How to Record A Video on A Mac Computer

As we all know, Mac computers are well known for their high-performance capabilities and user-friendly interface. Along with the basic functionality, there are various features and functions embedded within the system that can improve productivity and entertainment for users. Have you ever wanted to record a video on your Mac computer? Whether you need to create a tutorial, record a gameplay video, or capture a video call, there are a multitude of reasons why you might need to record a video on your Mac. In this article, we will discuss several methods on how to record a video on a Mac computer.

Video Tutorial:

Why You Need to Record A Video on A Mac Computer?

Before we dive into the methods of recording a video on a Mac computer, let’s explore why you might need to record a video in the first place:

1. Creating Tutorial Videos

If you are a teacher, instructor, or blogger, you might need to create tutorial videos to explain complex concepts to your audience. Having videos can make it easier for you to convey your ideas effectively to your viewers.

2. Recording Gameplay Videos

If you are a gamer or streamer, recording gameplay videos can be a great way to showcase your skills, create content for social media platforms, and enhance your personal brand.

3. Capturing Video Calls

In today’s world, people are more connected than ever before, and video calls have become an essential part of communication. Recording video calls can be useful for personal and professional purposes such as keeping records of important conversations with coworkers, clients, or friends and family.

4. Recording Audio/Visual Presentations

If you need to make a presentation, you can record your audio and visual content together to use in virtual meetings. The recorded video can also be used for editing later on to add some effects as well as visuals.

Method 1: Using QuickTime Player

The first method on how to record a video on a Mac computer is by using a built-in application called QuickTime Player. This method is useful for recording a video of your screen and audio at the same time.

Before you get started: Make sure you have a microphone connected to your Mac if you want to record audio.

Step 1: Launch QuickTime Player
Launch QuickTime Player from your Applications folder or by searching for it in Spotlight.

Step 2: Select "New Screen Recording"
Select "File" on the menu bar, then click "New Screen Recording" or press "Control + Command + N" on your keyboard.

Step 3: Start Recording
Click on the "Record" button in the QuickTime window. If you want to record audio, click on the small arrow pointing downwards next to the record button and select the microphone you want to use from the dropdown menu.

Step 4: Stop Recording
Once you finish recording, click on the stop button in the menu bar at the top of your screen or press "Control + Command + Esc" on your keyboard.

Pros:
– Convenient, as it is a built-in application included in your Mac computer.
– Easy to use with no additional software required.
– Records both audio and screen.

Cons:
– Limited features compared to third-party software.
– No editing capabilities.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Software: Capto

The second method to record a video on a Mac computer is by using third-party software called Capto. Capto is a popular software solution for capturing screen recordings and additional editing features.

Before you get started: Download Capto from the official website and install it on your Mac.

Step 1: Launch Capto
Launch Capto from your Applications folder or by clicking on it in the Dock.

Step 2: Select "Video Recording"
Click on the "Video Recording" button on the main toolbar.

Step 3: Start Recording
Click on the "Record" button in the Capto window and select the portion of the screen you want to record. You can also select any audio device from the dropdown menu if you want to record audio.

Step 4: Stop Recording
Once you finish recording, click on the stop button in the menu bar or press "Command + Shift + 2" on your keyboard.

Pros:
– Offers more customization and editing features than QuickTime Player.
– High-quality recording capability.
– More versatile when it comes to the features it offers.

Cons:
– Expensive paid software when compared to the free QuickTime Player option.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Software: ScreenFlow

The third method to record a video on a Mac computer is by using another third-party software called ScreenFlow. ScreenFlow is one of the most popular software among content creators and educators, offering comprehensive recording and editing features.

Before you get started: Download ScreenFlow from the official website and install it on your Mac.

Step 1: Launch ScreenFlow
Launch ScreenFlow from your Applications folder or by clicking on it in the Dock.

Step 2: Select "New Recording"
Click on "New Recording" or "New Document" in the dropdown menu under "File."

