Key takeaways:
- Chromebook has a built-in screen recorder, no extra app needed
- Use a simple keyboard shortcut to start recording
- Videos save in webm format in your Downloads folder
Ever needed to record your Chromebook screen but didn’t want to mess with third-party apps? You’re not alone. Good news: Chrome OS has a built-in screen recorder that’s actually easy to use, and you don’t have to install anything. This guide walks you through the shortcut, how to use it, and where to find your recordings.
Table of Contents
- The Built-In Chromebook Screen Recorder Is Hiding Behind a Shortcut
- Choosing What to Record: Full Screen, Window, or Area
- Stopping the Recording and Where to Find Your Video
- The Video Format: Why webm?
- Quick Troubleshooting for Chromebook Screen Recording
- How to Share or Edit Your Chromebook Screen Recordings
- Extra Chromebook Tips for Power Users
- FAQs
- How do I start screen recording on my Chromebook?
- Can I record just part of my screen?
- Where are my Chromebook screen recordings saved?
- What format are Chromebook screen recordings?
- Do I need to install anything to record my screen?
The Built-In Chromebook Screen Recorder Is Hiding Behind a Shortcut
So, here’s the deal: there’s no fancy app icon or menu for the screen recorder. It’s hidden behind a keyboard shortcut. That shortcut is Ctrl + Shift + Show Windows. The Show Windows key is the one above the number row with a rectangle and two lines. If you’ve never noticed it, now you know.
When you hit those keys, a menu pops up at the bottom of your screen. You’ll see options for screenshot and screen recording. Click the video camera icon to start recording.
If you want more Chromebook tips, check out tips for speeding up Chromebook or how to take screenshots on Chromebook.
Choosing What to Record: Full Screen, Window, or Area
Once you’re in the recorder, you get three choices:
- Record the whole screen
- Record just a window
- Record a custom area
Pick what you want. For full screen, just click anywhere. For a window or area, select your target and then click to start.
There’s a short countdown, then you’re live. Everything on your screen is getting recorded, so make sure you’re ready.
Stopping the Recording and Where to Find Your Video
When you’re done, look for the stop button at the bottom right of your screen. Click it, and the recording ends instantly.
Wondering where your video went? Open the Files app, go to the Downloads folder, and you’ll see your new webm video file. Double-click it to watch.
If you’re having trouble finding files or want to organize your Chromebook better, here’s how to delete downloads on Chromebook and how to access USB drives on Chromebook.
The Video Format: Why webm?
Your Chromebook saves screen recordings as webm files. This format is lightweight, web-friendly, and keeps the video quality sharp. It’s easy to play on your Chromebook and can be uploaded to Google Drive or shared online.
If you want to convert webm to another format, you’ll need a converter, but for most users, webm works just fine.
Quick Troubleshooting for Chromebook Screen Recording
Sometimes things don’t work as planned. Here are some quick fixes:
- If the shortcut doesn’t work, double-check you’re pressing the right keys.
- Make sure your Chromebook is up to date. Updates can fix bugs.
- If your recording is laggy, close extra tabs and apps.
Want to keep your Chromebook running smooth? Try these tips to save battery and clear your Chromebook cache.
Once you’ve got your webm file, you can upload it to Google Drive, email it, or share it any way you like. If you need to edit the video, you might want to move it to a PC or use an online editor.
If you’re looking for a simple video editor, check out top free simple video editor software for beginner.
Extra Chromebook Tips for Power Users
- Want to change your Chromebook’s language? Here’s how
- Need to check your Chromebook’s storage? Read this
- Curious about keyboard shortcuts? Open the on-screen keyboard
FAQs
How do I start screen recording on my Chromebook?
Press Ctrl + Shift + Show Windows key. Then click the video camera icon.
Can I record just part of my screen?
Yes, you can pick a specific area or window to record.
Where are my Chromebook screen recordings saved?
They’re in the Downloads folder in the Files app.
What format are Chromebook screen recordings?
They’re saved as webm files, which are small and web-friendly.
Do I need to install anything to record my screen?
Nope, the tool is built into Chrome OS. No extra apps required.
Ready to record? Give it a shot and save your next tutorial, gameplay, or meeting like a pro. 🎥✨
