Key points
- Press the top button on the Surface Pen to open the Windows Ink Workspace.
- If you have the OneDrive app installed on your Surface Pro, you can use it to automatically capture screenshots and screen recordings.
- Yes, in most screen recording software, you can disable the cursor recording option to hide it from the capture.
Whether you’re creating tutorials, sharing presentations, or capturing gameplay, knowing how to record your Surface Pro screen is an essential skill. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the various methods available, ensuring you find the perfect solution for your needs.
1. Using the Built-in Xbox Game Bar
The Xbox Game Bar is a versatile tool that allows you to record your screen, take screenshots, and even chat with friends while gaming. It’s pre-installed on all Surface Pro devices, making it the most convenient option.
To use the Xbox Game Bar:
1. Press the Windows key ++ G to open the Game Bar.
2. Click on the Capture button (a circle with a white dot inside).
3. Select the Start Recording button to begin capturing.
4. Click on the Stop Recording button to end the recording.
2. Using the Windows Snipping Tool
The Windows Snipping Tool is another handy tool that can be used to capture your Surface Pro screen. It offers various capture modes, including a full-screen capture option.
To use the Windows Snipping Tool:
1. Press the Windows key ++ S to open the Search bar.
2. Type “Snipping Tool” and select it from the results.
3. Click on the Mode drop-down menu and select Full Screen Snip.
4. Click on the New button to start the capture.
5. Click on the Save button to save the screenshot.
3. Using Third-Party Screen Recording Software
For more advanced recording features, you can opt for third-party screen recording software. Several options are available, each offering unique capabilities.
Some popular third-party screen recording software options include:
- OBS Studio
- Camtasia
- Screencast-O-Matic
4. Recording with the Surface Pen
If you have a Surface Pen, you can use it to capture screenshots and screen recordings. To do this:
1. Press the top button on the Surface Pen to open the Windows Ink Workspace.
2. Click on the Screen Sketch button (a pen icon with a circle around it).
3. Select the Start Recording button to begin capturing.
4. Click on the Stop Recording button to end the recording.
5. Using the Surface Dial
The Surface Dial is another useful tool that can be used to capture your Surface Pro screen. To do this:
1. Press the Surface Dial and rotate it clockwise until the Capture menu appears.
2. Select the Screenshot or Screen Recording option.
3. Click on the Start Recording button to begin capturing.
4. Click on the Stop Recording button to end the recording.
6. Using the Keyboard Shortcut
You can also use a keyboard shortcut to capture your Surface Pro screen. To do this:
1. Press the Windows key + PrtScn.
2. The screenshot will be saved to the Screenshots folder in your Pictures library.
7. Using the OneDrive App
If you have the OneDrive app installed on your Surface Pro, you can use it to automatically capture screenshots and screen recordings. To do this:
1. Open the OneDrive app.
2. Click on the Settings tab.
3. Under the Backup tab, enable the Automatically save screenshots to OneDrive option.
4. Enable the Automatically save screen recordings to OneDrive option.
Final Thoughts
With these methods at your disposal, you can effortlessly record your Surface Pro screen for various purposes. Whether you need to create tutorials, share presentations, or capture gameplay, you’ll find the perfect solution tailored to your specific requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I record my Surface Pro screen with audio?
A: Yes, most screen recording methods allow you to capture audio as well. Simply enable the audio recording option within the software or settings.
Q: Can I record my Surface Pro screen without showing the cursor?
A: Yes, in most screen recording software, you can disable the cursor recording option to hide it from the capture.
Q: Where are my screen recordings saved?
A: The default save location for screen recordings depends on the method you use. For the Xbox Game Bar, it’s the VideosCaptures folder. For the Windows Snipping Tool, it’s the PicturesScreenshots folder. Third-party software usually allows you to specify a custom save location.