Recording videos on a Mac is simple and useful for creating tutorials, presentations, vlogs, or capturing screen activity. If you’re wondering how to record video on Mac, this guide will show you multiple easy ways using built-in tools and free apps.
Method 1: Using QuickTime Player
Step 1: Open QuickTime Player
QuickTime Player comes pre-installed on all Macs. Open it from your Applications folder or Spotlight search.
Step 2: Start a New Recording
Click File → New Movie Recording to record from your webcam.
- To record the screen, choose File → New Screen Recording instead.
Step 3: Adjust Settings
- Click the arrow next to the record button to select the microphone and video quality.
- For screen recordings, you can choose to record the full screen or a selected portion.
Step 4: Start Recording
Click the Record button. Speak clearly if recording audio. For screen recordings, follow on-screen instructions to select the area or full screen.
Step 5: Stop Recording
Click the Stop button in the menu bar or QuickTime window.
Step 6: Save Your Video
Go to File → Save, choose a location, and name your file.
Method 2: Using Mac’s Screenshot Toolbar (macOS Mojave and Later)
- Press Shift + Command + 5 to open the Screenshot toolbar.
- Select Record Entire Screen or Record Selected Portion.
- Click Record to start.
- Press Command + Control + Esc or click the toolbar button to stop.
- The video will be saved automatically on your desktop.
Method 3: Using Third-Party Apps
For more features, you can use free or paid apps:
- OBS Studio: Free, open-source, great for screen and webcam recording.
- ScreenFlow: Paid, offers advanced editing and effects.
- Camtasia: Paid, ideal for professional tutorials and presentations.
Tips for Recording Video on Mac
- Ensure good lighting for webcam recordings.
- Use an external microphone for better audio quality.
- Close unnecessary apps to improve performance during recording.
- Test a short recording first to check settings.
FAQs on How to Record Video on Mac
- Do I need additional software to record video on Mac?
No, QuickTime Player and the Screenshot toolbar work without extra apps. - Can I record both screen and webcam at the same time?
QuickTime can do one at a time; use OBS Studio for simultaneous recording. - How do I record audio with my video?
Select your microphone in QuickTime or app settings before recording. - Where are my recorded videos saved?
QuickTime lets you choose a location; Screenshot toolbar saves to desktop by default. - Can I edit the video after recording?
QuickTime allows trimming; apps like iMovie, ScreenFlow, or Camtasia offer advanced editing. - How do I record a selected area of the screen?
Use QuickTime’s screen recording option or the Screenshot toolbar to select a portion. - Is it possible to record long videos on Mac?
Yes, as long as you have enough storage space. - Can I record video calls on Mac?
Yes, using screen recording in QuickTime or third-party apps, but check privacy and permissions. - Does Mac have built-in video editing?
Yes, you can trim and rotate in QuickTime; iMovie offers full editing features. - Can I record in HD on Mac?
Yes, QuickTime and most apps allow you to select video quality up to HD or 4K depending on your camera.





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