Step 3: Start Recording
Click on the "Record" button on the ScreenFlow window and select which component of your screen you want to record. You can also select any audio device if you want to record audio.

Step 4: Stop Recording
Once you finish recording, click on the stop button in the menu bar or press "Command + Shift + 2" on your keyboard.

Pros:
– Offers a wide range of editing and recording features, including audio editing.
– Advanced options for video and audio recording.
– Professional-level video editing capabilities.

Cons:
– Expensive paid software.

Method 4: Using Online Screen Recorder

The fourth method to record a video on a Mac computer is by using an online screen recorder. There are several free online screen recorders available, such as Loom, CloudApp, and Screencast-O-Matic.

Before you get started: Make sure you have a stable internet connection and check the system requirements of your chosen online screen recorder.

Step 1: Launch the Online Screen Recorder
Go to the website of the online screen recorder you want to use and click on "Start Recording" or "Record Now."

Step 2: Start Recording
Follow the instructions on the screen recorder. You may have to grant permission for the screen recorder to access certain parts of your Mac. Select the portion of the screen you want to record and start recording.

Step 3: Stop Recording
Once you finish recording, click the stop button in the online screen recorder browser tab or save the recorded video to your computer if prompted.

Pros:
– Free of charge.
– Quick to Use.
– No need to download and install software.

Cons:
– Limited Features.
– Lack of editing options.
– Internet required.

What to Do If You Can’t Record A Video on A Mac Computer?

If you cannot record a video on your Mac computer, try the following fixes:

Q: Why can’t I record video on my Mac computer using QuickTime Player?
A: Make sure that there isn’t another video recording software running in the background or get the updated OS version.

Q: Why can’t I record video on my Mac computer using Capto or Screenflow?
A: Try restarting your Mac computer, get the updated version, check hardware compatibility.

Q: Why is my audio quality poor during a screen recording?
A: Make sure the microphone is not covered, clean the microphone or use a different audio device.

Q: Why is the recorded video lagging or choppy?
A: Try recording at a lower quality, closing other programs that might be running to make the processor work well or upgrade computer hardware.

Q: Why is my Mac computer not recognizing the microphone?
A: Make sure the microphone is connected correctly, clean the microphone, or update the audio driver.

Bonus Tip: Editing Your Recorded Videos

Once your video is recorded, you may want to edit it to remove unwanted parts or add effects. The great news is that, unlike recording, there is a lot of editing software that you can choose from. Some free software options include iMovie and OpenShot, while paid options are available from Adobe and Final Cut Pro X.

5 FAQs

Q: Which is the best method for recording video on a Mac computer?

A: It depends on your preference and necessity. QuickTime Player for quick and simple recordings, Capto for editing power, ScreenFlow for editing video and audio content, and online screen recorders for occasional use.

Q: How long can I record when using QuickTime Player or other third-party software?

A: QuickTime Player can record as long as there is enough space on the hard disk. Capto and ScreenFlow depend on the specific software version you use.

Q: Can I adjust the resolution and frame rate when recording a video on my Mac computer?

A: Yes, some methods of recording video on a Mac computer allow you to adjust the resolution and frame rate, but this usually varies with the software you use.

Q: Can I record multiple videos at the same time?

A: Yes, recording multiple videos at the same time is possible with Capto and ScreenFlow.

Q: Can I record videos on my Mac computer using the built-in camera?

A: Yes, QuickTime Player can record from the built-in camera on your Mac computer.

Final Thoughts

Recording videos on your Mac computer is a useful skill that can open up new possibilities for content creation and communication. With the various methods outlined in this article, along with their advantages and disadvantages, you can choose the best option for you. Whether you want to record a gameplay video, create a tutorial video, or capture a video call, there is a method that can meet your needs. Additionally, remember that you can always edit your recorded videos using several software options, making the videos more professional and polished before sharing them with friends, family, or the world.