Top Screen Recording Software for a PC
A screen recorder for computer is a valuable tool for anyone looking to screen capture desktop activity for various purposes.
Whether you're creating video guides, streaming gaming sessions, or saving video calls, having the right application can significantly enhance your workflow.
In this article, we’ll explore the key features to consider, as well as the best options available to help you select the perfect solution for your needs.
Top best screen recorder for computer
| Software | For | Key Features | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Icecream Screen Recorder |
Windows
|
Webcam recording Audio capture Annotations HD video quality Easy sharing |
Free |
| OBS Studio |
Windows
MacOS
Linux
|
Live streaming Scene transitions 4K recording Plugin support |
Free & open-source |
| Bandicam |
Windows
|
Game recording Webcam overlay Hardware acceleration Scheduled recording |
Free & Pro versions ($39 one-time) |
| ScreenRec |
Windows
MacOS
Linux
|
HD recording Cloud storage (2GB) Instant sharing No watermarks |
Free (with paid cloud storage plans) |
| ScreenPal |
Windows
MacOS
|
Video editing Zoom Captions Multi-language support |
Free & Premium ($1.65/month or $19.99 one-time) |
| CamStudio |
Windows
|
Text annotations Lossless compression AVI/SWF output |
Free (open-source) |
| Game Bar |
Windows
|
Real-time performance monitoring Webcam overlay Background recording |
Free (built into Windows) |
What to look for in screen recording software?
- User Experience: A simple, intuitive interface helps you get started quickly.
- Quality: Ensure the video recorder supports high-definition screen recording, with resolutions like 720p, 1080p, or higher.
- Audio: The app should catch both internal sound and microphone input.
- Editing Capabilities: Some offer built-in components such as trimming, adding captions, or annotating.
- Format Support: Choose recording software that saves clips in common extensions like MP4, AVI, or MOV.
- Customization: The ability to select specific areas, add webcam overlays, or adjust frame rates.
- System Performance: Make sure the screen capture program runs efficiently without slowing down your computer.
- Share: Look for alternatives that simplify exporting to popular platforms like YouTube or cloud storage.
- Multi-Monitor Support: If you use multiple screens, pick a utility that can record across all displays.
- Pricing: Evaluate whether the software offers a free version with limited features or if the premium subscription provides valuable additional tools.
Icecream Screen Recorder
- For: Windows
Icecream Screen Recorder is a versatile application designed for both novice and experienced users. The program offers robust functionality, allowing to capture specific areas of the screen or the entire display.
Additionally, it supports webcam recording, which is perfect for content creators and educators who want to combine desktop with face cam clips.
For those who need to make quick edits, this record app for PC also includes basic tools like video trimming and adding annotations, streamlining the post-production process.
Key Features:
- Webcam Recording
- Audio Capture
- Annotation
- Editing Options
- HD Video Quality
- Screenshots
- Export and Easy Sharing
Icecream Screen Recorder is available in both Free and Pro versions. The cost ranges from $59.95 for a one-time payment to $29.95 per year for the subscription model.
OBS Studio
- For: Windows, macOS, Linux
OBS Studio is a powerful open-source screen recorder tailored for recording and live streaming. It stands out due to its extensive customization options, advanced features, and the fact that it’s completely free.
Its scene-based layout allows creators to mix various media, switch between scenes, and apply real-time effects, giving content a polished, professional look.
Video recording software's modular interface lets users create personalized workspaces that fit their style. Furthermore, it supports high-performance capturing and streaming, ensuring minimal lag and maximum quality.
Key Features:
- Audio Mixing
- Scene Transitions
- High-Performance Recording (up to 4K)
- Live Streaming
- Multisource Support
- Filters and Effects
- Plugin Support
- Studio Mode
OBS Studio is completely free and open-source screen recording software, with no hidden fees or premium versions. It is continuously updated by an active community.
