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On Windows 11, press Win+Shift+R to open Snipping Tool’s video recorder, select the area you want, and start recording. To capture an app or game, use Xbox Game Bar with Win+Alt+R. For configurable display, window, or game sources and more audio control, use the free OBS Studio application.
Choose a free screen recorder
| Your need | Start with | What it captures |
|---|---|---|
| Record one rectangular area | Snipping Tool (Windows 11) | Select a screen region, then start and stop a video snip. You can save it or send it to Clipchamp for editing. |
| Quickly record an app or game | Xbox Game Bar (Windows 10 or 11) | Record an app or game with a keyboard shortcut; recordings are MP4 files saved in VideosCaptures. |
| Configure display, window, or game sources and audio | OBS Studio | Build a scene from one or more source types and configure audio devices. Setup and performance depend on your PC and settings. |
These tools are not interchangeable in every situation: Snipping Tool’s documented video capture uses a selected rectangle, Game Bar is for app or game capture, and OBS offers more source and audio configuration. Microsoft’s Windows guidance is written for the US market and notes that feature availability can vary by region. None of these instructions establishes that every protected video or window can be recorded.
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Record a screen area with Snipping Tool
- Open Snipping Tool from Start, or press Win+Shift+R to open its video recording overlay.
- If you opened the app directly, select Record, then New.
- Select the rectangular area you want to capture and choose Start.
- Choose Stop when you are finished.
- Save the clip, or choose Edit in Clipchamp to continue editing. Microsoft says Clipchamp can add captions or audio to a video snip.
This is a straightforward choice for a demonstration focused on one part of the screen. Microsoft’s instructions do not establish that Snipping Tool records every kind of protected video or every window.
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Record an app or game with Xbox Game Bar
- If Game Bar is off, open Windows Settings, search for Xbox Game Bar, and enable it.
- Open the app or game you want to capture, then press Win+Alt+R to start recording.
- To toggle microphone capture, press Win+Alt+M. You can also press Win+G to open the Game Bar controls and check Capturing audio; Microsoft documents an All audio option.
- Press Win+Alt+R again to stop.
- Open Videos > Captures to find the MP4.
Game Bar is intended for recording an app or game, not every possible desktop window. If the shortcut does not work, check that Game Bar is enabled and that the window is supported. Protected content may prevent capture.
#1 Best Overall
Guermok Video Capture Card, 4K USB3.0 HDMI to USB C, 1080P 60FPS & 2K 30FPS
- 【1080P 60FPS Video Capture Card】 This HDMI game capture card is based on USB3.0 high speed transmission port, input resolution up to 4K@30HZ, output resolution up to 2K@30Hz or 1920×1080@60Hz. Type c and USB interface can meet most of the devices in daily life. Easily meet the online capture, real-time recording, online meetings, live gaming and other functions, so you have a better visual enjoyment. Note: For capture use only; requires capture software to function and is not intended for direct screen casting to a monitor or TV
- 【Ultra Low Latency Screen Sharing】 HDMI capture card is made of good quality aluminum alloy with strong heat dissipation, allowing you to enjoy ultra low latency while live gaming or video recording or live streaming, avoiding blue screens and lag. This HDMI to USBC capture card supports easy recording of good quality audio or HD video and transferring it to your computer or streaming platform, allowing you to record 60 fps HD video directly on your hard drive and real-time preview
- 【Plug and Play, Easy to Carry】 This HDMI 1080P video capture card does not require any additional drivers or external power supply, just plug and play for fast capture. The capture card is small and lightweight, so you can put it in your bag for emergencies, making it very portable for outdoor live streaming. It's also a great way to share content in game recording, video conference, video recorder and online teaching
- 【Wide Compatibility USB Capture Card】 Easily streams to Facebook, Youtube or Twitch. With the connection, this HDMI to USB C/3.0 video capture devices can be working on several Operating Systems and various software: Windows 7/ 8/ 10, Mac OS or above, Linux, Android, Laptop, Xbox One, PS3/PS4/PS5, Camera, DVDs, Set Top Box, Webcame, DSLR, Switch/Switch 2, TV BOX, HDTV, Potplayer/VLC, ZOOM, OBS Studio etc.
