Screen recording is not the same as taking a screenshot of your computer. The latter is just a simple process of capturing a photo of all the contents of your screen during that moment. Although taking screenshots is part of screen recording, it’s much more than that. Screen recording is the process of taking a video and audio of your screen for an educational or personal purpose. Most screen recorders are also often capable of tapping your webcam. They also make it possible to add narration to the video using the computer’s microphone. Most of the materials captured using screen recorders get posted on the internet. Professional bloggers, YouTube hosts, and educators all use this type of content. Even ordinary users sometimes screen-record for work purposes. Even if you haven’t had such a requirement before, knowing how to record your screen can help you one way or another. And if you want to boost your productivity further, we’ve got this article about the best productivity apps to get things done.
How to Screen-Record on Desktop/Laptop
Most people are familiar with video downloader software. If downloading videos is something you do on a regular basis, you can check out this article on how to download videos without any software. You might be equally interested in the different ways to download videos from Reddit and Tumblr videos. However, downloader software is usually limited to copying online content for offline use. They do not usually have features for screen capture. Thus, it seems absolutely necessary to download a separate screen capture software to get this job done. Screen recorders are particularly useful for creating your own tutorials, tech reviews, and how-to guides. They’re also great for capturing content for offline viewing. There is actually plenty of screen capture software available. This type of software is usually enough to capture video, audio, and images of your screen. Each software also offers unique features to help you out further. Most offer editing tools or help with posting the materials. There are also built-in tutorials to help you out with the screenshot process. In any case, here are some of the best screen recorders available for your computer type. We will also provide a brief guide on how to screen-record using each program. In any case, up next are some of the best screen recorders available for every computer type, be it a Mac, Windows, or Linux PC. We will also provide a brief guide on how to screen-record using each program.
Screen Recorders for Mac Computers
Mac users have a built-in QuickTime Player software, used for playing video clips. However, it also has a screen recorder feature that you may use to capture on-screen activity. Nonetheless, Mac users who want a professional screen capture software have plenty of other options. Downloadable screen recorders usually have added editing and uploading features to facilitate the entire process of creating content. The steps for capturing on-screen video varies per type of software, but it usually takes just a few steps to complete.
QuickTime Screen Record
QuickTime Screen Record is the default screen recording app on any Mac OS computer. It’s already installed so you don’t need to go looking for other applications. But of course, you can if you want to. QuickTime lets you record your whole screen or just a portion you select. Here’s how to record your screen using QuickTime Screen Record:
LonelyScreen
LonelyScreen is a screen-mirroring software and screen recorder for iOS devices. This software allows you to copy the on-screen contents of your IOS device to your Mac. You can also screen-record on one device and save the file on the other. This also allows you to play games, watch movies, or present using a larger platform from your iOS devices. A notable feature is its ability to screen-capture iPhone gameplay, app demo, or video. Here’s how to screen-record using LonelyScreen:
Camtasia
Camtasia is another great third-party screen recorder and editing software. This is a great tool for professional video-making. This can be for the purpose of tutorials, demos, training videos, and more. Users of the app have the benefit of pre-made animation and effects to choose from. The platform is often used for YouTube videos, how-to videos, and webcam recordings. Here’s how to screen-record using Camtasia:
Snaglt
SnagIt is a screen capture platform. This software is quite advanced compared to built-in Mac tools. It’s also best used for more than simply recording. They designed SnagIt specifically to create custom how-to guides, tutorials, and quick videos. The program is able to screen capture any process on your computer screen. It’s can also capture the audio of your explanation while the video is being taken. Here’s how to screen-record using SnagIt:
ScreenFlow
ScreenFlow is a screen capture and video editor software. It’s one of the most widely-used screen recorders among Mac users. The software is jam-packed with features for photo editing, screen recording, and sharing. You can use ScreenFlow to create any self-help material or online content. This includes tutorial videos, how-to videos, or even marketing videos. Here’s how to screen record using ScreenFlow:
Screen Recorders for Windows 10 PC
