Our complete guide to the 5 best screen recording tools

Do you need to record your computer or phone screen? Here's our comprehensive guide to the 5 best screen recording tools.

Screen recording tools have become indispensable in digital environments. They empower users to capture, share, and create content straight from their computer screens. Whether you're an educator crafting online tutorials, a gamer live-streaming your adventures, a business professional conducting webinars, or simply need to record your screen for technical purposes, having the right tool is crucial.

Keep reading to learn what screen recording is, what features to look for in screen recording software, its many use cases, and five of the best screen recording tools available today.

What is screen recording?

Screen recording, also known as screen capture, is a functionality that allows you to record videos of your computer screen. This software captures all activities on your desktop screen, from the movement of your cursor to the opening and closing of tabs and applications. It can record the entire screen or just a portion of it and may include sound, webcam recording, and even annotations. Screen recording tools are often used for creating tutorials, webinars, demos, and gameplay videos. There are many different types of screen recording software depending on your devices, such as Apple/Mac products, Windows 10 or above, or web browsers like Google Chrome.

Use cases for screen recording

Screen recording is a versatile tool with numerous applications. It's commonly used for creating video tutorials, with teachers using it to record PowerPoint presentations, software demonstrations, or online lessons. Businesses utilize it for webinars and meetings, especially with the popularity of Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

Screen recording is also a favorite tool of gamers who record and share their gameplay on platforms like Twitch and social media. It's also helpful in providing technical support, where a visual guide is more effective than verbal or written instructions. And, of course, it's a valuable tool for anyone needing to capture and share what's happening on their screen for any reason.

What you should look for in screen recording software

When choosing the best screen recording software, consider its functionality and features, compatibility with your operating system (Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, or Android), and the quality of recordings. Look for software with an intuitive user interface, especially for beginners. Some software includes video editing tools that allow you to add annotations, overlays, transitions, and animations to your recordings.

The best screen recording tools should offer customizable recording options, such as full screen or selected area capture, webcam recording, the ability to record audio with the app, and overall high-quality outputs. Additionally, options for live streaming, sharing recordings via Google Drive or Dropbox, and exporting in different video file formats (like MP4, GIF, and others) are beneficial. Some tools may offer a free version, but be aware of limitations such as watermarks, time limits, or restricted features.

Top 5 screen recording tools

Screen recording is a vital tool in our digital age. Whether for professional presentations, educational tutorials, gaming content, or tech support, the right screen recording software makes all the difference. While there are many screen recording apps from the likes of Camtasia, Bandicam, Windows’ Xbox Game Bar, Loom, Sharex, etc., we’ve narrowed down our list to the very best screen capture tools of all.

OBS Studio

OBS Studio, an open-source and free screen recorder, is a favorite among livestreamers and gamers. This tool, compatible with Windows, MacOS, and Linux, allows you to capture video from your desktop screen and audio via an audio mixer. It has advanced features like live streaming on Twitch or other platforms, hotkeys for easy control, and customizable settings. Although its interface may not be as intuitive for beginners, it offers high-quality recording and streaming without watermarks or time limits.

Screencast-O-Matic

Screencast-O-Matic is a web-based screen recording tool that works well for creating video tutorials or presentations. It offers a free version with a 15-minute recording time limit and an option to upgrade for more advanced features. It has an intuitive interface, and you can easily record videos, take screenshots, and add annotations. This tool also includes video editing software that allows you to add transitions, zoom effects, and overlays to your recordings. You can also directly share your recordings on social media or save them to Google Drive or Dropbox.

Apowersoft

Apowersoft is an online screen recorder available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android. This tool offers a free version with robust features. Apowersoft allows you to record your entire screen, a specific region, or even a webcam. It also includes an intuitive video editor for trimming, adding text, and more. It supports multiple formats for output, and there's no watermark or time limit on the free version.

Movavi Screen Recorder

Movavi Screen Recorder is a powerful and easy-to-use tool compatible with Windows and MacOS. It can capture video, audio, and screenshots, with no time limit on recordings. The video editing features allow you to make professional-quality tutorials or demos. It has advanced features such as scheduled recording, cursor effects, hotkeys, and more. Although there's no free version, the high-quality, watermark-free recordings and range of features make it worth the cost.

Speechify Screen Recorder

Speechify’s Screen Recorder is the perfect screen recording software for both beginners and professional video editors alike. It features a very user-friendly interface with intuitive controls, many video editing features, the ability to record audio, and export in a variety of video file types. Supported by Speechify’s powerful AI tools, this screen recorder tool can seamlessly integrate with other audio and video editing software, including ones from Speechify.

Start recording like a pro with Speechify’s Screen Recorder

Whether you’re a gamer, a teacher, or a business professional, screen capture is an essential tool for the digital age. You need to choose a screen recording software that can do everything you need in one place and for one affordable price. That’s why we recommend Speechify’s screen recorder as the best screen recording tool of all.

So, start recording your screen capture content today with Speechify’s screen recorder.