There’s no denying that Windows is THE most feature-rich and versatile desktop OS out there; however, it’s a shame that Windows 11 still does not feature a comprehensive built-in tool to record screens, which desktop OSes like Chrome OS and macOS come with built-in. One of Windows’ strengths is third-party app support and thanks to that, there are lots of screen recorder apps that you can download. Here’s how to record the screen on Windows 11.
Exploring Screen Recording Options on Windows 11
Windows 11 offers various methods for screen recording, each with its unique features and benefits. The lack of a built-in comprehensive screen recording tool has led users to explore different options, ranging from built-in utilities to third-party applications. In this section, we will explore six effective methods to record your screen on Windows 11.
Understanding Your Options
Despite the absence of a native screen recording feature, Windows 11 users are not left without solutions. There are several options available:
- Xbox Game Bar: A built-in tool primarily for gamers that can also record other applications.
- OBS Studio: A powerful, free third-party software preferred by many for its versatility and advanced features.
- Microsoft PowerPoint: An unexpected option for students and educators that allows screen recording directly within presentations.
- Snipping Tool: The updated snipping tool now includes a screen recording feature, making it very convenient.
- Microsoft Clipchamp: A native video editor that also provides screen recording capabilities.
- ShareX: An open-source tool that excels in screenshot capabilities and includes screen recording features.
Choosing the Right Method for Your Needs
Each method serves different needs and preferences. For casual users, the Xbox Game Bar or Snipping Tool may be sufficient, while professionals might prefer the features offered by OBS Studio or ShareX. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each option will help you select the best tool for your specific screen recording needs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Recording Your Screen
Now that we’ve outlined the options, let’s dive deeper into each method and how to effectively use them to record your screen on Windows 11. Follow these straightforward steps for each tool to ensure you capture your screen accurately and efficiently.
Using the Xbox Game Bar
The Xbox Game Bar is a built-in feature of Windows 11 that allows users to capture video and screenshots while playing games or using applications. Here are the steps to utilize this tool:
- Ensure an application is open (not File Explorer or Desktop).
- Press Windows + G to launch the Xbox Game Bar.
- Select the Capture option from the overlay.
- Click on the record button to start recording.
- To stop, click the Stop button in the overlay. Your recordings will be saved in
C:\Users\yourusername\Videos\Captures.
Recording with OBS Studio
OBS Studio is a powerful tool for those who require more advanced features. Here’s how to set it up:
- Download OBS Studio from the official site or Microsoft Store.
- Launch the application and select Optimize just for recording.
- Click the + icon under the sources section to add a source.
- Select Display Capture, rename it, and click OK.
- Press Start Recording to begin.
- To finish, click on Stop Recording. Find your videos in
C:\users\username\videos.
PowerPoint Screen Recording
For those who use Microsoft Office, PowerPoint offers a simple way to record your screen:
- Open Microsoft PowerPoint and navigate to the Insert tab.
- Click on Screen Recording and select the area to record.
- Hit the Record button.
- Use Windows + Shift + Q to stop recording.
- Right-click the video to select Save Media as to save it as an MP4 file.
Convenience of Snipping Tool
The Snipping Tool is a simple yet effective way to record your screen:
- Open the Snipping Tool from the Start menu.
- Click the video camera icon for recording.
- Select the area to record and click Start.
- Your recordings will be saved in
Videos\screen recordings.
Clipchamp for Video Editing
Clipchamp is another great option for recording and editing videos:
- Launch Clipchamp and sign in with your Microsoft account.
- Select Create a new video and then Record & create.
- Choose Screen and click Record.
- Once finished, click Stop Sharing. Save the recording as a WEBM or export as an MP4.
ShareX for Advanced Users
ShareX is perfect for users who want a versatile tool:
- Install ShareX from its official site or Microsoft Store.
- Open ShareX and click on Capture, then select Screen recording.
- Choose your recording area, and it will start automatically.
- Click Stop to finish, and find your recordings in
C:\Users\username\Documents\ShareX\Screenshots\.
Final Thoughts on Screen Recording
And that’s how you can record your screen on Windows 11 without spending a penny. All the methods mentioned are free to use, don’t have any ads, and save the screen recordings without watermarks. Some of the apps used to take screenshots can also screen record for you, which is super convenient. Got questions about any of the above methods? Shoot them in the comments below.
