Screen recording with audio is rapidly becoming an indispensable tool in our digital world. In fact, 83% of people prefer watching video content to reading text when learning about a product or service.
From creating software tutorials to onboarding new hires or collaborating with remote teams, screen recordings with crisp, clear audio can transform complex ideas into easily digestible content. Yet, integrating high-quality audio often feels daunting.
This guide simplifies the process, offering practical tips and techniques to help you master screen recording with audio on any device, regardless of an iPhone, a Windows PC, or a Mac.
⏰ 60-Second Summary
- Screen recording captures your computer or device activity and is essential for tutorials, presentations, or feedback
- Choose a quality microphone, configure the screen recorder’s settings, and test the sound to ensure crisp audio quality
- Record in a quiet space, use noise-canceling mics, and optimize device settings for better results
- Address issues like mic connection, background noise, or software glitches with simple fixes
- Utilize ClickUp Clips for seamless screen recording within the platform. Share recordings easily, collaborate effectively, and streamline your workflows
Setting Up Screen Recording on Different Devices
Let’s explore how to set up and use the screen recording feature on iPhone, Windows, and Mac devices, along with handy shortcuts to streamline the process.
1. Enabling screen recording on iPhone
- Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen (on iPhones with Face ID) or swipe up from the bottom edge (on iPhones with a Home button)
- Tap the grey Screen Recording button (a circle within a circle)
- To include audio recording, press and hold the Screen Recording button, tap the Microphone icon to turn it on, then click Start Recording. A three-second countdown will appear, after which the recording starts
- Tap the red status bar at the top of the screen and confirm by tapping Stop. Alternatively, reopen the Control Center and tap the Screen Recording button again
Your iPhone screen recording will be saved automatically to the Photos app.
💡Pro Tip: Want even quicker access? You can customize your Control Center! Go to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls and add or remove the Screen Recording button to your liking.
2. Enabling screen recording on Windows
Recording your screen on Windows comes with a couple of built-in options.
Using Xbox game bar (Windows 10 and 11)
- Press Windows Key + G to launch the Xbox Game Bar overlay
- In the overlay, locate the Capture widget. If it’s not visible, click on the Widget Menu (represented by overlapping squares) and select Capture
- In the Capture widget, click the Start Recording button (a circle icon) or press Windows Key + Alt + R to begin recording.
- Ensure your microphone access is enabled by clicking the Microphone icon in the Capture widget
- Click the Stop Recording button (a square icon) in the Capture widget or press Windows Key + Alt + R again
Your recording will be saved in the Videos > Captures folder by default.
📖 Read More: Best Screen Recorder Chrome Extensions
Using the Snipping tool
The Snipping Tool on Windows 11 has evolved beyond simple screenshots. It now offers built-in screen recording capabilities, making it a versatile tool for capturing images and videos. Here’s how:
- Search for Snipping Tool in the Start menu
- Click the Record button. Then, use your mouse to draw a rectangle around the exact area of the screen you want to capture
- After selecting the recording area, click the Start button. A three-second countdown will appear, after which recording will start
- Once you’ve captured the desired content, click the Stop button
By default, your recording will be saved in the Videos folder, ready for you to view or share as needed.
💡Pro Tip: Here are some keyboard shortcuts to help make it easier:
Start/Stop Recording: Press Windows Key + Alt + R to toggle recording on and off
Open Xbox Game Bar: Press Windows Key + G
3. Enabling screen recording on Mac
Using the screenshot toolbar
- Press Shift + Command + 5 to open the Screenshot toolbar
- Select Recording Option:
- To record the entire screen, click the Record Entire Screen button (a rectangle with a circle in the corner)
- To record a portion of the screen, click the Record Selected Portion button (a dotted rectangle with a circle in the corner), then drag to select the desired area
- Click Options to set your preferences, such as saving location, timer, and the usage of a built-in microphone for audio
- Click the Record button on the right side of the toolbar
- Click the Stop button (a circle with a square inside) in the menu bar or press Command + Control + Esc
The recording will be saved to your chosen location or desktop by default.
📖 Read More: Best Screen Recorder Software for Mac
Using QuickTime Player
QuickTime Player is your Mac’s versatile multimedia tool. It enables you to play videos, perform basic edits, and even record your screen.
- To access QuickTime Player, navigate to your Applications folder via Finder and open QuickTime Player
- In the menu bar, click File > New Screen Recording
- A recording window will appear. Click and drag to choose the specific area of your screen you wish to capture
- Before recording, click the drop-down arrow next to the record button to select your preferred microphone for audio input
- Click the Record button to commence. When finished, click the Stop button in the menu bar
Your recording will automatically open in QuickTime Player, and you can save it to your desired location.
💡Pro Tip: For Mac users, the Shift + Command + 3 shortcut takes a screenshot of your entire screen, and Shift + Command + 4 lets you select a specific area for your screenshot.
How to Record Audio With Screen Recordings?