There are various ways to screen-capture video, audio, and photos using your Windows 10 PC. The program doesn’t have a software just for this purpose. But the lesser-known Xbox Game Bar is a viable alternative for simple screen capture. There are also professional software programs available for advanced video editing and audio supplements. Here are some examples:
Windows’ Game Bar
Not a lot of people may know this, but Windows 10 computers have a hidden screen capture tool. It’s hidden under the game bar of the already-installed Xbox software. You can find the screen recording tool in the game bar specifically to record gameplay. Nonetheless, it can also be used to screen capture web pages, documents, and software. Here’s how to screen-record using the game bar:
Microsoft PowerPoint
Not many people are aware that PowerPoint also has this feature. It is possible to record your screen with audio and then incorporate them into your slides or save them separately. Make sure you have a good sound card, speakers, and mic. Here’s how to screen-record using Microsoft PowerPoint:
ActivePresenter
ActivePresenter is a specialized screen recorder and eLearning authoring tool. The software allows users to quickly capture the screen. You can create eLearning materials and other online content in just simple steps. The software is also used for editing audio and video, and software simulation. You can import external files into the software for editing purposes as well. Here’s how to screen-record using ActivePresenter:
Open Broadcaster Software (OBS) Studio
OBS Studio is an open-course screen recorder and live-streaming tool. OBS developers optimized the software for gaming screen capture. Nonetheless, its functions are not exclusive to gaming purposes. It’s also possible to add in still images to the clips. The software is also compatible with major streaming services. This includes Twitch, YouTube, and DailyMotion. Users can upload videos from the software to these websites directly. Here’s how to screen-capture using OBS Studio:
Bandicam
Bandicam is a lightweight and open-source screen recorder for Windows. The software is able to capture anything on the PC screen. This may be a web page, webcam video, or streaming video. It’s also able to capture DirectX or OpenGL gameplay. The software settings are pre-configured. This makes screen capture much easier. Recordings can be saved in either AVI or MP4 formats. You can also screenshot anything on your desktop. Here’s how to screen-capture using Bandicam:
Screen Recorders for Linux
Linux is not as popular as Windows and Mac, but some people like it because it’s free and open-sourced. Linux doesn’t come with a built-in screen recorder. In this case, users of Linux OS would need to install third-party screen recorders. If you are a Linux user, there are screen recorder apps that can help you out. Here are some examples:
RecordMyDesktop
RecordMyDesktop is a program that can record Linux desktop sessions. The program has two main parts. One is a command-line toolset that performs the task of capturing and encoding. The other is an interface that exposes the program functionality in a graphic manner. The program is able to adapt to areas on the screen with significant movement. The program also has the ability to record audio through different audio serves. Here’s how to screen-record using RecordMyDesktop:
Kazam
Kazam is a reliable and easy to use screen recorder for Linux. The software has the ability to record the entire screen or part of the screen. The newest version can even record mouse clicks and key presses. It can simultaneously capture audio from the speakers or microphone of the computer. Keyboard shortcuts are also present for quickly pausing and resuming recording. Here’s how to screen-record using Kazam:
Peek
Peek is a screen capture software for Linux. The software focuses on the single task of creating screencasts of an area of the screen and export them as GIFs. The intention is for creating simple animated GIF files. It can also directly record screen activity to WebM or MP4 format. Unfortunately, the lack of sound capture capabilities is limiting. Nonetheless, you can still use it to make high-quality screencasts. Additionally, it doesn’t have any time limits or watermarks over the resulting videos. Here’s how to screen-record using Peek:
Green Recorder
Green Recorder is a simple screen recorder for Linux. It supports audio and video recording on most of the Linux desktop environments. This includes Unity, Gnome, and Cinnamon. The software has very simple buttons for quick navigation and recording. It also supports multiple output formats. They have added a play button on the main menu, which allows users to watch a recorded video. Here’s how to screen record using Green Recorder:
How to Screen-Record on Mobile Devices
There are plenty of applications and mobile software. There’s also plenty of opportunity there to create video tutorials and how-to videos. Unfortunately, the standard tools for computers don’t work for mobile devices. Thankfully, there is plenty of mobile screen capture software to do the task. Developers have made these programs with a smaller interface and easy-to click buttons. All you need to do is to install the application on your device and start recording.
