Here are the best screen recorders for Windows and Mac that let you record your screen, webcam, and audio seamlessly. Likewise, edit, share, and download with a single click. The list comprises free tools with effective features and paid tools with advanced features, perfect for your recording needs.
Do you want to capture a tutorial, record a gameplay session, or save an important video call with crystal clarity?
Whether you’re on Windows, Mac, or working right from your browser and whether you want a free tool or you’re willing to pay, I’ve got you covered.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through:
- A friendly rundown of top screen recorders for Windows, macOS, and web-based tools.
- Clear pros and cons of paid vs. free options
- Real-world use cases of these screen recorder, from teaching and meeting to gaming and quick-share clip
- Tools that work best for beginners and professional users alike.
Let’s get started to help you find the perfect screen recorder for your needs.
TL;DR: Best Screen Recording Software at a Glance
Here is a side-by-side comparison table of how the top screen recorders compare.
Screen Recorder | Cost | Video Quality | Recording Length | AI tools | Platform |
Adilo | FreeUnlimited plan: $42/month (billed annually) and $69 for a single monthly plan | Up to 4K UHD | Unlimited | AI audio enhancement, subtitle | Web based |
Descript | FreeHobbyist: $16/mo billed annuallyCreators: $24/mo billed annually | Up to 4K | Unlimited (transcription capped) | AI transcription, filler removal | Web and Desktop app |
Camtasia | Camtasia Essentials: $ 179.88/yrCamtasia Create: $249/yr Camtasia Pro: $599/yr | Up to 4K | Unlimited | Basic captions | Desktop app |
Loom | FreeBusiness: $12.50/month (billed annually)Enterprise: custom pricing | Up to 1080p HD | 5 min free/unlimited paid | Basic transcription | Web and Desktop app |
Veed | FreeLite: $9/mo (billed annually)Pro: $24/mo (billed annual)Enterprise: Custom pricing | Up to 4K | 10 min free/ longer paid | AI subtitles, background tools. | Web based |
ScreenPal | FreeDeluxe: $4/mo billed annuallyMax: $10/mo billed annuallyTeam Business: $8/mo billed annually | Up to 4K (HD) | 15 min free/ unlimited paid | AI captions, quizzes | Web and Desktop app |
OBS Studio | Free | Up to 4K (with settings) | Unlimited | No | Desktop app |
Wistia | FreePlus: $19/monthPro: $79/monthAdvanced: $319/monthPremium: Custom pricing | Up to 1080p HD | 15 min free/longer paid | AI teleprompter, clip maker | Web based |
Movavi | Varying plans starting from$19.95 | Up to 4K | Unlimited | No | Desktop app |
ScreenRec | Free | 1080P HD | Unlimited | No | Desktop app |
Webex | FreeMeet: $14.50/mo billed annuallySuite: $25/mo billed annuallyEnterprise: Custom pricing | Up to 1080p HD | 40 min free/ 24hr paid | AI transcription | Web and Desktop app |
Free Cam | FreePro (iSpring Cam Pro): $227/yr | 720p—HD WMV/MP4 | Unlimited | No | Desktop app (Windows only) |
FlashBack Express | Free | 1080p—4K (720p on free plan) | Unlimited | No | Desktop (Windows 10 and 11) |
Our 13 Best Screen Recorders for Your Next Project
There are several screen recorders available in the market space. However, choosing the right one suitable for your recording needs is what matters most. So, we’ve done the hard work for you, and put together the best screen recorders for your pick.
1. Adilo Screen Recorder
Adilo is an all-in-one, cloud-based video hosting and screen-recording platform ideal for creators, educators, marketer, and businesses.
It comes with a built-in HD recorder on your dashboard that allows you to easily record your screen, camera and audio simultaneously without needing external software or tools.
Also, Adilo’s screen recorder is now accessible through its sleek Chrome extension. It lets you instantly capture your screen, webcam, mic, and even stem audio, all in 4K ultra-HD. It features AI-powered audio enhancement and local recording, ensuring smooth recording during connectivity issues.
Plus, with instant upload to your Adilo cloud dashboard, you can trim, manage projects, and share polished video seamlessly all from your browser.
In addition, you get unlimited screen recording features with Adilo which offers you a user-friendly, 100% web-based solution that requires no special equipment or technical expertise. It offers unlimited hosting, DRM-level security, A/B split testing, and a customizable player, all ad-free in a user-friendly dashboard.
