Best Free Windows 11 Screen Recorders
Knowing how to record your screen on Windows 11 opens up a world of possibilities, whether it's for tutorials, presentations, or simply preserving memorable moments.
In this guide, we'll explore 3 distinct ways to capture screen on your Windows PC: using a versatile third-party screen recorder, a simple built-in tool native to the ecosystem, or a quick online platform. Let's get started!
Icecream Screen Recorder
Icecream Screen Recorder is a universal screen recording software available for Windows 11, 10, and earlier versions. It enables users to capture any area of their desktop as a screenshot or as a video file.
How to screen record on Windows 11 with Icecream Screen Recorder
- Download and install the Windows 11 screen recorder.
- Before starting, you can adjust various video recording settings such as audio sources, hotkeys, and output format preferences. Click on the settings icon (gear symbol) in the bottom left corner to access these options.
- Click the "Capture video" button and decide whether you want to record the full screen, a custom region, etc.
- Adjust the recording area by dragging the frame or manually entering the dimensions. Press "Rec" to begin capturing your screen.
- Once you're done, hit the "Stop" button or use the designated shortcut key (F6) to end the session.
- The recorded video will be available for editing and saving.
Pros:
- Ease of use. This screen recorder for Windows 11 features a user-friendly interface that makes video editing accessible to users of all skill levels.
- Versatility. Multiple video recording modes (screen, game, webcam) provide flexibility for various needs.
- Settings. Customizable recording settings allow for high-quality videos tailored to your preferences.
- Customization. Ability to add annotations, text, and shapes during recording for a more interactive experience.
- Editing. Advanced video editing features including trimming, changing playback speed, and others give you full control over your recorded video.
- Export options. Direct export to popular formats such as MP4, AVI, MOV, WebM, and GIF makes it easy to share your clips on different platforms.
Ultimately, the most optimal method for screen recording on Windows 11 is through this video recorder, thanks to its user-friendly design, adjustability, and advanced editing tools. So why wait? Download Icecream Video Editor now and unleash your creativity!
Game Bar
Game Bar is a built-in feature that allows you to record your screen on Windows 11 and 10. It's essentially a customizable overlay that provides tools for capturing screenshots and recordings.
The video recording program provides a variety of features for gamers. It allows users to capture screenshots and record gameplay, monitor system performance metrics such as CPU and GPU usage, chat with friends, access Spotify music controls, and more.
How to use Game Bar as a screen recorder for Windows 11 and 10
- Open the application or window that you want to record.
- Press the Windows key + G on your keyboard to open the Game Bar.
- Find the "Capture" widget, which looks like a camera icon. From there, click "Start Recording" or hit Windows + Alt + R.
- To stop the screen recording process, press "Stop" on the floating toolbar or tap Windows + Alt + R again.
- Your footage will be stored in the "Captures" folder in your "Videos" library.
Pros:
- Easy to access. The screen recorder for Windows 11 can be launched by pressing the simple shortcut on your keyboard, making it accessible at any time.
- User-friendly interface. The interface is intuitive and straightforward, making it easy for anyone to use, even if you're not tech-savvy.
- Customizable settings. You can customize various settings such as sound, video quality, and hotkeys according to your preference.
- No software installation. Given that the screen recorder comes pre-installed with Windows 11 and 10 OS, you can avoid installing any external software for screen recording purposes.
- Resource efficiency. Since it's built into the OS, using this video recorder consumes fewer system resources compared to running separate third-party applications for similar functions.
Cons:
- Compatibility issues. Certain games and applications may not work well with the Game Bar, leading to compatibility issues, crashes, or glitches.
With its intuitive interface and customizable settings, the screen recording software is suitable for both beginners and experienced users. However, it may have some compatibility issues with certain applications.
Video Candy
Video Candy is a web-based service that allows you to record the screen directly from your Windows 11 device without needing any downloads or installations. It provides a straightforward interface for capturing video content.
How to use Video Candy as an online screen recorder for Windows 11
- Open the Windows screen recorder in your preferred browser.
- Choose the settings, such as whether to use your microphone, system audio, and webcam.
- Click "Start Recording" and select to capture your entire display, a specific tab, or a custom window.
- Confirm permissions for your browser to access the screen and audio inputs.
- Once you're done, hit "Stop Recording" and download the resulting clip directly to your device.
Pros:
- No installation required. Being a web-based tool, it eliminates the need for downloading or installing additional software, saving storage and time.
- Intuitive controls. The interface of the free screen recorder is clean and user-friendly, making it easy to set up and start the process within seconds.
- Customizable options. You can adjust preferences such as audio input, video resolution, and recording area.
Cons:
- Internet dependency. Since it's an online platform, a stable internet connection is necessary for smooth operation.
Video Candy's online screen recorder is an excellent choice for quick, hassle-free clips. While it may lack some high-end features, its simplicity and accessibility make it ideal for casual users and lightweight tasks.
FAQ on how to record screen on Windows 11
- Can I record my entire screen with Game Bar?
- No, it records only individual apps or game windows. That is why you can't capture your desktop, File Explorer, and some other apps.
- Can I capture audio while screen recording?
- Yes, both options from this article can record system audio and microphone input.
- How do I change the save location for my clips?
- For Game Bar, go to Windows settings and click "System" > "Storage". Then, scroll down to "Change where new content is saved". For Icecream Screen Recorder, go to the app's settings, open the "Save to" tab and change the output folders for videos, screenshots, and audio.
- Can I record my screen on Windows 11 in high definition?
- Yes, for example. Icecream Screen Recorder allows you to capture desktop in high definition. Adjust your recording settings to select the desired quality.
- What should I do if my recording quality is poor?
- If your video quality is not as expected, you may need to check your settings. Also, ensure your system performance is optimal, or consider adjusting the resolution and frame rate.
- How do I troubleshoot issues with screen recording on Windows?
- Check for common problems such as insufficient storage space, low system performance, or software conflicts. Reviewing the tool’s documentation or support resources can also provide troubleshooting tips.
- Is it possible to schedule screen recordings?
- Yes, our program offers scheduling features that allow you to set up recordings to start and stop at specific times automatically. This is useful for capturing content without manual intervention.
Conclusion
To summarize, screen recording on Windows 11 is easily attainable using both straightforward techniques. Whether you prefer using the built-in Game Bar or the versatile tools of Icecream Screen Recorder, capturing your desktop has never been easier.
You can easily create tutorials, demos, or even record your gaming sessions without any hassle. Just choose the method that works best for you and follow the steps carefully.
Don't forget to also consider your system specifications and storage capacity before starting to record.
Expert Tech Writer
