Best Free Screen Recording Software for Windows & Mac
Whether you're creating video tutorials, recording online meetings, capturing gameplay, or preparing business presentations, a good screen recorder is essential. The best part? You don’t need to spend money to get high-quality results.
In this guide, we reviewed the best free screen recording software for both Windows and Mac users. These tools offer professional features, HD recording, and easy sharing options — all at zero cost.
🔥 1. OBS Studio (Windows & Mac)
OBS Studio is the most powerful free screen recorder available today. It’s open-source, professional-grade, and widely used by YouTubers, gamers, teachers, and streamers.
Key Features:
- Unlimited HD screen recording
- Live streaming support
- Multiple audio and video layers
- Customizable layouts and scenes
- No watermark, no time limit
Pros:
- Free forever
- Extremely powerful & customizable
- Perfect for gaming and tutorials
Cons:
- Not beginner-friendly
- Setup may take time
🔥 2. Loom (Windows & Mac)
Loom is popular for business and education. It allows you to record your screen and webcam together, making it perfect for tutorials and professional presentations.
Key Features:
- Record screen + camera
- Instant online sharing link
- Viewer analytics
- Chrome extension available
Pros:
- Very easy to use
- Cloud storage
- Great for team communication
Cons:
- Free version limits video length to 5 minutes
- No advanced editing tools
🔥 3. ScreenRec (Windows & Mac)
ScreenRec is a lightweight and fast recorder ideal for quick screen capture, tutorials, and presentations.
Key Features:
- HD screen recording
- Free cloud storage
- Instant sharing link
- No watermark
Pros:
- Simple interface
- High-quality recording
- No recording limits
Cons:
- Limited editing tools
- Account required for cloud features
🔥 4. ShareX (Windows Only)
ShareX is a powerful tool for Windows with a wide range of capture modes and automation options.
Key Features:
- Screen recording with or without audio
- Scrolling page capture
- GIF recorder
- Automatic upload to cloud storage
Pros:
- Completely free and open-source
- No watermark
- Many advanced features
Cons:
- Not available for Mac
- UI may feel overwhelming
🔥 5. QuickTime Player (Mac Only)
QuickTime Player comes built-in with macOS and offers simple, high-quality screen recording.
Key Features:
- Record full screen or selected portion
- Basic editing tools
- Audio recording support
Pros:
- No installation required
- Simple and easy to use
- Perfect for basic recordings
Cons:
- No advanced features
- Limited recording settings
🔥 6. VLC Media Player (Windows & Mac)
While primarily a media player, VLC also includes a basic screen recording feature useful for simple tasks.
Key Features:
- Record entire screen
- Convert video formats
- Record webcam
Pros:
- Free and lightweight
- Good for quick recordings
Cons:
- No editing tools
- Not suitable for advanced users
🔥 Summary Comparison Table
| Software | Platform | Watermark | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| OBS Studio | Windows, Mac | No | Gaming, Streaming, Tutorials |
| Loom | Windows, Mac | No | Education, Business Communication |
| ScreenRec | Windows, Mac | No | Quick Tutorials & Presentations |
| ShareX | Windows | No | Advanced Capture & Automations |
| QuickTime | Mac | No | Basic Recordings |
| VLC | Windows, Mac | No | Simple Capture Tasks |
🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best free screen recorder?
For most users, OBS Studio is the best free option due to its unlimited recording and high customization.
2. Which screen recorder is easiest for beginners?
Loom and ScreenRec are the easiest tools for new users.
3. Can I record my webcam and screen together?
Yes. Loom, OBS Studio, and ScreenRec support screen + webcam recording.
4. Which tool has no time limit?
OBS Studio, ScreenRec, ShareX, VLC, and QuickTime have no time limits.
5. What screen recorder is best for YouTube content?
OBS Studio is recommended for YouTubers and gamers.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Choosing the right screen recorder depends on your purpose. If you need professional features, choose OBS. For simple business or educational videos, Loom and ScreenRec are perfect. If you're a Mac user looking for basic recording, QuickTime is your best built-in option.
No matter what your needs are, you now have the best free tools to start recording like a pro — without spending a single rupee.