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Easy Guide: How to Screen Record with Audio on Mac

Discover how to screen record with audio on Mac effortlessly. Explore built-in features and third-party tools for easy screen and sound capture.
How to screen record with audio on Mac

When exploring how to screen record with audio on Mac, users have many options ranging from the built-in macOS utility to various third-party applications. For those considering how to screen record with audio on Mac, QuickTime Player emerges as a convenient native tool, ideal for basic recording tasks. However, for more advanced requirements, there are numerous third-party software available.

Enhancing how to screen record with audio on Mac, these applications boast advanced features like comprehensive editing, multi-source audio recording, high-resolution output, and extensive customization and annotation options. This varied assortment meets different needs, from making tutorials to capturing gaming or preparing professional presentations, ensuring every Mac user discovers the perfect screen recording solution tailored to their unique requirements.

How to screen record with audio on Mac

Knowing How to Screen Record with Audio on Mac

Discovering how to screen record with audio on Mac unlocks the potential to produce videos, tutorials, and presentations. This capability, accessible via the native QuickTime Player or a range of third-party applications, is crucial for incorporating a dynamic and crystal-clear audio element into your screen recordings.

Mastering how to screen record with audio on Mac is invaluable for content creators, educators, and professionals. It allows for more engaging and effective communication, perfect for tutorials, gameplay videos, and professional presentations. This feature significantly boosts the ability to convey information and processes, making it a vital tool for anyone wishing to share their screen recordings with an audience.

How to screen record with audio on Mac

Benefits of Screen Recording with Audio on Mac

Gaining the knowledge of how to screen record with audio on Mac offers many benefits across various domains, solidifying it as a vital skill for a wide range of users.

Educational Content Creation

Understanding how to screen record with audio on Mac is particularly beneficial in educational settings. Educators, trainers, and e-learning content creators can craft compelling video tutorials, online classes, and educational resources. This method of visually showing procedures and concepts, combined with verbal explanations, simplifies complex subjects.

Technical Support and Troubleshooting

For tech experts and support staff, mastering how to screen record with audio on Mac is incredibly useful. It enables them to provide clear visual guidance through troubleshooting processes, simplifying the diagnosis and resolution of technical problems. Utilizing detailed video recordings with audio can reduce misunderstandings and save time for the support team and the users they assist.

Content Creation and Marketing

YouTubers, bloggers, social media influencers, and content creators often utilize how to screen record with audio on Mac to effectively showcase their blogs, videos, and products for marketing. This approach to video production aids in engaging a wider audience through improved content delivery.

Effective Communication

Learning how to screen record with audio on Mac elevates communication by introducing a dynamic visual and auditory element to your messages. Whether it’s for business presentations, giving feedback, or conducting remote interviews, the capability to visually demonstrate ideas while offering verbal commentary leads to more engaging and impactful interactions.

How to screen record with audio on Mac

How to Screen Record with Audio on Mac

One can use the built-in macOS functionalities or opt for third-party applications to learn how to screen record with audio on Mac. Below are the instructions for both approaches:

Using Built-in macOS Features

You can effortlessly accomplish how to screen record with audio on Mac by utilizing built-in macOS tools like QuickTime Player. Alternatively, the Screenshot Toolbar allows recording the screen or capturing a still image.

How to screen record with audio on Mac

How to screen record with audio on Mac using QuickTime Player is a native feature that enables capturing on-screen actions and their corresponding audio. This approach is ideal for producing tutorials, presentations, and demonstrations. QuickTime Player, a standard component of macOS, offers an easily accessible option for those requiring essential screen recording functions.

Steps to Record Screen on Mac with Audio

Step 1: In the QuickTime Player app, select File and then New Screen Recording to open Screenshot and display the tools.

Step 2: Adjust recording settings:

  • Choose a microphone to record your voice or other audio.
  • Adjust the volume slider to monitor audio during recording.
  • Optionally, enable “Show Mouse Clicks” to display clicks on the screen.

Step 3: To start recording:

  • Click anywhere on the screen to record the entire screen.
  • Or drag to select a specific area to record, then click “Start Recording” within that area.

