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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.

• Best Free Mac Screen Recording Software Free
• Best Free Mac Screen Recording Software 2017

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.

Free or Open Source Screen Recording Software for Macs. If your project is on a tight budget, you may not be able to spend much on Mac recording software. But don't give up. There are plenty of free and open source screen capture and screen recording software options for the Mac. Here's a great list of options to try: 1. Oct 28, 2019  Like many of the best screen recording software options, Screencastify gives you the option to upload to YouTube, as well as export the recording as an animated GIF, MP3, or MP4. Supported OS: Mac, Windows, Linux Best for: Recording software demos and creating solution videos.

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. 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

4. 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.

Best Free Mac Screen Recording Software Free

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

5. 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

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. 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.

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✅ 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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:

1. Open QuickTime
2. Click on File
3. Select New Screen recording
4. Start recording

Best Free Mac Screen Recording Software 2017

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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There are no shortage of free screen recording programs for Windows, but when it comes to macOS, most screen recording apps are paid. Yes, you can use the in-built QuickTime to record your screen (which is what I was using so far) but if you do a lot of screen recording than QuickTime is not the most efficient way to go about it. Why? Well, to start with, there is no keyboard shortcut, no video editor, and no auto saved. Sometimes QuickTime just doesn’t work unless you restart it.

In short, if you do a lot of screen recording on your macOS, you need a third-party screen recording software. So, here are some alternatives to QuickTime to record a screencast on Mac for free.

Related: Best Video Editing Software for YouTube — A YouTuber Perspective

Best Screen Recorder For Mac

1. Apowersoft Screen Recorder

Apowersoft Screen Recorder is one of the popular free screen recording tools on any platform. Once installed on your mac, select a region and start recording. In the screen recording frame, you can click on the drop-down option to pick up a resolution like 720p, 1080p, iPhone, iPad etc. This free app allows unlimited screen recording with no watermark, however, the paid version has a Video Converter and Video Editor. You can set the recording quality from 15-60 fps, depending on whether you want to use on the web or make a professional video.

Apowersoft also offers a web-based screencast software which means you can record your screen without downloading any software, you need to install a launcher though if it’s the first time.

Verdict:

Apowersoft screen recorder is a free app for unlimited screen recording, no watermark or time restriction. However, once you stop the recording, it asked where you want to save it (just like QuickTime), so depending on the situation it might be a bit time-consuming. However, the app does not support taking or editing screenshot neither can it automatically upload to cloud. In my opinion, it’s a decent screen recorder but, there are better options available.

2. Screen Recorder Robot Lite

Screen recorder robot lite is a bit more powerful than Apowersoft screen recorder.

The unique thing about this screen recorder is, once you stop your recording it opens that clip in the built-in video editor, where you can trim, crop, rotate, change the playback speed etc. From here you can either edit your video in the video editor or just close the window and the recording will be saved in your Pictures folder on your Mac.

The only issue with this video recorder is – every time you stop the recording, it shows a pop saying the lite version only records for 600s (or 5 mins), and to get rid of it, you need to click cancel each time.

The apps support keyboard shortcut for – start, stop, pause the recording and can also capture screenshots.

Verdict:

Screen recorder robot lite is definitely one of the best feature-rich screencasting apps out there. If you need a build in video editor with your screen recorder then look no further. However, the only limitation to the app is – 5 mins of free recording, if you want more than that, its $7.99 for the full version.

3. Recordit: Instant Screencasts & GIFs

This app is not for everyone. Unlike all the other screen recording app in the list, which saves the recording to the local drive of your computer, Recordit uploads the video to the cloud storage. It’s meant for sharing videos quickly with remote co-workers.

So, here is how it works, once installed, you’ll see a tiny Recordit icon on the top menu bar of your macOS, click on that to record any area of your screen and when once done, click the stop button, seconds after that, you’ll get a link to share your screencast.

Once the video is uploaded it automatically copy the link of that video to your clipboard, and store it on the server for the unknown amount of time. so you can always go back and find the link by right-clicking on the app. however, there is no naming, so you’ll have to rely on time date stamp.

One thing to keep in mind is – you need to have a good upload speed if you are planning to use this. I recorded a 3 min full-screen video on my 5k iMac and it took the app 4 minutes to upload it to the server. I’ve 8 Mb/s upload speed. And the final size of the video was 35 MB, so it’s safe to assume they are compressing the video footage.

Recordit also has a video to gif option on their website. So, if you want to quickly share a small screencast on Reddit, this will make it a lot easier.

Verdict

Recordit is for people who want to quickly share their screencast with other people. The recordings are limited to 5 mins only in the free version. And there is no paid version of this app.

However, there is one major problem with the app – it doesn’t keep a local copy of your recording, which means if the internet goes down for some reason, the video’ won’t be uploaded and you have to start all over.

Overall it’s perfect for sharing an image or video quickly. But not if you want to use the screen recording in some other video.

4. OBS (Open Broadcaster Software)

It’s hard to figure out how to install and use OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) at first. But after bit Google search, I was able to figure out how it works.

Once installed, the app gives you auto configuration pop-up, asking you whether you want to configure it, go for 1080p, etc. It’s basically meant for streaming, but if you want to use it not for streaming then you can configure it in the start pop page.

Verdict:

OBS is a popular screen recording software among YouTuber gaming channel. It’s free, open source and highly customizable. However, it’s difficult to setup and use. If you are not a geek, you might have a difficult time to set it up and the given that better version is available, I guess you should skip this one.

5. Monosnap

This is one of the best screen recording software available out there for free. Just after using this software for 5 minutes, I know my search for best screen recording app for Mac has ended.

Like every other software in this list, it lets you capture full screen or just part of the screen. But on top of that, it also lets you capture a particular window with a webcam in Picture-in-Picture mode.

Although, there is no video editor for screen recording. Monosnap does provide an image editor for your screenshot where you can add arrows, annotation, text etc. and once you are done you can either save your video in the local storage or upload it cloud storage like Dropbox, Google Drive, Evernote. However, these services are paid for $8 in-app purchases. You can upload it for free on Amazon s3 or R0emote FTP server though.

But the feature that really blown my mind is – the built-in image editor (mini photoshop) i.e. say, you have screenshot that you want to quickly edit or a picture that you find on the Internet, then you can just copy that picture to your clipboard and then right-click on Monosnap in toolbar and select open in the clipboard, this will open the image directly in Monosnap editor.

There is also an option to convert your video to gif.

Verdict:

Overall, if you are looking for an advanced screen recorder for Mac, then look no further. Monosnap is best you can get for free. It can do everything a paid screen recorder does. The only limitation is – you can not edit your video.

Comparison table