How to Record Google Hangouts: 4 Methods
In the digital age, Google Hangouts has become a go-to option for virtual collaborations. Whether you're hosting a business conference or catching up with friends, preserving these interactions can be valuable.
Google Hangouts is a communication platform developed by Google that includes instant messaging, video chat, and voice call features. You 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 tools for that. Explore these methods to 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 used apps and services. We took into consideration:
- The quality of the outcome;
- The additional functionality of the video recorder, such as schedule or editing;
- The reputation of the software and its popularity among people;
- The affordability and easiness.
Method 1: Icecream Screen Recorder
Google Hangouts allows individuals to connect and communicate through calls and instant messaging. For those looking to document these activities, reliable 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 get all actions on your computer display. It offers many features, such as personalized options, real-time drawing, and the ability to choose the output format.
How to record Google Hangout video and audio with Icecream Screen Recorder
- Download free screen recorder for Windows and install it on your computer. Launch the program.
- Create a new Google Hangouts chat and begin the meeting.
- In the screen recorder, hit "Capture video" and select the area.
- Tap "Record" to begin. You can stop at any time by pressing the "Pause/Resume" button.
- Once you're done, click "Stop Recording" to save your file.
Benefits:
- Clean Design. The free screen recorder is known for its intuitive interface, so it is accessible to people with varying levels of technical expertise.
- Customizable Settings. Users can capture the entire display or specific regions, providing flexibility for various needs.
- Scheduled Recording. You can set up a schedule in advance, which is great for specific events or activities without manual intervention.
- Webcam. The screen recording software allows you to include webcam footage, so it is suitable for tutorials.
- Annotation. Basic tools enable adding text, arrows, and shapes to highlight specific areas.
- Output Options. It supports multiple export formats for both video and screenshots, allowing you to choose the extension that best suits their needs.
- Affordable License. There is a free version with limited features and a paid upgrade with additional functionality.
In summary, Icecream Screen Recorder is a fantastic option to preserve your conferences. The interface and customizable features make it accessible to everyone. So, the next time you would like to capture the call, consider giving it a go.
Method 2: OBS Studio
OBS Studio is a free and open-source screen recorder and live streaming tool. It's widely employed by gamers and other entertainers for broadcasting content on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and others.
How to record Google Hangouts with OBS Studio
- Download and install the software. Open the program.
- In the "Sources" box, press "+" to specify the input. Choose the display and select the capture 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.
- When done recording Google Hangout, stop the session.
-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. It is can be accessed Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Adjustable Scenes and Sources. You can create and customize scenes with various sources, such as capture devices.
- Wide Range of Plugins. The free video recorder supports plugins for creating content 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 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, it can be resource-intensive, especially for those with lower-end hardware.
- No Built-in Editing Functionality. OBS primarily focuses on live streaming and recording, lacking advanced additional capabilities.
Overall, OBS is a powerful application, especially for those who need advanced customization and features in their setups.
Method 3: Loom
Loom is an online platform that allows you to create and distribute screencasts. It's commonly utilized for explainer videos, product demos, and other types of visual communication.
While there are various ways to record Google Hangouts, for some people, a web service may be the most convenient and efficient method.
How to record on Google Hangouts online using Loom
- Create an account with Loom.
- Login into your account and click "Record a video". Adjust the settings.
- Begin the online meeting. Press "Start recording" within the tab of the screen capture tool.
- Once you've finished, press the red stop icon. Alternatively, try the hotkey combination, for Mac it is Command + Shift + L; for Windows Ctrl + Shift + L.
- You can send your recording of Google Hangouts to others by clicking the "Share" button. To download the result, 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 employ this tool.
- Screencasting and Webcam. You can record their display, camera, or both simultaneously, which provides flexibility for various types of content.
- Instant Sharing. You can quickly send clips through a link, simplifying the process of distributing.
- Viewer Engagement. The platform includes features like comments and reactions, enabling people to interact with the host.
- Cloud Storage. Videos are stored in the cloud, reducing the need for local storage and making it quick 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 of up to 5 minutes long elements only.
- Internet Connection Dependency. The app relies on a stable internet connection for work and sharing.
Loom is well-suited for those who prioritize quick and easy tasks, 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 supports a variety of sources. It offers an intuitive layout and advanced features.
How to record a Google Hangout with the help of Debut Video Capture
- Install and launch the software on your computer.
- Start your meeting in Google Hangouts.
- Select the area of the display. Adjust the settings, such as frame rate, resolution, audio source, etc.
- Press the "Record" button to start filing your call.
- After it is complete, click "Stop" and save the file to your device.
-1.webp "Google Hangouts recording with Debut Video Capture")
Pros:
- Versatile Options. It supports capturing from various sources, including webcam, external devices, computer screens, and IP cameras.
- Postponed Recording. Users can set the session to begin in advance.
- Editing Tools. Debut includes basic video editing options, allowing you to trim, cut, and add effects to their footage.
- Output Format Options. It provides a range of formats to save the result in, catering to different preferences and compatibility needs.
- Snapshot. The app allows users to produce still images from the content.
Cons:
- Watermark in Free Version. The free recording software adds a watermark, which can be removed by upgrading.
- Resource Usage. Some people have reported that Debut can be resource-intensive, potentially affecting system performance.
- Updates and Support. You 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 people looking to get 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.
How to record Google Hangouts: tips
- Opt for a reputable screen recording software with features suitable for Google Hangouts.
- Perform a test beforehand to ensure your program is properly configured and capturing both audio and video.
- Set the area to the window or the specific region where the call will take place.
- Close unnecessary applications and ensure a strong network connection to avoid disruptions.
- If you want to include your webcam feed, enable it in the settings.
- Check available storage space on your device if you are planning a long session.
- After the call, review the result and edit if needed. Trim clips and ensure the final content meets your requirements before sharing or saving.
Legal considerations
Always let the people in the session know that it will be recorded and ask for their permission. You can do this by saying at the beginning that you plan to do it or by giving people a heads-up ahead of time.
In some places, like certain U.S. states, only one person in the conversation needs to know that it is being captured. In other places, everyone involved must agree.
If you're recording a work session, ensure you follow your company's rules. Some organizations have strict regulations or need permission before they can do something.
Keep in mind data privacy laws like the GDPR in the EU and the CCPA in California. If you want to store, share, or distribute the video, these may require you to do certain things.
FAQ
- Is there a built-in feature in Google Hangouts?
- Google Hangouts itself doesn't have a native tool. However, Google Meet, which is integrated with Hangouts, offers this functionality for G Suite users.
- Can I record Google Hangouts on my phone?
- Yes, you can use apps available for your mobile device to preserve virtual meetings.
- Can I record only audio from a session?
- Yes, you can try audio software or simply convert the visuals 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 area of your desktop, so you can focus on a particular participant. Make sure to obtain explicit consent from this person before capturing them.
- How much storage space does a video occupy?
- A one-hour session at 1080p resolution and 30 fps with standard audio quality might occupy around 1-2 GB of storage.
- Can I share a Google Hangouts recording with others?
- Yes, you can send the clip by adjusting the settings in Google Drive, allowing others to view or download it.
- Can I record Google Hangouts in 4K resolution?
- Videos are generally made in 720p or 1080p resolution depending on the session quality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, recording Google Hangouts opens up a world of possibilities for keeping important conversations and improving teamwork.
This article talks about different ways to meet different needs, from smooth tutorials to professional presentations.
Tech Writer and Photography Aficionado
