During an average workday, you might have to record the screen or capture a specific portion of your display. For example, you may have to make a YouTube tutorial or how-to video for a popular game. Mac allows you to take screen recordings in two ways.
How to Capture a Screen Recording on Mac
Your recordings will get saved as MOV files by default. The filename will include the date and the timestamp.
1. Use the Screenshot App
Mac OS versions after Mojave support the Screenshot app with advanced features. To access this app, press Shift + Command + 5
It lets you record videos of the whole screen or only a portion of interest.
2. Use the QuickTime Player
This player can support many digital media formats. Apple launched the architecture back in 1991. Although it no longer supports the Windows version, it is still a well-liked media player and also works to capture screenshots on Mac.
- Open QuickTime Player.
- Select File > New Screen Recording.
- You can change the settings by clicking the arrow next to the
Record button. - Click the Record button to begin recording. You can click anywhere on the screen (to record the entire space). Or, you can select an area before pressing “Start Recording.”
- You can also record your voice to accompany the screen recording if you have a microphone.
- Click the
Stop button or press Command + Control + Esc to finish recording.
Quick Time has multiple customization options for video recordings. For instance, you can modify the volume if you receive feedback. You can see a black circle around the pointer if you enable “Show Mouse Clicks.”
The app also allows you to edit it after completion before saving and sharing it. You can edit the resolution while exporting it, selecting 480 to 1080p. Some users may need to export just the audio or trim the recording.
3. Use third-party software
Although Mac does not officially permit third-party apps to record the screen, you can find a suitable one for official or professional purposes.
Some popular ones are Camtasia and VMaker. Usually, these apps have subscription-based pricing models. You can consider investing in one of these if your work mandates it; you will also get advanced editing provisions.
Troubleshooting: I am unable to record my screen on Mac
The problem is usually with the permissions. You can fix this from the Apple menu > System Settings > Privacy & Security. There is an option to “Select Screen Recording” for the apps desired.
You may face difficulties in recording if you attempt to record in certain apps, like Apple TV. These app windows do not permit recording as the content is DRM-protected or copyrighted.
No space left on your Mac
Since the default resolution is MOV, the file size of recordings can be massive. If you run out of available storage, you can use an app like Handbrake to make the format more compact, like HEVC. You should select an app that can accomplish this without compromising the quality.
Incompatibility with frame and bit rates
You can adjust the frame rate of the display from your system preferences. It will help finetune the frame rate of your recording. As for the bit rate, Mac does not let you tamper with it.
However, some third-party tools may allow users to fiddle with the bit rate. A higher resolution demands a higher bit rate. For example, 4K video needs around 20 Mbps.
There you have it: three straightforward approaches to capturing screen recordings. Ensure you can access the internal audio to capture games or videos, as mics are suited to voiceovers and explanations.