I want to talk about the different types of free screen recording software aka screen capture software, what it is, what it does, how you can use it, and what people use it for.
I’m sure you’ve seen videos on YouTube and other places online where people record what they’re doing on their computers. They are filming a video of what they are actually seeing on their computer monitors.
Screenshot video is one of the best ways to share how-to instructions for any number of things, whether it’s how to work with a piece of software, how to use the back office of the company you’re in, and many others. things.
I make quite a few screenshot videos in my business, as you can see on my YouTube channel and blog. It’s a great way to add some personalization to your blog posts!
It’s also a fantastic way to still do video marketing even if you’re extremely camera-shy because you don’t have to put your own face on camera unless you choose to. Most screencasting software has the option to record your computer monitor and webcam simultaneously, so your viewers can still see you.
And if you absolutely dread being in front of the camera, simply deselect or choose not to launch the webcam portion of the software.
Screecasting is also an easy way to provide one-on-one tutoring and instruction without having to physically be in the other person’s home. So yeah, gone are the days where you have to physically be there to teach someone!
Using this type of video also makes it easier than trying to imagine what’s on the other person’s screen as you walk them through the phone step by step on what you’re trying to teach them.
I remember when I was at work, and if I had a problem with my computer, tech support would start a program where they would literally take over my computer. Pretty creepy actually!
While you’re sitting around doing nothing, your computer almost runs itself! GoToMyPC or Citrix is a tool that is still around for remote access to your or anyone else’s computer.
But if you don’t feel comfortable accessing someone else’s computer to give instructions, or if the other person doesn’t feel comfortable allowing someone remote access to their computer, the next best thing is to screencast and share the video.
So what are some free screen recording software? Here are a couple that I see many sellers suggest new sellers use:
- Jin. Jing is free with an optional paid account, but you must download the software to use it. I’ve used it before, a while ago, but it was a little hard for me to learn and get used to, so I stopped using it.
- Camtasia. You get a free trial with Camtasia, but you also have to download the software. Personally, I found Camtasia a bit expensive for my needs.
- Camera studio. Camstudio is free open source software, but you have to download it to use it.
My pick for the best free screen recording software is Screencast-O-Matic.
What I really like about this program is that you don’t have to download anything to use it! Simply create a free account, sign in, and start recording. The interface is very easy to learn and use.
With the free account, you get a small “watermark” of the Screencast-O-Matic logo in the bottom left corner of your video. But it’s so non-invasive that it doesn’t negatively affect the feel of the video; your videos will not look less professional with a watermark.
You can upgrade to the Pro account for just $15 a year, which is so cheap it will fit almost anyone’s budget.
With the Pro account, which I used to have and could eventually renew, you don’t get the watermark on your videos and you can record more than 15 minutes of video. With the free account, you are limited to 15 minutes per video.
So if you’ve been looking for a great free screen recording software that doesn’t require you to download anything to use it, I definitely suggest you go to Screencast-O-Matic and sign up!