Did you know that VLC is not only for playing videos? 🎥
This free, lightweight and versatile player hides among its many functions one that can save you on more than one occasion: screen recording.
If you've ever wanted to show a friend how to do something on your computer, record a tutorial for YouTube or just save what happens on your desktop, you don't need an expensive or complicated program.
With VLC Media Player you can do it in a matter of minutes and, best of all, without spending a single euro.
Why record the screen with VLC?
The question seems simple, but the answer is powerful.
Recording your screen with VLC means take advantage of a program you already have installedwithout overloading your computer with heavy applications. 🖥️
In addition, you avoid the typical ads or limitations of free online tools.
And the best part: VLC is open sourcewhich means that it is completely free and always up to date thanks to its community of developers.
Step 1: Verify that you have VLC installed
The first thing to do is to make sure that you have VLC Media Player on your computer.
🔗 You can download it from the official website: VLC Media Player.
It is compatible with Windows, macOS and Linux, which makes it a universal ally for anyone who wants to record their screen.
Step 2: Configure the screenshot
Once VLC is open, the path is shorter than you think.
- Click on Medium in the top bar.
- Select the option Open capture device.
- In the window that appears, look for the Capture mode.
Here you will see several options: camera, digital TV, etc.
You must choose Desk. 🖱️
Step 3: Adjust the frame rate
One of the secrets to a smooth recording is the frame rate.
In VLC you can configure it just below the capture mode.
👉 For most recordings, 30 fps are more than enough.
If you plan to make a tutorial with a lot of on-screen movement, you can upload it to 60 fpsbut remember that the file will take up more space.
Step 4: Start recording
Once everything is ready, click on the button Play.
Wait, and shouldn't it be "Record"?
Here comes the trick: when you choose "Play", what VLC does is to show you a live preview of your desktop.
Now, go to Play → Convert or press Ctrl+R.
In the new window:
- Select the capture device as Desk.
- Click on Convert/Save.
- Set the output file to MP4 or AVI format.
- Click Start.
And that's it! 🎬 Your screen will start recording.
Step 5: Stop and save your recording
When you want to finish, just go to the button of Stop in VLC.
The video will be automatically saved to the location you chose before.
It's as easy as that, without any detours or mysterious configurations.
Tips to improve your recordings
Although VLC was not designed as a professional video editing software, you can improve your recordings with a few tweaks.
✨ Choose a suitable resolutionif your goal is to record a tutorial for YouTube, set it to 1080p to obtain better quality.
✨ Make sure to close unnecessary programsThis will prevent your recording from being choppy.
✨ Use MP4 formatis lighter and compatible with most platforms.
How to record audio next to the screen
One of the limits of VLC is that does not record system audio directly.
But you can record your voice with a connected microphone. 🎤
To do so:
- Go to Medium → Open capture device.
- Under "Capture mode" choose DirectShow.
- Select "None" as the video device.
- As an audio device, choose your microphone.
In this way, you can record your narration in parallel while capturing the screen.
Alternatives when you need more functions
While VLC is a great option to get started, you may need more features, such as integrated editing, adding effects or recording the webcam next to the screen.
In such cases, you can try:
- OBS StudioPerfect for professional recordings and live broadcasts.
- ShareXLightweight and with many customization options.
- CamtasiaIdeal for those who want to edit their videos directly.
However, if what you want is something fast, free and reliableVLC is unbeatable.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
🔴 The video is choppy → Lower the frame rate or close background applications.
🔴 The file is too heavy → Change the format to MP4 and reduce the resolution.
🔴 No audio heard → Verify that you selected the correct microphone in the settings.
These small adjustments can make the difference between a frustrating recording and a flawless result.
Conclusion
Recording your screen with VLC is one of those hidden features that prove why this player is still a favorite of millions of people around the world. 🌍
You don't need to be a computer expert or download weird software.
With just a few clicks you can create your own tutorials, record a video call or save any activity to your desktop.
So, the next time you want to capture something on your computer, remember that VLC already has what you need.