Hence, if you’re a business owner, educator, marketer, or content creator, I recommend the Adilo Chrome screen recorder which combines high-quality recording, ease of use, editing options, compatibility, audio recording and more.
Platform: Web-based available on Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS.
Output File Format: Adilo screen recorder supports HD and 4K file format. Playback via MP4/HtML5.
Pros
- 4K ultra-HD capture in browser: No need for external apps or installations to record your screen.
- Simultaneous screen, webcam and audio recording: It captures both screen, webcam, audio in one go via a single click.
- AI audio enhancer: Automatically boosts vocal clarity and reduces noise for audio-level sound.
- Unlimited recording time: No time caps or hidden limits.
- Lightweight editing built-in: Trim silences and mistakes right in the browser shortly after recording
- Auto cloud sync and project dashboard: Videos auto-upload, project-organized, and ready for embedding or export.
- Strong security: Including DRM, watermarking, encryption, domain restrictions.
- Split testing and analytics: A/B testing and heatmap insights to optimize engagement
- Branded customizable player: Stylable video player with clickable CTAs, lead capture forms, and interactive futures.
- SEO and podcast support: Integrated transcripts, audio hosting, and podcast syndication.
Cons
- Requires internet for uploads: Although recording occurs locally, cloud sync needs connectivity.
- Advanced audio tools limited on free plan: Some AI enhanced features require upgrade after free credits are exhausted.
Pricing
- Free
- Unlimited plan: $42/month (billed annually) and $69 for a single monthly plan
TrustPilot Rating
- Adilo has a 4.3 out of 5 star rating from 774 reviews
G2 Rating
- Adilo has a 4.6 out of 5 star rating from 720 reviews
GetApp Rating
- Adilo has a 4.8 out of 5 star rating from 740 reviews
Capterra Rating
- Adilo has a 4.8 out of 5 star rating from 740 reviews
Editor’s Rating
- Adilo has a 5 out of 5 rating for its comprehensive feature set, security, and integrated screen recorder.
Read our comprehensive guide on how to install and use Adilo Chrome Screen Recorder.
2. Descript Screen Recorder
Descript is an all-in-one audio, video and screen-recording tool that combines intuitive text-based editing with robust media features. Whether you’re capturing your screen for tutorials, podcasts, or marketing content, Descript provides instant transcription and AI-powered tools to easily polish, edit, and share, all within a single app.
Platform: Web and Desktop app available on Windows and Mac
Output File Format: Supports high-resolution video up to 4K, standard formats including MP4, MOV.
Pros
- Text -based editing: Edit videos and audio by editing transcript, quick, intuitive and innovative.
- Instant transcription: Speeds up editing and accessibility, transcribe right as you record.
- AI enhancement: Remove filler words, clean audio, adjust eye contact, green screen support and more via its “Underlord” AI
- High quality output: Export up to 4K video, watermark free on paid plan.
- Collaboration built-in: Share transcripts, invite comments, add basic seats for free; but online editors pay.
Cons
- For beginners, its advanced AI features and layout options may be overwhelming.
Pricing
- Free
- Hobbyist: $16/mo billed annually
- Creators: $24/mo billed annually
G2 Rating
- 4.6 out of 5 star rating from 774 reviews
GetApp Rating
- 4.8 out of 5 star rating from 172 reviews
Capterra Rating
- 4.5 out of 5 star rating from 172 review
Editor’s Rating
- Descript screen recorder has a 4.5 out of 5 star rating for its transcription integration, AI enhancements, and seamless sharing.
3. Camtasia
Camtasia, by TechSmith, has been the go-to screen recorder and video editor for over two decades. It excels at capturing your screen, webcam, mic, system and even cursor data simultaneously, then provide a polished, drag-and-drop editing environment to transform raw footage ino polished tutorials, presentations, and social videos.
With features like auto-generated captions, cursor effects (highlighting, magnification, smoothing), and an extensive library of animation, transitions, and templates. It’s ideal for educators, trainers, content creators, and professionals seeking polished results without learning a high-end editing suite.
Platform: Desktop app available on Windows and Mac
Output File Format: Supports export to MP4, MOV, animated GIF, AVI (Windows only), plus direct uploading to YouTube, Google Drive and others.
