How to Screen Record YouTube Videos on Any Device

Screen recording has become a useful tool for many people in today’s digital world. Whether you’re a content creator, teacher, or gamer, recording YouTube videos can improve your content. This guide will show you how to record YouTube videos on any device, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and laptops. 

Recording your screen used to be complicated and needed special equipment. Now, thanks to better software and user-friendly apps, anyone can capture high-quality videos easily. Choosing the right tool for your device is important, and that’s where we can help. 

Screen recording has made content creation accessible for everyone, from beginners to professionals.

In this guide, you’ll learn: 

• How to record YouTube videos on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.
• The best screen recording software and tools.
• Tips for improving your recording quality.
• Legal advice and best practices for recording YouTube content ethically.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to record YouTube videos easily and ethically. Ready to begin? Let’s get started!

How to Screen Record YouTube Videos on Windows

Recording YouTube videos on a Windows device can be a huge help for content creators, educators, gamers, and tech lovers. Whether you want to capture tutorials, gameplay, or other content, knowing how to record your screen is key. In this section, we’ll look at several ways to make high-quality recordings. From using built-in tools like the Xbox Game Bar to using special software like ScreenMix, we’ll guide you through each method to help you find the best solution for your needs.

How to Screen Record YouTube Videos Using ScreenMix 

ScreenMix is a fantastic third-party screen recording tool that offers robust functionality, especially for Windows users. Its free version is particularly compelling for those who want powerful screen recording capabilities without cost. 

• Download ScreenMix: Open the Microsoft Store, search “ScreenMix,” and click “Download” or “Install.” Alternatively, you can click the button below to go directly to the ScreenMix page on the Microsoft Store.

• Start ScreenMix: Launch the application

• Open YouTube: Go to the YouTube video you want to record

• Adjust Settings: Choose your audio source, video resolution, and frame rate in the settings menu.

• Start Recording: Select the screen area or window (available in the paid version) you want to record and click the red button to start recording.

• Stop Recording: Click “Stop” in ScreenMix when done. Your recording is saved automatically.

ScreenMix will save your recording in your chosen directory. If you do not change the default settings, your screen recordings can be found in the FileManager > This PC > Videos > Captures folder on your PC. The interface is user-friendly, making it simple for beginners to navigate and use effectively. 

Additionally, users can start editing their recordings with Animotica by simply clicking the “Edit with Animotica” button, streamlining the workflow from recording to editing effortlessly. 

How to Screen Record YouTube Videos Using the Xbox Game Bar 

The Xbox Game Bar is an in-built feature that comes with Windows 10 and Windows 11, making it an accessible choice for screen recordings. To screen record a YouTube video using the Xbox Game Bar on your Windows device, follow these steps:

• First, open the YouTube video you want to record: This makes sure you’re ready to capture the content you want. 

• Press Win + G to open the Xbox Game Bar overlay: The Game Bar lets you manage your screen recordings. 

• Look for the Capture widget: If you don’t see it, enable it by clicking on the Widget Menu (an icon with four lines) and selecting Capture. This widget controls your recording options. 

• Click on the Start Recording button: This begins capturing your screen activity. Make sure your YouTube video is playing if you want it included in the recording. Alternatively, press Win + Alt + R to start recording instantly

• Click on the Stop Recording button: This stops the recording. The video will be saved automatically. Alternatively, use the shortcut Win + Alt + R again.

Your recording will be saved automatically. You can find it in the Captures folder located within your Videos folder. 

How to Screen Record YouTube Videos Using Snipping Tool 

Many people use the Snipping Tool for taking screenshots, but it can also help you record your screen. It’s easy to use and a great way to capture YouTube videos on your Windows device without downloading extra software:

• Open the YouTube video: Go to YouTube and choose the video you want to record.
• Activate Snipping Tool: Press Windows + Shift + S to open the Snipping Tool.
• Select screen recording: Click on the video camera icon in the Snipping Tool.
• Select the recording area: Drag your mouse to outline the YouTube video area.
• Adjust audio settings: Choose to include or mute audio by using the sound settings icon.
• Start recording: Click the Start button. A short countdown will begin.
• Stop or pause: Click Stop when you’re done or Pause if you need a break.

After finishing the recording, a pop-up window with the recorded video will appear, allowing you to copy or save the video to any location of your choice.

How to Screen Record YouTube Videos on Mac

Recording YouTube videos on a Mac is simple, thanks to the tools built into macOS. Whether you’re a teacher recording a lesson or a gamer showing your skills, Mac has various methods. In this section, we’ll show you how to screen record YouTube videos using QuickTime Player, macOS’s native screen recording shortcut, and third-party apps. Each method includes step-by-step instructions, so you’ll know exactly what to do, no matter your tech skill level. Let’s find the best option for you.

