Recording your full screen in Windows 10 requires the right approach depending on what you want to capture. This detailed guide provides step-by-step instructions for every full-screen recording scenario, from simple application capture to complex desktop recording.
Method 1: Game Bar for Application Full-Screen
Step 1: Open the application you want to record in full-screen mode. Step 2: Press Windows + G to open Game Bar. Step 3: Click the record button or press Windows + Alt + R. Step 4: The application will be recorded in full-screen mode. Step 5: Press Windows + Alt + R again to stop recording. This method works best with games and media applications.
Method 2: ShotVu for Desktop Full-Screen Recording
Step 1: Open your web browser and navigate to ShotVu. Step 2: Click 'Start Recording' and grant screen sharing permissions. Step 3: Select 'Entire Screen' from the sharing options. Step 4: Choose audio sources (microphone, system audio, or both). Step 5: Click 'Share' to begin full-screen recording. Step 6: Use ShotVu's controls to stop recording and get instant sharing links.
Method 3: OBS Studio for Professional Full-Screen
Step 1: Download and install OBS Studio (free). Step 2: Create a new scene and add 'Display Capture' source. Step 3: Select your monitor for full-screen capture. Step 4: Configure audio sources in OBS settings. Step 5: Click 'Start Recording' to begin full-screen capture. Step 6: Click 'Stop Recording' when finished. OBS provides maximum control and quality options.
Choosing the Right Method
Use Game Bar for: full-screen games and applications, quick recording needs, and basic quality requirements. Use ShotVu for: desktop recording, browser-based convenience, instant sharing, and professional features without installation. Use OBS Studio for: maximum quality control, streaming, and advanced recording features.
Troubleshooting Full-Screen Recording Issues
If Game Bar shows 'can't record this', try windowed mode first. For black screen recordings, update graphics drivers and disable hardware acceleration in problematic applications. If performance is poor, lower recording quality and close unnecessary programs. Browser-based tools like ShotVu often bypass these common issues.
Full-Screen Recording Best Practices
Test recording setup before important sessions, ensure adequate storage space for large files, use headphones to prevent audio feedback, plan recording content to minimize editing needs, and consider your audience when choosing recording quality and format.