Pros
- Robust recorder: Captures screen, mic, system audio, webcam, and cursor motion seamlessly
- Intuitive editor: Drag-and-drop timeline with effects, callouts, transitions, and cursor enhancement
- Auto-caption and transcription: Automatically generate captions with multi-language support and editable text overlays
- Extensive asset library: Template, themes, behaviours, and a growing collection of stock media
- Professional polish: Supports zooms, focus effect, audio cleanup via Audio integration, and collaboration tools.
Cons
- Rendering times can lag on heavy projects.
Pricing
- Camtasia Essentials: $ 179.88/yr
- Camtasia Create: $249/yr
- Camtasia Pro: $599/yr
Capterra Rating
- 4.5 out of 5 star rating from 443 reviews.
Editor’s Rating
- Camtasia has a 4.5 out of 5 as it stands out for those looking for a streamlined, professional-quality screen recording and editing experience.
4. Loom
Loom is a user focused screen recording and messing tool built for fast, clear communication. In just a few clicks, whether you’re in a browser, desktop app, or mobile device, you can capture your screen, webcam, and audio, then instantly share via link.
loom‘s intuitive editor supports trimming, stitching clips, adding annotations, and including emojis/comments right on the video. This Screen recorder also comes with transcript generation, viewer insights, and integration like Slack, Google Workspace, and Jira.
Platform: Web, Desktop app available on Windows and Mac
Output File Format: Exports in standard MP4 format. Loom hosts video and audio via HtML5 player.
Pros
- Instant and Intuitive recording: Quick setup with screen, webcam, or both.
- Simple editing: Trim, stitch, annotate, add arrows and callouts in-browser or app
- Embed-friendly: Shareable links, auto-embed in Slack, email, docs(add viewers comments and reactions)
- Transcript and captions: Auto-captioning and transcription for accessibility.
- Enterprise -grade security: Offer SSO, SCIM, data retention policies, access controls.
- Viewer analytics: Insights and viewer data to measure engagement.
Cons
- Recording limits on free plan: 5-minutes maximum clips; longer videos need upgrades.
- Basic editing tools: Built-in editor is minimal
Pricing
- Free
- Business: $12.50/month (billed annually)
- Enterprise: custom pricing
G2 Rating
- 4.6 out of 5 star from 774 reviews
Editor’s Rating
- Loom has a 4.7 out of 5 for its asynchronous communication with polished UX, cross-platform support, and collaborative features.
5. Veed Screen Recorder
Veed is a polished, web-based screen recorder and video editor designed for creators and teams looking for quick, high-quality content without installing software. You can record your screen, webcam, or both, then immediately trim, subtitle, annotate, and enhance the footage, all within your browser. Its built-in AI tools streamline tasks like subtitle generation, background removal, and audio cleaning.
Platform: Web based only available on Windows and Mac
Output File Format: Exports standard formats like MP4 and supports high-definition output up to 4K on paid plan. Subtitles available as SRT/VTT; mobile friendly HTML5 playback.
Pros
- Beginner-friendly interface: Easy to navigate, ideal for beginners and non-tech users.
- AI-powered subtitle & transcription: Automatic caption generation supports accessibility and SEO.
- Cloud-based convenience: Record, edit, and access projects anywhere with internet access.
- Smart enhancement tools: Includes clean audio, background removal, eye-correction, Magic Cut for auto-trimming.
- Collaboration features: Commenting, shared workspace, team template.
Cons
- Free plan limits: Watermark, 10-minute recording cap, file size restriction
- Depends on Internet: Requires stable connection; limited offline use.
Pricing
- Free
- Lite: $9/mo (billed annually)
- Pro: $24/mo (billed annual)
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
TrustPilot Rating
- 4.0 out of 5 star from 2,639 reviews
G2 Rating
- 4.6 out of 5 star from 500 reviews
GetApp Rating
- 3.3 out of 5 from 55 reviews
Capterra Rating
- 3.2 out of 5 from 55 reviews
Editor’s Rating
- Veed screen recorder has a 4.0 out of 5 for its fast, browser-first recording with rich AI features and shareability.
6. ScreenPal
ScreenPal formerly Scrrencast-O-Matic is a versatile, user-friendly screen recorder and editor. Ideal for beginners, educators, and teams, it offers one-click recording, webcam, and audio capture, on-screen drawing, and built-in editing tools, all packaged into a simple, intuitive interface. The platform continuously evolves, adding AI-powered features, interactive quizzing, background tools, and cloud hosting.
Platform: Web and Desktop app available on Windows and Mac
Output File Format: Export to MP4 (HD/4K depending on plan).