How to Screen Record YouTube Videos Using QuickTime Player 

QuickTime Player is a versatile tool that comes pre-installed on all Mac computers. Follow these steps to start recording: 

• Open QuickTime Player from Applications: Go to your Applications folder and open QuickTime Player.
• Click on File and select New Screen Recording: In the menu, click “File” and then “New Screen Recording.”
• Click the Record button: To start recording, click the red button.

• To record internal audio, use software like BlackHole Virtual Audio Driver: Install BlackHole to capture internal sound with your screen recording.
• Click Start Recording: After setting your area and audio, click “Start Recording.”
• Click Stop Recording: Click the square stop icon in the menu bar or press “Command-Control-Esc” to stop recording.

Following these simplified steps will help you record YouTube videos on your Mac using QuickTime Player. Your recording will automatically save to your specified location, usually the desktop. 

How to Screen Record YouTube Videos Using macOS Mojave or Later (Shift-Command-5) 

For users with macOS Mojave or later, Apple introduced a more advanced screen recording feature, which can be accessed with the key combination Shift-Command-5: 

• Press Shift-Command-5: Open the screenshot and screen recording toolbar on your Mac.

• Choose Record Entire Screen or Record Selected Portion: Decide if you want to record the full screen or only part of it. You’ll see guides to adjust if you pick a selected portion.
• Set your preferences: Decide if you want to show mouse clicks during the recording. This can be helpful for tutorials.
• To capture internal audio, use BlackHole Virtual Audio Driver: Install this software. Then select BlackHole 2ch or a multi-output device in the sound settings.
• Click the Record button: Start your recording by clicking the Record button on the toolbar. It will begin capturing your chosen screen area.
• To stop, click the stop button in the menu bar or press Command-Control-Esc: You can find a stop button at the top of the screen or stop quickly using Command-Control-Esc.

Your recordings will appear in a floating thumbnail first; click on it to access the options to save, trim, or share your recordings. 

How to Screen Record YouTube Videos with Third-Party Apps on macOS

While macOS has built-in tools for screen recording, third-party apps often offer more features. These tools can provide more customization, better quality captures, and advanced editing options. If you need more settings or just want a different interface, here are some reliable third-party screen recording apps for macOS:

• ScreenFlow
• Snagit
• ApowerREC: Record Screen
• OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software)
• TechSmith Camtasia 2023

For more in-depth options and reviews, you can check out our 11 Best Screen Recorders for Mac in 2024 blog post.

Most screen recorders are easy to use and come with many similar features. Here are some basic steps to help you record your screen on macOS:

1. Download and Install: Visit the official website of the screen recorder, download the software, and follow the installation instructions.
2. Configuring Settings: Open the application and adjust your settings. You can choose video resolution, bit rate, and frame rate and decide whether to record audio or webcam footage.
3. Start Screen Recording: Locate and click the “Record” button. You might get a prompt to select the area of the screen you wish to capture or select a specific application window to record.
4. Begin Recording: Once everything is set up, click to start recording. Ensure your YouTube video is ready to play. Some apps might have a countdown timer before the recording starts.
5. Stop Screen Recording: To stop recording, click the “Stop” button, typically available in the same menu where you started the recording. Some apps also allow you to use keyboard shortcuts to stop the recording.

By following these methods, recording YouTube videos on your macOS device is straightforward. Adjust the settings to match your quality preferences. Always be mindful of YouTube’s terms of use and guidelines to ensure your content usage is ethical and legal.

How to Screen Record YouTube Videos on Android

Recording YouTube videos on your Android device can be very useful. Whether you’re saving tutorials, capturing gameplay, or making educational content, Android has flexible tools for screen recording. You’ll find built-in options in newer versions and third-party apps that work on any Android device. This section will walk you through how to use these tools, so you can capture great recordings easily.

How to Screen Record YouTube Videos with Built-In Screen Recorder (Android 10 and above) 

Android 10 and above have a built-in screen recorder, making it easy to capture YouTube videos directly from your device. You don’t need any third-party apps, so it’s a convenient way to record videos on-the-go. Here’s how to get started:

1. Open Quick Settings: Swipe down from the top of your screen to open the Quick Settings panel.
2. Find Screen Recorder: Look for the “Screen Recorder” icon. If you don’t see it, you might need to swipe left to find more icons or tap the pencil icon to add it to your Quick Settings.
3. Start Recording: Tap the “Screen Recorder” icon. You’ll see a prompt asking if you want to start recording. Select your preferences, such as recording audio and showing touches, then tap “Start.”
4. Begin Recording: After a short countdown, your screen recording will begin. Navigate to the YouTube app to start recording your desired video.
5. Stop Recording: To stop the recording, swipe down to open the notification panel and tap the “Stop” button on the recording notification.

