This is a paid application but it has a free trial of 15 days. Unlike the Copernicus, this Mac screen video capture tool does not have any time limit when capturing your screen. This is perfect on recording a long tutorial and video call. Apowersoft Free Online Screen Recorder is one such online website that allows you to capture videos for Mac. The site is free and has simple to use interface. At first time, you need to install a launcher and after that unlimited recording can be done.

• Screen Video Capture On Mac
• Free Video Screen Capture For Mac
• Screen Capture Software Mac Free

Video Capture Software or Screen Recorder is software that can create a video of all the activities that one does on the screen. It can include system audio, microphone, or a video without any kind of sound. Some of the software can also record webcam while recording games or screens which makes them a perfect tool for education purposes. Here is the list of features that one can expect from any screen recording tool.

Gone are those days when you needed a high-end graphics tool to capture screen recording or external hardware. Screen capturing is super easy, and it supports almost anything with sound and screen on the computer. That said, while most of the screen recording software is free, it is essential to know that some are paid, and they might be offering more features and functionality. So, choose them wisely based on platform and requirement.

Top 10 Video Capture Software for Windows & Mac

These programs, extensions, and online tools can be used on Windows and macOS to record screen. Some of them are easy to use, while others are professionals. Make sure to use them based on your requirement.

1. EaseUS RecExperts (Our Recommend for Windows)

It is a versatile screen recorder that offers tons of features for professional recording. You can record screen with or without a webcam, record audio, and record games. The software also offers basic editing tools post-recording. During video recording, you can choose to mute the video or highlight your mouse movements and spotlight feature.

The software is straightforward to use and with almost zero learning curve. Since it supports a wide variety of output formats, it makes it versatile for almost all the platforms. You can also create branding by using webcam in the video.

If you want to know more, you can click the following link to download this software.

Features of EaseUS RecExperts:

• Record screen or a region on screen with system sound, audio, record mouse clicks, mouse cursor, zoom
• Record gameplay with different frame rates or fixed configurations. You can also use a webcam
• Set webcam output resolution, position, and shape
• Supports video streaming websites such as YouTube and Vimeo
• You can also upload it to Google Drive, Dropbox, and FTP

The steps of recording video screen:

Step 1. Launch EaseUS RecExperts. You can choose one of the four main functions on the main screen. Here you need to click 'Record Screen'.

Step 2. Click 'Custom' to select a screen area to record. You may choose 'Full Screen', 'Selected Region', 'Fixed Region', 'Locked Window' or to customize window size here. If you want to record the screen and webcam at the same time, make sure you connected a webcam to your computer.

Step 3. Click 'Microphone', and you may choose to record system sound only, record microphone only, record both, or record without audio.

Step 4. Click 'REC' to start recording. After recording completed, the videos will be shown on the 'Video List'.

Step 5. Right-click the video recorded, you may preview, compress, edit, share the video, and do more.

2. Icecream Screen Recorder (Windows)

It's a free screen recording app that offers tons of features that can serve most of the consumers. Apart from the usual recording feature we have shared below, the strength of the software is in tools such as changing speed, scheduling screen recording, display hotkeys, add mouse click animations, and post video editing options such as trim recordings, change speed, and convert video. The best part is you can copy the shot video and paste it into apps like Skype instantly. That is super useful if you want to share something without going into editing and post-recording stuff quickly.

Features:

• Record Screen, Audio, and webcam
• Annotate videos with text, arrows, shares, and more
• Record live webinars, games
• Offers to brand as you can add your logo
• Share to Dropbox, YouTube, Google Drive, and more

Cons:

• Video editing is limited to trimming
• No automatic FPS setup for game recording
• Precise control for audio bitrate is missing

3. CamStudio (Windows)

CamStudio can record all screen and audio activity on your computer. The video recording is saved as AVI video files. Using its built-in SWF Producer can convert AVIs into lean, mean, bandwidth-friendly Streaming Flash videos (SWFs). It is entirely free, and when recording, you can use screen and webcam annotations.

