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macOS⏱ 2 min

How to Record Your Screen on macOS

Start a native screen recording without installing third-party software.

Last verified: February 21, 2026

macOS integrates screen recording directly into the Screenshot toolbar — the same Command + Shift + 5 shortcut used for screenshots also reveals Record Entire Screen and Record Selected Portion options. Unlike many competitors, macOS natively captures microphone audio without any extra setup, though recording internal system audio (app sounds, music) requires a virtual audio driver like BlackHole due to Apple's platform restrictions. Recordings save as .mov files to the Desktop with a timestamp, matching the screenshot filename convention.

Quick Steps

Follow in order for the fastest result.

  1. 1Press Command + Shift + 5. Choose Record Entire Screen or Record Selected Portion from the toolbar. Click Record.
  2. 2Choose microphone audio on or off before starting. Avoid recording sensitive content.
  3. 3Stop recording from the floating toolbar, notification bar, or menu bar icon. The file saves to Videos or Downloads.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does macOS have a built-in screen recorder?
Yes. Press Command + Shift + 5 to open the screenshot toolbar and select Record Entire Screen or Record Selected Portion.
Where do screen recordings save on macOS?
Screen recordings save to the Desktop as .mov files with a timestamp, matching screenshot behaviour.
Why does my macOS screen recording have no audio?
Make sure you enable microphone access before starting the recording — most recorders default to no audio. For internal system audio on Windows, use Xbox Game Bar; on macOS, system audio capture requires a virtual audio driver (like BlackHole) since Apple restricts it natively.
Can I record streaming video on macOS?
Streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video use DRM (Digital Rights Management) that actively blocks screen recording at the OS level. Any recording attempt will produce a black screen. This is by design and cannot be bypassed.

Same task, different device

Windows 11Windows 10iPhone (iOS)iPad (iPadOS)Samsung GalaxyGoogle PixelChromebook

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