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| Best Free Screen Recording Software for Windows & Mac |
Screen recording has become an essential tool for content creators, gamers, educators, and professionals. Whether you're recording tutorials, gameplay, presentations, or online meetings, having the right screen recording software can make a big difference.
The good news? You don’t need to spend a dime! There are powerful free screen recording tools available for both Windows and Mac that offer high-quality recording, customizable settings, and even built-in editing features.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best free screen recording software for Windows and Mac, helping you choose the perfect tool for your needs.
Why Use Free Screen Recording Software?
Before we dive into the list, let’s look at why using free screen recording software is a great choice:
✅ No Cost: Get high-quality recordings without paying for premium software.
✅ User-Friendly: Most free tools are easy to use, even for beginners.
✅ Feature-Packed: Many free options include HD recording, editing tools, and live streaming.
✅ Lightweight & Fast: Free screen recorders often run smoothly on older systems.
Now, let’s explore the top free screen recording software for Windows and Mac!
Best Free Screen Recording Software for Windows & Mac
1. OBS Studio (Windows & Mac)
Best for: Professional-grade recording, streaming, and gameplay.
OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software) is a powerful, open-source screen recorder perfect for content creators, gamers, and streamers. It offers high-quality recording and live streaming without watermarks or time limits.
Key Features:
✔ Unlimited HD recording (1080p, 60 FPS).
✔ Live streaming support for Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook.
✔ Customizable overlays, transitions, and scenes.
✔ Supports multiple audio and video sources.
Downsides:
❌ Steep learning curve for beginners.
❌ Requires setup before first use.
💾 Download OBS Studio: https://obsproject.com/
2. ShareX (Windows)
Best for: Quick screen recording and screenshot capture.
ShareX is a lightweight, open-source screen recording tool that’s completely ad-free and watermark-free. It’s great for users who need simple yet powerful screen capturing tools.
Key Features:
✔ No time limits or watermarks.
✔ Supports GIF recording (perfect for short clips).
✔ Advanced hotkeys for quick recording and sharing.
✔ Automatic file upload to cloud services.
Downsides:
❌ Lacks built-in video editing tools.
❌ No Mac version (Windows only).
💾 Download ShareX: https://getsharex.com/
3. Xbox Game Bar (Windows 10 & 11)
Best for: Quick gameplay and app recording on Windows.
Xbox Game Bar is built into Windows 10 & 11, allowing users to record gameplay, applications, and browser windows without additional software.
Key Features:
✔ Built-in screen recorder (no installation needed).
✔ Records up to 1080p at 60 FPS.
✔ Perfect for gamers looking for easy gameplay capture.
✔ Minimal system resource usage.
Downsides:
❌ Cannot record File Explorer or desktop.
❌ Limited to basic screen recording (no advanced editing).
💾 How to Open Xbox Game Bar:
Press Windows + G to open the Game Bar and start recording.
4. QuickTime Player (Mac)
Best for: Simple screen recording on macOS.
QuickTime Player isn’t just a media player—it also includes a built-in screen recording tool for Mac users. It’s a lightweight, no-frills option for capturing your screen.
Key Features:
✔ Built-in on macOS (no installation required).
✔ Records full screen or specific regions.
✔ Option to record system audio and microphone.
✔ Easy-to-use interface for beginners.
Downsides:
❌ No built-in editing tools.
❌ Cannot record internal system audio without extra software.
💾 How to Use QuickTime Screen Recording:
- Open QuickTime Player.
- Go to File > New Screen Recording.
- Click Record and select a screen area.
5. Screencast-O-Matic (Windows & Mac)
Best for: Recording online tutorials and educational videos.
Screencast-O-Matic is a popular screen recorder for teachers, students, and professionals looking to create tutorials and presentations.
Key Features:
✔ Simple one-click recording.
✔ Webcam overlay support for recording face and screen.
✔ Basic video editing (cropping, trimming, adding captions).
✔ Cloud upload to YouTube and Google Drive.
Downsides:
❌ Free version is limited to 15 minutes.
❌ Watermark on videos (unless upgraded).
💾 Download Screencast-O-Matic: https://www.screencast-o-matic.com/
6. Apowersoft Free Online Screen Recorder (Windows & Mac)
Best for: Online screen recording without installation.
Apowersoft Free Screen Recorder is a web-based tool that lets you record your screen directly from your browser.
Key Features:
✔ No software installation required.
✔ Records full screen, app windows, and webcam.
✔ Instant online sharing of recordings.
✔ Simple and lightweight interface.
Downsides:
❌ Requires internet connection.
❌ No advanced editing tools in the free version.
💾 Try Apowersoft Online Screen Recorder: https://www.apowersoft.com/free-online-screen-recorder
Comparison Table: Best Free Screen Recording Software
| Software | Best For | Watermark | Editing Tools | Platform |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OBS Studio | Professional recording & streaming | No | Yes | Windows, Mac |
| ShareX | Lightweight, simple recording | No | No | Windows |
| Xbox Game Bar | Gaming & app recording | No | No | Windows |
| QuickTime Player | Basic Mac screen recording | No | No | Mac |
| Screencast-O-Matic | Online tutorials & education | Yes | Basic | Windows, Mac |
| Apowersoft | Browser-based recording | No | No | Windows, Mac |
FAQs
What is the best free screen recorder for gaming?
OBS Studio is the best for high-quality gaming recordings and live streaming.
Can I record my screen without downloading software?
Yes! Use Apowersoft Online Screen Recorder or Xbox Game Bar (Windows only).
Which screen recorder is best for Mac?
QuickTime Player is built-in and easy to use, but OBS Studio offers more features.
Does Windows have a built-in screen recorder?
Yes! Xbox Game Bar is included in Windows 10 & 11.
Can I edit videos with free screen recorders?
Yes, OBS Studio and Screencast-O-Matic have basic editing tools.
Conclusion
Finding the best free screen recording software for Windows and Mac doesn’t have to be difficult. Whether you need professional-grade recordings (OBS Studio), simple gameplay capture (Xbox Game Bar), or quick tutorials (Screencast-O-Matic), there’s a perfect tool for you.
🔥 Try one today and start recording like a pro! 🚀
📢 Share this guide to help others find the best free screen recorder! 🎥
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