- 【Package Content & Note】 1x HD Audio Capture Card , 1x USB 3.0 to USB C Adapter (A-side 3.0, B-side 2.0), 1x user manual. Please note that you need to restart the OBS Studio software after the audio setup is complete, otherwise it will result in no sound output. When using an adapter, if the device is recognized as USB 2.0, try using the other side with the USB-C port. Simply flip the capture card and reconnect it to be recognized as USB 3.0
Set up a basic OBS Studio recording
- Run OBS’s Auto-Configuration Wizard to choose a starting setup for your intended use and available computer resources.
- In a scene, add the source that matches what you want to record: Display Capture for a display, Window Capture for a window, or Game Capture for a Windows game.
- Check the Audio Mixer meters. OBS captures desktop audio and a microphone by default. If a meter does not move or OBS selected the wrong device, open Settings > Audio and choose the intended device manually.
- Review Settings > Output, then choose Start Recording.
- Make a short test recording and play it back before relying on the setup for a longer capture.
OBS lists Windows 10 or Windows 11 and a DirectX 10.1-compatible GPU among its Windows requirements. Meeting those requirements does not guarantee that a PC can record a particular workload smoothly. CPU demands vary with encoder, resolution, frame rate, and scene complexity.
Capture sound from one application
OBS documents application-audio capture for Windows 10 version 2004 or later and Windows 11. If you capture an application’s audio while also leaving the same sound active through a global desktop-audio source, the result can echo. Check which sources are active and listen to a short test clip.
Rank #2
Sale
Capture Card, 4K HDMI Video Capture Card, Game Capture Card, 1080P 60FPS Video Capture Device, HDMI to USB 3.0 Capture Card for Streaming, Work with Camera/Xbox/PS4/PS5/PC/OBS
- 【1080P HD High Quality】Capture resolution up to 1080p for video source and it is ideal for all HDMI devices such as PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Wii U, DVDs, DSLR, Camera, Security Camera and set top box. Note: Video input supports 4K30/60Hz and 1080p120/144Hz. Does not support 4K120Hz/144Hz. Output supports up to 2K30Hz.
- 【Plug and Play】No driver or external power supply required, true PnP. Once plugged in, the device is identified automatically as a webcam. Detect input and adjust output automatically. Won't occupy CPU, optional audio capture. No freeze with correct setting.
- 【Compatible with Multiple Systems】suitable for Windows and Mac OS. High speed USB 3.0 technology and superior low latency technology makes it easier for you to transmit live streaming to Twitch, Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, OBS, Potplayer and VLC.
- 【HDMI LOOP-OUT】Based on the high-speed USB 3.0 technology, it can capture one single channel HD HDMI video signal. There is no delay when you are playing game live.
- 【Support Mic-in for Commentary】Rybozen capture card has microphone input and you can use it to add external commentary when playing a game. Please note: it only accepts 3.5mm TRS standard microphone headset.
Choose audio and protect your recording
- Decide whether the clip needs system sound, microphone narration, both, or neither before you start. Game Bar provides a microphone toggle and a Capturing audio setting; OBS shows audio input in its mixer.
- A separate microphone is not required. Use an existing microphone input if you want narration, or record without narration.
- Before recording private or sensitive material, close unrelated windows and notifications and make sure the screen shows only what you intend to share.
- Record only material you have the right to capture and share. Recording controls do not grant permission to copy or redistribute copyrighted material; protected content may also block capture.
