How to Record Google Hangouts: 4 Methods
In the digital age, Google Hangouts has become a go-to platform for virtual meetings and collaborations. Whether you're hosting a business conference or catching up with friends, recording these interactions can be valuable.
Google Hangouts is a communication platform developed by Google that includes instant messaging, video chat, and voice call features. Users can use it on various devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets.
In this article, you will discover how to record Google Hangouts calls and 4 most efficient screen recorders for that. Explore these methods to capture and save your conversations, ensuring you never miss a crucial detail or memorable moment during your online meetings.
How we picked the Google Hangouts recorders
To make this list, we evaluate the most popular screen recording software and services. We took into consideration:
- The quality of the outcome video;
- The additional functionality of the video recorder, such as scheduled recording or editing;
- The reputation of the screen recording software and its popularity among users;
- The affordability and easiness of use.
Method 1: Icecream Screen Recorder
Google Hangouts allows individuals to connect and communicate through video calls, voice calls, and instant messaging. For those looking to document these activities, reliable screen recording software is essential. One such tool is Icecream Screen Recorder.
Utilizing a streamlined interface and effective capabilities, this screen recorder for PC empowers you to effortlessly record all actions on your computer display. The free video recorder offers many useful features, such as personalized recording options, a real-time drawing tool, and the ability to choose the output format.
Here's a comprehensive walk-through to get you started:
- Download and install the free screen recorder for Windows. Launch the program.
- Create a new Google Hangouts chat and begin the video meeting.
- In the screen recorder, hit "Capture video" and select the area to be recorded.
- Tap "Record" to begin recording. You can stop at any time by pressing the "Pause/Resume" button.
- Once you're done with the meeting, click "Stop Recording" to save your video file.
Benefits:
- User-Friendly Interface. The free screen recorder is known for its intuitive interface, making it accessible to people with varying levels of technical expertise.
- Customizable Settings. Users can capture the entire screen or specific regions, providing flexibility for various recording needs.
- Scheduled Recording. Users can schedule recordings in advance, which is useful for capturing specific events or activities without manual intervention.
- Webcam Recording. The screen recording software allows users to include webcam footage in their screen recordings, making it suitable for creating video tutorials.
- Annotation Tools. Basic annotation tools enable users to add text, arrows, and shapes to highlight specific areas in their recordings.
- Output Format Options. It supports multiple output formats for both video and screenshots, allowing users to choose the format that best suits their needs.
- Affordable License. There is a free version with limited features and a paid version with additional functionality.
In summary, Icecream Screen Recorder is a fantastic tool to record your Google Hangouts conferences. The interface's ease of use and customizable features make it accessible to everyone. So, the next time you would like to capture your video call, consider giving it a go.
Method 2: OBS Studio
OBS Studio is a free and open-source screen recorder for desktop recording and live streaming. It's widely used by gamers and other entertainers for capturing and broadcasting content on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and others.
Here's a guide on how to record Google Hangouts with this tool:
- Download and install the recording software. Open the program.
- In the "Sources" box, press "+" to specify the recording input. Choose the screen and select the capture video function. Hit "OK".
- Pick the destination folder by going to "Browse" in the "Settings" menu.
- Begin your online video call.
- Click the "Start Recording" button in the screen capturing program.
- When done recording Google Hangout, tap "Stop Recording".
-1.webp "Google Hangouts recording with OBS")
Pros:
- Free and Open-Source. OBS is available for free and is an open-source software.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility. The screen recorder is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Adjustable Scenes and Sources. Users can create and customize scenes with various sources, such as video capture devices.
- Wide Range of Plugins. The free video recorder supports plugins for creating videos with a professional approach.
- Live Streaming Capabilities. It's a popular choice for live streaming with tools like scene transitions and real-time source editing.
- Active Community Support. OBS has a large and active community, which means there are plenty of tutorials, forums, and resources for users to seek help or share their experiences.
Cons:
- Steep Learning Curve. For beginners, this video recording program might have a steeper learning curve due to its extensive toolkit.
- Resource Intensive. Depending on the settings used, the screen recorder with audio can be resource-intensive, especially for users with lower-end hardware.
- No Built-in Editing Functionality. OBS primarily focuses on live streaming and recording, lacking advanced video editing capabilities.
Overall, OBS is a powerful tool, especially for those who need advanced customization and features in their video recording and streaming setups.
Method 3: Loom
Loom is an online video recording and sharing platform that allows users to create and distribute screencasts. It's commonly used for creating tutorial videos, product demos, and other types of visual communication.
While there are various ways to record Google Hangouts, for some people, using an online screen recorder may be the most convenient and efficient method.
How to record Google Hangouts online:
- Create an account with Loom.
- Login into your account and click "Record a video". Adjust the settings for the video.
- Begin the online meeting. Press "Start recording" within the tab of the screen capture tool.
