ALL USERS: How to Take a Screen Recording on macOS and Windows

 

Overview

Screen recordings are useful for capturing tutorials, presentations, or troubleshooting steps. This article explains how to record your screen using built-in tools on both macOS and Windows.

 

1. How to Record Your Screen on macOS

 

Using Screenshot Toolbar (macOS Mojave and later):

  1. Press Command (⌘) + Shift + 5.

  2. The screenshot toolbar will appear at the bottom of your screen.

  3. Choose either:

    • Record Entire Screen

    • Record Selected Portion

  4. Click Record to begin.

  5. To stop recording, click the Stop icon in the top menu bar or press Command (⌘) + Control + Esc.

  6. The recording will be saved to your Desktop by default.

 

Optional: Change Settings

  • Click Options in the toolbar to:

    • Choose save location

    • Set timer

    • Enable/disable microphone input

 

2. How to Record Your Screen on Windows

 

Using Xbox Game Bar (Windows 10/11):

 

Note: Works best for recording apps and windows (not File Explorer or desktop directly).

  1. Press Windows Key + G to open the Game Bar.

  2. If prompted, confirm that the window you’re using is a game.

  3. Click the Record button or press Windows Key + Alt + R to start recording.

  4. A small bar will show the recording timer.

  5. To stop, click the Stop button or press Windows Key + Alt + R again.

  6. Videos are saved in This PC > Videos > Captures.

 

Using Clipchamp (Built-in on Windows 11):

  1. Open Clipchamp from the Start Menu.

  2. Create a new project.

  3. Click Record & Create > Screen Recording.

  4. Follow the prompts to choose your screen, window, or tab and begin recording.

 

Tips

  • Enable Microphone: Both systems allow audio recording—check settings before starting.

  • Third-Party Apps: Tools like OBS Studio and Loom offer more control and features if needed.

 

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