Best Free Screen Recording Software (Latest 2025 Edition)

Screen recording software is an essential tool in our daily work, study, and entertainment. Whether you're creating tutorials, recording gameplay, saving online videos, or documenting online meetings, a great screen recorder can make your tasks much easier.

1. OBS Studio – Powerful and Professional Open-Source Recorder

Best for: Streamers, professional video creators

OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software) is a completely free and open-source screen recording and live-streaming software. It supports multiple scene transitions, high-definition video recording, and can directly stream to platforms like YouTube and Twitch.

🔹 Key Features:

• No watermark, no time limits
• Supports 1080p 60FPS high-quality recording
• Can capture multiple windows or screens simultaneously
• Extensive plugin support for customizable recording setups

Cons:

• The interface can be complex for beginners
• Requires configuration for optimal use

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

2. Leawo Free Screen Recorder – Versatile and Free Screen Recording Software

Best for: Users who need to record screen, audio, and webcam

Leawo Free Screen Recorder is a fully-featured and completely free screen recording software. It supports recording screen + audio + webcam, making it perfect for recording online meetings, gaming sessions, and online courses.

🔹 Key Features:

• Totally free with no watermark
• Allows real-time annotations while recording (e.g., adding text, arrows)
• Supports full-screen, window, and selected area recording
• Enables post-recording editing and exports in MP4, AVI, MOV, and more

Cons:

• Does not support live streaming
• Requires manual frame rate adjustment for optimal recording quality

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)

3. ShareX – Feature-Rich, Lightweight Recording Tool

Best for: Users needing quick screen recording or screenshots

ShareX is a lightweight yet powerful free screen recording and screenshot tool. It can record full-screen, specific windows, or selected areas, and even supports GIF recording, making it great for creating short video clips or animations.

🔹 Key Features:

• Completely free with no ads, no watermark, and no time limits
• Supports screen recording and GIF creation
• Comes with built-in editing tools and advanced screenshot features
• Supports automatic uploads to cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox

Cons:

• Does not support game recording (lacks a dedicated game mode)
• The interface may be overwhelming for beginners

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)

4. Xbox Game Bar (Built into Windows) – Best for Game Recording

Best for: Windows 10/11 users, especially gamers

If you’re using Windows 10 or 11, you don’t need to install additional software because Windows comes with Xbox Game Bar, which allows you to easily record games and apps without affecting your computer’s performance.

🔹 Key Features:

• No installation required, built into Windows
• Optimized for game recording with minimal performance impact
• Saves recordings locally with no ads and no watermark
• Supports shortcut key operation (Win + G to open)

Cons:

• Cannot record desktop or file explorer, only apps and games
• Lacks advanced editing tools

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

5. FlashBack Express – Beginner-Friendly Screen Recorder

Best for: New users, tutorial creators

FlashBack Express is a user-friendly free screen recording software, making it perfect for beginners. It provides a simple and easy-to-use interface while allowing users to record full-screen, windows, or webcam footage—ideal for creating tutorials or presentations.

🔹 Key Features:

• Simple interface, easy to use, great for beginners
• No watermark, no time limits
• Supports simultaneous webcam and screen recording
• Can export videos in MP4, AVI, and WMV formats

Cons:

• The free version lacks advanced editing features
• Game recording performance is average

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

• 6. Apowersoft Free Screen Recorder – Best for Online Recording

Best for: Users who need online or temporary screen recording

Apowersoft provides a web-based screen recorder that allows users to record screens online without installing any software, making it perfect for those who need a quick recording solution.

🔹 Key Features:

• No installation required, record directly from your browser
• Supports full-screen, window, and webcam recording
• High-quality recording without a watermark
• Basic editing features available after recording

Cons:

• Requires an internet connection
• Some advanced features require a paid upgrade

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Conclusion: Which Screen Recorder is Best for You?

If you need professional-grade recording software, OBS Studio is the best choice.

If you need a free, ad-free, and all-in-one tool, Leawo Free Screen Recorder is an excellent option.

If you’re looking for a lightweight tool for occasional recordings, ShareX or FlashBack Express would be great for you.

We hope this guide helps you find the best screen recording software—go ahead and try them out! 🎥✨