Whether you’ve paid for numerous software after using trial versions and received nowhere close to the bang for your buck that was anticipated, or you’re looking to save some money, there are plenty of free screen recorders that can get the job done with satisfying results without emptying your pocket. A word of caution though: some vendors may require you to buy a paid version after you download their “free” software so you can get full access to its functionality.
Most of the times, if you can’t find a reliable program to record your computer screen, you go to the search engines and type key words like what is best computer screen recording software free. As usual, it generates thousands if not millions of search results depending on how many visitors are searching for that specific topic. Most people will scan the pages quickly to spot their item of interest and then head over to the next page looking for more topics that interest them.
There’s nothing wrong with seeking advice from the web, but sometimes you’ll find information that may be incorrect or misinformed. A huge part of the Internet isn’t moderated or monitored. You could get too much or too little info simply by browsing, so it is always best to find only the best computer screen recording software free.
It has become a must for most companies to hire someone to record their achievements in the form of a video for sharing with clients, partners and employees. Well, you can do the same thing by using one of the best computer screen recording software free options. However, there are other ways to create videos apart from recording your computer screen activity.
What Is Screen Recording Software?
Screen recording software can record the entirety (or portions) of your computer or mobile screen.
The recording can include everything from your taps and cursor movements to typing a URL into your browser to help people learn what to do and how to do it.
Audio narration is available, and sometimes annotation is also offered as part of a tool’s package.
However, no two screen recording tools are alike. Some screen recording tools can’t save the recorded footage for various formats or export it to popular video platforms like YouTube directly.
Others may have the capability to do all of that, but might be missing a feature or two. For example, not every screen recording application comes with an HD screen recorder.
As such, you should pay attention to its capabilities before downloading or installing screen recording software on your device.
It’s also crucial to evaluate your own recording needs. Perhaps you don’t need to record in HD. Maybe you’ve recently purchased video hosting and can do without a YouTube export option. The best screen recorder for you will be the one that meets your specific needs.
What Is a Good Screen Recorder?
Our compilation of screen recording tools ranges from browser-based software to minimalistic desktop apps. Each of the picks meets the following basic criteria:
- Is easy-to-use
- Records the entire screen, a particular area, or one window
- Lets users annotate the recorded footage
- Includes system and microphone audio
- Captures footage from external sources
- Has built-in export options
It’s also worth mentioning that many of the software options come with HD recording capabilities. However, it’s important to know that HD files take a lot of time to upload. If you’re looking to quickly uploaded standard-quality videos on the web, HD is not a must-have.
1. Free Cam
Ideal screen recording software for making WMV screen captures
OS: Windows
Free Cam is a very simple free screen recorder with a built-in audio/video editor. The attractive and intuitive interface allows you to record both the whole screen and a portion of your screen. Even though this software is free, it doesn’t place any watermark and is ad free.
Pros
- No watermark, time limits, or ads
- Records voice-overs and computer sounds
- High-quality resolution
- Users can save videos as WMV or upload them directly to YouTube
- Easily deletes unwanted video fragments
- Removes background noise
- Wide selection of audio effects
Cons
- Saves recordings to WMV only
- No webcam recording
Watch this demo to see what you can do with Free Cam:
2. DVDVideoSoft’s Free Screen Video Recorder
The best screen capture software for recording Skype video calls
OS: Windows
Free Screen Video Recorder is a full-featured but lightweight free screen recorder from a developer known for its free conversion software. It can record Skype conversations with no limitations and is therefore useful for Skype interviews and online conference calls. Also, different Windows applications can be singled out and captured as discrete elements. Included is a basic user-friendly image editor that is surprisingly helpful for attaining a polished look.
Pros
- Offers a convenient screenshot feature
- Different modes for recording screen and video
- Suitable for recording Skype conversations
- Step-by-step instructions provided on the site
- Available in 10 languages
- Output formats include MP4, BMP, TGA, JPEG, PNG, and GIF
Cons
- Microphone sound recording only
- Excessive ads may interrupt your work
- Lacks coherent interface and built-in media player
- May install unwanted software during download
- Does not notify users if disconnection occurs
Here’s a video on how to capture your screen with Free Screen Video Recorder:
3. ShareX
The best screen recorder for PC for those who need to share screen captures online
OS: Windows
ShareX is an open-source ad-free tool that boasts almost as many custom features as some paid software screen recorders. ShareX is mostly targeted toward developers and power users, so an average customer might get lost in the many advanced tools and editors.
