ActivePresenter is a Mac screen recorder that bills itself as an all-in-one tool. The free edition lets you record your screen as a full-motion video, complete with audio. You'll also have access to a range of annotations such as shapes, zoom-n-pan, closed caption, and more. However, it'll add a watermark to non-supported file formats. Aiseesoft Screen Recorder (Windows, Mac) Aiseesoft Screen Recorder is the professional but easy screen recording software without watermark for Windows and Mac computer. It is smooth to record 4K UHD and 1080p HD games, movies, and streaming videos with the audio narration. Best screen recorders OBS Studio (Windows, Mac, Linux) As an open-source project with a lot of work put into it, OBS Studio is packed with features. You can customize real-time video and audio. Aiseesoft Screen Recorder is the best screen recording software which can help you capture screen (video/audio) and take a snapshot on Mac and Windows computer. It also be a good game video recorder and snapshot app to record your screen. Here’s the top 10 best free screen recorder for Mac. QuickTime Player (FREE) QuickTime Player is Apple’s default media application that’s use for screen recordings. And according to those who’ve had experience on using this screen recorder, for a high fidelity of recording, just record a part of your screen instead of recording the.
The best screen recording software can simplify a variety of tasks for businesses. From announcing product updates and making software tutorials to onboarding new employees, a screen recorder makes it easier for teams to share information.
No two screen recorders are alike. Hence, you’ve got to do your research well before fully committing to one. So you won’t have to scour the web, we’ve made a list of ten exceptional tools worth considering:
Let’s get right into it.
When to Use Screen Recording
Before anything else, you should understand the importance of screen recording software tools and the endless possibilities they bring. As mentioned, these tools can simplify tasks. They can make complex ideas easier to understand. Instead of writing reports to the IT department about certain issues, you can show them what the problem is using screen recorders.
Businesses can use screen recording software to give thorough instructions on completing a task. You can use it to educate consumers or their employees. You may use it to explain documents in detail and to make presentations by recording PowerPoint slides.
Top 10 Screen Recording Software Tools
Screen recording doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Using simple, intuitive tools, anyone can navigate the software and get the job done in no time.
Read on to see which one is the most ideal for your needs.
1. Camtasia
Camtasia has rich video and audio editing features, making it suitable for detail-oriented users. It lets you edit your recording frame by frame. You can add animations and all kinds of video effects. Unlike your average screen recorder, you can even add quizzes and other interactive content in your videos using this tool. With a library of royalty-free tracks and sound effects, you can edit your recording to your heart’s content. Given its comprehensive features, it’s not the easiest tool to work with, especially for beginners.
Although it has a free 30-day trial, its paid version comes with a hefty price tag. In fact, it is one of the most expensive screen-recording software tools on the market. Its single license pricing costs $249. With this one-time fee, you can install it on two computers—Windows or Mac.
✅ PROS:
- Free trial
- Advanced video editing
- Powerful screen recording tools
⛔️ CONS:
- Paid version is expensive
- Steep learning curve
- Lags when used on large projects
2. Bandicam
Bandicam lets you record everything that’s happening on your PC screen with crisp, high-quality visuals. If you wish to, you may also record a small portion of the screen. You can capture video from devices such as web cameras, smartphones, Xbox consoles, and more. You can even schedule screen recordings at a specific time of the day or week.
The screen recorder offers features that gamers are interested in, including an FPS overlay and control. Using the free Bandicam version, all of your recordings will come with a watermark. If you want to get rid of it, you should get the paid version, which costs $39. This license lets you install the software on a single device.
✅ PROS:
- Scheduled recording
- User-friendly interface
- Affordable paid version
⛔️ CONS:
- Recording mode doesn’t work well at high frame rates
- Only compatible with Windows
- Free version has watermarks
3. Apowersoft
Apowersoft is a browser-based screen recorder that isn’t quite suitable for gaming. It is, however, great for recording product demonstrations, presentations, and other tutorials. The screen recorder can record various kinds of on-screen activities—from live chats to video streams. Not only that, it has a diverse range of export options, including MP4, GIF, MPEG, WMV, and more.
