How to screen record in Windows 10

For a long time, screen recording was only possible by downloading the appropriate software. Since Windows 10, however, screen recording has become an integral part of the operating system. The Xbox Game Bar allows you to record your screen on Windows 10 with just a few clicks. Since this is a gaming function, however, the options are tailored to the Xbox, so that recording the Windows desktop and File Explorer isn’t possible – in principle. Here, we’ll show you how to record your screen in Windows 10. We’ll also explain how to circumvent the restrictions described above.

The integrated screen recorder in Windows is designed for recording video games. However, so-called screencasts can also come in handy for office tasks, for example, when explaining working procedures to colleagues. The integrated Windows tool is suitable for this, because the Xbox Game Bar can be used to record a wide variety of programs. Starting with the Windows desktop or File Explorer, however, a small detour is necessary to circumvent the limitations of screen recording in Windows 10.

Below, we’ll explain how to record your screen in Windows 10, step by step:

First, open the window that you want to record. Then, hold down the [Windows] + [G] keys at the same time to launch the screen recording tool in Windows 10. Alternatively, you can use the search function in the task bar to find the program. To do this, type in “Xbox Game Bar” and open the application.

If you’re unable to click on the recording button, it means that you don’t have a suitable window open to record. That’s because the Xbox Game Bar can only be used to record the screen in programs or video games. So, a video recording of your desktop or of the File Explorer isn’t possible. Luckily, there’s a way to avoid this rule. Launch a game or program and then begin your screen recording. During the recording process, simply switch to what you want to record.