Pros
- Intuitive interface: Screenplay screen recorder has a one-click recording experience.
- Rich annotation tools: Live drawing, zooming, highlighting, text boxes, shapes, all available during recording.
- Built-in editor: Users can crop clip, add voiceover, music, transitions, freeze frames, and cursor effects.
- AI features: Automated captions, titles, summeries, quizzes, and translations streamline post-production.
- Cross-platform recording and hosting: Works across devices and offers cloud video hosting with analytics and quizzes.
Cons
- Free plan limitations: 15-minutes cap, watermark outro, no system audio, and limited editing.
Pricing
- Free
- Deluxe: $4/mo billed annually
- Max: $10/mo billed annually
- Team Business: $8/mo billed annually
G2 Rating
- 4.4 out of 5 star rating from 117 reviews.
Editor’s Rating
- Screenplay screen recorder has a 4.7 out of 5 for its high value, easy-to-use tools with efficient annotation and AI-driven editing features.
7. OBS Studio
OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software) is a free open-source powerhouse designed for both screen recording and live streaming. It seamlessly captures videos, system audio, microphone, webcam, and even game streams, while offering flexible scene composition (layers, transitions, filters) and broadcasting via RTMP, HLS, SRT, or WebRTC to platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook.
OBS supports advanced encoding via x264, H.265, NVENC, AVI and integrates virtual webcam outputs, making it a go-to source for gamers, educators, and creators.
Platform: Desktop app available on Windows and Mac
Output File Format: Supports MKV, MP4, FLV, MOV, tS, and M3U8 containers, with configurable encoders (x264, H.365, NVENC, AV1) and audio in AAC and OPUS.
Pros
- Totally free & open source: No cost, no watermark, and a strong community-driven development model.
- High customization and flexibility: Create scenes layering screen, webcam, images, audio, browsers; apply transition, filters, and chroma key.
- Advanced encoding support: Use x264, NVENC, Quick Sync, and emerging AVI for ultrasmooth recording and streams.
- Live streaming integration: Easy setup for Twitch, YouTube, Facebook Live with full control over bitrate, resolution, and simultaneous stream and record.
- Audio mixer and filter: Real-time audio mixing with support for multiple inputs, and per-source filters (noise suppression, gates)
- Extensibility: Rich plugin ecosystem adds advanced overlays, scripting, virtual camera, and more.
- Cross-platform parity: Nearly identical features set on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
- Community support: Large user base with tutorial, forums, and frequent updates.
Cons
- Steep learning curve: Beginners may find the interface cluttered and challenging to configure.
- Lacks built-in editing tools: Captured content must be edited in an external software (no trimming or annotation inside OBS itself).
Pricing
- Free
G2 Rating
- 4.6 out of 5 star rating from 122 reviews
GetApp Rating
- 4.7 out of 5 star rating from 1,071 review
Capterra Rating
- 4.7 out of 5 star rating from 1,071 reviews
Editor’s Rating
- OBS studio has a 4.6 out of 5 rating for its screen recording flexibility at zero cost.
8. Wistia Screen Recorder
Wistia’s screen recorder is a built-in, browser-based video tool that empowers marketers, educators, and team to create polished screen-and webcam video seamlessly. Users can easily switch between full-screen, split-screen, or picture-in-picture layouts, and enhance their recordings with a teleprompter, AI-generated scripts, royalty-free music, and automatic clip suggestions for social media.
Once captured, videos can be trimmed, stitched, annotated, branded, and shared via embed or link—all within Wistia’s video marketing ecosystems.
Platform: Web-based available on Windows and Mac
Output File Format: Export is managed via Wistia’s video player and backend infrastructure—MP4/HtML5 format for web playback.
Pros
- All-in-one workflow: Record, edit, brand, host, embed, and analyze your videos without leaving the platforms.
- Dual recording support: Capture screen and webcam simultaneously, with flexible layout options.
- Teleprompter and AI scripts: Built-in teleprompter with AI-generated script assistance saves time.
- Social-ready clip highlights: AI identifies top moments for easy creation of social snippets.
- Branded customizable player: Stylable video player with clickable CTAs, lead capture forms, and interactive futures.
- Robust analytics and marketing tools: Heatmaps, engagement tracking, A/B testing, and marketing automation integration boost business ROI.
- Collaboration features: Team commenting, review workflows, multi-user support streamline feedback cycles.
