESPN app on your mobile device.
- Launch the ESPN app and log into your ESPN account with an active ESPN Plus subscription.
- Browse the ESPN Plus tab in the ESPN app to find the video you want to download.
- Once you find the video, tap the download icon on the details page to start downloading.
- A device icon with a check mark will display upon completion of your download.
However, downloads expire after a set period (usually 30 days) or 48 hours after you start watching. You cannot move that file to a TV or a laptop. If you don't want the videos you download to be subject to various restrictions, such as expiration dates or limited device compatibility, you can use KeepStreams.
To help you decide, I've compared the two methods based on my latest tests.
| Feature | Official ESPN App | KeepStreams (PC/Mac) |
| Platform | Mobile Only (iOS/Android) | Windows & macOS |
| Download Quality | Adaptive (Fluctuates) | Up to 1080p |
| File Format | Encrypted Cache (Unreadable) | MP4 / MKV |
| Expiration | 30 Days / 48 hrs after play | Never (Permanent) |
| Ads | Yes (Depending on plan) | Auto-Removed |
| Transferable | ❌️No (Device Locked) | ✅️Yes (USB/TV/NAS) |
| Batch Mode | ❌️No (One-by-one manual tap) | ✅️Yes (Add Multiple Events to Queue) |
| Audio & Subtitles | Standard / Fixed | Selectable (EAC3 5.1) & Save as SRT |
| Updated on February 2, 2026 | ||
Advanced Tips: Watching ESPN Plus Offline on TV
One of the biggest advantages of downloading an actual file (Method 2) is flexibility. Smart TVs can't get downloads from the official app, so this is how I get around it:
- Download via KeepStreams to your laptop.
-
Transfer to USB: Copy the
.mp4file to a USB drive. - Plug and Play: Insert the USB into your Smart TV or Gaming Console (PS5/Xbox).
- Enjoy: Watch the game in full HD without buffering or an internet connection.
This is particularly useful for "Cord Cutters" who travel with a Roku or Fire Stick but don't want to pay for hotel Wi-Fi.
Why Screen Recording ESPN Plus Videos Often Fails
Note: Official downloads are for phones/tablets only. Screen recording often results in errors due to copyright protection.
Many people try to get around this by using software like OBS to record their screen. That should have led to a black screen with sound playing in the background if you tried it.
- The Cause: This is triggered by Widevine DRM encryption, which blocks video signals when a capture tool is detected.
-
The Fix: Recording is inefficient and lossy. For a better solution without the black screen, you should check out the
best way to record ESPN+
FAQs
Q1. Is it legal to download ESPN+ videos？
A1. According to general copyright principles in many regions, downloading streaming content for personal, non-commercial use (often referred to as "Fair Use" or "Time-shifting") is generally tolerated, but distributing those files is illegal. Always adhere to ESPN's Terms of Service and your local laws.
Q2. Why do I get a ESPN Plus "Download Failed" error？
A2. If your download stops, it is usually due to an unstable internet connection or a change in DRM keys. Ensure your software is updated to the latest version. For persistent playback issues, use keepStreams to download ESPN Plus videos.
Q3. Does this work for UFC Pay-Per-View (PPV)？
A3. Yes, but you must have purchased the PPV event on your account first. The downloader validates your license. It does not bypass the payment for PPV events.
Q4. Can I download live sports on ESPN Plus？
A4. With the official ESPN Plus app, usually no—you must wait for the replay to be posted. With KeepStreams, you can also download replays, but you generally cannot download a "Live" stream while it is happening. You must wait for the video to be archived in the library.
Conclusion
Now, you can download ESPN Plus videos, whether on your phone or computer, and watch them without needing the internet. Enjoy your favorite content wherever and whenever you want! Looking for the best ESPN Plus downloaders? Read this article for more information.
Use the App for casual, daily viewing on your phone. Use KeepStreams if you are archiving sports events, hate ads, or need to watch on a laptop/TV offline.
NOTE:
Content available on ESPN Plus™ is protected by copyright. Unauthorized redistribution of this content may violate copyright laws in the United States and other countries.
KeepStreams is an independent company and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with ESPN Plus™ or its parent company. The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and does not imply any endorsement of KeepStreams products by any third party.
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