How to Capture Video Screen on OBS？
Have you ever questioned yourself about how the streamers and content creators capture the screen on obs so smoothly? Most likely, they use OBS. It is a free, powerful tool that allows you to record anything on your screen, including games, presentations, tutorials, etc., and transform it into a video that can be shared, edited, or streamed online.
Part 1: How Many Ways Can You Capture Your Screen on OBS?
You can record your screen in three different ways, each designed for specific recording needs: Display Capture, Window Capture, and Game Capture
A quick comparison to help you decide:
| Capture Type | Recorded Content | Performance Impact | Applicable Scenarios | Risk of Black Screen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display Capture | Full screen, including taskbar | Moderate to high, especially on older machines | Multi-window tutorials, desktop recordings, and presentations | Low, but it can happen with some graphics drivers |
| Window Capture | Only the selected window | Efficient | Single-app tutorials, software demos, browser recordings | Risk if the window loses focus or the app is incompatible |
| Game Capture | Only the game | Minimal | Gameplay streams, game tutorials | Higher with some games, especially those with anti-cheat software |
In general, Game Capture is the go-to for games, Window Capture for individual applications, and Display Capture when you need to show several things at once. Choosing the most efficient method for your needs just makes sense.
Part 2: How to Capture Video Screen on OBS(3 Methods)
Method 1: Display Capture (Record Entire Screen)
- Download and Install OBS
Go to obsproject.com and download the latest version for your operating system. The installation is simple—follow the prompts.
- Create a Scene
In the bottom-left corner, click the plus (+) button in the Scenes box to make a new scene. Name it something like “Desktop Recording.”
- Add Display Capture Source
Click the plus (+) button in the Sources box. Select Display Capture. Name your source and click OK.
- Adjust Settings
Choose which monitor to record if you have multiple monitors. Click OK to confirm.
- Preview and Resize
The OBS preview window shows your screen. Drag the red border to adjust the capture area. Hold Shift to freely resize without locking the proportions.
- Choose Recording Location
Click Settings → Output → Recording section.
- Start Recording
Click Start Recording. When finished, click Stop Recording. Your video will be saved to the folder you selected.
Method 2: Window Capture (Record a Specific Program)
- Download and Install OBS (Same as Method 1)
- Create a Scene
Click the plus (+) in the Scenes box and name it “Program Recording.”
- Add Window Capture Source
In the Sources box, click the plus (+) button. Select Window Capture. Name your source and click OK.
- Adjust Settings
Select the program you want to record from the dropdown menu (make sure the program is open). Click OK to confirm.
- Preview and Resize
Use the preview window to adjust the capture area as needed.
- Choose Recording Location and Start Recording (Same as Method 1)
Method 3: Game Capture (Record Games Directly)
- Download and Install OBS (Same as Method 1)
- Create a Scene
Click the plus (+) in Scenes and name it “Game Recording.”
- Add Game Capture Source
In the Sources box, click the plus (+) button. Select Game Capture. Name your source and click OK.
- Adjust Settings
Choose either Capture a specific window and select your game, or Capture any full-screen application for auto-detection. For some games, running OBS as an administrator may be required.
- Preview and Resize
Use the preview window to adjust the game capture area.
- Choose Recording Location and Start Recording (Same as Method 1)
That’s it! Setting up OBS takes a few minutes, but after that, recording is just a couple of clicks away.
Recommended Video Output Settings:
| Equipment Type | Resolution | FPS | Bitrate | Encoder | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low-end Laptop | 1280x720 | 30 FPS | 2500–3500 kbps | x264 (CPU) | Basic tutorials, browser demos, and light video screen capture |
| Mid-range Desktop Computer | 1920x1080 | 30–60 FPS | 4500–6000 kbps | Hardware NVENC or AMD | Software demos, online courses, and standard gameplay |
| High-end Equipment | 1920x1080 or 2560x1440 | 60 FPS | 6000–9000 kbps | NVENC (New) or AV1 | Professional recording, smooth gameplay, high-quality screen capture |
Part 3: Tips for Capturing Better Screens Using OBSBOT Tiny 2
When you are making tutorials or content where you are on camera with your screen capture, having a good webcam makes a big difference. The OBSBOT Tiny 2 is especially clever, as it introduces AI capabilities that simplify your life.
Key Features
- 4K Face Video for Screen Capture — The Tiny 2 shoots in 4K, so your face cam appears professional and crisp, even when displaying detailed screen content. Its image quality is much better than standard webcams, especially in sub-optimal lighting.
- Auto-Tracking Reduces Manual Framing — If you gesture during your recording or move around in your chair, the camera adjusts automatically.
- Good Low-Light Performance — The Tiny 2 keeps your face visible and clear even in dimly lit rooms, so your screen recording in OBS looks professional without needing extra lights. This ensures viewers can focus on both you and your screen content, even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
For screen capture content, having a reliable face cam like the OBSBOT Tiny 2 that doesn’t need babysitting allows you to concentrate on the recording process itself. You set it up, and it handles the rest.
Part 4: FAQs about How to Capture Video Screen on OBS
Q1: Is OBS Good for Video Capture?
Absolutely. OBS is one of the best screen capture software and most importantly, it is free. It gives you the same features as a professional-level tool and does not put any watermarks. It has the best quality and is usable on a daily basis.
Q2: What Are the Disadvantages of OBS?
Its main con is the complex settings for beginners. It lacks built-in editing, so extra software may be needed. Occasional black screens can occur, usually due to graphics drivers or capture settings.
Q3: Is OBS Easy for Beginners?
OBS may seem overwhelming at first, but starting with simple recordings or basic scenes is straightforward. Users can gradually learn advanced features over time.
Q4: Is Anything Better than OBS?
It depends on your needs. Among free options, Streamlabs Desktop offers a more modern interface. Paid software like Camtasia or XSplit may be easier for editing or streaming, but OBS remains highly flexible and competitive feature-wise.
Q5: How Can I Improve Video Quality When Recording with OBS?
You can improve video quality in OBS by adjusting resolution, frame rate, bitrate, and lighting conditions. Using a high-quality webcam also makes a big difference. Like the OBSBOT Tiny 2 offer 4K resolution, auto-framing, and intelligent tracking, helping you achieve clearer and more professional-looking recordings without complicated manual adjustments.
Q6: What Is OBS Mainly Used for?
OBS was originally intended to be used for live streaming on platforms such as Twitch and YouTube, but it is also used to record locally. It is a good option for gamers, educators, businesses, and tech reviewers to record gameplay, tutorials, product demonstrations, and software reviews.
Conclusion
How to capture video screen on OBS is really simple — just choose Display Capture, Window Capture, or Game Capture depending on your content. If you want to improve video quality, consider using a camera like the OBSBOT Tiny 2 to keep your face clear during tutorials. Once everything is set up, whether you’re making lessons, presentations, or game recordings, you can easily create smooth and clear videos.
