If you are using any sort of Windows-based PC, you have access to more tools than other competing operating systems. With the larger number of PC users out there, the market tends to make tools more accessible to those users. Screen recording software is no exception.
With these choices, you will be able to find the best screen recording software for your PC and get started recording your projects.
What to Look for in Screen Recording Software
Since there are so many options available to PC users, it can be harder to determine the one that fits you best. Different t elements need to be taken into account for each situation, but these factors will help you determine the best screen recording software for you.
Recording Quality
One of the most popular uses for a PC is gaming. When you capture your gameplay, you want it to look as crisp and clean as possible. Luckily, it is fairly common for screen recording programs to capture in 4K quality, although that benefit is sometimes held as a paid feature. Make sure to check the recording capabilities of the software you view, but remember that your computer can limit the quality as well.
Customization
For peak performance, customization can be an immense help. You can personalize your system with these tools by taking detailed control of your audio and video capabilities or by creating custom hotkeys and shortcuts to start, stop and pause your recordings. Some of these programs do come with premade shortcuts that you can learn, or you can remap them to your choice of key.
Cameras
It has become more popular for gamers and teachers to include a camera of their face as they perform the actions on the screen. A lot of screen recording programs have accommodated this interest by adding a cam input where you can include an image of yourself from a camera into the recording for that personal touch.
Audio
You can go in many directions to set up your audio going into the screen recording program. In some instances, you may have to record the audio separately, although that can be avoided. With the right screen recording software, you can capture multiple audio inputs as well as control their levels without any issue.
The 5 Best Screen Recording Software for PC
Applying these thoughts to your goals will help you quickly determine the best screen recording program for you. If you are worried about making a choice and regretting it, almost every paid option comes with some sort of free trial so you can be sure about your choice.
OBS
OBS is one of the most popular screen recording programs out there on any platform. Not only is it free, but it also has some of the best tools to capture high-quality audio and video. And if you are looking to use this tool as a gamer, it is extremely useful with its stream functions. No matter how you intend to use it, OBS has the perfect setup for you.
Pros:
- High-quality results
- Customization for audio and video
Cons:
- Can be difficult to learn
Best for: All-around video and audio quality
Pricing: Free
Rating: 5 stars
Monosnap
When you want to have a setup that uses a lot of custom key settings that are already mapped and ready to go after your download, Monosnap has you covered. From the professional results of the screen recordings to the ability it has to create GIFs, you will be pleased with Monosnap.
Pros:
- Multi-use program
- Integrates with popular 3rd-party apps
- Customizable controls
Cons:
- Does not offer video editing tools
Best for: Customization
Pricing:
- Free
- Noncommercial
- $2.50 per month (billed yearly)
- $3 per month (billed monthly)
- Commercial
- $5 per month (billed yearly)
- $10 per month (billed monthly)
Rating: 4 stars
Bandicam
As far as professional-grade screen recorders are concerned, you cannot do any better than Bandicam. YouTubers such as Pewdiepie have used Bandicam to capture their gameplay and create the content that has made them so popular. With its easy-to-use camera setup, you can get that let’s-play feel in seconds.
Pros:
- Great quality for gaming
- Captures webcam footage
- Scheduled recording
Cons:
- Free version limits recordings to 10 minutes
Best for: Gaming
Pricing: $39.95 for a single PC license
Rating: 5 stars
Loom
Within a business, you sometimes have to teach your employees how to use a certain program or simply keep them updated with weekly information. Whatever the case may be, Loom is perfect in any business setting.
You can easily connect with coworkers and collaborate together on projects that would otherwise be extremely difficult to communicate in.
Pros:
- Easy sharing
- Screen and camera recording
- Custom recording dimensions
Cons:
- Audio quality varies
- Free version only allows 100 videos and 5-minute video length
Best for: Use within organizations and businesses
Pricing:
- Free
- Business
- $8 per month (billed yearly)
- $10 per month (billed monthly)
Rating: 4 stars
Screencast-O-Matic
If your time is limited and you need to just get a simple setup ready for your class or presentation, Screencast-O-Matic has the tools you need in one place. The presentation tools such as zoom, drawing and creating captions are built in to make your final experience more enjoyable and easily understood.
Pros:
- Video editor included
- Presentation tools
- Ability to upload directly to different platforms
Cons:
- Limited tools for editing
Best for: Teaching and presentations
Pricing:
- Deluxe - $1.65 per month (billed yearly)
- Premier - $4 per month (billed yearly)
Rating: 5 stars
Value in Your Video
Creating a custom video whether in a work setting or in an entertainment environment is a feat in itself. Designing the outline and final product of your video takes determination, and it can be difficult not to get frustrated when the take doesn’t turn out just right. Know that you are not the only one.
Frustration is a regular part of the creative process, but finding ways around it using one of the best screen recording software tools for PC proves your conviction in your goals.