The software is best suited for beginners who would like to get some technical help, and what to record the problem quickly. Option to choose custom cursor, creating a smaller video using a lossless codec, and zero learning curve is a plus.

Features:

• Create demonstration videos, tutorials, and so on
• Create high-quality video at a smaller size using built-in codec
• Record from microphone or speaker
• Keyboard shortcuts top quickly start, pause and stop recording
• Automatically stop recording after a given time

Cons:

• The interface is not user friendly and confusing
• It can only record in AV1 and Flash format
• The latter is already outdated
• Outdated software

4. ShareX (Windows)

If you are looking for a completely free and open-source screen recording tool, ShareX should be your choice. It offers tons of features that you will expect from the tool, which also means there is a substantial learning curve because the menus are not exactly familiar in the first go.

It can be used to record screen, share the screen with others, and customize many aspects of the program. The software allows you to configure what will happen once the capture is complete or when the upload is complete. It is perfect for those scenarios where there is s workflow to follow. It also supports hotkeys to get things done quickly.

Features:

• After capture task menu and after edit actions
• Add images, effects, and watermarks
• Upload to multiple destinations
• Screen, Webcam, and game recording
• Lightweight software

Cons:

• Too many options can confuse new users
• High learning curve
• Some features don't work as advertised

5. Chrome Screen Recorder (macOS)

If you are looking for a browser-based solution, this Chrome-based Screen Recorder is a perfect solution. You can also use this extension to screen recording, but it works efficiently when it comes to tab recording of the browser. The best part of using this is that you can record online streaming videos such as those from Netflix, YouTube, and Vimeo.

It is perfect for those who want a simple solution instead of a complicated feature-rich software installation. Also, it will be best to be used for browser-based recordings, such as recording streaming services than recording desktops.

Features:

• Supports audio recording, webcam recording, application recording
• Only tab-based recording
• Record System and microphone audio
• Record Camera

Cons:

• Only works when the browser is open
• Limited video format support
• Limited language support

6. macOS Built-in Recorder (macOS)

macOS has tons of features built-in the OS, which includes the screen recorder tool. If you press Shift-Command (⌘)-5 on your keyboard on your MacBook, and it will instantly launch the built-in editor. It offers onscreen controls for recording the entire screen, recording a selected portion of the screen, or capturing a still image of your screen.

Post recording, you can choose to save videos instantly or let the video float as a thumbnail, which you can immediately open in edit mode. It is handy when you want to edit right away or see a preview. The timer allows you to add a delay before starting the recording.

Features:

• The easiest way to record video using a hotkey
• Record full screen or region
• Post recording editing tools
• You can use a microphone or mute completely

Cons:

• Missing built-in video editor
• Multi-monitor support is missing
• Limited editing support
• System audio recording is not possible

7. OBS Studio (macOS and Windows)

Like ShareX, it also an open-source video recorder and editor which is built for live streaming. The software is built for gamers who like to stream gameplay and also use webcam along with it. That said, you can also use it to record from multiple sources, real-time video and audio capturing. In case of noise, you can use the audio mixer with filters such as noise gate, suppress, and gain.

Then comes the plethora of settings to tweak and optimize every aspect of recording and broadcast. Lastly, Studio Mode lets you preview your scenes and sources before pushing them to live.

Features:

• Real-time video/audio capturing and mixing
• Switch between multiple scenes
• Audio Mixer with pre-source filters to filter out the noise and gain

Cons:

• The software is for professionals only. Beginners will find it confusing
• You need a high-end system to deliver live broadcasting
• A lot of complaints about the software not closing even after recording is complete
• Installing plugins is complicated

8. TinyTake (macOS and Windows)

If you love light-weight software, you are going to love TinyTake. It can capture images and record all activities on macOS and TinyTake. What is useful about the software is that it offers annotations, which makes it useful when you share videos as an explanation. You can also upload videos on their online platform, and instantly share links. You can also do bulk video sharing.

