Last updated on 31 August 2021
In recent years, screen recording tools have come a long way. However, you may have found yourself facing the challenge of recording your screen. Perhaps you resorted to using pricey software or even hiring a professional to take over.
The task may seem complex and costly, simply because no two screen recording tools are the same. Each different tool comes with different capabilities, so choosing the best one can be difficult. Fortunately, I have tried and tested some options and compiled a list of the best free screen recording software. Firstly, you may be wondering why you might need screen recording software and what the benefits are.
What is screen recording used for?
Screen recording software can record the entirety (or portions) of your computer screen. This can include everything from clicks and cursor movements to what URL you type into your browser.
Many people use this software to record tutorials, product demos or even just to show someone an issue on your screen. Some screen recording software allows you to record audio as well as what is displayed on your screen.
User-friendliness of free screen recording software has also certainly improved over recent years. Depending on your needs, there will be certain features that make one better than another. In this article, we will look at some of the best free screen recording software and their features.
Best Free Screen Recording Software
1. Vimeo
Vimeo offers a plugin for Chrome that is a free screen and webcam recorder. It allows you record a video and then share it instantly with someone via a private link!
Thanks to its lightweight interface, you are not required to download and install any offline apps to record videos.
Although it’s a free tool, it comes with versatile features to meet a lot of your screen recording needs. These include:
- Ability to upload and share the video instantly through a private link
- An option to record in full screen or a specific region
- Choice of audio input
- Real time recording annotation
- Different formats to save the recording in
- No watermarks
- Easy to use
- Works on Mac, PC and smart phones
2. Quicktime
Quicktime is a free screen recorder software produced by Mac. It is one of the most popular used to edit music or add audio to your videos. To record audio, you will need to select the microphone settings and tick the ‘Internal Microphone’ option so it records audio. It’s easy to use with onscreen controls that are basic and attractive to use. Its main features include:
- Supports a small and simple to use interface
- Select different parts of the screen to record
- Records audio on the internal microphone
- Option to show mouse clicks in the recording
- Limited editing and recording functionality
- No watermarks
Although it is very simple to use, it may lack additional features you require. However, if you are looking to make a basic screen recording then it should be perfect for you.
*Note: This is only available to Mac users.
3. Loom
Loom is a useful screen recording tool that is quick, easy to install and free. Furthermore, it is available across Chrome, Mac, Windows, iOS and Android. With Loom, you can record your screen, voice over and webcam easily. You are then able to download your video, share your URL or embed it in a blog. The benefits of using Loom include:
- Allows for live notations
- Is able to record your screen and webcam, or each individually
- No watermarks
- Available across multiple operating systems
- Multiple sharing options, such as URL or MP4 download
4. OBS Studio
OBS Studio, or Open Broadcaster Software, is a powerful and popular free screen recording software. It allows you to create scenes that consist of different sources, such as images, window captures, text and browser windows. You can then switch seamlessly between these by using custom transitions.
OBS Studio offers many features and settings. However, this software may be more suited towards those looking for advanced functions and not just a simple screen recording solution. The features include:
- Built-in audio mixer with per-source filters
- Ability to capture portions of the screen or record the entire screen
- No watermarks
- No recording limit
- Ability to set up multiple scenes from various sources
- Multiple themes
- Supports many streaming services
- Ad-free and open source
5. Camtasia
Camtasia is a simple to use, free screen recording software that helps you to create professional-looking videos on your PC. It differs from many other screen recording software with its built-in video editing tool. You can insert images, text, pan animations and more. In addition, you can record both audio and video from your desktop or iOS device. Here are some features:
- Easy set up and clean interface
- Built in cursor effects
- Option to edit videos and add interactive features
- Ability to import or record PowerPoint pages directly
- Good asset library including stock images, icons and music
Conclusion
Free screen recording software can serve a variety of needs. From this article, it is apparent that the best screen recording software can in fact be free. Based on your own individual needs, the suggestions above may help you to achieve your objectives without coming at a price.
Hopefully my recommendations of best free screen recording software will assist you. Are you interested in more technology based tutorials? Here you can see some more tutorials or read more of my blogs.
