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garland's avatar
garland
Iron Contributor
Sep 28, 2025

How to record screen in windows 11 with audio?

Hi everyone,

I am a teacher and need to record a few videos for my students. I'm looking for a reliable way to record my screen in Windows 11 and I need it to include audio.

Specifically, I want to record system audio coming from my computer and the microphone Audio from my voice.

I've tried the built-in Xbox Game Bar, but I've had mixed results with the sound, especially getting both system sound and my mic to work at the same time. What is the best way to record screen in windows 11 with audio

5 Replies

  • TexasOasis's avatar
    TexasOasis
    Iron Contributor

    SharaX is a great free tool for record screen in Windows 11 with audio, and it can capture both video and audio. However, setting up audio recording (especially system audio) can be a bit tricky because it depends on your audio hardware and configuration.

    How to use SharaX to record your screen with audio in Windows 11:

    1.Download and Install SharaX:

        Open SharaX
        Go to Task Settings (click the gear icon)
        Navigate to Screen recorder > Screen recording options
    2. In the Screen recording options, look for Audio source:
        Default device: Uses your default microphone
        Select device: Choose your microphone explicitly
        To record system audio (sounds from your computer), you may need to set up Stereo Mix or use a virtual audio device
    3. Stereo Mix:
        Right-click the sound icon in the taskbar > Sounds > Recording tab
        If Stereo Mix is available, enable it and set it as default
        If Stereo Mix isn't available, you'll need to enable it in your sound card's settings or install a virtual audio driver.
    4. Virtual Audio Cable / Voicemeeter:
        Install a virtual audio driver like VB-Audio VoiceMaater
        Set your system output to this virtual device
        In SharaX, select this device as the Audio source.
    5. Start Recording
        Once configured, click Capture > Screen recording from the SharaX main menu
        Select the area or full screen
        SharaX will record the screen along with the selected audio sources

  • The Nvidia app ShadowPlay is a great free screen recorder for Windows 11. It constantly records in the background and lets you save the last few minutes.

    1. Press Alt + Z to open the overlay
    2. Click "Instant Replay" or press Alt + F10 to turn it on
    3. Configure duration: Go to Settings > Recordings > "Record last" (choose 30 seconds to 20 minutes)
    4. When something cool happens, press Alt + F10 to save the last X minutes

    Setup Audio Sources:

    1. Press Alt + Z > Audio (or go to Settings > Audio)

    2. Configure these tracks:

    • Game Audio: Captures system sounds
    • Microphone: Your voice commentary
    • Separate Tracks: Enable this to get game and mic audio on different tracks (great for editing)

    Desktop Recording:

    Enable in Settings > Privacy Control > "Desktop Capture"

    Allows recording of non-game applications (browsers, software, etc.)

    Best Practices

    • Use Instant Replay for gaming - you never miss unexpected moments
    • Enable "Separate Tracks" for easier audio editing later
    • Check storage space regularly - recordings can fill drives quickly
    • Test settings before important recordings - do a quick 30-second test
    • Use Push-to-Talk if you don't want background noise in your recordings

    ShadowPlay is an excellent chooice to let you record screen with audio in Windows 11 because it has minimal performance impact compared to other recording software, and the Instant Replay feature is incredibly useful for capturing unexpected moments in games or applications.

  • SamuelSamson's avatar
    SamuelSamson
    Bronze Contributor

    The Complete Guide: How to Record Screen in Windows 11 with Audio

    When you want to record screen in Windows 11 with audio, there are two types of sound to think about:

    • System audio (computer playback: apps, browser, video, etc.)
      Microphone input (your own voice or external narration)

     

    Getting both at the same time is where many teachers, gamers, and content creators run into trouble. Below are the most effective methods, tested and compared.

    1. Built-in Xbox Game Bar (Quick but Limited)

    1. Open with Win + G.
    2. Choose Capture → Start Recording (Win + Alt + R).
    3. In the Audio panel, select both the speakers (system sound) and mic.

     

    Pros: Free, already on Windows 11, no setup required.
    Cons: Sometimes misses system audio, no advanced editing, can’t record the full desktop in every scenario (e.g., File Explorer or multiple monitors).

     Best if you only need quick clips from a single app.

    2. OBS Studio (Free & Professional-Grade)

    1. Download OBS Studio (open-source, trusted).
    2. Add a Display Capture source for screen.
      Add Audio Output Capture (system sound) and Audio Input Capture (mic).
    3. Press “Start Recording.”

     

    Pros: Free, highly flexible, supports multiple audio tracks.
    Cons: Slight learning curve, interface can feel overwhelming for beginners.

     Best for teachers making longer lessons or anyone who needs control over multiple inputs.

    3. Dedicated Screen Recording Software (Simplest for Everyday Use)

    If you prefer something user-friendly but more powerful than Game Bar, apps like Screen Recorder, Bandicam, are excellent choices.