Apart from taking videos, you can also take screenshots and add annotations like videos. Annotations are what make the software very useful as you will be able to explain and point out things precisely and efficiently.

Features:

• Annotate videos and screenshots
• Bulk File Sharing
• In-built viewer for file types
• Directly upload videos to video sites such as YouTube

Cons:

• In its free version, you are limited to five minutes of video recording
• No option to upload to YouTube using macOS
• The videos are saved into Mp4 format
• Limited editing features
• You will have to create an account with them to use it

9. ScreenApp (macOS and Windows)

It's a universal tool to record on any platform. This online screen recorder app requires no installation, but you can still record, edit, and share your screen on the web instantly. The idea behind the tool is to offer an easy to use screen recording experience without complicated options and configurations. It also provides video in the smallest possible format, which makes it easy to share. You can record one hour of video without any watermark or limitation.

This online tool is useful for those who want to keep everything online and are looking for a download size a lot smaller. It makes it easy to share it on a social platform with limits on upload size.

Features:

• Record entire screen, an application window or browser tab
• Online editors allow you to remove unwanted sections before downloading them
• Faster downloading speed
• No limit on the number of screen recording
• Record without internet

Cons:

• No MP4 support but instead offers WEBM format
• You cannot edit downloaded videos easily with standard tools
• No annotation features available

10. Movavi Screen Recorder (Windows and macOS)

It's a popular screen recorder that can record screen, region, streaming videos, system sound, and more. You can select an area and instantly start recording. It also offers support for multiple displays, which is useful if you want to refer notes side by side. The video is finally converted into MP4, AVI, MOV, MKV, GIF, and other images. It also supports webcams and microphones.

Features:

• Easily record games, create video tutorials and audio
• Advanced video editor with filters
• Advanced Tools for video stabilization

Cons:

• The free version is limited
• Green screen support is missing
• No video editor post-recording
• No social media support
• System sound cannot be recorded

Conclusion

These are some of the best video capture software for macOS and Windows. While some are entirely free, others are limited free full-screen video recording tools. When using Windows, EaseUS RecExperts offers excellent features which include support to record games, desktop, webcam, and audio. It can listen to system sound. It also provides a task scheduler so you can record at any time.

They say there is no free lunch and, more often than not, that’s the rule. Screen recording software, though, is a delightful exception — there are heaps of free tools out there.
To help you find the best free screen recorder, we have created a shortlist of the best free screen recorders in 2020 that are free. Ideal for communicating your ideas and feedback faster, recorder video tutorials, explainer videos, report bugs, etc.

Contents

What Is Screen Recording Software?

Screen recording software captures what is on your computer screen. You can either record in full screen or capture a specific area. Most of these apps can record your microphone (audio narration) and the best desktop recording software can also record your computer screen with audio (the system sound).

However, this is where the similarities end. Not all such programs are HD screen recorders. Some screen recording tools can save the recording in various file formats or export it to social media websites like YouTube. Top screen recorders, though, can upload your screen captures to the cloud in real time and give you a sharing link instantly (much more effective).

So, before you set your mind on a free screen recording software, it’s best to evaluate your own recording needs. Maybe you don’t need to upload your videos to social media or maybe you don’t need to record in HD.

How we reviewed the top screen video recorders

We took information about each of the best desktop recorders directly from their official website. In addition, we gathered insights from independent reviews published on G2Crowd and tested each tool ourselves.

What is a good screen recorder?

While our picks range from desktop apps to browser plug-ins, each one meets the following basic criteria:

• User-friendly interface
• Can record the entire screen or a specific area
• Captures both system and microphone audio
• Built-in video sharing and/or convenient exporting options

Here Are The Best Free Screen Recording Software In 2020

1. Screenrec

Click. Record. Share instantly. If you’re looking for the quickest and easiest possible way to capture your computer screen and share the recording with someone else, this is it. No ads and limitations. You not only get a screen recorder for free but you also get business video hosting for free.

