How to Screen Record on Mac (Built-In, With or Without Audio)

To screen record on a Mac, press Shift + Command + 5 to open the capture toolbar, click a Record option, then click Record. Recordings save to the desktop as MOV files by default. No extra software is needed. Just need a still image? See how to screenshot on Mac.

Method 1: The Screenshot toolbar (simplest)

1. Press Shift + Command + 5.
2. Choose Record Entire Screen or Record Selected Portion.
3. Click Options to pick a microphone (Built-in Microphone = record your voice; None = no audio).
4. Click Record.
5. Click the Stop icon in the menu bar (or press Cmd + Control + Esc) when finished.

Method 2: QuickTime Player (more control)

1. Open QuickTime Player (in Applications).
2. File → New Screen Recording.
3. Choose record area, audio source, and click Record.
4. Stop via the menu bar icon, then File → Save.

Recording system audio (internal sound)

macOS can’t capture internal audio natively without a helper:

• BlackHole (free) — route audio so QuickTime records system sound.
• Loopback (paid) — easier setup, more features.

Most people only need microphone audio, which the built-in tools handle.

FAQ

Does Mac have a built-in screen recorder?

Yes. The Screenshot toolbar (Shift + Cmd + 5) and QuickTime Player both record your screen for free. On iPhone, see how to screen record on iPhone.

Where do Mac screen recordings save?

To the Desktop as MOV files by default. Change the location in the toolbar’s Options menu.

Can I record my screen and voice at the same time on Mac?

Yes — in the toolbar’s Options, select “Built-in Microphone” (or an external mic) before recording.

How do I record system sound on Mac?

Use a free audio router like BlackHole to capture internal audio, since macOS doesn’t include this by default.