Let’s make the audio sound as good as your screen looks! Whether you’re a tech guru creating a software tutorial or a trainer explaining a complex concept to a mentee, capturing high-quality audio is key.
It adds an extra layer of professionalism and makes your recordings more engaging. So, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of recording audio with your screen.
Step 1: Install and set up your recording software
It is crucial to select appropriate recording software. For Windows, options like OBS Studio or the built-in Xbox Game Bar are popular.
- Mac users can use QuickTime Player or OBS Studio
- Android users might consider the AZ Screen Recorder
- iOS users can use the built-in screen recorder
Download the software from a verified source. Follow the installation prompts to set it up on your device.
Next, open the software and familiarize yourself with its interface. Adjust basic settings such as output folder, video quality, and frame rate to suit your needs.
📌 Example: Imagine you’re a software developer preparing a tutorial for a new application feature. With OBS Studio, you can:
- Set up multiple scenes to switch between your code editor and the running application seamlessly
- Integrate your microphone audio for narration and system audio to capture in-app sounds, providing a comprehensive learning experience for viewers
Step 2: Choose your audio source
The right audio source makes all the difference in high-quality screen recordings. First, decide whether you want to capture system audio (what’s playing on your computer) or external audio (your voice or a third-party microphone).
Many recording tools, like OBS Studio and QuickTime, allow you to choose multiple audio sources, ensuring you can mix system and microphone input seamlessly.
📌 Example: If you’re creating a software demo, you’ll likely want to capture the sound of the software (e.g., clicks, notifications) and your voice. In this case, set your system sound to capture the software’s audio and use your built-in or external microphone for your voice.
The choice of audio source depends entirely on what you’re recording. Don’t overlook this—poor audio can be a major distraction for viewers, regardless of how great your visuals are.
📖 Read More: How to Take Notes from a Video Like a Pro
Step 3: Configure audio settings
Configuring your audio settings makes your system sound and voice clear. Recording tools, like OBS Studio or Camtasia, offer a settings menu where you can adjust the audio input levels.
If you’re recording a presentation or a tutorial, background noise can be a major distraction. Use the noise suppression filters to avoid background noise and voice echo.
With the right system preferences, your audio will match the quality of your visuals, creating a seamless, professional recording.
Step 4: Test the sound
Testing your sound before hitting a record is something you can’t afford to skip. It’s similar to tuning an instrument before a concert—you want everything to sound right. After configuring your audio settings, do a quick test by recording a short clip.
✅ Check the following things before recording sound:
- Is the volume level appropriate?
- Is the audio clear and audible?
- Are there any distracting noises?
This test helps ensure that everything is aligned and nothing gets distorted during your full recording. Testing sound is the easiest way to avoid a recording that needs redoing, saving time and ensuring a smooth final product.
🧠 Did you know? Video content will make up 60.1% of average daily social media time by 2025.
Step 5: Start screen recording
Now that your audio is set up and tested, it’s time to hit the record button and bring your content to life. Most recording software have a prominent ‘Start Recording’ button..
Before you click it, ensure everything is ready—your screen area is selected, your audio source is locked in, and you’re mentally prepared for what you’re about to capture.
Take some deep breaths before recording so you don’t sound flustered while recording. Remember to speak clearly and at a steady pace if you’re narrating a step-by-step guide. If you’re showing a software walkthrough, ensure your mouse movements are smooth and deliberate.
💡Pro Tip: A little trick many professionals use is to start with a brief introduction or a sentence that will help anchor the recording—this also gives you a reference point when editing later.
Step 6: Edit your recording (optional)
Once your screen recording is complete, you can edit it to polish the content and remove filler words from your speech. You can also trim out awkward pauses and add captions to make your recordings more helpful.
Tools like Camtasia or Adobe Premiere Pro can help you cut video frames, adjust audio levels, and even add text overlays or annotations to clarify key points.
✅ Check the following things before recording sound:
- Is the volume level appropriate?
- Is the audio clear and audible?
- Are there any distracting noises?
For example, if you’re creating a product demo, you might want to highlight certain features with a zoom effect or add callouts to draw attention to important elements.
Editing transforms your raw footage into a polished and professional presentation.
Troubleshooting common sound issues
Troubleshooting sound issues can be a headache, but with the right approach, you can easily resolve common problems.
Low audio levels
If your voice is too faint compared to the system audio, try adjusting your microphone input levels.
In software like OBS Studio, you can tweak audio sliders to ensure your voice and system sounds are balanced. If the audio is still too quiet, check your mic settings and ensure it’s not muted or disabled.
Background noise
This is a pesky issue that can ruin an otherwise perfect recording. Most tools, like Camtasia and QuickTime, offer noise-reduction features that filter unwanted sounds.
If your audio is out of sync with the video, check your recording settings or use software like Adobe Premiere Pro to manually align the audio and video tracks.
Voice echo
Voice echo occurs when sound from speakers or headphones is picked up by the microphone, creating a delayed, repeated audio signal.