Pros

• Record computer audio
• Record your computer screen in HD
• Capture and annotate screenshots
• 2Gb of free video hosting included
• Cloud recording. Your video capture is uploaded on the fly to a secure video hosting platform — StreamingVideoProvider.
• Files are saved in the .MP4 format which can be played on any device (free MP4 screen recorder)
• Instant private sharing. Once the recording is complete you get a private sharing link that you can send to anyone online.
• Extremely lightweight
• Video CMS to manage your recordings, e.g. tag, add descriptions, organize in folders and playlists
• Video encryption. No one can download your videos without your explicit permission.
• Video analytics
• Unlimited recording time
• No ads

Cons

• There are no video editing tools at this point
• You can’t record your webcam

2. iSpring Free Cam

iSpring Free Cam made our list of the best screen recorders because it’s easy-to-use, without ads and time limitations. It only works on Windows which can potentially be an issue but, otherwise, it’s got all the chops to help you capture the full screen or a specific area of your desktop.

Pros

• Record your microphone and system sounds
• Highlight your mouse
• Basic video editing tools, e.g. delete selection, remove background noise.
• Webcam recording is available but only in the Pro version
• You can upload your screencast to YouTube
• No ads
• No time limits

Cons

• Only works on Windows. No support for Linux or Mac.
• Screen captures are saved in .WMV format (OK if you’re using a Windows PC but might not play on other platforms)
• Uploading large videos might take quite some time because there is no cloud recording option. The file is compressed and uploaded after recording.
• You can’t take screenshots
• Some users report high CPU usage

3. Apowersoft Free Online Screen Recorder

A nice online screen recorder with basic video editing capabilities. This free screen capture software runs in your browser (Mac or Windows) and requires an internet connection. The Apowersoft Free Online Screen Recorder might be a good choice if you’re looking for a one-time solution.

Pros

• Record your webcam
• Add annotations within the video
• Capture computer audio
• Crop your video (no other editing tools, though)
• Works on Windows and Mac but not on Linux
• After recording, you can save the video file to your computer or upload it to YouTube, Vimeo, Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.
• You can save the file in a number of different formats (This can also be a con if you don’t know what you’re doing)

Cons

• Requires a browser plugin to run which may slow your browser down. There is a “Download desktop version” button on the website but this is actually the Pro version, not the free one.
• No cloud recording option. If you want to share your screencast, you will have to wait for the video to render and, then, you will have to wait for it to upload.
• Time limits and watermarks (removed when you create a free account)
• Not suitable for game recording because you can’t hide the recording widget
• Users report that it takes quite a lot of time to view the replay
• You must be online to use it

4. Screencast-O-Matic

The free version of Screencast-O-Matic is another browser-based screen recording tool. It should work for you if you don’t need to record computer audio and you only want to make very short videos.

Pros

• Narrate the video (record your computer microphone)
• Record your webcam
• After recording the video, you can upload it to YouTube or the Screencast-o-matic hosting service
• Highlight your mouse
• Available for Windows and Mac

Cons

• 15-minute recording limit
• There is a watermark
• You can’t record computer audio in the free version
• No screenshot tool
• The free version can only run in the browser which can slow your computer down
• Ads on your screencasts
• Requires Java to run
• Some users report that it crashes their browsers and slows down their computers
• No cloud recording option. If you want to share your screencast, you will have to wait for the video to render and, then, you will have to wait for it to upload.

5. Ezvid

Ezvid is on our best screen recording software list because it has some cool features like the ability to draw while recording or synthesize human speech from text. Like iSpring Free Cam, it only works on Windows and saves screencasts in the bulky WMV format.

