About Instagram on PC
Instagram has an official Windows app in the Microsoft Store, published by Instagram. It is free and runs on Windows 10 and Windows 11.
There is no Instagram app in the Mac App Store. On a Mac, or on any computer, you can use Instagram in a web browser at instagram.com.
What you can do on the desktop
- Scroll your feed and view profiles
- Send and read direct messages
- Create a post or reel by uploading photos and videos from your computer
- Post a Story from instagram.com, with basic edits
Still phone-only
- Sharing a reel to Facebook (Instagram says this only works in the Android or iPhone app)
- Some Story features, such as certain stickers
How to Install Instagram on PC
Download and install Instagram on your Windows PC or Mac using the official options below, no emulator needed.
Method 1: Official app for Windows
- Open the Microsoft Store on your PC.
- Search for Instagram and pick the app published by Instagram.
- Click Get (or Install).
- Open Instagram from the Start menu and log in.
Method 2: Instagram on the web
- Open your browser and go to instagram.com.
- Log in with your Instagram account.
- Click Create in the left menu to post from your computer.
What about Android emulators?
An emulator adds little here. The Windows app and instagram.com already cover browsing, messaging and posting, so an emulator only helps for a phone-only feature such as sharing a reel to Facebook.
System Requirements
- Windows: Windows 10 version 16299 or higher, 2 GB RAM (Microsoft Store listing)
- Mac: No Mac app. Use instagram.com in a browser
- Web: A modern web browser and an Instagram account
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Instagram for PC free?
Yes. The Microsoft Store app is free, and so is instagram.com.
Does Instagram work on Windows 7?
The Store app needs Windows 10 version 16299 or higher, so it does not install on Windows 7.
Can I post from my computer?
Yes. On instagram.com, click Create, then Post, then Select from computer to upload photos or videos.
Is there an Instagram app for Mac?
Not in the Mac App Store. Mac users can use instagram.com in a browser.
