How to Record your Screen on Ubuntu

Posted on by Noah Belkacem

Introduction

Screen recording on Ubuntu can be a handy tool for a variety of purposes, including creating video tutorials, demonstrating software applications, or capturing gameplay. This tutorial will guide you through different methods to record your screen on Ubuntu, including using OBS Studio, SimpleScreenRecorder, and GNOME Shell Extension.

Understanding Screen Recording

Before we dive into the methods, let’s understand what screen recording is. Screen recording is a digital recording of computer screen output, also known as a video screen capture or a screencast. It is a useful tool for creating tutorials, demonstrating how software applications work, and recording gameplay. Now, let’s explore the methods to record your screen on Ubuntu.

Method 1: Using OBS Studio

OBS Studio is a powerful, open-source software for video recording and live streaming. Here’s how to install and use OBS Studio on Ubuntu:

Step 1: Install OBS Studio

First, you need to install OBS Studio. Open the Terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T and run the following commands:


sudo add-apt-repository ppa:obsproject/obs-studio
sudo apt update
sudo apt install obs-studio

Step 2: Configure OBS Studio

After installing OBS Studio, you need to configure it. Here’s how:

  • Launch OBS Studio from the Applications menu.
  • Click on the “Settings” button in the lower-right corner.
  • In the “Output” tab, select the desired output format and settings.
  • In the “Video” tab, set the base and output resolution.
  • Click on the “OK” button to save the settings.

Step 3: Start Recording

Now, you’re ready to start recording. Here’s how:

  • Click on the “Start Recording” button in the lower-right corner.
  • Select the screen or application window you want to record.
  • Click on the “Start Recording” button again to begin the screen recording.
  • To stop the recording, click on the “Stop Recording” button.

Method 2: Using SimpleScreenRecorder

SimpleScreenRecorder is another great tool for screen recording on Ubuntu. Here’s how to install and use SimpleScreenRecorder:

Step 1: Install SimpleScreenRecorder

First, you need to install SimpleScreenRecorder. Open the Terminal and run the following command:


sudo apt install simplescreenrecorder

Step 2: Configure SimpleScreenRecorder

After installing SimpleScreenRecorder , you need to configure it. Here’s how:

  • Launch SimpleScreenRecorder from the Applications menu.
  • Select the desired settings, such as output format, audio source, and video quality.
  • Click on the “Continue” button to proceed.

Step 3: Start Recording

Now, you’re ready to start recording. Here’s how:

  • Click on the “Record” button in the main window.
  • Select the screen or application window you want to record.
  • Click on the “Record” button again to begin the screen recording.
  • To stop the recording, click on the “Stop” button.

Method 3: Using GNOME Shell Extension

If you prefer a simpler solution, you can use the GNOME Shell Extension called “EasyScreenCast” to record your screen. Here’s how:

Step 1: Install EasyScreenCast

First, you need to install EasyScreenCast. Open the Terminal and run the following command:


sudo apt install gnome-shell-extension-easyscreencast

Step 2: Enable EasyScreenCast

After installing EasyScreenCast, you need to enable it. Here’s how:

  • Open the GNOME Tweaks tool from the Applications menu.
  • Go to the “Extensions” tab.
  • Enable the “EasyScreenCast” extension.

Step 3: Start Recording

Now, you’re ready to start recording. Here’s how:

  • Click on the EasyScreenCast icon in the top panel.
  • Select the screen or application window you want to record.
  • Click on the “Record” button to begin the screen recording.
  • To stop the recording, click on the “Stop” button.

Additional Tips for Screen Recording

Here are some additional tips to enhance your screen recording experience:

  • Close unnecessary applications: To ensure smooth recording, close any unnecessary applications running in the background.
  • Check your microphone: If you’re recording audio, make sure your microphone is working properly.
  • Plan your recording: Before you start recording, plan what you want to show and say. This will make your video more professional and easier to follow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about screen recording on Ubuntu:

Can I record audio with my screen recording?

Yes, both OBS Studio and SimpleScreenRecorder allow you to record audio along with your screen recording. You can select the audio source in the settings.

Can I record a specific window instead of the entire screen?

Yes, both OBS Studio and SimpleScreenRecorder allow you to select a specific window for recording. You can select the window in the settings.

Can I pause and resume my screen recording?

Yes, both OBS Studio and SimpleScreenRecorder allow you to pause and resume your screen recording. You can use the “Pause” and “Resume” buttons during recording.

Conclusion

Screen recording on Ubuntu is a breeze with the right tools. Whether you choose OBS Studio, SimpleScreenRecorder, or GNOME Shell Extension, you can easily capture your screen activities and create engaging video content. So, start recording your screen on Ubuntu today and share your knowledge with the world!