Pros
- Records full screen, window, monitor, region, freehand, or scrolling
- Incorporates hotkeys for easier and quicker navigation
- Supports many URL sharing services
- Imports existing videos, music, or photos
- Allows custom watermarks and color effects
- A variety of export options
Cons
- Low quality of game recording
- Complicated for the average user
- No webcam recording
- Reported to fail while uploading large files
- No video editor
Learn more about ShareX from this video:
4. CamStudio
The best free screen recorder for creating AVI video files
OS: Windows
CamStudio is a good choice for one-time or occasional users with minimal editing needs. This lightweight, open-source screen recording software creates videos in AVI format that can later be converted to SWF. While its compactness appeals to some, others call for further development and increased technical support.
Pros
- Creates a screen-in-screen video
- Allows you to create small-sized files
- Custom cursor
- Quality options available for output video
Cons
- Reported to spread harmful viruses and malware
- Outputs only to AVI with a conversion to Flash
- Output is incompatible with certain browsers
- Audio falls out of sync
- Lack of interactive and animation features
To explore how to use CamStudio, watch this video:
5. Ezvid
A perfect screen recording tool for making quick video clips and sharing them on YouTube
OS: Windows
Ezvid is free screen recording software that claims to be the world’s tool, and that may not be too far from the truth. Ezvid’s clarity is enhanced by the product’s speed: specifically designed to save users’ time, it will help you produce and upload videos directly to YouTube in a matter of minutes. And that’s why this tool enjoys notoriety among gamers and movie fans who are interested in making YouTube videos frequently and as quickly as possible.
Pros
- Offers computer-generated speech for narrative purposes
- Automatic high-quality resolution (1280 x 720p HD)
- Speed control over output videos
- Sleek and modern interface
- Instantaneous upload to YouTube
- Selection of popular music tracks included
Cons
- Reviewers report extraneous noise
- Minor bugs and inconsistencies
- Fullscreen game is not available
6. TinyTake
A screen recorder with a native cloud-based gallery for storing and sharing videos
OS: Windows and Mac
TinyTake by MangoApps is a sophisticated free screen recorder for Windows and Mac that allows you to capture images and videos from your computer screen, add comments, and share them with others within minutes. TinyTake comes with an online cloud-based gallery where you can store all your screen captures and recorded videos.
Pros
- Bulk file sharing
- Public URL available for sharing
- Built-in online file viewer for images, videos, and documents
- Ability to create custom shortcut keys
- Video player is compatible with mobile devices
Cons
- Free version has a 5-minute limit for video recording
- Video files are saved as MP4 only
- Limited editing features
Here’s a video on how to use TinyTake for recording videos:
7. OBS (Open Broadcaster Software)
The best free screen recorder for capturing gameplays
OS: Windows, Mac, Linux
OBS Studio is a top open-source software for live streaming. You can create scenes composed with multiple sources: images, texts, window captures, browser windows, webcams, capture cards, and more, and then switch between them seamlessly via custom transitions. Unlike many other free competitors, OBS Studio packs a lot of features and settings. But all this can seem overkill for those who are looking for the quickest and easiest way to shoot a video.
Pros
- Allows you to set up multiple scenes and use various sources
- Includes built-in audio mixer with per-source filters
- Provides advanced configuration options
- Does not add watermarks
- Has no recording limit
- Supports multiple streaming services
Cons
- Some users find the interface quite clunky
- Learning curve is steep for non-techs
- Reported to crash quite often
- Not suited for quick screen recording
Watch this video on OBS Studio and how to use it:
8. Debut Video Capture
Great video recording software for creating demonstrations and streaming video games
OS: Windows
Debut is among the best free screen recorders for Windows and allows you to make videos for almost any task. It has a slightly odd and old-fashioned interface but boasts advanced functionality. For example, you can make mouse highlighting spotlights, show keystrokes, replace the background with images, video, or color, add a logo or watermark to your video capture, and even schedule a recording.
Pros
- Can capture from a network IP camera and other devices
- Records screen, webcam, and audio
- Unlimited recording time
- Robust editing options
- A variety of output formats
- Green Screen tool
- Time-lapse video recording
Cons
- Limited editing features
- Outdated interface
- No interactive or animation features
- Reported to slow down when uploading videos
Here’s a video on how to record your screen with Debut:
Comparison Chart of Free Screen Recorders
| Product name | Webcam recording | Audio recording | Video editing | Output |
| 1. Free Cam | No | Yes | Yes | WMV |
| 2. DVDVideoSoft’s Free Screen Video Recorder | No | Yes | No | MP4, BMP, JPEG, PNG |
| 3. ShareX | No | Yes | No | AVI, MP4, GIF |
| 4. CamStudio | No | Yes | No | AVI, SWF |
| 5. Ezvid | No | Yes | Yes | WMV |
| 6. TinyTake | Yes | Yes | No | MP4 |
| 7. OBS | No | Yes | No | LV, MP4, MOV, MKV, TS, HLS |
| 8. Debut | Yes | Yes | Yes | AVI, WMV, FLV, MPG, MP4, MOV |
Paid Screen Recording Software That We Love
The Internet’s bountiful supply of screen recording products means that one is sure to find free and low-cost options. However, when searching for high-quality performance, elaborate presentation, and expert technical support, many users are ready to invest their money in paid software. Here are seven paid screen recorders that have gained customers’ and reviewers’ trust and continue to expand their eminent presence in the market.
