You can record video on a Mac by using the built-in Screenshot app (macOS Mojave 10.14 or later) or QuickTime Player. Both let you capture your entire screen or a selected portion, record audio, and save the file in high quality — all without installing extra software.
1. Record Your Screen with the Screenshot App
If you’re running macOS Mojave or later, the Screenshot app is the fastest way to make a Mac screen recording.
Step 1: Open the Screenshot Toolbar
Press Shift + Command + 5 to bring up the toolbar.
Step 2: Choose Recording Mode
- Record Entire Screen — capture everything.
- Record Selected Portion — drag to select an area.
Step 3: Adjust Recording Options
Click Options to:
- Choose a microphone for narration.
- Show mouse clicks during recording.
- Set a countdown timer.
- Select where your recording is saved.
Step 4: Start and Stop Recording
Click Record to start.
Stop by clicking the menu bar icon or pressing Command + Control + Esc.
This method is perfect if you plan to capture a tutorial and later convert the spoken content from audio to text for sharing or documentation.
2. Record Video on Mac with QuickTime Player
For older macOS versions or those who prefer a classic tool, QuickTime Player works just as well.
Step 1: Launch QuickTime Player
Find it in Applications.
Step 2: Start a New Screen Recording
Choose File > New Screen Recording or press Control + Command + N.
Step 3: Set Preferences
Click the arrow next to the Record button to:
- Select your microphone.
- Show mouse clicks.
Step 4: Choose Recording Area
- Click anywhere for full-screen capture.
- Drag to select a portion, then click Start Recording.
Step 5: Stop and Edit
Use the menu bar Stop button or Command + Control + Esc. QuickTime will open the recording so you can trim or export.
If you’re creating a lecture or webinar, QuickTime recordings can be paired with video to text tools to generate transcripts or summaries for your audience.
Use VOMO to Transcribe Your Video Effortlessly
After recording your screen or any video on your Mac, you can quickly turn it into text with VOMO.
Simply upload your file, and VOMO’s AI will convert your video to text automatically with high accuracy.
The transcript comes with timestamps and optional speaker labels, making it easy to follow the content.
You can edit, search, and share your transcript instantly—saving hours compared to manual typing.
Whether you need meeting notes, tutorials, or blog content, VOMO delivers clean, structured text in just a few clicks.
Pro Tips for High-Quality Mac Video Recording
- Use an external mic for better sound.
- Close unused apps to avoid distractions.
- Use the timer to prepare before capture.
- Keep your desktop tidy for a clean look.
Final Thoughts
Now you know exactly how to record video on Mac with free, built-in tools. Whether you prefer the Screenshot app for quick grabs or QuickTime for versatility, you can record, edit, and share videos without hassle — and even turn them into searchable text content when needed.
