Recording your screen on Windows 11 is easier than you might think. With the built-in Xbox Game Bar, you can capture anything you see on your screen in just a few clicks. Simply open Xbox Game Bar with the Windows + G shortcut, then click on the capture button to start your recording. Once finished, you’ll find your recording in the Videos folder under Captures.
Step-by-Step: How to Record Screen on Windows 11
Ready to dive into the details? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you record your screen on Windows 11 using the Xbox Game Bar.
Step 1: Open Xbox Game Bar
Press the Windows key + G to open the Xbox Game Bar.
When you hit that shortcut, a sleek overlay appears on your screen, giving you easy access to various tools like capture, audio, and performance widgets. If it doesn’t open, make sure the Xbox Game Bar is enabled in your settings.
Step 2: Access the Capture Widget
Click on the capture button (it looks like a camera) in the Xbox Game Bar overlay.
This opens up the capture widget where you’ll find options for taking screenshots or recording videos. It’s like having a mini production studio right at your fingertips.
Step 3: Start Recording
Click the record button (a circle icon) to begin recording your screen.
Once you hit that button, a small recording bar appears, showing you the recording time and giving you the option to stop whenever you’re ready. Make sure you’re capturing what you need before starting.
Step 4: Stop Recording
Click the stop button when you’re done recording.
Stopping is as simple as clicking the same button. Once you stop, your video file is automatically saved. You can breathe easy knowing your content is safely stored on your device.
Step 5: Locate Your Recording
Open File Explorer, navigate to Videos, then Captures to find your recording.
Your videos are neatly organized in this folder, ready for you to edit or upload. It’s like finding a treasure chest filled with your digital adventures.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your screen recording will be safely stored on your computer. You’ll have the flexibility to review your content, share with friends, or even edit it for a polished look.
Tips for Recording Screen on Windows 11
- Make sure your Xbox Game Bar is enabled in settings if it doesn’t open.
- Close unnecessary applications to improve system performance while recording.
- Use a headset for better sound quality if you’re capturing audio.
- Test your recording setup with a short video to ensure everything works.
- Use the Game Bar settings to customize shortcuts for quicker access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I record my entire screen with Xbox Game Bar?
No, Xbox Game Bar captures only specific windows or apps, not the entire desktop. Use third-party apps for full-screen recording if needed.
How long can I record with Xbox Game Bar?
The recording length depends on your available disk space. There’s no strict limit, but ensure you have enough room for your video files.
Does Xbox Game Bar affect my computer’s performance?
It can slightly affect performance, especially in resource-intensive applications. Close unnecessary programs to minimize this impact.
Is it possible to record audio with the screen recording?
Yes, Xbox Game Bar can record audio from your system and microphone. You can adjust these settings in the capture widget.
Can I edit the video after recording it with Xbox Game Bar?
The Xbox Game Bar itself doesn’t offer editing tools, but you can use video editing software like Windows Movie Maker or third-party apps to refine your recordings.
Summary
- Open Xbox Game Bar with Windows + G.
- Click the capture button.
- Start recording by clicking the record icon.
- Stop recording with the stop button.
- Locate the video in Videos > Captures.
Conclusion
Recording your screen on Windows 11 using the Xbox Game Bar is a user-friendly process that opens doors to a world of possibilities. Whether you’re creating a tutorial, sharing a gaming session, or capturing an important video call, having this skill in your toolkit is invaluable.
The Xbox Game Bar offers a seamless way to capture high-quality recordings without the need for additional software. It’s like having a magic wand that can instantly turn your screen into a digital canvas, ready to be shared with the world.
Once you’ve mastered this method, the possibilities are endless. You could venture into content creation, produce educational videos, or simply keep a record of important moments on your computer. Dive into the world of screen recording and see where your creativity takes you. And remember, if you need to record screen on Windows 11, the Xbox Game Bar is your trusty sidekick. So go ahead, explore its features, and let your digital story unfold!

Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.