Step 4: Click the “Stop” button in the menu bar or press Command-Control-Esc to stop recording.

Step 5: After recording, QuickTime Player will automatically open the recording for playback, editing, or sharing.

Step 6: To cancel a recording, press the Esc key before clicking to start.

Step 7: Open and edit screen recordings with QuickTime Player, iMovie, and other compatible video-editing apps.

Please note that the availability of the Screenshot toolbar and naming conventions may vary depending on your macOS version.

Advantages
  • QuickTime Player is entirely free, and It is easy to use.
  • It helps to select your preferred microphone source for recording.
  • QuickTime Player allows you to trim and make basic edits to your recordings.
Disadvantages
  • QuickTime Player lacks advanced features compared to dedicated screen recording software.
  • It doesn’t offer built-in tools for adding annotations or callouts.
  • While it provides basic editing features, more advanced editing capabilities require third-party software.
Costing/Pricing

QuickTime Player is a free application with macOS, so there are no additional costs associated with using it for screen recording with audio. Users can utilize this feature without any extra expense.

Using Third-Party Applications

We’ve explored some of the top third-party applications and software that facilitate how to screen record with audio on Mac. These tools offer a range of features and functionalities to suit different screen recording requirements.

OBS Studio

OBS Studio, known as Open Broadcaster Software Studio, stands out as a well-known and robust open-source tool for how to screen record audio on Mac, as well as for live streaming. It’s a favorite among gamers, content creators, and professionals for recording their computer screens, integrating audio and video sources, and broadcasting or recording the combined content.

Steps to Record Screen on Mac with Audio

Following the steps below, you can easily record your screen and audio on a Mac with OBS Studio.

Step 1: Download and Install OBS Studio on your Mac.

Step 2: Go to “Settings” and select your audio input sources under the “Audio” section.

Step 3: Choose video settings, such as the resolution, frame rate, and recording format.

Step 4: Select the “+” button in the “Scenes” section to create a new scene. Scenes are containers for sources, including your screen.

Step 5: Select “Display Capture” from the options menu.

Step 6: Choose the display or specific monitor you want to capture, whole or a particular portion.

Step 7: Select the “Start Recording” on the lower right side to begin the screen recording.

Step 8: Select the “Stop Recording” button after completing the recording.

Step 9: After stopping the recording, OBS Studio will save the video to the specified location on your Mac.

Advantages
  • OBS Studio offers a wide range of features for fine-tuning your recordings, including scene transitions, source overlays, and filters.
  • You can record both microphone and system audio simultaneously, giving you flexibility in audio capture.
  • The software is highly customizable and allows for the creation of professional-looking recordings and streams.
  • OBS Studio is free and open-source, making it accessible to many users.
Disadvantages
  • Due to its extensive features, OBS Studio may have a steeper learning curve for beginners.
  • Recording at high settings can be resource-intensive and may require a powerful Mac.
Costing/Pricing

OBS Studio is a cost-free and open-source live streaming and video recording application.

Movavi Screen Recorder is a comprehensive screen recording software for macOS and other platforms, perfect for learning how to screen record with audio on Mac. It’s crafted to capture both screen activities and audio, fitting a variety of uses like producing video tutorials, recording gameplay, capturing online meetings, and more. With its user-friendly interface, Movavi provides numerous tools for capturing, editing, and sharing your recordings.

Steps to Record Screen on Mac with Audio

Here’s a summarized version of the steps to record the screen with audio using Movavi Screen Recorder:

Step 1: Download and install Movavi Screen Recorder.

Step 2: Open the program and navigate to the application or screen you want to record.

Step 3: Click the Screen Recording button on the widget that appears. This button resembles a movie camera and is used for capturing video.

Step 4: Drag the capture box over the area you want to record, whole or a specific part.

Step 5: Adjust audio settings by choosing between external audio (microphone) and internal sound (system audio).

Step 6: Configure additional display options, such as showing mouse clicks, cursor location, and keystrokes.

Step 7: Select the Record button and start recording. A timer will appear to indicate when the recording will start. Perform the actions you want to capture.

Step 8: Stop the recording by clicking the Stop button in the Movavi Screen Recorder interface when you’re finished capturing your video.

