How to Screen Record on Mac: A Full Step-by-Step Guide

Q: How do I screen record on Mac with audio using Command + Shift + 5?

Use the Screenshot toolbar built into macOS. Press Command + Shift + 5, choose Record Entire Screen or Record Selected Portion, open Options, and pick your microphone. Then click Record to start your Mac screen recording with sound. To stop, press Command + Control + Escape or click the stop button in the top menu bar. Most recordings save as a .MOV file, and they usually go to your desktop unless you choose another folder. For the best result, test your mic first and close apps that may show pop-up alerts. This method is great for quick demos, lessons, and simple how-to videos.

Q: Why is my Mac screen recording not picking up internal audio?

Built-in Mac tools do not record system sound by default. QuickTime and the Screenshot toolbar can record your microphone, but they usually will not capture audio playing from your Mac. That is why a clip can show video but miss sound from Zoom, YouTube, or another app. If you want internal audio, you can set up a free virtual audio driver like BlackHole. You can also use a third-party app like OBS Studio or Screen Studio, which makes this job much easier. If you only need your own voice, select the right mic in Options before you start. If you need both voice and computer sound, record a short test clip first so you do not lose a full take.

Q: Where do screen recordings save on Mac, and can I change that?

Screen recordings usually save to the desktop on Mac. If you use the Screenshot toolbar, open Options before recording to choose a different folder. In QuickTime, you pick the save location after the recording opens and you use File > Save. Changing the save folder helps keep tutorials, client work, and school projects easy to find. Many people make one folder just for screen recordings so files do not get lost. It also helps to rename the file right away with the topic and date. That small step makes editing, uploading, and sharing much faster later.

By Andy Feliciotti

Last Updated March 7, 2026

How to Screen Record on Mac: A Full Step-by-Step Guide

Level up your content creation game by mastering screen recording with audio on your Mac. Record slick demos, how-tos, and more with just a few clicks. QuickTime Player lets you capture video and audio easily for quick recordings. Or use third-party apps for advanced editing features.

In this guide you’ll learn how to screen record on Mac. Add crystal-clear audio and take your content creation skills to new heights. Screen recording with audio made easy. It’s time to produce your best work yet.

Recording Screen with Audio on Mac Using Keyboard Shortcuts

For those looking to screen record video and audio on Mac without extra software, the screenshot toolbar is a straightforward solution. This is by far the easiest way to screen record on Mac. This method is perfect for quick recordings. The screenshot toolbar allows you to record your full screen or just a portion of the screen.

Screenshot toolbar on Mac — QuickTime Player screenshot toolbar

Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Press “Command + Shift + 5” on your keyboard.

Step 2: The Screenshot toolbar will appear with specific onscreen controls.

Step 3: Choose options in the toolbar, select your Macbook microphone (or an external mic), then hit Record.

Step 4: To stop recording, press “Command + Control + Escape” or “Command + Shift + 5” again and select “Stop Recording“. You can also click the stop button in the top menubar as well.

Your video will show up on your desktop (or where you selected the recording to go to in the options), complete with audio. By default screen recordings are captured as a .MOV file.

Using QuickTime to Record Video and Audio on Mac

QuickTime Player, an Apple product, comes preinstalled on all Macs. You can open QuickTime via your applications folder or use spotlight to quickly open it (by hitting Command + Space) and typing QuickTime.

Here’s a quick guide:

Step 1: Open QuickTime Player from your Applications folder.

Step 2: Go to “File” and choose “New Screen Recording“.

Step 3: Click the Options button next Record button to pick a microphone.

Step 4: Hit the “Record” button. You can record the entire screen or drag to select a specific area.

Step 5: Record your content, including any audio.

Step 6: Press Stop Recording or “Command-Control-Esc” to finish.

Step 7: QuickTime Player will show your recording. Check the sound quality before saving. Saving the file can be done by clicking “File” then “Save…”.

Which Screen Recorder Is Best for Mac with Audio?

When choosing a screen recording app or software for Mac, consider what suits your needs best. Here are two great options:

QuickTime Player

QuickTime Player remains a preferred choice for many Mac users. It allows for basic video editing, such as trimming and rearranging clips. It’s a simple solution for quick screen recordings with audio.

The Catch: Recording Internal System Audio on a Mac

If you’ve ever tried using the built-in Mac tools to record a Zoom meeting, a YouTube clip, or a webinar, you’ve probably run into a frustrating roadblock: the video looks great, but there’s no sound.

By default, Apple’s security settings prevent native tools from capturing internal system audio. When you click the “Options” menu in the Screenshot Toolbar or QuickTime, you can select your microphone to record your own voice, but you can’t capture the audio actually playing on your computer.

Depending on your budget and technical comfort, there are two ways to solve this:

The Free (but technical) Route: You can install a free virtual audio driver like BlackHole. It essentially creates a virtual bridge that routes the sound coming out of your Mac directly back into your screen recording software as an input. It takes a few minutes to configure in your “Audio MIDI Setup” app, but it works flawlessly once it’s going.
The Easy Route: If you don’t want to mess with routing system audio, the best solution is to use a third-party screen recorder. Powerful free tools like OBS Studio, or premium apps like Screen Studio and Loopback, are built to bypass this limitation and capture your internal system audio seamlessly with the click of a button.

Loom

Loom, a free screen recorder extension for Chrome, offers up to 4K video recording quality and the ability to trim and stitch recordings. It’s ideal for simultaneous audio and voice recording.

