How to Video Capture on a PC
In today's digital world, knowing how to record your screen is not only a great skill but also something you need to know in many areas. It's important to understand video capture on your PC if you want to be a vlogger, a gamer who wants to share their letsplay, or a specialist who needs to make interesting presentations.
Find the best video recorders for you and learn how to use all of their features to their fullest. We'll show you how to do each step in a clear and simple way.
Way 1. Icecream Screen Recorder
Icecream Screen Recorder is a versatile program that lets you make videos and images of your desktop. It has a lot of features, no matter how much experience you have.
How to video capture on a PC with Icecream Screen Recorder
- Begin by downloading and installing free screen recorder for PC.
- Once installed, launch the app and adjust the settings according to your preferences. You have the option to configure webcam, microphone, and speaker settings.
- Hit "Capture". Choose the desired type, whether it's full mode or a custom capture area.
- When everything is set up, simply press "Record". Alternatively, you can utilize the timer if needed.
- To conclude the session, click the "Stop" button and save your file.
Pros:
- Customize your resolution and export formats effortlessly.
- Place watermarks on your videos seamlessly.
- Trim your footage with the built-in video editor.
- Schedule screen captures ahead of time for convenience.
- Add audio from both internal and external sources.
- Utilize numerous hotkey combinations for quick access.
- Draw and annotate directly on your desktop with ease.
- Securely store files in the cloud for collaborative projects.
Way 2. Game Bar
Game Bar is a feature-rich overlay interface designed for Windows 10 and 11 PCs, primarily focused on enhancing the experience. It offers a lot of utilities, enabling you to interact with friends, monitor system performance, and more, all without interrupting a gaming session.
How to capture video on a PC with Game Bar
- Open the app you want to preserve and press "Windows + G" to open the Game Bar.
- In the "Capture" menu click "Start recording". You can also use the hotkeys "Windows + Alt + R".
- During the process, you can employ the overlay toolbar to control your microphone, camera, and other settings.
- When it is complete, press "Stop" or "Windows + Alt + R".
Pros:
- Capture gameplay screen with just a few clicks.
- Video recorder provides access to various widgets and utilities, including a performance monitor.
Cons:
- Can cause a noticeable drop in game performance, especially on lower-end PCs.
- It may not work properly with older games or those not purchased through the Microsoft Store.
- Requires additional video editing software for more advanced changes.
Way 3. Clipchamp
Clipchamp is an all-in-one online content creation platform that empowers users to easily edit, share and record a video on a PC without the need for extensive technical expertise or complex programs.
How to video capture on PC online in Clipchamp
- Visit the website and log in with your credentials.
- Navigate to the "Record & create" section. Choose the mode in which you want to continue.
- Press the red button to start the process. Select the area.
- When you're done, click the "Stop" button to end the session.
- The service will automatically save the result to your project.
Pros:
- Includes a robust built-in video editor for PC with features like trimming, cutting, adding text, and applying filters.
- Facilitates real-time collaboration on projects.
- Can include both your display and webcam simultaneously.
Cons:
- The time is limited to 30 minutes per session.
- The free version has restrictions on export quality.
- You need to have a Microsoft account and log in to try the video recorder.
Way 4. Video Candy
Video Candy is an online tool that offers a variety of features designed for creating clips easily. It enables users to preserve their computer display, including system audio and microphone input.
How to screen capture with audio with Video Candy
- Open your browser and go to the screen recorder.
- Select what to add: microphone, audio, or webcam. Hit "Start recording".
- Choose whether you want to get the full desktop, just a specific window, or a region.
- Then press "Stop". Your clip will automatically be processed.
- Download the final file to your computer.
Pros:
- The ability to preserve your webcam along with the desktop.
- Being a cloud-based tool, there's no need to download or install software.
Cons:
- The free version has watermarks.
Way 5. ScreenRec
ScreenRec is a versatile program developed for creating high-quality content effortlessly. It allows users to capture their screen, webcam, or both, making it perfect for tutorials, presentations, demonstrations, and video calls.
How to record desktop with ScreenRec
- First, download and install the app from its official website. Launch it.
- Click the "Record" button. You will be given options to choose the area.
- Select whether you need system and/or microphone audio. You can enable or disable both options by toggling the respective buttons.
- When you’re ready, press "Start Recording".
- To finish, simply hit "Stop" in the toolbar.
Pros:
- Allows you to set HD quality without significant loss in resolution
- Completely free to use video recorder that doesn’t require extensive system resources.
Cons:
- Imposes a 5-minute limit if you do not create or sign in to an account.
Reasons to video capture on PC
- Content Creation. Make engaging clips for platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. Recording a video on a PC allows you to produce vlogs, unboxings, and reviews.
- Educational Purposes. Produce lectures, tutorials, and demonstrations to enhance online learning.
- Gaming. Preserve gameplay to share with friends, post on social media, or stream on platforms like Twitch.
- Professional Use. Produce presentations, product demonstrations, and training content for employees or clients.
- Technical Support. Record screen activities to demonstrate tech issues or to provide step-by-step solutions.
- Webinars. Capture online meetings, webinars, and conferences for future reference. Save important calls, presentations, and events for archival purposes.
FAQ on how to video capture on PC
- What format should I save the results in?
- MP4 is a commonly recommended format due to its balance of quality and file size, and it is widely supported across different devices. Most video capture software will allow you to choose your preferred extension during the export process.
- What should I do if my screen video recorder crashes?
- Ensure your app is up to date and that your PC meets the system requirements. Restart your computer and close unnecessary applications to free up resources. If issues persist, consult the support or forums for troubleshooting tips.
- What are some common issues, and how can I fix them?
- Common problems include lagging or choppy clips, out-of-sync audio, and poor quality. To fix these, try adjusting the settings (e.g., lower resolution or frame rate) and closing unnecessary applications during the session.
- Can I record streaming video from websites like Netflix or YouTube?
- While it's technically possible, it may violate the terms of service and copyright laws. Additionally, many platforms use DRM (Digital Rights Management) technology to prevent unauthorized copying of content.
Conclusion
Recording a video on your PC is a versatile skill with endless possibilities. Whether you're a gamer, educator, or business professional, the right application can help you create engaging content and communicate effectively.
With a range of user-friendly options available, finding the perfect fit for your needs is easy. From simple interfaces to advanced editing tools, there's something for everyone.
Expert Tech Writer