How to Screen Record YouTube Videos with Third-Party Apps on Android

If your device doesn’t have a built-in screen recorder or you need more advanced features, third-party apps are a great option. Some of the most popular options are:

• ADV Screen Recorder 
• Mobizen Screen Recorder
• Screen Recorder
• Super ScreenRecorder
• Screen Recorder – XRecorder

Most screen recorders are easy to use and have similar features. To help you capture your screen smoothly, here are some basic steps that apply to most screen recording apps:

1. Download and Install: Go to the Google Play Store, search for “screen recorder,” and install the app.
2. Configuring Settings: Open the app and configure your settings. You can choose the video resolution, bit rate, frame rate, and whether to record audio.
3. Start Screen Recording: Tap the “Record” button. A floating menu will appear on your screen. Navigate to your YouTube app and prepare the video you want to record.
4. Tap Record: When you’re ready, tap the floating record button. After a short countdown, the recording will start.
5. Stop Screen Recording: To stop recording, pull down the notification panel and tap the “Stop” button or use the floating menu.

With these methods, recording YouTube videos on your Android device becomes hassle-free. Experiment with the settings to get the best quality based on your requirements. Remember to be mindful of YouTube’s terms of use and recording guidelines to keep your content usage ethical and legal.

How to Screen Record YouTube Videos on iOS

iPhones and iPads make it easy to record your screen, so you can capture YouTube videos, create tutorials, or share gameplay. Whether you use the built-in iOS screen recorder or third-party apps for extra features, we have step-by-step guides to help you. Let’s get started with the guides so you can record on any iOS device effortlessly.

How to Screen Record YouTube Videos with the Built-In iOS Screen Recorder 

Recording YouTube videos on your iOS device is simple, with the built-in screen recorder on most iPhones and iPads. This tool lets you capture what’s on your screen in just a few steps. Whether you’re making a tutorial, recording gameplay, or saving videos to watch later, the iOS screen recorder is a quick and easy solution. Here’s how to use it:

• Add Screen Recording to Control Center: Go to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls. Tap the green plus next to Screen Recording.
• Open Control Center: Swipe down from the top-right corner (iPhones with Face ID) or swipe up from the bottom (iPhones with a Home button).
• Start Recording: Tap the Screen Recording button (circle inside a circle). A countdown will start, then the recording begins. For microphone audio, press and hold the screen recording button and tap the microphone icon.
• Record Your Video: Open YouTube and play the video you want to record. The screen recording will capture everything on your screen, including audio, if enabled.
• Stop Recording: Open Control Center and tap the Screen Recording button again or tap the red status bar at the top and select Stop. The video will be saved to your Photos app.

And that’s it! You’ve now successfully recorded a YouTube video on your iOS device. For more advanced editing or features, consider transferring your recordings to a desktop application later.

How to Screen Record YouTube Videos with Third-Party Apps on iOS

If your iOS device doesn’t have the built-in screen recorder or you need more advanced features, third-party apps are a great option. Some of the most popular options are: 

• Record it! Screen Recorder
• TechSmith Capture
• Go Record: Screen Recorder
• Screen Recorder – RecPro
• DU Recorder – Screen Recorder

Most screen recorders are easy to use and have similar features. To help you capture your screen smoothly, here are some basic steps that apply to most screen recording apps: 

1. Download and Install: Go to the App Store, search for “screen recorder,” and install the app.
2. Configuring Settings: Open the app and configure your settings. You can choose the video resolution, bit rate, frame rate, and whether to record audio.
3. Start Screen Recording: Tap the “Record” button. A floating menu or control will appear on your screen. Navigate to your YouTube app and prepare the video you want to record.
4. Tap Record: When you’re ready, tap the floating record button. After a short countdown, the recording will start.
5. Stop Screen Recording: To stop recording, open the app again and tap the “Stop” button or use the floating menu/control.

With these methods, recording YouTube videos on your iOS device becomes hassle-free. Experiment with the settings to get the best quality based on your requirements. Remember to be mindful of YouTube’s terms of use and recording guidelines to keep your content usage ethical and legal.

10 Tips for Better Screen Recording Results

To achieve high-quality screen recordings, it’s essential to fine-tune your settings and adopt a few best practices. Here are some expert tips and tricks to enhance your screen recording results: 