Advantages
  • Conveniently record meetings, webinars, or live events for later viewing, even when unavailable in real time.
  • Add notes, shapes, and figures to your videos while recording, enhancing your content with real-time visual explanations.
  • Include in-app sounds in product walkthroughs and feature demos, giving your customer communications a personal touch.
  • Record in HD and 4K, capturing keystrokes and mouse actions for detailed, professional screen recordings.
  • Capture system sound, microphone, and speaker feeds, making it suitable for various audio recording needs.
Disadvantages
  • To access Movavi Screen Recorder’s features, you must purchase the full version, which may require a paid subscription or a one-time purchase.
Costing/Pricing

Movavi Screen Recorder offers advanced features that require a subscription or purchase. Movavi Screen Recorder for Mac + Video Editor for Mac comes with a 1-year business license, priced at $74.95.

Price: 272.52 AED

Snagit

Snagit by TechSmith is a widely used application for capturing screenshots and mastering how to screen record with audio on Mac. It offers an easy-to-use interface and powerful editing capabilities, making it ideal for creating tutorials, documentation, and various types of visual content.

Steps to Record Screen on Mac with Audio

Step 1: Download and Install Snagit from TechSmith’s website for macOS.

Step 2: Open Snagit and click on the “Video” tab to choose the recording mode.

Step 3: Select your audio input sources and video settings in the recording settings.

Step 4: Decide whether to record the whole screen or a specific area and select as per requirement.

Step 5: When finished, click the “Record” button and the “Stop” button to start the recording.

Step 7: The recorded video will open in Sangit’s editor, where you can edit it if needed and then save it to your preferred location on your Mac.

Advantages
  • Snagit is a user-friendly software, making it accessible to all skill levels.
  • It provides robust editing tools for enhancing and customizing your recorded content.
  • You can record both microphone and system audio simultaneously.
  • Snagit allows you to add annotations, callouts, and effects to your recordings.
Disadvantages
  • Snagit is not a free application; it requires a one-time purchase or subscription, which may only suit some users.
Costing/Pricing

Snagit is not free software. The Snagit starter plan is priced at $66.14 and provides a single perpetual license for Snagit, backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, the Snagit + Assets package costs $112.98 and includes one perpetual Snagit license plus one year of Assets for Snagit. Additionally, the Snagit + Camtasia bundle, currently discounted from $381.13 to $346.49, offers a perpetual license for both Snagit and Camtasia.

Wondershare DemoCreator

Wondershare DemoCreator is an all-in-one application for Mac. It allows users to learn how to screen record with audio on Mac and edit their recordings to create professional-grade videos. This tool is commonly employed for making software tutorials, educational materials, and presentations thanks to its ability to capture screen activities and seamlessly add audio.

Steps to Record Screen on Mac with Audio

Step 1: Download and install Wondershare DemoCreator from the official website.

Step 2: Open the application once installed and click “Capture” in the top menu.

Step 3: Customize your recording settings, including screen area, audio source, and video quality.

Step 4: Select the “microphone icon” in the recording toolbar to choose your audio sources.

Step 5: Use the crosshair cursor to select the portion of your screen you want to record.

Step 6: Select the “Record” button in the recording toolbar to record your screen and audio.

Step 7: Select the “Stop” button in the recording toolbar when you’re done recording.

Step 8: Wondershare DemoCreator offers a built-in video editor where you can edit your recording, add annotations, and

Advantages
  • User-friendly interface with a built-in video editor.
  • It provides high-quality screen recording and audio capture.
  • It offers a variety of editing tools, including transitions, text overlays, and effects.
  • It supports various export formats, making it easy to share your recordings.
  • It can be used for various purposes, from tutorials to presentations.
Disadvantages
  • It is not free software; it comes with a cost.
  • Pricing may vary based on the plan you choose.
  • While it offers editing capabilities, it might not be as advanced as dedicated video editing software.
  • Some advanced features may require a learning curve for new users.
Costing/Pricing

Wondershare DemoCreator offered both free and paid versions. The free version had limitations, and the pricing for the paid version started at around $49.99 for a one-year license. However, pricing and plans may have changed since then.