9. iSpring Suite
A perfect solution for creating video courses, how-to videos, and software tutorials
OS: Windows
iSpring Suite is a fully stocked authoring toolkit designed for creating eLearning content. It includes a professional video studio, as well as a set of other tools for online training: a course authoring tool, a quiz maker, a conversation simulator, and an interaction editor. The video studio allows you to make screencasts with voiceovers, instructional videos with annotations, and screencasts complemented with a presenter video. After a screencast is recorded, you can easily edit it: remove noise, insert media objects and annotations, delete unwanted fragments, and add transition effects.
Pros
- Can record two videos at the same time: a screencast and a webcam video
- Records a narration
- Has a multi-track timeline for video editing
- Adds images, visual hints, infographics, and captions
- Creates smooth scene transitions
- No time limits for recording
Cons
- Only mp4 video format is available
- Few interactive and animation features
To get a complete sense of iSpring Suite and its options, watch this video:
Price: $970/year for the entire toolkit. Free 30-day trial → (no credit card required)
10. Camtasia
A robust screen recorder with quizzes and interactivity options
OS: Windows and Mac
Camtasia is a feature-packed tool for detail-oriented enthusiasts. It allows you to record video and audio one after another, combining the results afterward. Camtasia is quite flexible in terms of using animations and video effects and adding overlays. The best thing is that the tool is constantly being updated and receives new features on a regular basis.
Pros
- Incorporates a webcam
- Audio, video, and cursor tracks can be edited separately
- Imports existing videos, music, photos, and PowerPoint slides
- Adds captions, callouts, and quizzes to your videos
- Frame-by-frame editing
- Has a library of royalty-free music and sound effects
Cons
- One of the most expensive screen recorders
- Reported to slow down on large and heavy projects
- Busy multi-track interface
Here’s a brief overview of Camtasia:
Price: $249. Free 30-day trial.
11. Filmora Scrn
The best video capturing software for streaming and game recording
OS: Windows and Mac
Filmora Scrn is a trustworthy video recording software that is especially loved by gamers. It allows you to capture fast-paced scenes (up to 60 fps for Mac) while simultaneously recording a webcam video. It also has a basic video editor that allows you to improve the look of the video and tutorial features, which can help direct attention to the main items on the screen.
Pros
- Can record from your computer and webcam simultaneously
- Imports over 50 file formats and exports in multiple formats
- Picture-шn-picture mode
- Frame rate from 15 to 120 FPS
- Supports HD and even 4k recording
Cons
- Lacks advanced editing features
- Noticeable performance impact in games
- Reported to lag and freeze when editing
Watch this video tutorial on how to use Filmora Scrn:
Price: $19.99 for 1 year or $29.99 for a lifetime license. Free trial.
12. Movavi Screen Recorder
The best Windows screen recorder for capturing video calls, webinars, and other online events
OS: Windows and Mac
Movavi Screen Recorder is an easy-to-use screen capture tool that allows you to perform desktop recording, capture webcam and audio, save recordings as high-quality videos and GIFs, and take screenshots. You can upload your final video to Google Drive or YouTube and share them with your audience via social media.
Pros
- Incorporates webcam
- Can record screen and audio simultaneously or separately
- Saves video in HD and supports multiple formats: AVI, MP4, MOV, and MKV
- Takes screenshots and edits them
- Allows scheduled recording
- Mouse display in the recording
Cons
- Very few editing tools
- Trial version limits recording time to 5 minutes
- Reported to have periodic crash issues
See how to use Movavi Screen Recorder in this video:
Price: $39.95 for 1 PC. Free 7-day trial.
13. My Screen Recorder Pro
Good screen recording software for those who need to distribute videos to their website
OS: Windows
My Screen Recorder Pro is a feature-packed screen capturing tool that records anything on the computer screen, including the entire desktop, menus, cursors, and video with sound. It also lets you record your webcam or mobile screen in high-definition quality simultaneously with the desktop screen. Besides industry-standard AVI, WMV, and MP4, the screen recorder can save video in WebM, perfect for distribution or uploading to your website or blog.