Cons
- Restriction on free plans: Limited recording length of 15 minutes.
Pricing
- Free
- Plus: $19/month
- Pro: $79/month
- Advanced: $319/month
- Premium: Custom pricing
G2 Rating
- 4.6 out of 5 star rating from 813 reviews.
Capterra Rating
- 4.3 out of 5 star rating from 172 reviews
Editor’s Rating
- Wistia screen recorder has a 4.5 out of 5 rating for its marketer-first tool, combined with polished capture, AI assistance, branding, analytics, and seamless web delivery.
9. Movavi Screen Recorder
Movavi screen recorder is a user-friendly desktop application for Windows and macOS that delivers high-quality screen, audio, and webcam capture. Whether you’re documenting webinars, gameplay, or online meetings, it offers an intuitive floating widget to start/pause recording, schedule tasks automatically, highlight keystrokes, cursor movement, and draw on-screen.
It supports 4K recording, advanced hardware acceleration, and a wealth of export formats (MP4, AV1, MKV, GIF, PNG, JPEG), making it ideal for professional and beginners alike.
Platform: Desktop app available on Windows and Mac
Output File Format: Supports video formats includes MP4, MKV, AV1, MOV, M2tS, GIF, and image formats PNG, JPG, BMP, with H.264 codecs.
Pros
- Beginner friendly: Clean, drag-to-select interface with easy pause/resume and scheduling
- High-quality capture: Support 4K and up to 60fps; records clear audio and video
- Hardware acceleration: Leverages Intel, AMD, NVIDIA for smooth, low-CPU recording
- Annotation tools: Real-time drawing, cursor highlighting, keystroke display, and screenshot capture included.
- Scheduling: Set recording to start and stop automatically at designated time
Cons
- Limited editing capabilities: Offers on basic trimming and requires an external editor for advanced editing.
Pricing
- Varying plans starting from$19.95
G2 Rating
- 4.5 out of 5 star rating from 58 reviews
Capterra Rating
- 5.0 out of 5 star rating from 26 reviews
Editor’s Rating
- Movavi screen recorder has a 4.6 out of 5 rating for its polished, reliable screen recorder, offering hardware acceleration, and snapshot features.
10. ScreenRec
ScreenRec is a lightweight, cloud-centric screen recording and screenshot tool tailored for productivity and quick sharing. With an intuitive, one-click interface, it captures screen, webcam, mic, and system audio instantly uploads to private, encrypted cloud storage and provides shareable URLs.
It also supports on-screen annotations and analytics to track viewers engagement. Designed for team communication, bug reporting, and tutorials, ScreenRec prioritizes speed and security over heavy editing features.
Platform: Desktop app available on Windows and Mac
Output File Format: Downloads available in MP4(video) and standard image image formats like PNG. Cloud playback uses HTML5, with no export restrictions.
Pros
- Completely free with no watermarks: Available forever at no cost.
- Unlimited recording: No caps, though obtaining a free account unlock cloud features after 5 minutes
- Secure, encrypted cloud sharing: Instant uploads with AES encryption, link-based access control
- Lightweight, easy to use: Minimal learning curve, optimized for low-resource systems.
- Audio and webcam support: Captures system audio, microphone and webcam overlay
- Basic annotation and analytics: Markups on video/screenshot and view statistics on viewers.
Cons
- No built-in video editing: Aside from minimal annotation, trimming or advanced editing tools must be done externally.
- Frequent users face forced account set up: Videos past 5 minutes require signing up.
Pricing
- Free
TrustPilot Rating
- 4.7 out of 5 rating from 1,005 reviews
Capterra Rating
- 5.0 out of 5 star rating from 7 reviews.
Editor’s Rating
- ScreenRec screen recorder has a 4.6 out of 5 rating for its fast, secure, and genuinely free screen recorder with cloud sharing.
11. Webex Screen Recorder
Webex’s screen recorder is integrated into its robust video conferencing suite, enabling users to capture entire meetings or individual screen segments with high-quality audio and video. Designed for professionals and educators, the recorder offers local or cloud storage with optional AI-generated meeting transcripts and searchable recordings.
Screen sharing includes annotation tools and remote control features, making collaboration seamless. Whether you’re recording a client demo, team training, or webinar, Webex ensures polished playback with valuable analytics and built-in security features.