Wear headphones to prevent sound leakage, adjust speaker volumes, and move the microphone away from audio output sources.
By addressing these common issues, you’ll ensure your recordings sound as professional as they look, keeping your audience engaged and your message clear.
Screen Recording Best Practices for Better Sound Quality
Achieving top-notch sound quality in your screen recordings requires more than just hitting record. The following are some key best practices that can make a difference in how your recordings sound.
🎤 Use a quality microphone
- Built-in mics can pick up unwanted noise. Invest in an external mic like the Blue Yeti or Rode NT-USB for clearer audio
- Keep the mic 6–8 inches from your mouth to avoid popping sounds or muffled audio
🏠 Consider room acoustics
- Record in a quiet space to minimize background noise
- Use soft materials like carpets, curtains, or foam panels to reduce sound reflections
🔇 Mute notifications and close unnecessary apps
- Turn off system sounds and mute notifications to prevent distractions during the recording
- Close apps that could affect system performance or audio quality
✂️ Post-recording editing
- Use a video editor (like in Camtasia or OBS Studio) to eliminate background noise and adjust audio levels
- Balance voice and system sounds for a more professional listening experience
📮ClickUp Insight: 37% of workers send follow-up notes or meeting minutes to track action items, but 36% still rely on other, fragmented methods.
Without a unified system for capturing decisions, key insights you need may get buried in chats, emails, or spreadsheets. With ClickUp, you can instantly capture conversations across chat, tasks, and recorded clips—and turn them into actionable tasks without switching between multiple platforms. Say no to platform hopping!
How ClickUp Enhances Screen Recording and Management
After learning how to record and refine your screen recordings, let’s take it to the next level with ClickUp.
It is the everything app for work that combines project management, knowledge management, and chat—all powered by AI that helps you work faster and smarter.
Create screen recordings to share feedback
ClickUp Clips seamlessly integrates screen recording into your workflow, making it effortless to capture quick how-to guides, provide project feedback, or explain complex tasks to remote teams. It’s a time-saving tool that enhances productivity and ensures clear communication.
Need to explain a complex workflow or provide feedback on a project? Instead of typing a lengthy email, simply hit the record button in Clips. Walk your team through the issue while narrating your thought process. The video automatically attaches to the relevant task or project, ensuring everything stays organized.
Watch this video to learn how to use ClickUp Clips 👇
Here’s how you can record screens on ClickUp for team collaboration and communication:
1. Recording from a task comment:
- Open the task where you want to record a video
- Go to the comment box and click the video icon to start recording
- Choose an appropriate microphone option to record audio, such as your default mic or any connected device
- Choose the specific screen, browser tab, or application window you want to capture
- Begin recording and complete your screen capture
- Once finished, the Clip is automatically added to the comment for seamless sharing with your team
- You can also download the video file for future use or reference
2. Recording clips anywhere in ClickUp:
- Click on the Global Action Toolbar on your ClickUp page and select the screen recorder icon
- After recording, your video will be stored in the Clips Hub, where you can easily access, manage, or share it across your workspace
Convert screen recordings into tasks
But that’s not all—ClickUp takes it further by letting you convert Clips into actionable tasks. For instance, if your screen recording highlights areas needing improvement in a project, you can immediately turn those insights into tasks within ClickUp. This keeps your team aligned and ensures no critical points are overlooked.
Transcribe recordings with AI
For added convenience, you can leverage ClickUp Brain to transcribe your Clips. Imagine searching through your recordings for specific details without replaying the entire video—ClickUp Brain makes this possible.
Automatically generating searchable transcriptions enables quick access to important information, making Clips not just a communication tool but a powerful knowledge resource for your team.
📖 Read More: Best AI Screen Recorders
Benefits of integrating Clips into team workflows
Integrating Clips into your workflow can transform how your team communicates. Here’s why:
🙌 Clarity and context: A 2-minute video often conveys more than a 10-paragraph email
🙌 Efficiency: Record once, share instantly, and reduce meeting times
🙌 Centralized knowledge: Store Clips in Clips Hub, creating a searchable knowledge base for future reference
🙌 Collaboration across time zones: Perfect for asynchronous teams, where members can review recordings at their convenience
📌 Example: A global design team can use Clips to share iterative feedback on prototypes, eliminating the need for live meetings while maintaining a clear record of suggestions.
Level Up Your Screen Recordings With ClickUp
Screen recording is a powerful medium for collaboration, communication, and productivity. Integrating it into your workflow can transform how you explain complex processes, share feedback, or connect with remote teams.
ClickUp Clips helps integrate screen recording into your daily processes. From capturing ideas on the fly to sharing updates in seconds, ClickUp empowers you to communicate visually and collaborate effortlessly—all in one platform.
So, why juggle multiple tools when ClickUp has everything you need? Sign Up for free on ClickUp and experience the power of ClickUp Clips firsthand!