Pros
- Can record webcam or mobile screen, along with desktop screen recording
- Video output to AVI, WMV, MP4, and WebM formats
- Allows scheduled recording
- Auto-upload recordings to any FTP account
- Can securely monitor the screen in hide mode
Cons
- Has limited editing options
- No animations and transitions
To learn more about My Screen Recorder options and settings, watch this video:
Price: $129.95. Free feature limited trial.
14. FlashBack
A simple screen recorder with basic editing features
OS: Windows
FlashBack is a full-motion-based screen recorder with a simple, handy interface. You can capture your screen, along with webcam and mic, and then make the recording better with a built-in video editor by adding captions, arrows, images, and highlights.
Pros
- Records multiple monitors
- Incorporates webcam
- Allows you to add distinctive and custom watermarks
- Quick upload to Youtube, FlashBack Connect or export as MP4, GIF, WMV, QuickTime, AVI, and Flash
- Offers zooming and panning options
Cons
- Difficult to modify existing demos
- Allows you to import files only in FBR format
- Does not track the movement of windows in use
Price: $49 for 1 PC. Free 30-day trial.
15. Screencast-O-Matic
A reliable screen recording software with a built-in stock library and secure video hosting
OS: Windows, Mac and iOS, Android, and Chromebook
Screencast-O-Matic is considered one of the best screen recorders for PC and mobile devices. It’s fast, fairly easy to use, and comes with a video editor that allows you to personalize recordings and make them more attractive and entertaining. Unlike its many competitors, Screencast-O-Matic comes with a built-in stock library full of videos, images, and music tracks, cloud hosting for storing and sharing videos, and even collaboration and team management tools. However, this advanced functionality is available only for premium plans users. It allows you to upload your videos to YouTube, Google Drive, Vimeo, and Dropbox. There’s also a mobile app for Android and iOS.
Pros
- Does webcam and audio narration recordings
- Comprehensive video-editing options
- Automated Speech-to-Text option
- Built-in stock library
- Secure and private online backup
- Collaborative video management tools
Cons
- The free version embeds a watermark in videos
- The free version limits screen recording time to 15 minutes
Get more details about Screencast-O-Matic from this video:
Price: Starts from $4.00/month. There’s also a free version with limited functionality.
Comparison Chart of Paid Screen Recorders
| Product name | Webcam recording | Audio recording | Video editing | Output |
| 9. iSpring Suite | Yes | Yes | Yes | MP4, HTML5 |
| 10. Camtasia | Yes | Yes | Yes | MP4, HTML5, WMV, AVI, PNG, JPEG, GIF, BMP, WAV, MP3, MP4 |
| 11. Filmora Scrn | Yes | Yes | Yes | MP4, WMV, AVI, MOV, MP3, GIF, etc. |
| 12. My Screen Recorder Pro | Yes | Yes | Yes | AVI, WMV, and WebM |
| 13. FlashBack | Yes | Yes | Yes | MP4, AVI, GIF, etc. |
| 14. Screencast-O-Matic | Yes | Yes | Yes | MP4, AVI, FLV |
What is screen recording?
Screen recording, also known as screen capture, refers to recording anything that’s happening on your screen. It can be used for different purposes. For example, learning professionals can demonstrate to their employees how to use the software they need to perform their job. Software development companies can record videos on how to use their tool for their customers, and gamers can share their gameplay with the whole world.
How to record your screen in Windows 10
If you are using the Windows 10 operating system, you already have a built-in screen recorder called Xbox Game Bar. It has quite limited capabilities; more specifically, it doesn’t allow you to record the entire desktop or File Manager. However, you can use it with any desktop app or program downloaded from the Windows Store. Let’s see how to do this:
- Open the program you wish to record.
2. Press the Windows key and G at the same time.
3. You’ll now see the Xbox Game Bar menu. Click on Start Recording at the upper left-hand corner of your screen. You can also capture your voice by clicking on the Microphone button.
4. Once you’ve finished recording, open the Xbox Game Bar menu and click on Stop Recording.
Congratulations! You’ve made your screen recording. You can find it in the Captures subfolder of the Videos folder.
Conclusion
Computer screen recording is widely used by people from all industries. When you have a computer task to teach your customers or employees, they may need to follow series of procedures and you will find it hard to show them on the screen and explain how to do each step. Of course, you can try video taping the steps on software and playing them back; it’s laborious. Also, if there are some key processes involved, videotaping would be even less effective as there are many details the video tapes might miss. A better way is recording those keys on software which is called computer screen recording.
I am sure that you have probably seen the need to record your computer screen but were not sure what options that were available to you. Screen recording software is a great solution for recording the computer screen based on your needs. There are numerous types of screen recording software out on the market and it can be hard to decide which one works best for your needs.