Platform: Web and Desktop app available on Windows and Mac
Output File Format: Cloud recordings are stored in MP4/HTML5 formats alongside searchable transcript. Local recordings can be saved in MP4 and other formats depending on settings.
Pros
- Built-in meeting recorder: Save full meetings or screen segments locally or on the cloud, with AI-generated transcript for searchable content.
- High-quality audio/video: Reliable performance, which includes crisp clarity and stability even on weaker connections.
- Screen sharing with annotation and control: Supports marking up and remote controlling screen in real time.
- End-to-end security: With encryption and advance privacy protocols build into recording
- Seamless collaboration: transcripts, cloud storage, live captions, that, and integrations for smoother team workflow.
Cons
- Performance hitches: Occasional lag, audio issues, and interface slowdowns, particularly in large-group scenarios.
Pricing
- Webex Free
- Webex Meet: $12/mo billed annually
- Webex Suite: $22.50/mo billed annually
- Webex Enterprise: Custom pricing
G2 Rating
- 4.3 out of 5 star rating from 19,940 reviews
GetApp Rating
- 4.4 out of 5 star rating from 6,700 reviews.
Capterra Rating
- 4.4 out of 5 star rating from 7,400 reviews
Editor’s Rating
- Webex screen recorder has a 4.7 out of 5 for its professional screen recording embedded with a full collaboration suite.
12. Free Cam
Free Cam is a completely free, windows-only screen recorder and basic video editor designed for users who need simple yet polished screencasts. With no watermarks or time limits, it allows you to capture your screen, stem audio, and microphone input.
After recording, it offers a lightweight editor for trimming, noise removal, volume adjustments, and mouse highlighting, plus one-click uploads to YouTube in HD. It’s ideal for educators, trainers, and quick tutorial creators seeking a no-investment solution.
Platform: Desktop app available on Windows only.
Output File Format: WMV(HD up to 720—760p) for free users. And MP4 export is only available with the paid Pro version.
Pros
- Free with no watermarks or time caps: No hidden costs, ads display, or restrictions attached to its free plan.
- Intuitive interface: One-click recording and easy navigation requiring no learning curves.
- Audio capture and noise reduction: Records system and mic audio with tools for silence removal and fade-in/out.
- Mouse highlighting and click sound: Improve viewers’ clarity on screencasts
- Basic built-in editing: This includes trim, video, adjust volume, and clean audio within the app
- Instant YouTube sharing: It allows direct upload via account integration.
Cons
- Window only: No support for macOS or Linux
- Free version lacks webcam capture: Only screen and audio are captured; webcam is reserved for Pro
- Limited editing tools: Basic trimming and no multi-track or transitions.
- WMB output only: Free version exports HD WMV files; MP4 available only on Pro plan.
Pricing
- Free
- Pro (iSpring Cam Pro): $227/yr
G2 Rating
- 4.6 out of 5 star from 55 reviews
Editor’s Rating
- Free Cam screen recorder has a 4.0 out of 5 rating for its free, flexible recorder with clean interface and useful audio/screen capture.
13. FlashBack Express
Flashback Express by Blueberry Software is a free yet powerful screen recording tool for Windows that excels in creating clean, watermark-free screencasts. It captures your screen, webcam, microphones, and system audio, lets you annotate live with drawing tools, schedule recordings, and effortless export to MP4, AVI, or WMV formats.
While its built-in editing is limited (trimming only), many user’s pair it with external editors like Shortcut for enhanced post-production. It’s perfect for walkthrough, vlogs, and demonstrations, it’s a reliable free option for non-professional content creators.
Platforms: Desktop app available exclusively on Windows 10 and 11
Output File formats: Export in standard format including MP4, AVI, WMV
Pros
- Completely free: Captures as much as you need with no watermarks or time limits.
- Screen, webcam, and system audio: Records all inputs simultaneously
- Live annotation tools: Draw, highlight,and spotlight the cursor during recording.
- Timed/scheduled recording: Start or stop recordings automatically by time or when a program closes.
- Easy export: Save recordings in MP4, AVI, or WMV without conversion.
Cons
- Basic editing online: Trimming is available, but lacks full editing features like transitions.
- Windows only: No macOS or mobile support.
Pricing
- Free
G2 Rating
- 4.5 out of 5 star rating from 50 reviews
Editor’s Rating
- 4.5 out of 5 rating for its robust free recording experience on Windows, with excellent annotation and scheduling tools.