Screen Recorders for iPhone/iPad
There are a variety of screen recorders made for Apple devices. These can be downloaded straight off of the App Store. These programs were designed as mobile applications instead of full-blown software. There’s really not much of a difference in terms of functionality.
Apple’s Built-In Screen Record Button
Apple tablets and phones have a pre-installed screen capture tool. The screen recording tool is hidden under the Settings toolbar. It’s specially made for recording on-screen actions in the form of video and audio. You can also use it to capture the navigation of web pages and documents. Here’s how to screen-record using the built-in screen recorder:
Go Recorder
Go Recorder is a professional screen recorder and editor for mobile devices. The software can record on-screen activity complete with audio. The software has an additional feature called Face Cam. This feature allows users to include their reaction to recordings. The software also has a full-fledged editing suite. Here’s how to screen-record using Go Record:
DU Recorder
DU Recorder is a simple screen recorder for mobile devices. Creating high-quality screencasts are very easy. It also has a wide selection of options for customizing video properties. It also makes it possible to edit the video. Examples include trimming and combining video clips into one. It’s also possible to add audio or music to your videos. Here’s how to screen record using DU Recorder:
Screen Recorders for Android Phone/Tablet
Screen recording is just as easy for the majority of Android users. There are even more options when it comes to screen recording. Some brands of mobile phones and tablets even have their own screen recording app. For those without built-in screen recorders, there are plenty of downloadable mobile apps. These mobile apps record anything from gaming videos, video calls, live shows, and more.
Built-In Screen Record Button
Most Android devices have built-in screen recorders. The process is almost the same for most devices. Here’s how to screen-record using the built-in screen recorder:
AZ Screen Recorder
AZ Screen Recorder is a popular and reliable screen recorder for mobile devices. Aside from taking videos, you can also take screenshots and record live. There’s also a video editor feature to improve your screen recordings. The program provides an easy and convenient way to record screen videos. The app runs on Android 5.0 devices and up. Here’s how to screen-record using AZ Screen Recorder:
ScreenCam
ScreenCam is a lightweight and clutter-free screen recorder for mobile devices. The software lets you choose between multiple audio sources, including internal audio. You can also set multiple resolutions for the videos you record. It’s also possible to export your videos to multiple platforms. It makes for easy transfer over the internet or a CD. The user interface is also simple and very easy to use. Here’s how to screen-record using ScreenCam:
Mobizen
Mobizen is a screen-mirroring and recording app for mobile devices. The software works by reflecting the contents of your phone or handheld device to your PC. This feature is best used for presentations and mobile gameplay using the PC. You can take videos from your mobile screen and save them onto the PC. Here’s how to screen-record using Mobizen:
Final Thoughts on How to Screen-Record Easily
Gone are the days when wordy instructional emails and help desk articles governed the internet. Nowadays, people have come up with a much more efficient solution: video tutorials and e-learning. The online self-help platform appears to be highly effective. This is first in terms of delivering a message in a way that people can easily understand. They also emphasize the importance of visual communication in imparting knowledge and information. Video tutorials, for example, are able to reach a wider audience than written material. This is because they are highly accessible and very easy to understand. It’s highly surprising then that people turn to these quick tutorials for help. Screen recorders are also very useful for creating online self-help materials. The software and mobile apps we’ve included in this article usually have the same features and functions. They’ve been designed for easy access and use, so there’s really no need for a manual of some sort. And once you’re able to figure out how one software works, you will be able to navigate other software just as easily. Regardless of whether you are an active blogger or just a curious individual, knowing how to screen-record is an important skill. It’s a great skill and a stepping stone for sharing your knowledge with the friend. Most websites have a section dedicated to lectures and eLearning materials. Most people like to create casual self-help guides on the latest games, technology, and software. More serious individuals could make commentary on documents and web pages. These are just suggestions, but there are plenty more that have not yet been explored. Certainly, there’s no limit to what you can do when you know how to screen record.
