The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Windows has four straightforward ways to record your screen: Snipping Tool for a selected area, Xbox Game Bar for an app or game, Clipchamp for a tutorial with webcam footage and editing, and PowerPoint for a recording that belongs in a presentation. The right choice depends on what you need to capture and what you want to do with the video afterward.
Choose a Windows screen recorder
| Method | Best for | How to start | What it captures or produces |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snipping Tool | A precise area of the screen on Windows 11 | Open Snipping Tool, choose Record, then New; or press Windows+Shift+R | A video of the selected screen region |
| Xbox Game Bar | A game or app on Windows 10 or 11 | Press Windows+Alt+R | An MP4 in VideosCaptures |
| Clipchamp | A tutorial that needs webcam footage or editing | Open Clipchamp and choose its screen or screen-and-camera recording workflow | A screen recording that can be edited in Clipchamp |
| PowerPoint | A demonstration that will be part of a presentation | Choose Insert > Screen Recording | A video inserted into a slide, with an option to save it separately |
Record part of your screen with Snipping Tool
Snipping Tool’s video recording is available on Windows 11. It is the best fit when you want to capture a specific rectangle rather than an entire app or game.
- Open Snipping Tool from Start or press Windows+Shift+R.
- Select Record, then New.
- Drag to select the area you want to record.
- Start the recording and stop it when you have captured the action you need.
You can open the finished recording in Clipchamp if you want to add captions or edit audio. If Snipping Tool is missing, Microsoft’s guidance is to get the app from the Microsoft Store.
Record an app or game with Xbox Game Bar
Xbox Game Bar is a quick option for recording an app or game on Windows 10 and Windows 11. Open the app or game first, then use the shortcut to begin.
#1 Best Overall
- 【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
- Bring the app or game you want to capture to the foreground.
- Press Windows+Alt+R to start recording. Press the same shortcut again to stop.
- To turn microphone capture on or off, press Windows+Alt+M. You can also press Windows+G to open Game Bar controls.
- Find the resulting MP4 in VideosCaptures.
Game Bar is aimed at capturing an app or game, rather than selecting an arbitrary rectangle of the desktop. Use Snipping Tool on Windows 11 when selecting a specific region is important.
Record your screen and webcam with Clipchamp
Choose Clipchamp when a tutorial will benefit from a face camera, overlays, trimming, or other editing after capture. Microsoft describes Clipchamp as the built-in video editor for Windows 11 and also makes it available as a video-editing tool for Windows 10.
Rank #2
- [Enhanced 4K-1080P Video Capture Experience] Capture the Magic: Elevate your video recordings to new heights with our upgraded anti-static 1080P Video Capture Card. Immerse yourself in stunning visuals, supporting HDMI input at 4K 60FPS and USB output for capturing in 1080P, complete with rich stereo sound. Enjoy crystal-clear video recordings, dynamic gaming live streams, and professional conference broadcasts. Note: HDMI resolution: Max input can be 3840×2160@30Hz / Video output resolution: Max output can be 1920×1080@30Hz
- [Seamless Real-Time Preview] Stay in the Moment: Our advanced ultra-low latency technology ensures seamless real-time transmission of video streams. Experience instant, lag-free previews, allowing you to capture every detail precisely. Effortlessly record video directly to your hard disk, all without compromising on quality or introducing any delays.
- [Versatility and Broad Compatibility] Your Creative Hub: Connect your DSLR, camcorder, or action camera to a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, and Linux. Unlock a world of possibilities with real-time streaming to popular platforms like Twitch, Youtube, OBS, Zoom, Potplayer, and VLC, giving you the tools to share your content effortlessly.
- [Effortless Plug and Play] Simplicity Redefined: Say goodbye to complex installations. Our plug-and-play design eliminates the need for drivers or external power supplies. Seamlessly integrate high-definition acquisition into various scenarios, whether it's educational recordings, immersive gaming, precise medical imaging, captivating live streams, or professional broadcasting.
- [Seize Every Detail with Precision] Unleash your creativity and attention to detail with our video capture card. Capture every nuance, every color, and every moment with precision, thanks to the enhanced capabilities of our technology. Whether you're a content creator, a gamer, or a professional, our capture card empowers you to seize the finest elements and bring them to life in your recordings and live streams.
- Open Clipchamp from Start or search.
- Choose the screen-recording workflow, or the screen-and-camera workflow if you want webcam footage as well.
- Follow the current on-screen prompts to select what to record and begin.
- Use Clipchamp’s editing features to prepare the recording.
The available features and interface can vary with the Windows version and account, so follow the options shown in your installed Clipchamp rather than relying on a fixed button layout. If Clipchamp is missing, Microsoft’s guidance is to obtain it from the Microsoft Store.
Record a screen demonstration in PowerPoint
PowerPoint’s screen recorder is useful when the demonstration is meant to sit inside a presentation. Microsoft documents screen recording in PowerPoint for Microsoft 365 and PowerPoint 2024, 2021, 2019, and 2016.
Rank #3
- 【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.
- Open the presentation and select the slide where the recording should appear.
- Choose Insert > Screen Recording.
- Select the area to capture, then choose Record.
- When the recording is finished, PowerPoint inserts the video into the slide. To save a separate media file, right-click the video and choose the save-media option.
PowerPoint records related audio and the mouse pointer by default. Microsoft’s audio guidance says the computer needs a sound card, microphone, and speakers to record and hear audio.
Record narration or other audio
For a spoken explanation, enable microphone capture where the chosen method provides that control. In Xbox Game Bar, Windows+Alt+M toggles the microphone. PowerPoint records related audio by default; its audio guidance specifies a sound card, microphone, and speakers for recording and playback. A microphone is not needed for a silent screen capture. If laptop audio is unclear, an optional USB microphone can help make narration easier to hear.
Rank #4
- 【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.
What to use instead of Steps Recorder
Microsoft has deprecated Steps Recorder and points Windows users toward Snipping Tool, Xbox Game Bar, and Clipchamp as alternatives. Choose among them based on the capture you need: a region, an app or game, or a tutorial with editing. Feature availability can change with Windows updates, so consult current Microsoft Support instructions for the version installed on your PC.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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