Best Screen Recorders By Use Case
Looking for the best screen recorder for your next project? Here are the best screen recorders by use case;
Use Case | Recommended Tool | Why |
Quick team messages | Loom | Instant sharing links |
Professional tutorials & training | Camtasia | Built-in editor with cursor effects |
Free advanced recording/streaming, gaming | OBS Studio | Free, multi-source capture and live stream |
Budget annotated guides | ScreenPal | Affordable desktop/web with annotation |
Simple Windows screencasts | Free Cam | No cost, no watermarks, built-in trimming |
High-quality scheduled capture | Movavi | 4K capture, scheduling & acceleration |
AI-enhanced social videos | Veed | Auto subtitle, background tools in browser |
Marketing/sales content | Adilo | 4K browser capture with hosting and security |
Text-driven editing workflow | Descript | Edit via text transcript for precision |
Secure, fast cloud sharing | ScreenRec | Encrypt automatically uploads HD clips |
Meetings/Webinar recording | Webex screen recorder | Built-in Webex integration and transcriptions |
Branded video marketing | Wistia recorder | Teleprompter And branding and analytics. |
Walkthrough, vlog, and demonstrations | FlashBack Express | Simultaneous screen, webcam, and system audio recording. Includes live annotation tools, and scheduled recording. |
How to Choose the Right Screen Recorder
Choosing the right screen recorder boils down to matching your specific needs, like usability, quality, editing know-how, AI-tools, and budget. Focus on what matters most for your project and pick the tool that hits those core requirements.
- Ease of use: Look for intuitive design and simple control to minimize friction.
- Platform compatibility: Ensure it runs on your OS (Windows, Mac, Linux) and device (desktop/web)
- Video quality: Check max resolution and frame rates (HD, 4K, 60 fps) that match your use.
- Recording length and limit: Watch for a free plan with caps or unlimited recording if needed.
- Live streaming: Needed? Prefer tools with direct RTMP/Twitch/YouTube
- Built-in editing and annotation: Trim, caption, arrow effects without external software.
- Customizable player and embeds: Important for branding or marketing use.
- AI tool: Auto-transcription, noise reduction, clip highlights, etc.
- Analytics and viewers’ insights: Useful for marketing or training to measure engagement
- Storage and library management: Cloud vs. local, capacity, project organization
- Cost and upgrade paths: Free, one-time purchase, or subscription—scale as your needs grow.
FAQs
Are there any free screen recording tools available?
Yes. OBS Studio stands out as the top free options, offering full-featured desktop recording, multi-source capture (screen, webcam and mic) and even live streaming, all across Windows, macOS, and Linux. Other free options include ScreenRec, ScreenPal and Windows tools like ShareX, FlashBack Express, and CamStudio, all with no upfront cost, though some may lack advanced editing and branding features.
How long can I record with a screen recording tool?
It depends on the tool: Unlimited recording is available with full desktop-based tools like OBS Studio and ScreenRec. Also web based tools like Adilo. Whereas free plans come with limits, Loom caps at 5 minutes, ScreenPal at 15 minutes, and some web tools like Veed around 10 minutes.
Can I record both my screen and webcam at the same time?
Yes. Most of the popular tools support picture-in-picture or split-screen capture. OBS Studio, ScreenRec, Loom, Adilo, Descript, Movavi, and Wistia. All these tools offer multi-source recording that includes both your screen and webcam. This makes it easier to overlay your face on tutorials or presentation videos.
Can I use screen recorders on my mobile device?
Absolutely. Both major platforms include built-in options for iOS Control Center and Android 11+ Quick Settings to record your screen with optical audio and on-screen gestures. Additionally, mobile apps like Loom offer dedicated screen-recording apps for iOS and Android, which may include extras like facecam, annotation, and easy cloud uploading.
Best Overall Screen Recorder: Editor’s Pick
After testing and comparing a wide range of tools—from Loom and Veed to OBS and Camtasia and others, Adilo Chrome screen recorder stands out as the top choice for most users. It combines effortless, browser-based recording with professional-level hosting, making Adilo Chrome screen recorder ideal for creators, educators and marketers.
Adilo Chrome screen recorder tops the list because of its 4K Ultra HD recording, unlimited length, and no watermarks right in your browsers. Also, it supports seamless instant uploads to a branded, secure cloud dashboard, having AI-enhancement and advanced analytics features.
What’s more? This screen recorder allows you to brand your embed player, organize videos into channels and projects, and control access with advanced security features like DRM.