Screen recording in Windows 11 is a breeze once you know the steps. You can use the built-in Xbox Game Bar to capture anything on your screen. Pressing a few keys is all it takes to start recording, ensuring you don’t miss any important action or presentation. Once familiar with this feature, recording tutorials or gameplay becomes a straightforward task.
Step by Step Tutorial to Screen Record in Windows 11
Ready to dive into recording your screen on Windows 11? The Xbox Game Bar is your go-to tool. Follow these simple steps to capture whatever’s happening on your screen.
Step 1: Open Xbox Game Bar
Press Win + G on your keyboard.
This shortcut opens the Xbox Game Bar. A series of widgets will appear, offering various functions including screen recording.
Step 2: Start Recording
Click on the “Capture” widget, then the “Record” button.
The record button looks like a circle. Once you click it, the system will start recording your screen activity immediately.
Step 3: Stop Recording
Click the “Stop” button when you’re done.
To end your recording session, simply click the blue square in the Capture widget. You’ll then see a confirmation message that your video has been saved.
Step 4: Access Your Recording
Navigate to your “Videos” folder under “Captures.”
Windows 11 automatically saves your recording in the Captures folder. Here, you can view, edit, or share your video.
Step 5: Adjust Settings
Explore the settings for recording preferences.
You can tweak various settings in the Xbox Game Bar to optimize your recording quality. Adjust the video resolution or audio input as needed.
After completing these steps, your screen recording will be saved on your computer. You can now use it for presentations, tutorials, or just for fun. It’s a handy tool for both personal and professional tasks.
Tips for Screen Recording in Windows 11
- Check Audio Settings: Ensure your microphone is on if you want to capture narration.
- Close Unnecessary Apps: Free up resources and reduce the chance of interruptions.
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with shortcuts to control recording without navigating away.
- Adjust Quality Settings: Lower quality for smaller file sizes or increase for better clarity.
- Practice First: Do a trial run to get comfortable with starting and stopping recordings.
Frequently Asked Questions about Screen Recording in Windows 11
How do I start screen recording without the Xbox Game Bar?
Currently, the Xbox Game Bar is the primary built-in tool for screen recording in Windows 11. However, third-party apps like OBS Studio can also be used.
Can I record specific windows only?
Yes, the Game Bar allows you to record a specific window by selecting it before starting to record.
Does screen recording affect my computer’s performance?
It can, depending on your system’s specs. Closing unnecessary applications can help maintain performance.
Where are my recordings saved?
By default, recordings are saved in the Captures folder within your Videos library.
Can I edit my recordings afterward?
Windows 11 doesn’t offer in-built video editing tools. However, you can use apps like Windows Photos or third-party software for editing.
Summary
- Press Win + G to open Xbox Game Bar.
- Click Capture, then Record.
- Click Stop when finished.
- Check Captures folder for your recording.
- Adjust settings for recording preferences.
Conclusion
Screen recording in Windows 11 is like having a magic wand at your fingertips, allowing you to capture everything happening on your screen with just a few clicks. Whether you’re a gamer wanting to show off your latest conquest or a professional needing to create a tutorial, knowing how to use this feature can save you time and effort. The Xbox Game Bar makes it simple and efficient, and with a few practice runs, you’ll become an expert in no time.
For those seeking more advanced features, exploring third-party software can offer additional capabilities like editing and enhanced quality settings. Yet, for most users, Windows 11’s built-in options are more than sufficient for everyday needs. Remember to tweak your settings to match your needs and prepare your system to ensure smooth recording sessions. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll find screen recording to be an invaluable tool in your digital toolkit, ready to capture those moments that words alone can’t quite describe.

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.