    • Choose “Video Recorder.”
    • Turn on both System Sound and Microphone.
    • Click “REC” to start.

     

    Pros: Clean interface, reliable dual audio capture, built-in trimming/editing.
    Cons: Paid (though most offer free trials).

    Best for teachers and professionals who want one-click recording with clear audio.

    4. Extra Audio Tips for Clear Recordings
    Use a USB headset mic to reduce echo and background noise.
    Adjust Windows sound mixer so system audio doesn’t overpower your voice.
    Test with a short clip first — saves frustration before a full recording session. 

    TipWhy it Matters
    Use a USB headsetReduces echo and background noise
    Lower system volume slightlyKeeps your voice clear above system sounds
    Test short recordings firstPrevents wasted time on broken audio setups
    Record in quiet environmentImproves clarity for teaching or tutorials

    FAQ:

    Q: Can I record both my mic and computer sound at once?
    Yes — with OBS or third-party recorders, you can capture both seamlessly. Game Bar sometimes struggles here.

    Q: Will recording affect my PC’s performance?
    Slightly — especially if recording in 1080p or 4K. Close unnecessary apps before starting.

    Q: Where are my files saved?
    Game Bar defaults to Videos > Captures. OBS and others let you pick any folder.

    Final Recommendation

    If you only need a quick clip → Xbox Game Bar is fine.
    If you want reliable, high-quality recordings for students → OBS Studio (free, powerful).
    If you want the easiest workflow with editing tools → a dedicated recorder app is worth it.

    Whichever you choose, following these steps ensures you can confidently record screen in Windows 11 with audio, combining system playback and microphone narration in one clean video.

  • MaxineWaters's avatar
    MaxineWaters
    Iron Contributor

    To record screen in Windows 11 with audio and microphone audio, and ensure reliable results, here are some recommended options:

    Solution: Using OBS Studio

    Pros:

    • Free and open-source
    • Can record both system audio and microphone simultaneously
    • Highly customizable
    • Supports recording in high quality

     

    Steps to Record Screen in Windows 11 with Audio:  

    1. Download OBS Studio
    2. Open OBS and go to Settings > Audio.
    3. Under Global Audio Devices, set Desktop Audio to your system sound device (e.g., Speakers or Stereo Mix) and Mic/Auxiliary Audio to your microphone. 
    4. To capture your screen, add a Display Capture source: 
          Click the + button under Sources
          Choose Display Capture and select your display
    5. To start recording, click Start Recording.
  • BrooklynEdge's avatar
    BrooklynEdge
    Iron Contributor

    Windows 11 has a built-in screen recorder app called Xbox Game Bar. It is a straightforward process to record screen with sound in Windows 11 by using this free app.

    Prerequisites & Quick Start

    Ensure Xbox Game Bar is enabled: It's built into Windows 11 and should be on by default.

    Update it: Make sure you have the latest version from the Microsoft Store.

    The Magic Shortcut: Press Win + Alt + R to start and stop recording instantly.

    Step-by-Step Guide for Recording Screen with Audio in Windows 11:

    Step 1: Open Xbox Game Bar

    Press the Windows key + G on your keyboard. This will open the Game Bar overlay.

    Step 2: Check Your Recording Settings (Crucial for Sound!)

    Before you start, you need to tell the Game Bar what sound you want to capture.

    In the Game Bar overlay, click on the Audio widget (it looks like a speaker). If you don't see it, click the Audio button in the top menu.

    You will see two key options:

    • "Record game audio when I record a clip": This controls system sounds (like game audio, music, browser sounds).
    • "Record microphone when I record a clip": This controls your microphone input.

    Step 3: Start Recording

    In the Game Bar overlay, click the Record button (the large white circle) in the "Capture" widget.

    Step 4: Stop Recording

    Click the Stop button (the white square) in the floating recording control panel.

    Finding Your Recorded Video

    In the Game Bar overlay, click "Show all captures" (the gallery icon) in the Capture widget. This will open the Xbox Game Bar Gallery. Here you can see all your screenshots and recordings. Your videos are automatically saved to:

    C:\Users\[YourUsername]\Videos\Captures

    Frequently asked questions about Xbox Game Bar for screen recording

    Q1: Why is my recording completely silent/no audio?

    This is the most common issue. In the Game Bar (Win+G), go to the Audio widget and ensure "Record game audio" is turned ON.

    Q2:  How do I record my voice (microphone) AND my computer's sound at the same time?

    In the Game Bar Audio widget, turn BOTH "Record game audio" AND "Record microphone" to the On position before you start recording.

    Q3: Can I record ANY window on my screen, like my browser or desktop?

    Mostly, yes. While designed for games, it works for most applications and the desktop itself. However, some protected content and secure windows will block recording.

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