Bandicam
- For: Windows
Bandicam is a lightweight yet powerful tool to record video on PC, designed for both gaming and general desktop activity capture. The screen recorder uses great compression techniques, allowing users to capture in HD without compromising on performance.
It provides the ability to capture ultra-high frame rates, supporting up to 144 FPS and providing smooth, detailed clips. It also offers a variety of customizable settings, including real-time drawing and scheduled recording, ensuring flexibility in different scenarios.
Desktop recorder’s simple interface makes it easy to get started quickly, while its advanced features allow for fine-tuning of parameters.
Key Features:
- Game Recording Mode
- Webcam Overlay
- Hardware Acceleration for Reduced CPU Usage
- Timer
- Advanced Compression
- Multiple Export Formats
- Simple Upload to YouTube
Bandicam has both Free and Pro versions. The license is priced at $39, offering unlimited recording time and removing watermarks.
ScreenRec
- For: Windows, macOS, Linux
ScreenRec is a user-friendly video capture software that combines ease of use with powerful features.
Ideal for both professionals and casual users, it offers high-definition screen and webcam recording with the added benefit of real-time cloud sharing. This eliminates the need for large file transfers and the hassle of dealing with storage limitations.
The screen recorder also features screenshot functionality, allowing to capture still images with just one click.
Key Features:
- Instant Sharing with Secure Links
- No Watermarks
- Screenshot
- Zero-Lag Recording
- Cloud Storage (2GB Free)
- Simple Interface for Easy Setup
ScreenRec is available in a Free version, offering full package. Additional cloud storage can be accessed through customized plans.
ScreenPal
- For: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
ScreenPal (formerly Screencast-O-Matic) is an all-in-one solution designed for a wide range of creators, from beginners to professionals.
Its user-friendly interface ensures that anyone can record screen quickly, while the built-in video editing tools give the ability to refine their videos by adding text, annotations, and transitions. It also offers features like zooming and automatic caption generation, which are particularly beneficial for creating engaging content.
The screen recording platform integrates with cloud services. With fast export options, it makes it easy to distribute content directly to YouTube and Google Drive.
Key Features:
- Video Editing
- Zoom
- Automatic Captions
- Multiple Publishing Options
- Multi-Language Support
- Instant Sharing
ScreenPal offers both Free and Premium variants. The Premium subscription costs $1.65 per month (billed annually) or $19.99 for a one-time purchase.
CamStudio
- For: Windows
CamStudio is an open-code screen record Windows app that offers a straightforward solution for those who need to capture their display.
Despite being free, it delivers solid performance in recording full screen or selected regions with minimal system impact.
The screen recorder offers several options for video format output, allowing users to export their footage in AVI format or convert them into SWF (Flash) for easier sharing.
One of the standout features is its built-in lossless video compression, which ensures files remain compact without sacrificing quality. Additionally, the free screen recorder is customizable, with support for hotkeys and various settings to tailor the experience to your needs.
Key Features:
- Text Annotations
- Lossless Compression
- Adjustable Settings
- Simple Interface
- Lightweight
CamStudio is an open-source software, with no cost or licensing fees required.
Game Bar
- For: Windows
Game Bar is a built-in feature in Windows 10 and later versions. it was designed primarily for gamers who want to share their display without the need for third-party software.
The video recorder provides tools to monitor system performance, such as CPU, RAM, and GPU statistics. It is highly accessible, with on-screen overlays that give the ability to control captures, enable webcam capture, and adjust audio settings in real time.
One of the highlights is its Game DVR functionality, which allows for the recording of various system applications.
Key Features:
- Real-Time Performance Monitoring
- Webcam Overlay
- Audio Controls
- Background Recording
Game Bar is available for free as part of Windows 10 and newer versions, with no separate licensing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the right screen recorder for your computer depends on your unique needs, whether you're a casual user, content creator, gamer, or professional. There are plenty of options available, each with its own set of features.
Expert Tech Writer