Troubleshoot a failed or silent recording
| What happens | What to check | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Game Bar will not start recording | Whether Game Bar is enabled and whether the target window is supported. | Enable Game Bar in Settings if necessary. For an unsupported window, Microsoft suggests trying Snipping Tool. Protected content may not be recordable. |
| Win+Shift+R does not open Snipping Tool’s recorder | Whether Snipping Tool is available on your Windows 11 PC and whether the feature is available in your region. | Open Snipping Tool from Start and use Record > New. Microsoft notes that features and availability may vary by region. |
| OBS audio is missing | The Audio Mixer meters and the devices selected under Settings > Audio. | Select the intended audio devices manually, then make and review a short test recording. |
| OBS recording has an echo | Whether the same application sound is captured both by application-audio capture and a global desktop-audio source. | Remove the duplicate capture path and test again. |
| The recording is choppy or the PC struggles | The chosen encoder, resolution, frame rate, scene complexity, and available computer resources. | Use OBS’s Auto-Configuration Wizard for a starting point, reduce workload if needed, and test the actual scene. System requirements alone do not promise smooth recording. |
Or let it run in the cloud
Screen recording saves a local video; if your goal is to keep uploaded videos playing live on a YouTube channel around the clock, StreamNeo is a different kind of tool. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. StreamNeo loops the uploaded video from the cloud, so nothing has to stay on at home. It streams the uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly is $9.99 per month. Learn more at StreamNeo, or start your free day.
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Quick Recap
SaleBestseller No. 2
Rank #4
Capture Card, USB Video Capture Card Device, Audio Video Converter Grabber for RCA to USB-Convert VHS Mini DV VCR Hi8 DVD to Digital, for PC TV Tape Player Camcorder, MAC Windows Vista Compatible
- AV TO USB Converter: Capture videos and audios from VHS, VCR, Hi8, DV tapes to a PC, with the help of our USB Video Converter. Save room while digitizing your favorite old memories
- Quality Capture Card: Our USB Video Capture Card converting anolog RCA composite input into HD 720P USB output and capturing audio without any sound card. Advanced signal processing technology provides you with great precision, colors, resolutions, and details.
- Plug and Play: Automatically install the driver once you hook up this RCA to USB Converter to a PC. No external power is needed. User-friendly and easy to operate
- Wide Compatibility: The Video Capture Card can work with video devices with RCA connector or S-Video connector, such as VHS, VCR, Hi8, camcorder, compatible with Windows and Mac OS. Support video formats like NTSC, PAL, and support brightness, contrast, hue, and saturation control
- Note: The Video Converter is used with acquisition software. We recommend OBS Studio or PotPlayer for Windows, and QuickTime Player for Mac. They can be downloaded for free online. Please operate according to the steps in User Manual or contact us if you have any questions
Rank #3
Video Capture Card, 4K USB3.0 HDMI to USB C, 1080P60FPS HDMI Capture Card for Streaming, Gaming, Video Recording Compatible with Switch, Xbox, PS4/5, OBS,iPad Mac OS Windows,Camera, Zoom(Silver)
- 【4K HDMI Input, 2K@30Hz Recording】Powered by a true USB 3.0 high-speed interface, the capture card supports up to 4K@30Hz HDMI input and records at 2K@30Hz or 1080P@60Hz. Perfect for gamers, streamers, and professionals who need crisp, smooth video for live streaming, gameplay recording, or online meetings.
- 【Ultra Low Latency Screen Sharing】Built with a premium aluminum alloy shell and advanced chipset for stable heat dissipation, ensuring ultra-low latency transmission. Capture high-quality video and dual-channel audio in real time—no lag, no frame drop—ideal for Twitch, YouTube, or OBS streaming.
- 【Easy Plug and Play, Compact & Portable】No driver or external power required—just plug and play via USB 3.0 or Type-C connection to your Windows or macOS computer. Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry for outdoor streaming, live shows, or mobile recording setups.
- 【Wide Compatibility & Multi-Device Support】Compatible with Windows 7 8 10 11, macOS, Linux,Android and supports most popular software such as OBS, Zoom, VLC, Twitch Studio, and more. Works seamlessly with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Switch, DSLR cameras, TV boxes, and other HDMI-output devices for streaming to YouTube, Twitch, etc.
- 【What You Get】Includes: HDMI Capture Card, USB 3.0 to USB-C Adapter, User Manual. Tips: Make sure your tablet’s OTG function is enabled before connecting. Test your HDMI device with a monitor first to confirm video and audio output, then connect to the Video Capture Card for recording.
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