Pros

• HD video capture
• Include computer narration with your video
• Trim videos
• Insert images and videos in your screencast
• Draw while recording
• Facecam recording
• No watermarks
• No ads

Cons

• Works on Windows only
• Recording limit — depends on how much free space you have on your hard drive
• Delayed replay — you have to wait until your video is rendered
• Some users report that it slows down their computers
• Screen captures are saved in .WMV format (OK if you’re using a Windows PC but the video might not play on other platforms)

What Is a Good Screen Recorder?

There are two important points to consider when looking for the best free screen recorder in 2020.

1. File Format & Compression

A file format is a particular way of organizing the data within the file. There are many video file formats and some screen recording tools support more than one. However, most of the time, it goes down to MP4 vs. WMV.

MP4 or WMV for screen capture?

The WMV format is a product of Microsoft. Back in the day, it was created to allow professional videos to be recorded in high quality, e.g. on DVD, Bluray. The biggest issue here is that Mac users often have trouble viewing WMV files.

MP4, on the other hard, helps you produce video files that can be opened on any platform. And, when it comes to video quality, MP4 is actually better than WMV.

So,MP4 is more suitable for publishing your screen captures on the web and sharing them with others. The best free video capture software allows you to save your videos in MP4.

2. Video Hosting & Uploading

When looking for a screen capture software, you’d probably look at the recording features like — recording time, ability to record the computer audio, and so on.

But what happens after you record your screencast?

Most of the time, video files are very big and can’t be attached to emails. This means that, to share a video, you have to upload it somewhere in the cloud. In other words, you need video hosting.

This is a book-worthy topic but here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Hosting on YouTube. Some screen recorders allow you to post your videos on YouTube. That’s great when you want to share your videos publicly but not recommended if the screencast contains sensitive information.
• Proprietary video hosting. Some screen recorders like Screenrec, Apowersoft Free Online Screen Recorder and Screencast-O-Matic come with video hosting. When storing your videos on these platforms, it would be wise to research if the platform is free and what level of security it offers.
• Cloud Recording. If there is no Cloud Recording option, you will have to wait for the video to upload until you can share it. The best free screen capture tools come with this option.

Conclusion

Even the best free screen recording software has advantages and disadvantages. At the end of the day, the recording features — what you can do with the tool, are just as important as the effectiveness — how quickly you can record your computer screen and share it with others.

So, before you set your mind on a free screen recording software, it’s best to evaluate your own recording needs. Maybe you don’t need to upload your videos to social media or maybe you don’t need to record in HD.

Based on this criteria, the top screen recording software for us is the free screen recorder by ScreenRec. The final decision is, of course, yours to make.

What's the difference between a desktop screen recorder vs. online screen recorder?

As the names suggest, the biggest difference is that a desktop screen recorder can capture your screen while you're offline or on a poor internet connection. An online screen recorder requires stable Internet. For this reason, an online screen recorder isn't the best option when it comes to game capture. It may be a viable option when you're recording a tutorial, though.

What is the best alternative to Screencast-O-Matic?

Screen Video Capture On Mac

Screencast-O-Matic is a popular screencasting tool. Many people use it to record tutorials, training videos and other educational content. The biggest advantage of Screencast-O-Matic is, perhaps, the ability to share the recording to a number of platforms like Vimeo, YouTube and Screencast-o-Matic's own video hosting platform. One downside, however, is the fact that you have to wait for the recording to upload and, if you've been recording for, say, 1 hour, this can be a huge pain. That's why, as an alternative, we'll suggest ScreenRec. It's quick and lightweight, allows you to capture both your computer audio and microphone audio and, finally, it's got instant private sharing--your screen recordings are uploaded in real time which means that you never have to wait. You get a sharing link as soon as you press 'Stop'.

How do I record my computer screen?

Free Video Screen Capture For Mac

It depends on the screen capture tool you're using and your platform (Windows, Mac, Linux, etc). With ScreenRec, for example, you have to press Alt + S to start recording your desktop. This works on all platforms.

Screen Capture Software Mac Free

References & Further Reading