If you use your Windows PC for tutorials, demonstrations, online classes, or for creating a presentation, a how-to video, or content for YouTube, screen recording can be a valuable tool. Instead of relying on third-party software, Windows 10 and 11 offers built-in screen recording options that are versatile and easy to use. In this article, we’ll show you how to screen record in Windows 10 and 11, including using the Xbox Game Bar and the Snipping Tool.
How to Screen Record in Windows 10 or 11
Recording Screen Activity Using Xbox Game Bar
The Xbox Game Bar is a powerful tool designed primarily for recording gameplay on PCs. However, it can also be used to capture any other type of screen activity. Here are the steps to record your screen using the Xbox Game Bar:
Step 1: Access the Gaming Settings
To begin, navigate to Settings > Gaming > Captures in either Windows 10 or 11. Although the screens may differ between the two versions, the settings remain the same. By default, your screen recordings are saved in your user folder under Videos/Captures, but you have the option to change the location if desired.
Step 2: Set the Duration for Background Recording
Next, you can choose to record activity that has already taken place. In Windows 10, toggle on the switch for Record in the background while I’m playing a game. In Windows 11, toggle on the switch for Record what happened. You can then set the duration for background recording by selecting a time frame ranging from 15 seconds to 10 minutes.
Step 3: Configure Your Recording Options
Now, enable the recording options that suit your needs. Check the boxes for Record even when my PC isn’t plugged in and Record while wirelessly projecting my screen to ensure flexibility in your recording setup. Additionally, adjust the Max recording length by choosing from options such as 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, or 4 hours.
Step 4: Enable and Control Audio Capture
To capture audio along with your screen recording, turn on the switch for Record audio when I record a game or Capture audio when recording a game. From here, you can fine-tune the audio quality, adjust the recording volume for your microphone, and control the volume of your PC.
Step 5: Set Frame Rate and Customize Mouse Cursor Capture
For optimal screen recording, select the recommended frame rate of 30 frames per second. However, you have the option to increase it to 60fps if necessary. The default video quality is set to standard, but you can adjust it to high if desired. Lastly, if you typically don’t record the mouse cursor, turn off the switch for Capture mouse cursor when recording a game.
Step 6: Familiarize Yourself with Keyboard Shortcuts
Several keyboard shortcuts are available to control the Xbox Game Bar. In Windows 10, you can view and modify shortcuts in the Settings screen at Settings > Gaming > Xbox Game Bar. In Windows 11, open the Game Bar interface to access and customize the shortcuts. Some essential shortcuts to remember include:
- Windows key+G: Open Xbox Game Bar.
- Windows key+Alt+R: Start or stop recording.
- Windows key+Alt+G: Record the last 30 seconds of screen activity.
- Windows key+Alt+B: Turn HDR on or off.
- Windows key+Alt+PrtScn: Take a static screenshot of your screen activity.
Step 7: Start Recording with the Xbox Game Bar
Now that you have everything set up, it’s time to start recording. Begin by displaying the Game Bar and activating it to capture your screen activity. Press the Windows key+G to bring up the top toolbar and the Capture pane for Game Bar. From here, you can control and monitor your recording.
Step 8: Stop and Review Your Recording
When you’ve completed the activity you wish to capture, press the stop button on the small recording panel. A message will appear, confirming that the clip was recorded. Click the message or press Windows key+G to return to the Game Bar interface. In the Gallery window, you’ll find your recorded clip with the name, date, and time of the recording. Click the Play button to review your video.
Step 9: Edit and Save Your Recording
If necessary, you can make edits to your recording using any video editing software. The recorded video is saved as an MP4 file, allowing for easy modification and enhancement. You can find the recorded videos in the following directory: c:\users[username]\Videos\Captures.
Step 10: Customize Game Bar Settings
To configure specific aspects of the Xbox Game Bar, open the Game Bar interface and click the Settings icon on the top toolbar. Here, you can adjust shortcut keys, modify the visual theme, control audio recording options, and manage other settings to enhance your screen recording experience.
Snipping Tool: Screen Recording in Windows 11
In addition to the Xbox Game Bar, Windows 11 introduces an alternative way to record screen activity: the Snipping Tool. Originally designed as a simple screen capture utility, the Snipping Tool now offers screen recording capabilities. Let’s see how to record your screen using the Snipping Tool in Windows 11:
Step 1: Check Your OS Version
Before using the Snipping Tool for screen recording, ensure that your Windows 11 build is 22621.1344 or higher. To check your OS version, navigate to Settings > System > About. If your build does not meet the requirement, update your operating system and Microsoft Store apps to the latest versions.
Step 2: Launch the Snipping Tool
To start using the Snipping Tool, click the Start button, go to All Apps, and select the Snipping Tool shortcut. On the Snipping Tool toolbar, click the Camera icon, and then choose the New button.
Step 3: Define the Recording Area
Using the Snipping Tool, select the area of your screen that you want to record. Once you’ve made your selection, click the Start button on the Snipping Tool toolbar.
Step 4: Perform Your Screen Activity
After starting the recording, perform the screen activity you wish to capture. If needed, you can take breaks by clicking the Pause button on the toolbar, and then resume the recording by clicking the Record button. When you’re finished, click the Stop button.
Step 5: Edit, Share, or Save the Recording
The Snipping Tool automatically plays the recording in a preview window. If desired, click the Edit in Clipchamp icon to make edits to the video. You can also use the Share icon to share the file with others or apps. Finally, click the Save button to save the recording as an MP4 video file.
Step 6: Customize Audio Recording Settings
In the latest Snipping Tool update, you can configure your audio settings before starting a screen recording. To access these settings, click the ellipsis icon in the upper-right corner and select Settings. In the Screen recording section, you can enable or disable audio recording from your microphone and system. Additionally, you can mute the microphone or system audio during the recording.
Conclusion
Screen recording in Windows 10 and 11 is a convenient and powerful feature for various purposes, from creating tutorials to capturing gameplay moments. Both the Xbox Game Bar and the Snipping Tool provide built-in options for screen recording, eliminating the need for third-party software. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily record your screen activities and create engaging content. So, whether you’re a content creator, educator, or simply want to share your knowledge, take advantage of these built-in tools to capture and share your screen with ease.
Remember, mastering screen recording takes practice, so don’t be afraid to experiment and explore the various features offered by the Xbox Game Bar and the Snipping Tool. With these tools at your disposal, you can elevate your content creation and communication skills to new heights. Happy recording!
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