Windows includes several ways to record the screen without installing extra software. Xbox Game Bar is quickest, Snipping Tool works well for selected areas on newer Windows 11 builds, and PowerPoint is useful for narrated tutorials.
This applies to Windows 10 and Windows 11. Snipping Tool recording requires Windows 11 22H2 or later.
Does This Affect You?
Use Xbox Game Bar for app or game windows, Snipping Tool for a selected screen area, and PowerPoint when you want narration and editing in a presentation workflow.
Record with Xbox Game Bar
- Open the app, window, or game you want to record.
- Press Windows key + G.
- Open the Capture widget if needed.
- Click Record, or press Windows key + Alt + R.
- Record the action.
- Press Windows key + Alt + R again or click Stop.
- Find the MP4 in Videos > Captures.
Record with Snipping Tool
- Open Snipping Tool.
- Choose the Record tab.
- Click New.
- Drag around the screen area to capture.
- Click Start.
- Click Stop when finished.
- Preview, trim, and save the MP4.
Other Recording Notes
Microphone and System Audio
In Xbox Game Bar, enable the microphone icon for narration and confirm app/system audio capture is enabled if you need sound.
Use PowerPoint
In PowerPoint, go to Insert > Screen Recording, select an area, record, then edit or export the clip.
Xbox Game Bar Limits
Game Bar does not record every desktop/system surface, including some system dialogs and File Explorer. Use Snipping Tool’s area recording when Game Bar refuses.
File Size and Save Folder
Game Bar saves to Videos > Captures. Change capture settings under Gaming/Captures and watch disk space for longer recordings.
Sources
- Microsoft Support: Record a clip with Xbox Game Bar
- Microsoft Support: Use the Snipping Tool to capture screenshots
- Microsoft Support: Record your screen in PowerPoint