How to Screen Record on Windows (Free & Easy Guide 2025)

If you’ve ever wanted to record your screen on Windows, whether to create a tutorial, share a presentation, or capture gameplay, you’re not alone. Many Windows users don’t realize how powerful the built-in screen recording tools have become — and how easy it is to get started.

This guide will show you how to screen record on Windows 10 and Windows 11, using both built-in features like the Xbox Game Bar and third-party tools such as Dubb, OBS Studio, and Clipchamp. Whether you’re a gamer, teacher, marketer, or student, you’ll have a professional-quality recording ready to share in minutes.

Why Screen Recording on Windows Matters

Screen recording has become a core skill in today’s digital world. From teachers creating video lessons to sales reps recording demo walkthroughs, video communication saves time and builds clarity.

Here are just a few reasons why you might want to screen record on Windows:

  • Create tutorials or product demos: Show someone exactly how to perform a task instead of explaining it in text.
  • Record gameplay or live streams: Capture highlights, walkthroughs, or commentary videos.
  • Present projects and feedback: Easily record meetings, reports, or UI reviews for your team.
  • Save video calls or live webinars: Keep a record of important calls (with permission).

Whatever your goal, Windows provides simple ways to record without installing anything extra.


How to Screen Record on Windows Using the Built-In Xbox Game Bar

The Xbox Game Bar is Microsoft’s built-in screen recording tool, originally designed for gamers but now used by everyone from content creators to office professionals.

Step-by-Step: Windows Game Bar Screen Record Tutorial

  1. Open the Game Bar
    Press Windows + G on your keyboard. This launches the Xbox Game Bar overlay instantly.
  2. Select the Capture Option
    Click on the “Capture” widget (it looks like a webcam icon).
  3. Start Recording
    Press the Record button (the circle icon) or use the shortcut Windows + Alt + R to start recording.
  4. Stop Recording
    When finished, press the same shortcut or click Stop on the capture bar.
  5. Find Your Recording
    Go to Videos → Captures in File Explorer to access your recorded clips.

💡 Pro Tip:
If you’re on Windows 10, the Game Bar is the easiest way to get started. For Windows 11, you’ll also have access to improved recording options through the Snipping Tool and Clipchamp.


Alternative Tools: Clipchamp and Snipping Tool (Windows 11 Built-In Options)

Microsoft continues to make screen recording more seamless. On Windows 11, you now have two more built-in ways to record your screen:

  1. Clipchamp:
    A video editing and recording tool that comes pre-installed.
    • Open the Clipchamp app.
    • Click Record & create → Screen recording.
    • Choose whether to include webcam and audio.
    • Save or edit the recording before exporting.
  2. Snipping Tool:
    The modern Snipping Tool on Windows 11 allows you to record short screen clips directly.
    • Open the Snipping Tool (Win + Shift + S).
    • Select Record in the toolbar.
    • Choose your recording area and hit Start.

Both methods are perfect if you want to record quick tutorials or explanations without needing advanced software.


Best Free Screen Recorder for Windows (2025 Edition)

While the built-in tools are great, sometimes you need more control — like recording multiple screens, webcam overlays, or branded call-to-action links. Here are the best free screen recorders for Windows this year:

1. Dubb

Dubb is more than a screen recorder — it’s a complete video communication platform.
You can record your screen, camera, or both simultaneously, and every video you create automatically generates a custom landing page with your logo, calendar, and calls-to-action. Perfect for sales professionals, coaches, and teams who want to send personalized videos that get replies.
✅ Includes teleprompter and AI script writer
✅ Records screen + face simultaneously
✅ Instantly share via email, LinkedIn, or SMS

2. OBS Studio

The go-to open-source option for gamers and streamers.
✅ Free and highly customizable
✅ Supports multiple audio sources
✅ Ideal for long recordings and high quality output

3. ShareX

Lightweight, fast, and open-source.
✅ No watermarks or time limits
✅ Advanced screen capture options
✅ Great for quick tutorials

4. Clipchamp

For basic editing and recording in one tool.
✅ Built-in to Windows 11
✅ Trim and caption recordings easily
✅ Cloud saves via OneDrive

Each tool serves a different purpose — Dubb for engagement, OBS for control, ShareX for speed, and Clipchamp for simplicity.


Tips to Improve Your Screen Recordings

A great screen recording isn’t just about what you capture — it’s how you present it. Follow these tips to make your recordings stand out:

  • Use an external microphone: Your audience will forgive slightly lower video quality, but never poor audio.
  • Plan your script: Write a few bullet points or use an AI teleprompter (like Dubb’s) to stay on message.
  • Record in quiet environments: Avoid background noise and visual clutter.
  • Add a webcam overlay: Putting a face to your video builds trust and engagement.
  • Highlight your cursor: Make it easier for viewers to follow your actions.

How to Edit and Share Your Recordings

Once you’ve captured your screen, you’ll want to trim, annotate, or share your video quickly.

Edit Your Recording

If you’re using Clipchamp, you can:

  • Trim unwanted sections
  • Add text or music
  • Export in 1080p for a professional look

With Dubb, every recording is instantly editable online. You can add:

  • Custom thumbnails
  • Call-to-action buttons (like “Book a Meeting”)
  • Email or SMS links to share with prospects

Share Your Recording

You can:

  • Upload to YouTube or LinkedIn
  • Embed videos into PowerPoint presentations
  • Share Dubb links directly via email, CRM, or chat

This makes your screen recording part of your workflow — not just a saved file.


Common Questions About Screen Recording on Windows

Q: How long can I record with the Windows Game Bar?
A: There’s no strict limit, but recording large files (over an hour) can impact performance.

Q: Can I record system audio too?
A: Yes — just ensure the “Record system audio” option is enabled in the Game Bar or your recorder’s settings.

Q: Is there a watermark on Game Bar recordings?
A: No, recordings made with the Xbox Game Bar have no watermark.

Q: What’s the best free screen recorder for Windows?
A: For all-in-one functionality (record + share + CTA), Dubb offers the most complete experience.


Conclusion: Start Recording Like a Pro

Now you know exactly how to screen record on Windows, whether using the built-in Game Bar, the Snipping Tool, or a third-party recorder like Dubb or OBS Studio.

No matter your goals — tutorials, demos, or training videos — the tools you need are already at your fingertips.

If you’re looking for an easy way to record, personalize, and share videos with built-in AI scripts and landing pages, try Dubb’s free account today. You’ll create videos that don’t just show — they convert.

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