How to Record Windows 11 Screen: A Step-by-Step Guide for Users

By / October 4, 2025

Want to capture your screen in Windows 11? Whether you’re recording a tutorial, gameplay, or a work presentation, Windows 11 makes screen recording easier than ever. You don’t need expensive third-party software—built-in tools like Xbox Game Bar and Snipping Tool can do the job. But if you want advanced features, there are also powerful free and paid apps.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to record screen in Windows 11 step by step using different methods.

Key Takeaways

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

  • You can also use free apps like OBS Studio or ShareX for more control.

  • Screen recording works for games, apps, browser windows, and full screen.

  • Recorded videos save in MP4 format (default in most tools).

Why Record Your Screen in Windows 11?

Screen recording is useful in many scenarios:

  • Creating tutorials – Show step-by-step instructions visually.

  • Recording gameplay – Capture highlights or stream sessions.

  • Making presentations – Record slideshows with narration.

  • Saving video calls – Keep records of online meetings.

  • Troubleshooting – Share screen issues with IT support.

Think of it like taking a screenshot, but in motion.

Method 1: Record Screen Using Xbox Game Bar (Built-in Tool)

The Xbox Game Bar is pre-installed in Windows 11 and is perfect for quick screen recordings.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + G to open the Xbox Game Bar.

  2. In the Capture widget, click the Record button (●).

  3. To record audio with video, ensure microphone recording is enabled.

  4. Perform the actions you want to capture.

  5. Press Windows + Alt + R to stop recording.

👉 Your recording is saved under:
Videos > Captures folder.

Method 2: Record Screen with Snipping Tool (New Windows 11 Update)

Microsoft has upgraded the Snipping Tool with a screen recording feature.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + Shift + S or search for Snipping Tool.

  2. Click the Record tab at the top.

  3. Select New and drag to choose the recording area.

  4. Click the Start button to begin recording.

  5. When finished, click Stop, then Save.

This is great for recording smaller sections of your screen instead of the full display.

Method 3: Record Screen Using PowerPoint

If you have Microsoft Office, you can use PowerPoint’s screen recording feature.

Steps:

  1. Open PowerPoint.

  2. Go to the Insert tab → click Screen Recording.

  3. Select the area of your screen.

  4. Click Record.

  5. When done, click Stop → save the recording.

👉 You can export the video as an MP4 file for use outside PowerPoint.

Method 4: Record Screen with OBS Studio (Free & Advanced)

For professional-quality screen recordings, OBS Studio is the best free option.

Steps:

  1. Download and install OBS Studio (from the official website).

  2. Launch the app and go to Sources → Display Capture.

  3. Select the screen you want to record.

  4. Click Start Recording.

  5. When finished, click Stop Recording.

👉 OBS saves videos by default in the Videos folder.

Method 5: Record with ShareX (Free & Lightweight)

Another great free tool is ShareX. It’s lightweight and easy to use.

Steps:

  1. Download and install ShareX.

  2. Open the app and click Capture → Screen recording.

  3. Select your recording area.

  4. Click Start to begin recording.

  5. Save the file when you’re done.

ShareX also lets you record GIFs, which is perfect for short clips.

Comparing Screen Recording Options in Windows 11

Tool Built-in? Best For Pros Cons
Xbox Game Bar Yes Games & apps Easy, no install No full desktop recording
Snipping Tool Yes Small sections Simple & quick Limited features
PowerPoint No (Office needed) Presentations Easy export Requires Office
OBS Studio No Professional use Free, advanced Steeper learning curve
ShareX No Everyday use Lightweight, GIF support Fewer pro features

Tips for Better Screen Recording

  • Use a microphone for clearer narration.

  • Record in a quiet environment to avoid background noise.

  • Choose the right resolution (1080p for clarity).

  • Check available storage space before long recordings.

  • Use OBS or ShareX if you need editing tools.

How to Find Your Recorded Videos in Windows 11

  • Xbox Game Bar → Videos > Captures

  • Snipping Tool → Custom save location

  • PowerPoint → Save as MP4 via Export

  • OBS Studio & ShareX → Default in Videos folder (or custom location)

Conclusion

Now you know how to record screen in Windows 11 step by step using multiple methods. For quick recordings, use Xbox Game Bar or the new Snipping Tool. If you want professional-quality recordings with more control, go for OBS Studio or ShareX.

Screen recording is no longer complicated—you have everything you need built right into Windows 11.

FAQs About Screen Recording in Windows 11

1. Does Windows 11 have a built-in screen recorder?
Yes, you can use Xbox Game Bar or the new Snipping Tool.

2. Can I record my entire desktop with Game Bar?
No, Game Bar is limited to apps and games. Use OBS for full-screen recording.

3. How do I record system audio with my screen?
Enable the microphone and system audio in your recording tool’s settings.

4. What format are screen recordings saved in?
Most tools save in MP4, which is widely supported.

5. Can I record gameplay in Windows 11 without lag?
Yes, Game Bar and OBS are optimized for smooth gameplay recording.

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