CleanShot X

CleanShot X is a versatile screen capture and recording software for Mac, ideal for those looking to understand how to screen record with audio on Mac. It enables users to take screenshots, record videos, and capture screen activities with audio. With various tools and features to refine the screen capture and recording experience, it’s a favored option among professional and casual Mac users.

Steps to Record Screen on Mac with Audio

Step 1: Download and install CleanShot X from the official website.

Step 2: Open the CleanShot X application.

Step 3: In the CleanShot X menu bar, click the CleanShot X icon and select “Screen Recording.” A toolbar will appear on your screen, where you can customize your recording settings.

Step 4:  Click on the microphone icon in the CleanShot X toolbar to select the audio source. You can choose from options like a built-in microphone or external audio sources.

Step 5: Click on the screen icon in the CleanShot X toolbar to select the portion of your screen you want to record.

Step 6: Click the record button (red circle) in the CleanShot X toolbar to start recording. You can also use keyboard shortcuts to begin and end the recording.

Step 7: Click the stop button in the CleanShot X toolbar or use the keyboard shortcut to stop the recording when the recording is completed.

Step 8: After recording, CleanShot X provides editing options for your video, such as trimming and adding annotations. Once you’re satisfied, save your recording to your desired location.

Advantages
  • High-quality screen recording with the ability to capture audio.
  • Intuitive and easy-to-use interface.
  • Offers various editing tools to enhance your recordings.
  • It has customizable recording options for screen and audio sources.
  • Integration with cloud services for easy sharing.
  • macOS, so it’s not available for Windows or other operating systems.
Disadvantages
  • It is not free software; it comes with a one-time purchase cost.
  • While it’s a powerful tool, the price may be a consideration for some users.
Costing/Pricing

CleanShot X is a paid software for a one-time purchase fee, typically around $29.99. Pricing may change from time to time.

Apowersoft Screen Recorder

Apowersoft Screen Recorder is a flexible and easy-to-use software for those learning how to screen record with audio on Mac, available for macOS and other platforms. It’s perfect for capturing screen activities and audio, making it suitable for creating tutorials, gameplay videos, presentations, and more. The software provides various screen recording features, including audio from both the microphone and the system’s audio.

Steps to Record Screen on Mac with Audio

Step 1: Download and Install Apowersoft Screen Recorder on Mac

Step 2: Open the application after installation and select your preferred audio input sources, such as the microphone and system audio in the settings.

Step 3: Configure video settings, including resolution, frame rate, and recording format.

Step 4: Choose whether to record the whole screen or a specific portion.

Step 5: Click the “Record” button to begin recording.

Step 6: Click the “Stop” button in the Apowersoft Screen Recorder interface to stop recording.

Step 7: Apowersoft Screen Recorder will open the recorded video in its editing suite. Edit the video as needed, then save it to your preferred location on your Mac.

Advantages
  • powersoft Screen Recorder is known for its intuitive and easy-to-use interface.
  • It allows recording both microphone and system audio simultaneously, giving you flexibility in audio capture.
  • The software offers essential video editing tools to enhance and customize your recordings.
  • Apowersoft Screen Recorder is suitable for various purposes, from creating tutorials to capturing gameplay.
Disadvantages
  • The free version may have limitations, such as watermarked videos and limited recording time.
  • The full-featured version of Apowersoft Screen Recorder requires a subscription or purchase, which may only suit some users.
Costing/Pricing

Apowersoft Screen Recorder offers both a free and full-featured version with additional capabilities. The full version typically requires a subscription or one-time purchase. Pay yearly $59.95 for unlimited use.

Loom

Loom, a cloud-based platform for video messaging and screen recording, simplifies how to screen record with audio on Mac. Available as a Mac application and a web browser extension, it lets users record their screen with audio and video, creating easily shareable content. Known for its user-friendliness, Loom is widely used for business communications, presentations, and creating educational content.

Steps to Record Screen on Mac with Audio

Step 1: Download and install the Loom App or Browser Extension for macOS

Step 2: Launch the Loom app or extension, log into your Loom account, or sign up if you are a new user.