Using the screen recording software, you can edit your file in real-time. You can add text, callouts, and highlights. You can either save your recording on a local drive or the cloud at zero cost.
✅ PROS:
- Multiple export options
- No time limit
- No watermark
⛔️ CONS:
- Not ideal for games
- Needs a plug-in to work
- Requires a stable internet connection
4. Screencastify
Suited for creating software demos or solutions videos, Screencastify is a free Chrome extension. It adds a fresh twist to traditional presentations. In school, teachers can use it to illustrate difficult concepts or to deliver feedback. Businesses may use it in similar ways. They can use the software to train new employees or share professional development.
By creating product demos, you may also use it to drive sales. It is a great option for those looking to share short clips that require minimal edits.
Screencastify autosaves your work on your Google Drive. Through this tool, you can share your recording on YouTube or export it as a GIF or MP4 file. The screen recorder is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.
✅ PROS:
- Free screen recorder
- Quick and easy setup
- Compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux
⛔️ CONS:
- Basic editing features
- Free version has a 10-minute restriction
- Limited to Chrome browsers
5. Screencast-O-Matic
Another browser-based screen recorder that you can get for free is Screencast-O-Matic. Although all clips are limited to 15 minutes in length, you can record as many of them as you wish. You can use its zoom recorder. You may even add any of their 30 royalty-free tunes while editing. Once you’re satisfied with it, you can save the file on your desktop or share it online.
The free version of Screencast-O-Matic will add a watermark to your clips. You can get rid of it by upgrading to the paid version. It costs $20 per person per year. That will give users unlimited recording and editing features. Screencast-O-Matic even offers education discounts for schools and other institutions.
✅ PROS:
- Free to use
- Royalty-free music
- Affordable paid version
⛔️ CONS:
- Maximum length is 15 minutes
- Free version has watermarks
- Free version has limited features
6. CleanShot X
CleanShot X is a powerful alternative for your macOS screen recording tool. It lets you record, save, and share your recordings in a few clicks. It also has a scrolling capture functionality, allowing you to screenshot your chat history and other files that can’t fit on your screen. It even lets you pin screenshots above all windows. In terms of editing, its tools are a little basic. It has an annotation tool that lets you easily highlight the most important parts of your recordings.
All screenshots and recordings can be uploaded to the CleanShot Cloud, where you will be provided with a shareable link. Sharing files online has never been easier. Using CleanShot X, you only have to save, drag, and drop recordings to other apps.
✅ PROS:
- Drag-and-drop sharing
- Scrolling capture feature
- One-time purchase
⛔️ CONS:
- Limited to macOS
- Basic editing features
- No free trial version
7. Snagit
Snagit is arguably the best free screen capture software tool on the market. It lets you create panoramic shots of your on-screen activities. With this tool, it’s easy to create videos out of images. You can then annotate screengrabs, document workflows, or extract text from files.
During a video, you can switch between webcam and screen recording, which can add a personal touch to your presentations.
✅ PROS:
- Pre-made templates
- Instant sharing and exporting features
- Records any part of the screen
⛔️ CONS:
- Only has a 15-day free trial
- Requires a stable internet connection
- Only exports video to one format
8. Filmora Scrn
Designed to capture fast-paced scenes up to 60 frames per second (Mac), Filmora Scrn is an exceptional free video capture software tool for gamers. It can record from your webcam, as well as your screen, both at the same time. With a custom recording field, you can choose to capture the entire screen on video or merely a small part of it.
Filmora Scrn comes with a full range of editing tools, allowing you to maximize the look and feel of your recordings.
✅ PROS:
- Imports 50+ file formats
- Exports in multiple file formats
- Supports 4K recording
⛔️ CONS:
- Lacks advanced editing tools
- Tends to lag during editing
- Might affect game performance
9. OBS Studio
OBS Studio, an open-source project, has no video recording restrictions, unlike other free limited trials. You can record and stream video to your heart’s content at zero cost. It also comes with highly detailed editing and mixing capabilities, allowing you to tailor real-time video and audio to fit your needs. It is arguably the best screen recorder for gamers.
