How to pc screen record

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Last updated: April 4, 2026

Quick Answer: Screen recording on a PC can be done using built-in tools like the Xbox Game Bar on Windows or QuickTime Player on macOS, or by downloading third-party software. These tools allow you to capture your entire screen, a specific window, or a selected region, and often include options for audio recording and editing.

Key Facts

Windows 10 and 11 have a built-in screen recorder called the Xbox Game Bar, accessible via Windows Key + G.
macOS users can utilize the Screenshot toolbar (Shift + Command + 5) or QuickTime Player for screen recording.
Third-party screen recording software like OBS Studio and Bandicam offer more advanced features, including live streaming and detailed customization.
Screen recording can capture audio from your microphone or system sounds, depending on the software and settings.
Many screen recorders allow you to save recordings in various video formats (e.g., MP4, MOV) and resolutions.

What is PC Screen Recording?

PC screen recording is the process of capturing video of your computer's screen activity. This can include everything from mouse movements and keystrokes to application usage and video playback. Screen recordings are useful for a variety of purposes, such as creating tutorials, demonstrating software, recording gameplay, troubleshooting technical issues, or capturing important online meetings and lectures.

How to Screen Record on Windows PCs

Windows 10 and 11 offer a convenient, built-in screen recording tool known as the Xbox Game Bar. While originally designed for gaming, it works perfectly for general screen recording.

Using the Xbox Game Bar

Open the Xbox Game Bar: Press the Windows Key + G simultaneously.
Start Recording: In the Game Bar overlay, locate the 'Capture' widget. Click the record button (a circle icon) or use the shortcut Windows Key + Alt + R.
Stop Recording: Click the stop button in the small recording bar that appears on the side of your screen, or press Windows Key + Alt + R again.
Find Your Recording: Recordings are typically saved in the Videos folder, under a subfolder named 'Captures'.

Limitations: The Xbox Game Bar is primarily designed for recording app windows and may not record the desktop or File Explorer. It also has limited customization options.

Using Third-Party Software (Windows)

For more advanced features and flexibility, third-party screen recording software is recommended. Some popular options include:

OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software): A free, open-source, and powerful tool used by many streamers and content creators. It offers extensive customization for scenes, sources, audio mixing, and recording settings. It can record your entire screen, specific windows, or webcam feeds.
Bandicam: A popular paid software known for its lightweight performance and high-quality recording capabilities. It offers various recording modes, including real-time drawing, scheduled recording, and screen recording.
Camtasia: A professional, paid video editing suite that includes robust screen recording features. It's ideal for creating polished tutorials and presentations with built-in editing tools.

General Steps for Third-Party Software:

Download and Install: Choose a software and install it on your PC.
Configure Settings: Select the recording area (full screen, window, region), choose the audio source (microphone, system audio), and set the video quality and format.
Start Recording: Click the record button within the software.
Stop Recording: Click the stop button or use a designated hotkey.
Save and Edit: Your recording will be saved, and many programs offer basic editing tools.

How to Screen Record on macOS

macOS provides built-in tools for screen recording that are intuitive and easy to use.

Using the Screenshot Toolbar

Open the Toolbar: Press Shift + Command + 5.
Select Recording Option: A control bar will appear at the bottom of the screen. Choose either 'Record Entire Screen' or 'Record Selected Portion'.
Start Recording: Click the 'Record' button. If you chose 'Record Selected Portion', drag the box to define the area you want to capture.
Stop Recording: Click the stop icon in the menu bar (a circle with a square inside) or press Command + Control + Esc.
Find Your Recording: Recordings are saved to your Desktop by default, but you can change this in the 'Options' menu of the toolbar.

Using QuickTime Player

Open QuickTime Player: Find it in your Applications folder or search using Spotlight (Command + Space).
Start a New Recording: Go to File > New Screen Recording.
Configure Options: A recording window will appear. Click the small arrow next to the record button to choose whether to record your screen with or without audio (microphone or system sound).
Start Recording: Click the red record button. You may need to click anywhere on the screen to begin.
Stop Recording: Click the stop icon in the menu bar.
Save Your Recording: The recording will open in QuickTime Player. Go to File > Save to store it.

Using Third-Party Software (macOS)

Similar to Windows, macOS users can opt for third-party applications for more advanced features. OBS Studio is also available for macOS and offers the same powerful capabilities. Other options include ScreenFlow (paid) and ZD Soft Screen Recorder.

Choosing the Right Method

The best method for screen recording depends on your needs:

Quick & Simple: Use the built-in tools (Xbox Game Bar on Windows, Screenshot Toolbar/QuickTime on Mac) for basic recordings.
Advanced Features & Control: Opt for third-party software like OBS Studio for extensive customization, streaming capabilities, and professional-looking recordings.
Video Tutorials & Editing: Consider software like Camtasia or ScreenFlow if you need integrated editing tools to create polished video content.

Regardless of the tool you choose, ensure you have enough storage space for your recordings, especially if you plan to capture long videos in high resolution.