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Steam Game Recording is already available to all Steam users. It can continuously keep a rolling capture of gameplay or record only when you start it, then let you review, trim, save, export, transfer, or share clips. “All games” means Steam can record gameplay across Steam games; game-specific event markers are available only in games that support Steam Timeline.
What Steam Game Recording captures
Steam Game Recording captures gameplay from games played through the Steam Client. It does not record your desktop or other programs. You can choose to include audio from other programs, such as voice chat. The feature is built into Steam; Valve announced general availability on November 5, 2024, following a beta announced in June 2024. Valve’s availability announcement and Steam Support’s Game Recording guide describe the feature and its controls.
Choose how Steam records
| Mode | How it works | What to keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Record in Background | Captures gameplay continuously into a space-limited allocation. | Older footage can be overwritten as the allocation fills. Save important moments as clips before they are lost. |
| Record on Demand | Captures gameplay only after you turn recording on. | Use the recording controls or shortcut when you want to start and stop capture. |
To configure the feature, open Steam > Settings > Game Recording, or open the Game Recording tab in the in-game Overlay. Settings include the storage allocation, save location, audio capture, and shortcut keys. Steam’s support page documents these options; it does not provide a comparative benchmark for recording quality, system performance, or storage consumption.
What “all games” does—and does not—mean
Steam says Game Recording works with all Steam games. That refers to recording gameplay, not to every game supplying extra context on the timeline. Games that support Steam Timeline can provide game-specific markers, such as events, to make it easier to find moments in a recording. Without that support, you can still review and clip footage, but those game-specific markers are not promised.
#1 Best Overall
- 【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.
Review and save a clip
- Start a Steam game with Game Recording enabled. In the in-game Overlay, open the Game Recording tab to check recording status and the timeline.
- Review the timeline and available events or markers. Choose the section you want to keep and place a clip suggestion.
- Adjust the clip’s start and end points, then save it.
- In the desktop client, find saved footage at View > Recordings & Screenshots. On Steam Deck, recordings appear in the Media tab.
Background recording is a temporary rolling capture, not a permanent archive. Saving a selected clip preserves that moment separately from footage that may later be overwritten.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Export, transfer, or share a saved clip
After creating a clip, you can keep it in Steam, export it as an MP4 file, copy it, transfer it to an eligible device, or create a share link. These serve different purposes: an exported MP4 is a video file you can edit or post elsewhere, while a Steam share link is temporary and expires after two days, according to Steam’s FAQ. See Steam Support’s Game Recording instructions and FAQ for the available clip actions.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 【4K Clarity, 1080P Performance】Enjoy stunning clarity with our USB 3.0 Video Capture Card—featuring 4K input and smooth 1080P@60Hz output. Featuring YUY2 technology, it delivers richer colors than MJPEG for lifelike live streaming and recording. Plus, it delivers high-quality video with minimal latency, making it perfect for gamers and content creators.
- 【Mic-in for Easy Commentary】Plug in a headset or mic directly to stream/record voice easily—no extra adapters. Great for real-time gaming commentary, online classes, or vlog dubbing. Paired with its low-latency tech, it keeps voice synced perfectly with video, eliminating post-editing hassle from mismatched audio-visuals. Fits most 3.5mm devices—ideal for gamers, teachers, creators.
- 【Plug and Play, no Extra-Drivers】No extra drivers or external power—just plug in and start capturing instantly. Small and lightweight, it fits easily in your bag for outdoor live streams, on-the-go recordings, or emergencies. Ideal for game capture, video conferences, and online teaching, it saves hassle while delivering smooth results.
- 【Wide Compatibility: Apps & Devices】No extra adapters—works flawlessly with your go-to platforms and gear. It pairs with streaming/recording apps like Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, OBS, XSplit, and VLC, plus devices including Switch/Switch2, PS5/PS4, Xbox, DSLR cameras, PC, macOS, and Android. Whether gaming, streaming, or hosting video calls, it keeps HD quality intact, eliminating "compatibility headaches".
- 【Worry-Free After-Sales Support】We are committed to delivering exceptional quality products that combine sophisticated design with affordable pricing, offering you the best solutions for seamlessly connecting your work and life. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned user, feel free to reach out anytime with any questions—your satisfaction is our top priority.
Rank #3
- Seamless Broadcasting and Versatile Streaming: Connect effortlessly to any app such as OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch Studio, Restream, Zoom, Teams, and stream flawlessly on various platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Discord, Facebook Gaming, etc., providing you with unparalleled flexibility and reach.
- Next-gen capture: Unleash the full potential of your content with cutting-edge 4K resolution, delivering crystal-clear visuals at an impressive 144 frames per second.
- HDMI 2.1 in/out: Elevate your recording capabilities with HDMI 2.1 support, allowing you to document high frame rates up to 240fps in glorious 1080p resolution for an unparalleled viewing experience.
- VRR passthrough: Immerse yourself completely in the gaming experience as our Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) passthrough ensures flawlessly smooth gameplay, eliminating screen tearing for an uninterrupted visual feast.
- Ultra-low latency: Stay in the moment with ultra-low latency powered by USB 3.2 Gen 2, ensuring your broadcast and gameplay remain perfectly synchronized, delivering an immersive and responsive streaming experience.
Rank #2
- High-Quality Video Capture, 4K HDMI Capture Card Ready: Capture smooth and vibrant video with this 4K HDMI capture card, engineered for gamers and content creators who demand crisp 1080P 60FPS video quality. Whether you're streaming to Twitch or recording gameplay for YouTube, your footage will look professional and detailed
- Plug-and-Play USB Capture Card, No Drivers Needed: Designed as a USB capture card for streaming, this device works instantly out of the box, just plug into your PC or laptop and start capturing. Fully compatible with popular software like OBS Studio, Streamlabs, and XSplit, making setup quick and stress-free for beginners and pros alike
- Universal Compatibility PS5, Xbox, Switch & More: Stream or record gameplay from virtually any HDMI-enabled device including Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X, DSLR cameras, and PCs. The video capture card for gaming supports seamless passthrough so you can play without lag while your audience watches every frame in real time
- Low-Latency Performance for Smooth Streaming: This capture card for streaming minimizes delay between gameplay and broadcast, so you get reliable, low-latency capture that works well for competitive gaming, live broadcasts, and podcast sessions. Suitable for those building their channel with high-quality, engaging content
- Compact & Portable Design for Content Creators: Lightweight and portable, this USB 3.0 capture card works well for creators who travel or switch gaming setups often. Throw it in your bag and stream or record wherever you are, at home, events, LAN parties, streaming or studio sessions
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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