Step 3: Choose your recording settings, including whether to record the entire screen, a specific application, or a custom area.

Step 4: Select your microphone source for audio recording.

Step 5: Click the “Start Recording” button. Perform the actions you want to record while providing audio commentary.

Step 6: To stop the recording, click the Loom icon in the menu bar and select “Stop Recording.”

Step 7: Loom will open your recorded video in the Loom online editor. Edit your video if needed and save or share it through a link.

Advantages
  • Loom offers a user-friendly interface and is known for its simplicity.
  • Recorded videos are stored in the cloud, making them easily shareable with others.
  • Loom provides links for sharing videos, making it convenient for business and educational purposes.
  • Loom offers features for team collaboration and sharing within an organization.
Disadvantages
  • Loom requires an internet connection for recording and sharing videos.
  • Free or lower-tier plans may limit the amount of video storage available.
Costing/Pricing

Loom offers both free and paid plans. Free plans have limitations on video duration and available features. Paid plans, with more advanced features and storage, are available at a subscription cost, starting at $12.50.

How to screen record with audio on Mac

What to Look for in Screen and Audio Recording Software for Mac

When selecting screen recording software for Mac with audio, consider the following key factors:

Cost: Determine your budget and whether you prefer free or paid software. Free tools may suffice for basic needs, but advanced features may require a paid version.

User-friendliness: Consider your experience level with software and video recording/editing. Opt for a program with an intuitive and user-friendly interface for a smooth workflow.

Features: Identify essential elements you need. Determine if you require just recording capabilities, advanced editing tools, special effects, or subtitle options.

Supported Formats: Check if the software supports the formats you need for saving and sharing your recorded videos.

User Reviews: Read online user reviews to gain insights from others’ experiences and make informed decisions.

Technical Support: Evaluate the availability of customer support. Ensure that the software provides accessible technical assistance through online chat or email when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Record the Screen with Audio by Using the Screenshot Toolbar?

The Screenshot toolbar on macOS does not have a built-in feature for screen recording with audio. The Screenshot toolbar primarily provides options for capturing static screenshots; recording your screen is not a native feature included in this tool.

To record the screen with audio, you typically use other built-in macOS tools like QuickTime Player, which I mentioned in a previous response, or third-party screen recording applications. These tools are designed explicitly for screen recording and include options for capturing audio and video.

Please note that updates can change macOS features and capabilities, so newer macOS versions may introduce screen recording features directly into the Screenshot toolbar or other built-in tools.

Where are Mac screen recordings saved?

When you create screen recordings on your Mac using its built-in tools, they are automatically stored on your Desktop. To modify the storage location, access settings by pressing Command + Shift + 5, navigate to Options, pick Save To, and specify an alternative destination.

Can we record calls on Mac?

You can record calls on your Mac using various video-conferencing apps:

FaceTime: Start the call, open QuickTime, and record the screen and audio.

Skype: During the call, click the three dots in the bottom right and select “Start recording.”

Zoom: If you’re the host or have permission, click the “Record” button and choose “Record on this Computer.” Participants will be notified.

Google Meet: Join a meeting, click “Activities” at the bottom right, and choose “Start recording,” then confirm by clicking “Start.”

Conclusion

Learning how to screen record with audio on Mac offers myriad possibilities for users in different fields. The Mac ecosystem provides several alternatives to meet varied recording requirements, from educational tutorials and gaming sessions to professional presentations and creative endeavors.

Utilizing macOS’s built-in capabilities like QuickTime Player is a great starting point for basic screen recording needs. For a more enhanced experience, third-party applications like OBS Studio, Movavi Screen Recorder, Snagit, Wondershare DemoCreator, CleanShot X, Apowersoft Screen Recorder, and Loom offer advanced features. These include high-quality editing tools, capturing audio from multiple sources, and various customization options.

Regarding how to screen record with audio on Mac, software selection hinges on factors like user-friendliness, format compatibility, pricing, and the availability of technical assistance. These factors guide users in making choices that suit their specific needs, streamlining the screen recording experience. Mac users can rest assured that they have diverse options to find the ideal tool for their screen recording requirements.

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