If you’re new to the world of screen recorders, you might feel a little overwhelmed if you start learning using OBS Studio. While it offers a lot of opportunities for expanding its features, searching for appropriate plug-ins isn’t the easiest task for beginners. However, once you’re familiar with screen recording software, you can make better use of OBS Studio’s functionality. It is, after all, a powerful screen recording software tool, suitable for the most demanding tasks.
✅ PROS:
- Free software
- Available on Windows, Mac, and Linux
- No video length restrictions
⛔️ CONS:
- Steep learning curve
- Setup takes too long
- Layout can be too complex
10. Loom
Loom has a user-friendly interface that lets you instantly record any activity on your screen and share it online. It doesn’t have a steep learning curve, which makes it great for beginners. One of its best features is its ability to pause and resume while recording.
It has limited editing features, but it does have unlimited video storage. Dvd label maker for mac. That means you can create as much interactive content as you want. Like other online screen recorders, it requires a stable internet connection. The fluidity of your work will be affected by your internet speed.
✅ PROS:
- Controlled video viewing
- User-friendly interface
- Free basic plan
⛔️ CONS:
- Limited editing options
- Lacks advanced features for companies or teams
How to Choose a Screen Recorder
Screen recorders come with a wide range of features and functionalities. Most of them can, for example, capture pictures or videos. They let you edit and annotate the recording. They even allow you to save your recording in a variety of formats.
While there is a wealth of options on the market, the best one depends entirely on your needs and goals. Listed below are some factors you might want to consider in your search for an exceptional screen recorder.
Ease of use
Most screen recorders have been designed with convenience in mind, making it quick and easy to record and edit your videos. Just remember that some of the software tools are built for specific levels of expertise. If the learning curve is too steep, choose simple alternatives that beginners can be comfortable with.Video recording features
Do you need to record the entire screen area? Or just part of it? Also, how long are the videos you intend to record? Make sure that the screen recording tool you choose can record videos in the manner you prefer. On top of that, you need to find one that suits the activity you’re trying to record. Let’s say you intend to record or stream gameplay. An online screen recorder isn’t the most ideal as it requires a stable internet connection. If you’re playing on the web, it might cause the game or the software to lag. In this case, a desktop screen recorder, which functions offline, should work just fine.Export options
Some software can save your recordings in a variety of formats, while others can only do so in a handful of options. Make sure that the software you choose can easily convert your recording into your preferred file format.Price
The cost of screen recording software varies greatly, depending largely on their features and functionalities. If you want to get the best bang for your buck, conduct your research extensively. Take advantage of free trials before committing to monthly or annual plans.
How to Record Your Screen
Windows and Mac computers have built-in tools for screen recording. You can use such methods if you have yet to choose an ideal software.
Windows
The Windows 10 Game Bar offers a quick and simple way to record on-screen activity. However, unlike more complex screen recorders, it can only record events within the active app. It can’t record the entire screen. Simply put, if you activate it while your Chrome is active, it can only capture what goes on within your browser.
Here’s how you can record your screen on Windows 10:
- Open Game Bar
Access the Game Bar by pressing the Windows key and the G key together. If using the shortcut won’t activate it, click on the Start menu. Go to Windows Settings, then Gaming. Look for Game Bar, and make sure it’s turned on.
Click on Win + G one more time to activate it. - Start recording
Press the Windows key, the Alt key, and the R key to start recording. A small panel will appear on the top-right corner of the screen, which has a timer, a stop button, and a microphone icon. - Stop recording
Click on the Windows key, the Alt key, and the R key to stop recording any time you want. You may also use the stop button at the top-right corner of the screen.
These are the default keyboard shortcuts on Windows 10 computers. If you wish to alter them, you may do so from the Game Bar settings.
Mac
Mac also has a built-in tool that lets you record on-screen activities. Unlike the Windows version, it lets you record the entire screen or a specific part of it. Simply click and move your cursor around to choose which area you want to record.
Here’s how you can record your Mac screen:
- Open QuickTime
- Click on File
- Select New Screen recording
- Start recording
Screen Recording Software FAQs
How can I record my screen?
