Best Game Recording Software for PC [2024 Tested]
Some gamers still swear by PC gaming as the best gaming experience. Plus, PCs with video game recording software allow you to record your gameplay and share the video on YouTube seamlessly. If you are unaware of this technology, don't fret. This write-up features the top eight best game recording software for PCs this year.
Top 8 Video Game Recording Software for PC
1Xbox Game Bar
Xbox Game Bar is a versatile application that allows gamers to easily record their screens while playing. You can use it to record a maximum of two hours of gameplay using its shortcut key integration for quick navigation. The intuitive interface of the application also allows you to customize your recordings by setting clip duration limits and managing background intervals.
This tool even offers Xbox Social and Chat for Xbox gamers to communicate easily.
Best for: Direct and simple recording
Price: Free
Pros
- Easy interface
- Offers customized recordings
- Provides no-cost accessibility
- Can be used with Game DVR
Cons
- Only records the single app and doesn’t record the whole screen or File Explorer.
2NVIDIA Shadowplay
NVIDIA Shadowplay is the best free video recording software for PC games. You can use it to record gameplay for 30 minutes at up to 60 FPS and 1440p resolution. What’s more, it comes with a Broadcast Live feature that allows you to stream your gameplay on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch. That said, it only works with NVIDIA-powered graphic cards.
Best for: Instant recording with NVIDIA graphics cards
Price: Free for all with NVIDIA graphic cards
Pros
- Offers great resolution
- Provides instant sharing to Facebook, YouTube, or Twitch
- High quality audio and video
Cons
- Can only work with NVIDIA-powered graphic cards
- No video editing available
3OBS Studio
If this is your first time using the best free video recording software for PC games, we would recommend you try OBS Studio. It is an impressive tool used by many veteran gaming video creators and streamers. You can use it for a Windows, Mac, or Linux setup.
This software is easy to set up and great for basic customization. What's more, it is loved by many due to its ability to create videos in a perfect dimension for PC gaming. The only drawback is that sometimes it slows down the PC, crashing the system and making you lose your files. Moreover, it is missing a few video-editing features that other similar applications offer. For instance, you can't use the standard tools to add the same video stream to several scenes.
Best for: Gameplay streaming
Price: Free
Pros
- Good for beginners
- Offer adequate customization features
- Quick set up
Cons
- May slow down your PC
4XSplit Broadcaster
If you need feature-packed recording software, XSplit Broadcaster may tick all the right boxes for you. It is a comprehensive platform to monetize your gaming experience. You can use it to experience plenty of tools on one single screen with just a slight touch. The application easily optimizes your audio and video on YouTube. You can also opt for a premium version to edit all your recorded videos. It has plugins like Gamepad Visualizer, Whiteboard, Audio Mixer, etc.
Best for: Advanced users
Price: Monthly subscription of $2.50
Pros
- Recording and streaming together
- Comes with plugins and extensions
- Affordable sunscription
Cons
- App crashing sometimes during the test
5EaseUS RecExperts
Now, we won’t call EaseUS RecExperts the cheapest or free software for recording your gameplay. However, features that involve recording the audio and video are free. Moreover, you can also access gameplay and webcam without spending money.
The application excels in providing a smooth, user-friendly experience. It also boasts some incredible features like 60 FPS recording, 4K resolution, and solid audio capture. Additionally, you can use the software to capture more than one screen in a go. The software also facilitates recording your own selfie video as you play the game.
Best for: Record PC screen with webcam
Price: Plans start from $19.95
Pros
- Captures webcam video and audio
- Supports seamless automated recordings
- Video editing and media player
Cons
- The tool is lagging sometimes
6Bandicam
Bandicam is the top video game capture software for its capability to capture videos in HD quality. Although it has a user-friendly interface, it may be challenging for people new to video recording. However, its seamless integration with streaming platforms enhances the game-sharing experience manifolds. With this app, you can transform video clips into animated formats, incorporate motion or logos into your recording, and reduce your file size effectively.
Best for: Seasonal gamers looking for high-quality performance
Price: Starting from $39.95
Pros
- Offers versatile audio support
- Provides high performance during recording
- Quick integration with platforms
Cons
- Might be challenging for first-time users
7Gecata Screen Recorder
Another free app, Gecata Screen Recorder, works effortlessly with most games. It is a lightweight yet functional application for PC users. You can use it to record your gaming live while the streaming is in session. The tool doesn't glitch or offer challenges when used regularly. Moreover, its simple interface stands out as it's top quality for new gamers.
Gecata’s hotkeys are customizable, so you don't have to touch the mouse repeatedly. The free version comes with one watermark. Plus, there have been complaints that this recorder causes extensive lags with games like Shutter Games and Call of Duty.
Best for: Recording and streaming for advanced game players
Price: Free version with paid plans starting $35.95
Pros
- Records extensive gameplay in 4K
- Customizable hotkeys for frame rate, file size, etc.
- Provides streaming and recording facilities at the same time
Cons
- The free version comes with a watermark
- Lags when used with heavy games
8Fraps
Although the application costs $37 for its full features, Fraps stands out as one of our top eight options for some incredible features. The easy-to-understand interface shines bright for its convenience in video recording.
Moreover, the application's customizable video settings, such as excellent Framerate capture and hotkey, elevate your game recording experience to a new level. It is ideal for a low-configuration PC as it does not lag while gaming. Plus, it is easy to deploy, making it ideal for first-time users.
Best for: benchmarking and recording for Windows
Price: $37
Pros
- Offers up to 120 FPS
- Ideal application for benchmarking
- Customizable hotkeys available
Cons
- Comprehensive for beginners
What Is a Good Game Recording App?
When looking for a good game recording app, these are the factors that you must look into.
System Requirements
The best game recording app is one with very few requirements so it can be used with as many PC setups as possible. It should work as the best free game recording software for low-end PC.
For example, options like Fraps and Bandicam are flexible in that aspect.
Performance
The best software generates high-quality videos and records your gameplay for a long duration.
A recorder also excels in performance when it serves both beginner and veteran users at the same time. This is what OBS Studio does really well.
Editing Features
Any application with decent editing features is always an attractive option.
For instance, Fraps basic plan is free but lacks certain editing tools that you can only find in its premium plans. Similarly, EaseUS RecExperts also charges more to unlock its advanced features. However, OBS Studio and Xbox Game Bar don't charge extra for editing features. You get all their offerings for free or at an affordable rate.
Format and Compatibility
It is wise to invest in an application that comes with an intuitive and user-friendly format.
Bandicam offers numerous integrations and is compatible with most systems, making it flexible.
Summary
Are you ready to introduce a new gameplay recorder in your life? A good one can make your life easy, especially if you want to use it regularly. Make sure that you evaluate price, performance, and features before deciding on your software. The above options will help you find the best one.
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