For those engaged in creating tutorials, presentations, or online classes, the ability to record screen activity in Windows can be invaluable. While numerous third-party applications are available for this purpose, Windows itself offers built-in tools that can efficiently capture your screen without the need for additional software.
The Game Bar, a feature available in both Windows 10 and 11, is primarily designed for recording gameplay but is equally adept at capturing any screen activity. This versatile tool allows users to record their screens, activate the microphone for audio input, and save recordings directly to their PCs. All recorded clips can be managed within the Game Bar interface, with videos saved in the widely compatible MP4 format, making them easy to edit with any video editing software.
How to record any screen activity in Windows with Game Bar
To begin using the Game Bar, navigate to Settings, select Gaming, and click on Captures. The layout may differ slightly between Windows 10 and 11, but the options remain consistent. By default, recordings are saved in the user folder under VideosCaptures, although users can change this location if desired.
Once set up, the top toolbar provides access to various menus, including Widget, Audio, Capture, Performance, Resources, and Xbox Social. Ensure that the Capture pane is visible to control your recording.
Start a recording
Initiate the recording by tapping the Record button in the Capture pane. A small recording panel will appear, allowing you to perform the desired screen activity.
Stop and view your recording
Upon completing the activity, press the stop button on the recording panel. A notification will confirm that the clip was recorded. You can return to the Game Bar interface by clicking this message or pressing Windows key + G. A Gallery window will display the recording, complete with its name, date, and time, ready for playback.
How to record without launching Game Bar
For a more streamlined approach, press Windows key + Alt + R to bring up the recording panel directly. Click the stop button when finished, and your recording will be available in the Gallery window. If you wish to capture the last 30 seconds of screen activity, simply press Windows key + Alt + G.
How to work with recorded video directly
Your recordings can be found in the directory c:users[username]VideosCaptures, saved as MP4 files. These can be opened in any video editor or application for further modification.
How to tweak Game Bar settings
Access the settings by pressing Windows key + G and clicking the Settings icon on the top toolbar. Here, you can customize shortcut keys, adjust the visual theme, and control audio recording options as you capture your screen activity.
How to record your screen in Windows 11 with the Snipping Tool
For users of Windows 11, the Snipping Tool has evolved from a simple screen capture utility to a capable screen recording tool. To utilize this feature, first ensure your OS version is 22621.1344 or higher by checking under Settings > System > About. If necessary, update your system and apps via Windows Update and the Microsoft Store.
Set up the window or app you want to record
Launch the Snipping Tool by clicking the Start button, selecting All, and then choosing the Snipping Tool shortcut. Click the Camera icon on the toolbar and select the New button to begin.
Focus on the right area
Define the area you wish to record and click Start on the Snipping Tool toolbar to commence recording.
Perform the activity
During the recording, execute the screen activity you want to capture. You can pause the recording as needed and resume by clicking the Record button again. Once finished, click the Stop button.
Edit, share, or save the file
Your recording will appear in a preview window within the Snipping Tool, where you can play it back. Options to edit the video using Clipchamp, save it as an MP4 file, or share it with others are readily available.
Set your preferred audio recording source
The latest update to the Snipping Tool allows you to configure audio settings prior to recording. Click the ellipsis icon in the upper right corner and select Settings. In the Screen recording section, you can enable options to include microphone input or system audio by default when starting a recording. During the recording, you can also choose to mute either audio source as needed.