Whether you have a Windows or Mac operating system, you can easily record your screen using built-in tools. There is also a myriad of screen recorders out there that can capture everything happening on your computer, including the movement of your cursor.
What is a screen recorder?
A screen recorder refers to software that enables users to digitally record the activity on their computer screens. It lets you record the entire screen or a portion of it. Using such software, you can snap a still image or record any on-screen activity, from cursor movements to typing. You can also share your recordings with team members to simplify and clarify tasks that might easily get misunderstood with written descriptions alone.
How do I use a screen recorder?
Screen recording is quick, simple, and easy with the right software. Some apps will let you select the area of the screen that you want to record. Once done, you can immediately start recording. You may edit it after. For instance, some software will let you overlay webcam footage of yourself on the recorded video. You may add graphics such as your logo. You may also enter additional audio to the recording.
Are screen recorders safe?
Not all screen recorders are made equal. If you want to minimize risks, make sure to get your software from trustworthy vendors. Do your research well, starting with our list of screen recording software tools.
What is a good free screen recording software tool?
If you’re looking for the best free screen recorder, our list has plenty of options — Camtasia, OBS Studio, and Apowersoft, to name a few. However, the built-in tool in your computer is the most budget-friendly option. It might not be as powerful as the screen recorders on our list, but it can get the job done. Remember that most of these free screen recorders are only free for a limited time. After the trial, you will have to purchase their paid versions to keep on using their features.
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Launchberg editors pick and review products independently. We may earn affiliate commissions when you purchase an item via our links—it helps support our testing.
They say there is no free lunch and, more often than not, that’s the rule. Screen recording software, though, is a delightful exception — there are heaps of free tools out there.
To help you find the best free screen recorder, we have created a shortlist of the best free screen recorders in 2020 that are free. Ideal for communicating your ideas and feedback faster, recorder video tutorials, explainer videos, report bugs, etc.
Contents
What Is Screen Recording Software?
Screen recording software captures what is on your computer screen. You can either record in full screen or capture a specific area. Most of these apps can record your microphone (audio narration) and the best desktop recording software can also record your computer screen with audio (the system sound).
However, this is where the similarities end. Not all such programs are HD screen recorders. Some screen recording tools can save the recording in various file formats or export it to social media websites like YouTube. Top screen recorders, though, can upload your screen captures to the cloud in real time and give you a sharing link instantly (much more effective).
So, before you set your mind on a free screen recording software, it’s best to evaluate your own recording needs. Maybe you don’t need to upload your videos to social media or maybe you don’t need to record in HD.
How we reviewed the top screen video recorders
We took information about each of the best desktop recorders directly from their official website. In addition, we gathered insights from independent reviews published on G2Crowd and tested each tool ourselves.
What is a good screen recorder?
While our picks range from desktop apps to browser plug-ins, each one meets the following basic criteria:
- User-friendly interface
- Can record the entire screen or a specific area
- Captures both system and microphone audio
- Built-in video sharing and/or convenient exporting options
Here Are The Best Free Screen Recording Software In 2020
| Screenrec | iSpring Free Cam | Apowersoft Free Online Screen Recorder | Screencast-O-Matic | Ezvid | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Save screencast to your hard drive | |||||
| Video Hosting | |||||
| Cloud Recording | |||||
| Instant sharing | |||||
| Sharing options | Universal sharing link. Share privately or publicly. | Upload to Youtube | Upload to Youtube, Dropbox, Vimeo or GDrive | Upload to Youtube | None. You can save the screen capture to your hard drive. |
| Record computer audio and video at the same time | |||||
| Record your voice | |||||
| Record in full screen | |||||
| Capture Screenshots | |||||
| Video Library | |||||
| Video Encryption | |||||
| Video Analytics | |||||
| Video Editing Tools | |||||
| Facecam recording | |||||
| Recording Time | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 15 minutes | Depends on how much free space you have |
| Ads | Ad-free | Ad-free | Ad-free | Ads | Ad-free |
| Video compression | MP4 (Universal) | WMV (Windows only) | MP4, WMV, AVI, FLV, MPEG, VOB, ASF and GIF | MP4, AVI, FLV | WMV (Windows only) |
| Supported Platforms | Windows, Mac, Linux | Windows | Windows and Mac | Windows and Mac | Windows |
| Works when you’re offline |
1. Screenrec
Click. Record. Share instantly. If you’re looking for the quickest and easiest possible way to capture your computer screen and share the recording with someone else, this is it. No ads and limitations. You not only get a screen recorder for free but you also get business video hosting for free.