1. Optimize Screen Resolution: Ensure your display resolution is set to its highest setting. A higher resolution will result in clearer and more detailed recordings. Check your display settings and adjust them to get the sharpest possible output. 
2. Use a Quality Microphone: Good audio quality is just as important as video quality. Invest in a decent microphone to capture clear sound. Position the microphone correctly, and consider using a pop filter to reduce any unwanted noise. 
3. Tidy Up Your Desktop: A clutter-free desktop makes your recordings look more professional. Close unnecessary windows and tabs, and hide desktop icons if possible. This ensures the viewer’s focus remains on the content you’re presenting. 
4. Check System Performance: Screen recording can be resource-intensive. Close any non-essential applications, and ensure your device has adequate free storage space. This helps prevent lag and ensures smooth recording. 
5. Plan Your Content: Before you start recording, outline what you intend to cover. A script or list of key points can keep you on track and make the recording more coherent. 
6. Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts for starting, pausing, and stopping recordings. This makes the process more efficient and helps you capture exactly the content you want without unnecessary mouse movements. 
7. Enable Do Not Disturb Mode: Notifications can be distracting and interrupt your recording. Enable Do Not Disturb mode or silence notifications during your recording session to ensure a seamless experience. 
8. Edit Post-Recording: Use video editing software to polish your recordings, such as Animotica. Trim unnecessary parts, add stickers, and add text overlays or zooms to make your content more engaging.
9. Proper Lighting: If you’re including a webcam overlay in your recording, ensure you have proper lighting. Natural light is best, but if that’s not an option, use an external light source to avoid shadows and ensure your face is clearly visible. 
10. Practice Makes Perfect: Finally, practice regularly. The more you record, the more comfortable and proficient you’ll become. Experiment with different settings and techniques to find what works best for you.

Wrapping Up

There you have it—a complete guide on how to record YouTube videos on various devices, catering to your operating system of choice. By now, you should feel confident about using built-in tools and third-party apps to capture high-quality content efficiently. Whether you’re a content creator, educator, gamer, or simply a tech enthusiast, these methods and tips will help you achieve your recording goals. 

For Windows users, exploring ScreenMix can significantly ease your recording process, thanks to its robust free version and user-friendly interface. It offers features like desktop, webcam, and mic capturing, along with various editing tools that enhance your final output. If you haven’t already, give ScreenMix a try and see how it meets your recording needs. 

Remember, the key to high-quality screen recordings lies in planning your content, optimizing your settings, and practicing regularly. Screen recording can open up numerous possibilities for your YouTube content, from tutorials and gameplay videos to educational lectures and technical reviews. So, take the plunge and start creating engaging videos today! 

We hope this guide has been informative and helpful. If you have any questions or additional tips, feel free to share them in the comments below. Now, it’s your turn to record, create, and share amazing YouTube videos. Happy recording! 

FAQ

What is the best screen recording software for Windows?

For Windows users, several screen recording software options stand out for their robust features and user-friendly interfaces. Among these, ScreenMix shines as an exceptional choice, particularly for its capability to cater to both novice users and advanced content creators. 

ScreenMix offers a seamless recording experience with its intuitive interface. It allows you to capture your screen, webcam, and audio easily. Notable for its versatility, ScreenMix lets you record specific areas of your screen or multiple displays, making it an ideal solution for various recording needs. This software’s free version provides all the essential features you need without watermarks or time restrictions, making it an excellent option for those looking to get started without a financial commitment. 

Another highly recommended tool is the Xbox Game Bar, which is built into Windows 10 and later. While primarily designed for gamers, it offers powerful screen recording capabilities for any application. Be mindful that the Game Bar is limited in recording certain applications like the Windows Desktop and File Explorer, but it remains a handy built-in option for quick recordings. 

Ultimately, the best screen recording software for you will depend on your specific requirements—whether you need advanced editing features, a zero-cost solution, or built-in convenience. ScreenMix stands out for its balance of functionality and accessibility, making it a top recommendation for Windows screen recording.

What are the legal considerations for recording YouTube content?

Recording YouTube content comes with its own set of legal considerations that you need to be aware of to avoid potential issues. Here, we will guide you through the major legal aspects you should consider: 

• Copyright Laws: When you record YouTube videos, you’re essentially copying someone else’s content. This can lead to copyright infringement if you don’t have the proper permissions. Always check if the content is under a Creative Commons license or if you’re allowed to use parts of it for educational purposes under the fair use policy. Make sure to credit the original creators whenever possible. 
• YouTube’s Terms of Service: YouTube has stringent rules and about downloading redistributing content. By recording a video, you’re essentially downloading it, which could violate YouTube’s Terms of Service. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with these terms to ensure you’re compliant. 
• Permission and Licensing: If you wish to use recorded content for commercial purposes, you will likely need explicit permission or a license from the copyright holder. Reach out to the content creator to get their consent, which not only keeps you safe legally but also builds goodwill. 
• Personal Data Protection: Be cautious about recording any YouTube content that includes personal data, especially when capturing live streams or interactive sessions. Unauthorized recording of personal data can lead to legal repercussions under data protection laws like GDPR. 
• Ethical Considerations: Even if you’re within legal bounds, consider the ethical implications of recording YouTube videos. Respect the creator’s rights and consider whether your use of their content is fair and just. Ethical content use builds a positive reputation and fosters a supportive community.