How to Screen Record with Audio on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 19, 2025

Summary of Key Takeaways

  • Windows 11 includes built-in tools like Xbox Game Bar and Snipping Tool for screen recording.

  • You can record system audio, microphone input, or both.

  • Third-party apps (OBS Studio, ShareX, Camtasia) provide advanced features.

  • Settings like frame rate, quality, and audio source affect results.

  • Ideal for tutorials, presentations, gameplay, or troubleshooting.

Introduction

Ever tried to show a friend how to fix a computer problem or wanted to record your gaming highlights, only to realize you don’t know how to screen record with audio on Windows 11? You’re not alone.

Screen recording is one of the easiest ways to capture what’s happening on your computer screen. But here’s the catch: recording with audio — whether it’s system sounds, your microphone, or both — can be confusing for beginners.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions to record your screen with audio in Windows 11, covering both built-in tools and third-party apps. By the end, you’ll be a pro at recording tutorials, gameplay, or online meetings.

Why Screen Recording with Audio Matters

Why not just record the screen without sound? Imagine watching a cooking tutorial without hearing the chef’s instructions — frustrating, right? Audio adds context, clarity, and engagement.

Here’s why you may need it:

  • 🎮 Gamers: Capture gameplay with commentary.

  • 🎓 Teachers/Students: Record lectures or online classes.

  • 💼 Professionals: Create product demos and presentations.

  • 🛠️ Troubleshooting: Show step-by-step fixes with narration.

Simply put: video + audio = complete communication.

Built-In Screen Recording Tools in Windows 11

Before installing third-party apps, let’s explore what Windows 11 already offers.

1. Xbox Game Bar

Microsoft’s Xbox Game Bar is the default screen recorder built into Windows 11. Originally designed for gamers, it works for most apps.

Limitations:

  • Can’t record the desktop or File Explorer directly.

  • Limited customization.

2. Snipping Tool (with screen recording)

Windows 11 has updated the Snipping Tool to include basic screen recording features. While simpler than Game Bar, it’s useful for quick recordings.

How to Screen Record with Xbox Game Bar

Follow these steps:

  1. Open Xbox Game Bar

    • Press Windows + G.

    • The Game Bar overlay will appear.

  2. Check Audio Settings

    • Click the Audio widget.

    • Choose between system sound, microphone, or both.

  3. Start Recording

    • Press Windows + Alt + R or click the Record button.

    • A small timer shows recording has started.

  4. Stop Recording

    • Press the same shortcut or click Stop.

    • The video saves in C:\Users[YourName]\Videos\Captures.

✅ That’s it! Quick, simple, and effective.

How to Record with Snipping Tool in Windows 11

The Snipping Tool isn’t just for screenshots anymore.

  1. Open Snipping Tool

    • Press Windows + Shift + S (or search “Snipping Tool”).

  2. Switch to Video Mode

    • Click Record (camera icon).

  3. Select Recording Area

    • Drag your mouse to define the portion of the screen.

  4. Enable/Disable Audio

    • Toggle microphone recording.

  5. Start Recording

    • Click the Start button.

  6. Stop and Save

    • Once finished, click Stop and save the video.

How to Record Both System Sound and Microphone

Sometimes you need dual audio sources — for example, when recording gameplay with live commentary.

  1. Open Xbox Game Bar.

  2. Go to Audio settings.

  3. Select System Sounds and Microphone.

  4. Adjust volume levels to balance.

👉 Pro tip: Keep your microphone slightly louder than system sound for clarity.

Recording Fullscreen vs. Windowed Applications

  • Fullscreen apps: Game Bar automatically detects them.

  • Windowed apps: Manually open Game Bar and start recording.

  • Desktop recording: Requires Snipping Tool or third-party apps.

Advanced Screen Recording with Third-Party Apps

For more flexibility, you may want third-party software.

1. OBS Studio (Free & Open Source)

  • Records desktop, apps, webcam, and multiple audio sources.

  • Great for streamers.

  • Highly customizable.

2. ShareX (Free)

  • Lightweight, feature-rich.

  • Offers annotations, screen capture automation.

3. Camtasia (Paid)

  • Professional-grade.

  • Advanced editing tools, effects, transitions.

Step-by-Step: Recording with OBS Studio

OBS Studio may seem intimidating, but here’s a simplified guide:

  1. Download & Install OBS

  2. Add Display Capture

    • Open OBS → Click + under Sources → Select Display Capture.

  3. Add Audio Input/Output

    • Add Audio Input Capture (microphone).

    • Add Audio Output Capture (system sound).

  4. Start Recording

    • Click Start Recording.

  5. Stop & Save

    • Click Stop Recording → file saves in Videos folder.

Common Problems and Fixes

❌ No Sound in Recording?

  • Check if audio source is enabled in Game Bar/OBS.

  • Verify your microphone permissions in Settings → Privacy → Microphone.

❌ Laggy Recording?

  • Lower resolution or frame rate.

  • Close background apps.

  • Use hardware acceleration (if supported).

❌ File Too Large?

  • Save in MP4 instead of AVI.

  • Lower bit rate.

  • Compress with HandBrake.

Tips for High-Quality Screen Recordings

  • Use a good microphone for voiceovers.

  • Keep your desktop clean to avoid distractions.

  • Record in 1080p for tutorials; 1440p/4K for gaming.

  • Use headphones to avoid audio feedback.

When to Use Built-in vs. Third-Party Tools

Task Best Tool Why
Quick tutorial Snipping Tool Lightweight & simple
Gameplay recording Xbox Game Bar Easy hotkeys, low impact
Professional tutorial Camtasia Editing features
Streaming & advanced setup OBS Studio Free & customizable

Best Practices for Sharing Your Recordings

  • Upload to YouTube or Vimeo for tutorials.

  • Compress before emailing.

  • Use cloud storage (OneDrive, Google Drive) for large files.

  • Add captions for accessibility.

Conclusion

Learning how to screen record with audio on Windows 11 doesn’t have to be complicated. With tools like Xbox Game Bar and Snipping Tool, you can handle most basic needs. But if you want professional-grade recordings, software like OBS Studio or Camtasia is your best bet.

The key is understanding your goal: quick capture, gameplay, or professional presentation. Once you match the tool to the task, recording becomes effortless.

👉 So, try out the built-in Game Bar first, and if you need more, step up to OBS Studio.

FAQs

1. Does Windows 11 have a built-in screen recorder with audio?

Yes. The Xbox Game Bar and Snipping Tool both allow screen recording with audio.

2. Can I record my desktop with Xbox Game Bar?

No, Xbox Game Bar doesn’t record File Explorer or desktop — use Snipping Tool or OBS instead.

3. How do I record both microphone and system audio at the same time?

Enable both sources in Game Bar’s audio settings or configure dual inputs in OBS Studio.

4. What format are recordings saved in?

By default, Game Bar saves in MP4 format under the Videos → Captures folder.

5. Which is better for beginners: OBS or Game Bar?

For beginners, Game Bar is easier. OBS is better for advanced users needing customization.

Related Posts:

Scroll to Top