Hello dear players,
Sometimes you might notice something interesting going on, but can’t record a video because you don’t have any software installed, or starting it takes time.
This guide is directed to show fast ways to activate video recording.
There are several built-in functions in windows that will allow you to act fast and get important situations recorded:
1. Xbox Game Bar
Available on Windows 10 and Windows 11.
How to use:
- Win + Alt + R → start/stop recording immediately. When activated, you will see a small toolbar appear on the screen:
- Win + G → opens the Game Bar overlay
The program is pre-installed and you do not need to download it.
2. Snipping tool on Windows 11 – quick area recording
How to activate:
Use the Print Screen (PrtScn) button on your keyboard to activate the app
-> select video
-> drag to select the recording area
-> start recording
ATTENTION! In case of Aion, first press Win key, so that you switch from Aion window, and only then hit PrtScn. Otherwise you will just take a screenshot in Aion.
This process is a bit longer, but still allows you to record without opening another application. Snipping tool is a light built in application and starts very fast.
3. Enable background recording in Xbox Gamebar (windows 10/11)
Works as a dashcam constantly recording short videos. After activating a hotkey, saves the last recorded file.
- Open Settings
- Go to Gaming
- Select Captures
- Turn on “Record what happened”
You can also choose:
Recording length (15 sec – 10 min)
Video quality
Frame rate
While the function is enabled, you can use Win + Alt + G AFTER something interesting happened in game to save the moment.
If none of the listed options are available for you, there are other ways. The next list will present installable programs that might still satisfy your needs:
4. NVidia Overlay (NVidia graphic cards)
NVIDIA Overlay is a hardware-accelerated screen recording and streaming feature integrated into the NVIDIA App.
Activate overlay in the settings of your NVIDIA App to be able to access the features. Press ALT + Z to open the overlay while in game.
Requires installation. https://www.nvidia.com/en-eu/software/nvidia-app/
5. OBS Studio
This program is free and often used by streamers. Using OBS Studio, you can configure a global hotkey.
Example:
Ctrl + Shift + F12 for immediate recording
Requires installation. https://obsproject.com/