Screen Studio

Screen Studio is a powerful screen recording app for Mac that’s perfect for capturing mouse movements, webcam footage, and basic editing. In my opinion Screen Studio is the best screen recording app on Mac. It has a user-friendly interface that lets you easily record specific windows, areas, or devices like iPhones and iPads. The built-in editor allows you to customize the background, cursor, and camera settings, as well as add captions and animations.

Watch "Screen Studio Review - Best Screen Recorder for Mac?" on YouTube

Screen Studio automatically zooms in on areas you interact with, providing a smooth and focused recording experience. It will even capture keyboard presses and mouse clicks as you do them in your recording. Its timeline editor makes it simple to trim, split, and adjust the speed of your clips. Overall, Screen Studio is an excellent choice for anyone needing to create professional-looking screen recordings on their Mac.

OBS

OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is a versatile screen recording tool that is highly popular among content creators for Mac. It offers a wide range of features, including the ability to capture multiple sources such as screen, webcam, and audio inputs simultaneously. OBS provides customizable settings for recording quality, frame rates, and audio configurations, allowing users to fine-tune their recording setup according to their specific needs.

OBS also supports live streaming, making it a great choice for those who want to broadcast their screen recordings in real-time (this is the primary use case of OBS). With its user-friendly interface and robust functionality, OBS is a top choice for Mac users looking to create professional-quality screen recordings.

FAQs on How to Screen Record on Mac with Audio

Can QuickTime record screen and audio?

Yes. Select your preferred microphone in QuickTime before recording to include audio from any microphone on your Mac including AirPods.

How do I make a video of my computer screen?

Use QuickTime, the Screenshot toolbar, or a third-party app like the one mentioned above. There are many great options to record your Mac screen. The shortcut on MacOS to start screen recording on Mac is “Command + Shift + 5“.

Where do screen recordings go on Mac?

Recordings save to your desktop with the Screenshot toolbar. With the options button you can also select where the recording is saved. With QuickTime or other software, choose where to save when exporting or sharing.

Is It Possible to Record Both Audio and Video on a Mac?

Yes, you can record both audio and video on a Mac. There are several methods available, including using the built-in Screenshot toolbar or other screen recording software. Your choice will depend on the recording quality you’re aiming for.

Conclusion

Screencasting with audio on your Mac is a game-changer for content creators. The built-in QuickTime Player makes it easy to record your screen plus audio. But third-party apps unlock even more powerful features if you need them. Follow this guide to start capturing slick video tutorials, presentations, and other content that sounds as good as it looks.

With just a few clicks, you can take your creativity to the next level and share your knowledge with the world! Don’t just show – tell. Add pro-quality audio and watch your audience light up.

How do I screen record on Mac with audio using Command + Shift + 5?

Use the Screenshot toolbar built into macOS. Press Command + Shift + 5, choose Record Entire Screen or Record Selected Portion, open Options, and pick your microphone. Then click Record to start your Mac screen recording with sound.

To stop, press Command + Control + Escape or click the stop button in the top menu bar. Most recordings save as a .MOV file, and they usually go to your desktop unless you choose another folder.

For the best result, test your mic first and close apps that may show pop-up alerts. This method is great for quick demos, lessons, and simple how-to videos.

Why is my Mac screen recording not picking up internal audio?

Built-in Mac tools do not record system sound by default. QuickTime and the Screenshot toolbar can record your microphone, but they usually will not capture audio playing from your Mac. That is why a clip can show video but miss sound from Zoom, YouTube, or another app.

If you want internal audio, you can set up a free virtual audio driver like BlackHole. You can also use a third-party app like OBS Studio or Screen Studio, which makes this job much easier.

If you only need your own voice, select the right mic in Options before you start. If you need both voice and computer sound, record a short test clip first so you do not lose a full take.

Where do screen recordings save on Mac, and can I change that?

Screen recordings usually save to the desktop on Mac. If you use the Screenshot toolbar, open Options before recording to choose a different folder. In QuickTime, you pick the save location after the recording opens and you use File > Save.

Changing the save folder helps keep tutorials, client work, and school projects easy to find. Many people make one folder just for screen recordings so files do not get lost.

It also helps to rename the file right away with the topic and date. That small step makes editing, uploading, and sharing much faster later.

Which screen recorder is best for Mac if I need audio too?

QuickTime is best for simple recording, and OBS or Screen Studio are better for advanced needs. QuickTime works well for fast screen captures with microphone audio. OBS and Screen Studio are better if you want internal audio, webcam layouts, or more editing control.

QuickTime is easy because it comes with your Mac and takes only a minute to learn. OBS is a powerful free option for multiple sources, custom audio settings, and live streaming. Screen Studio is great if you want smooth zooms, cursor effects, and a polished final video.

If you are making a basic tutorial, start with QuickTime. If you need more control or want a more professional look, OBS or Screen Studio will usually save time.

How can RightBlogger help me turn a screen recording into a blog post?

RightBlogger can help you turn a screen recording into a clear tutorial faster. After you record your steps, you can use the AI Article Writer to draft a how-to post from your outline, notes, or transcript. This is useful when you want both a video and a written guide.

If you want the post to sound like you, MyTone can match your normal writing style. That keeps your tutorial clear and consistent, even when you are working fast.

Before you publish, run an SEO Report on your draft to spot weak headings, missing keywords, or thin sections. A simple workflow is to record the demo, list the steps, turn common problems into FAQs, and then optimize the post for search.