Pros
- Record computer audio
- Record your computer screen in HD
- Capture and annotate screenshots
- 2Gb of free video hosting included
- Cloud recording. Your video capture is uploaded on the fly to a secure video hosting platform — StreamingVideoProvider.
- Files are saved in the .MP4 format which can be played on any device (free MP4 screen recorder)
- Instant private sharing. Once the recording is complete you get a private sharing link that you can send to anyone online.
- Extremely lightweight
- Video CMS to manage your recordings, e.g. tag, add descriptions, organize in folders and playlists
- Video encryption. No one can download your videos without your explicit permission.
- Video analytics
- Unlimited recording time
- No ads
Cons
- There are no video editing tools at this point
- You can’t record your webcam
2. iSpring Free Cam
iSpring Free Cam made our list of the best screen recorders because it’s easy-to-use, without ads and time limitations. It only works on Windows which can potentially be an issue but, otherwise, it’s got all the chops to help you capture the full screen or a specific area of your desktop.
Pros
- Record your microphone and system sounds
- Highlight your mouse
- Basic video editing tools, e.g. delete selection, remove background noise.
- Webcam recording is available but only in the Pro version
- You can upload your screencast to YouTube
- No ads
- No time limits
Cons
- Only works on Windows. No support for Linux or Mac.
- Screen captures are saved in .WMV format (OK if you’re using a Windows PC but might not play on other platforms)
- Uploading large videos might take quite some time because there is no cloud recording option. The file is compressed and uploaded after recording.
- You can’t take screenshots
- Some users report high CPU usage
3. Apowersoft Free Online Screen Recorder
A nice online screen recorder with basic video editing capabilities. This free screen capture software runs in your browser (Mac or Windows) and requires an internet connection. The Apowersoft Free Online Screen Recorder might be a good choice if you’re looking for a one-time solution.
Pros
- Record your webcam
- Add annotations within the video
- Capture computer audio
- Crop your video (no other editing tools, though)
- Works on Windows and Mac but not on Linux
- After recording, you can save the video file to your computer or upload it to YouTube, Vimeo, Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.
- You can save the file in a number of different formats (This can also be a con if you don’t know what you’re doing)
Cons
- Requires a browser plugin to run which may slow your browser down. There is a “Download desktop version” button on the website but this is actually the Pro version, not the free one.
- No cloud recording option. If you want to share your screencast, you will have to wait for the video to render and, then, you will have to wait for it to upload.
- Time limits and watermarks (removed when you create a free account)
- Not suitable for game recording because you can’t hide the recording widget
- Users report that it takes quite a lot of time to view the replay
- You must be online to use it
4. Screencast-O-Matic
The free version of Screencast-O-Matic is another browser-based screen recording tool. It should work for you if you don’t need to record computer audio and you only want to make very short videos.
Pros
- Narrate the video (record your computer microphone)
- Record your webcam
- After recording the video, you can upload it to YouTube or the Screencast-o-matic hosting service
- Highlight your mouse
- Available for Windows and Mac
Cons
- 15-minute recording limit
- There is a watermark
- You can’t record computer audio in the free version
- No screenshot tool
- The free version can only run in the browser which can slow your computer down
- Ads on your screencasts
- Requires Java to run
- Some users report that it crashes their browsers and slows down their computers
- No cloud recording option. If you want to share your screencast, you will have to wait for the video to render and, then, you will have to wait for it to upload.
5. Ezvid
Ezvid is on our best screen recording software list because it has some cool features like the ability to draw while recording or synthesize human speech from text. Like iSpring Free Cam, it only works on Windows and saves screencasts in the bulky WMV format.