- Once you've finished recording, press the red stop icon. Alternatively, use the hotkey combination, for Mac it is Command + Shift + L; for Windows press Ctrl + Shift + L.
- You can send your recording of Google Hangouts to others by clicking the "Share" button. To download your video, you have to subscribe.
-1.webp "Recording Google Hangout with Loom")
Pros:
- Simple Interface. Loom is known for its easy-to-understand interface, so anyone can easily employ this tool.
- Screencasting and Webcam Recording. Users can record their screen, webcam, or both simultaneously, which provides flexibility for various types of content creation.
- Instant Sharing. You can quickly share recorded videos through a link, simplifying the process of distributing content.
- Viewer Engagement. The screen capture platform includes features like comments and reactions, enabling viewers to interact with the host.
- Cloud Storage. Recorded videos are stored in the cloud, reducing the need for local storage and making it easy to access content from different devices.
- Integration with Other Tools. Loom integrates with Google Workspace, Slack, and Trello, enhancing its usability for teams.
Cons:
- Free Version Limitation. If you don't sign up for the paid access, there is a limit to recording videos of up to 5 minutes long only.
- Internet Connection Dependency. Loom relies on a stable internet connection for recording and sharing videos.
Loom is well-suited for users who prioritize quick and easy video creation, especially for instructional purposes. It's widely used in educational settings, remote work scenarios, and content creation for online platforms. You can also download the PC screen recorder or install the browser extension.
Method 4: Debut Video Capture
Debut Video Capture is a video recording application that allows users to capture video from a variety of sources. It offers a user-friendly layout and advanced recording features.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to record an online meeting:
- Install and launch the recording software on your computer.
- Start your meeting in Google Hangouts.
- Select the area of the screen to be recorded. Adjust the settings, such as frame rate, video resolution, audio source, etc.
- Press the "Record" button to start filing your call.
- After the recording is complete, click "Stop" and save the file to your device.
-1.webp "Google Hangouts recording with Debut")
Pros:
- Versatile Capture Options. It supports capturing video from various sources, including webcams, external devices, computer screens, and IP cameras.
- Postponed Recording. Users can set the recording to begin in advance.
- Editing Tools. Debut includes basic video editing tools, allowing users to trim, cut, and add effects to their captured footage.
- Output Format Options. It provides a range of formats to save the video in, catering to different preferences and compatibility needs.
- Snapshot Capture. The app allows users to capture still images from the recorded content.
Cons:
- Watermark in Free Version. The free recording software adds a watermark to the recorded videos, which can be removed by upgrading.
- Resource Usage. Some users have reported that Debut can be resource-intensive, potentially affecting system performance during video capture.
- Updates and Support. Users might experience issues with updates and support, as the free version doesn't receive the same level of attention as the paid plan.
Overall, Debut Video Capture is a straightforward option for users looking to record content from different sources with basic editing capabilities. It's particularly suitable for those who prefer a simpler interface and may not need advanced features for video production.
How to record Google Hangouts: Tips
- Opt for a reputable screen recording software with features suitable for capturing Google Hangouts calls.
- Before the call, perform a test recording to ensure your program is properly configured and capturing both audio and video.
- Set the recording area to capture the Google Hangouts window or the specific region where the call will take place.
- Notify others that you will be recording the call and obtain consent from participants and ensure that recording complies with privacy laws.
- Close unnecessary applications and ensure a strong network connection to avoid disruptions in the recording.
- If you want to include your webcam feed in the recording, enable it in the screen recorder settings.
- Check available storage space on your device if you are planning a long recording.
- After the call, review the recording and edit if needed. Trim unnecessary parts and ensure the final video meets your requirements before sharing or saving.
FAQ
- Is there a built-in recording feature in Google Hangouts?
- Google Hangouts itself doesn't have a native recording tool. However, Google Meet, which is integrated with Hangouts, offers built-in recording functionality for G Suite users.
- Can I record Google Hangouts on my phone?
- Yes, you can use screen recording apps available for your mobile device to record virtual meetings.
- Can I record only audio from a session?
- Yes, you can use audio recording software or simply convert the recorded video to MP3 or another format.
- Is it possible to record a specific participant in a call?
- Most screen recording software allows you to select a specific region of your desktop to record, so you can focus on a particular participant. Make sure to obtain explicit consent from this person before recording them.
- How much storage space does a recorded video occupy?
- A one-hour Google Hangouts session recorded at 1080p resolution and 30 fps with standard audio quality might occupy around 1-2 GB of storage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering the art of recording Google Hangouts calls opens a world of possibilities for preserving valuable conversations and enhancing collaboration.
Each method discussed in this article offers unique advantages to cater to diverse needs - from creating seamless tutorials to producing professional presentations.
Tech Writer and Photography Aficionado