Pros
Best Screen Recorder For Mac
- HD video capture
- Include computer narration with your video
- Trim videos
- Insert images and videos in your screencast
- Draw while recording
- Facecam recording
- No watermarks
- No ads
Cons
- Works on Windows only
- Recording limit — depends on how much free space you have on your hard drive
- Delayed replay — you have to wait until your video is rendered
- Some users report that it slows down their computers
- Screen captures are saved in .WMV format (OK if you’re using a Windows PC but the video might not play on other platforms)
What Is a Good Screen Recorder?
There are two important points to consider when looking for the best free screen recorder in 2020.
1. File Format & Compression
A file format is a particular way of organizing the data within the file. There are many video file formats and some screen recording tools support more than one. However, most of the time, it goes down to MP4 vs. WMV.
MP4 or WMV for screen capture?
The WMV format is a product of Microsoft. Back in the day, it was created to allow professional videos to be recorded in high quality, e.g. on DVD, Bluray. The biggest issue here is that Mac users often have trouble viewing WMV files.
MP4, on the other hard, helps you produce video files that can be opened on any platform. And, when it comes to video quality, MP4 is actually better than WMV.
So,MP4 is more suitable for publishing your screen captures on the web and sharing them with others. The best free video capture software allows you to save your videos in MP4.
2. Video Hosting & Uploading
When looking for a screen capture software, you’d probably look at the recording features like — recording time, ability to record the computer audio, and so on.
But what happens after you record your screencast?
Most of the time, video files are very big and can’t be attached to emails. This means that, to share a video, you have to upload it somewhere in the cloud. In other words, you need video hosting.
This is a book-worthy topic but here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Hosting on YouTube. Some screen recorders allow you to post your videos on YouTube. That’s great when you want to share your videos publicly but not recommended if the screencast contains sensitive information.
- Proprietary video hosting. Some screen recorders like Screenrec, Apowersoft Free Online Screen Recorder and Screencast-O-Matic come with video hosting. When storing your videos on these platforms, it would be wise to research if the platform is free and what level of security it offers.
- Cloud Recording. If there is no Cloud Recording option, you will have to wait for the video to upload until you can share it. The best free screen capture tools come with this option.
Conclusion
Even the best free screen recording software has advantages and disadvantages. At the end of the day, the recording features — what you can do with the tool, are just as important as the effectiveness — how quickly you can record your computer screen and share it with others.
So, before you set your mind on a free screen recording software, it’s best to evaluate your own recording needs. Maybe you don’t need to upload your videos to social media or maybe you don’t need to record in HD.
Based on this criteria, the top screen recording software for us is the free screen recorder by ScreenRec. The final decision is, of course, yours to make.
What's the difference between a desktop screen recorder vs. online screen recorder?
As the names suggest, the biggest difference is that a desktop screen recorder can capture your screen while you're offline or on a poor internet connection. An online screen recorder requires stable Internet. For this reason, an online screen recorder isn't the best option when it comes to game capture. It may be a viable option when you're recording a tutorial, though.
What is the best alternative to Screencast-O-Matic?
Screencast-O-Matic is a popular screencasting tool. Many people use it to record tutorials, training videos and other educational content. The biggest advantage of Screencast-O-Matic is, perhaps, the ability to share the recording to a number of platforms like Vimeo, YouTube and Screencast-o-Matic's own video hosting platform. One downside, however, is the fact that you have to wait for the recording to upload and, if you've been recording for, say, 1 hour, this can be a huge pain. That's why, as an alternative, we'll suggest ScreenRec. It's quick and lightweight, allows you to capture both your computer audio and microphone audio and, finally, it's got instant private sharing--your screen recordings are uploaded in real time which means that you never have to wait. You get a sharing link as soon as you press 'Stop'.
How do I record my computer screen?
It depends on the screen capture tool you're using and your platform (Windows, Mac, Linux, etc). With ScreenRec, for example, you have to press Alt + S to start recording your desktop. This works on all platforms.