9 Ways to Record Live Streaming Video
Knowing how to record streaming video can be a great asset in many situations. Whether you're a content creator or just someone who desires to save a moment for posterity, saving streaming video is an ideal solution to accomplish it.
This guide aims to simplify the process of recording live-streaming video from any website. From diverse recording methods and user-friendly screen recording software to legal considerations, we'll explore practical solutions for capturing and preserving your favorite live content.
Ways to record live-streaming video
The most popular method is using a screen recorder. This option works great for capturing a live stream, as you can easily pick up where you left off if the broadcast is interrupted.
Also, some streaming services have built-in recording features that allow you to record the stream in real time. This feature is especially useful if you're recording something for later viewing or archiving purposes.
The last way is to use a video downloader. These programs allow you to download videos from streaming websites such as YouTube and Vimeo. You can then save the downloaded video file and watch it whenever you want.
In this article we will dive into the first method and provide you with top 9 programs that can capture video streams.
How we picked the screen recorders
To create this guide, we conducted thorough research on various applications and tools that allow users to record live streaming videos. We looked at different features, and overall performance of each program to determine which ones are the most reliable, and easy-to-use.
By considering all factors, we aimed to provide a comprehensive tutorial that empowers users to choose the most suitable method for recording a streaming video from any website, ensuring a positive experience.
Icecream Screen Recorder
Recording live streaming video from your favorite websites has never been easier, thanks to the user-friendly Icecream Screen Recorder. It is a versatile software designed for shooting activities on your computer screen.
Follow the instructions below to be able to capture live streaming video in just a couple of steps.
- Download the screen recorder on your Windows PC and complete the installation process. Launch the program to proceed to the subsequent steps.
- Adjust the settings for recording streaming videos:
- Navigate to the "Settings" panel and access the "Audio" tab. Ensure that "Record audio" is enabled while unchecking the "Record microphone" option.
- To prevent the mouse cursor from appearing in the video, disable the "Record mouse movements" option within the "Video" tab. This section also allows you to select the desired output format (MP4, AVI, MOV, and WebM) and set the video quality.
- Click the "Capture video" button to choose the recording mode from the provided list.
- Initiate the capture of live streaming video by pressing either the "Rec" button or the F7 hotkey.
- If there are any commercials or breaks, you can temporarily stop the recording using the "Pause" button. Then you can continue capturing using the "Resume" button (or simply utilize the F7 hotkey).
- Conclude the recording session by hitting the "Stop" button or employing the F8 hotkey, saving the video for future use.
Pros:
- User-Friendly Interface. The screen recording software features an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible for users with varying levels of technical expertise.
- Flexible Recording Options. Users can screen capture the entire desktop or select specific areas, providing versatility for various use cases such as tutorials, gameplay, or live streaming video.
- Audio Capture. The free screen recorder allows for the recording of system sound, ensuring the preservation of audio from live streaming videos. Users can also include microphone input for voiceovers.
- Basic Editing Tools. While not a full-fledged video editor, the application provides basic editing features, enabling users to trim recordings and add annotations.
- Snapshot Functionality. Users can take screenshots during the recording process, providing a convenient way to capture still images.
Cons:
No Live Streaming Feature. Primarily focuses on recording content on the screen but does not include features for live streaming directly from the application.
Overall, Icecream Screen Recorder stands out as a reliable and accessible screen capture program for those seeking a straightforward solution to record live streaming video, as well as other desktop activities, with ease and efficiency.
OBS Studio
OBS is a free and open-source software that allows users to save streaming video. It is an ideal tool for creating professional-looking videos. The program has a live streaming functionality that makes it easy to start sharing the content.
This guide will help you get started:
- Download and install the programs' latest version from the website.
- Open the program and select "Settings" from the toolbar.
- Create a new scene by clicking the "+" under the "Scenes" box, then add a source. Opt for either "Display Capture" or "Window Capture".
- Fine-tune frame rate, resolution, and output format in the "Settings" tab.
- Initiate the capturing process by hitting the "Start Recording" button.
- Click "Stop Recording" to store your video file on your computer.
Pros:
- Smooth Recording. Excels at both recording and live streaming, offering a comprehensive solution for content creators.
- Layered Video Sources. Allows the placement of video sources on different layers, enabling more sophisticated and visually appealing compositions.
- Compatibility with Streaming Services. The screen recording software seamlessly integrates with various online streaming services.
Cons:
- Dependency on Plugins. Some advanced tasks may require the use of plugins, adding an extra layer of complexity for users seeking additional functionalities beyond the standard features.
- Limitations on Video Stream Duplication. Users cannot add the same video stream to multiple scenes simultaneously using standard tools, requiring workarounds for this functionality.
Whether you are creating tutorial videos, or recording live streams, OBS Studio's commitment to being open-source, and continually evolving makes it a compelling choice for those in need of a powerful and customizable solution.
VLC
VLC is a free, open-source media player and streaming video recorder. It's a decent choice for recording streaming videos from sources like YouTube, DailyMotion, and Twitch. Capturing video via this player is a simple and effective way to save online videos for later viewing.
This is the procedure:
- Download the app from the official website.
- Open the player and click the "Media" menu.
- Choose "Open Network Stream" option and type in the URL of the streaming video that you intend to record. Click the "Play" button.
- Go to "Playback" and press the red button to begin the capture.
- Tap "Stop" to finish the recording.
Pros:
- Video Streaming Capability. Users can create or connect to video streams, expanding the application's utility.
- Keyboard Shortcut Control. Supports keyboard shortcuts, allowing users to control the application efficiently.
- No Codec Installation Required. Reduces the need for additional codec installations, ensuring seamless playback of music and video files.
Cons:
- Non-Customizable Interface. Users cannot customize the program's interface, limiting personalization options for those who prefer a tailored visual experience.
- Direct File Opening Requirement. To play files, users must open them directly from their respective folders, which may be less convenient for those accustomed to media libraries.
In conclusion, VLC stands out as a versatile and powerful media player with a plethora recording features that cater to both casual users and content enthusiasts.
Video Candy
Video Candy offers a free online screen recorder that allows users to record activities on their computer screens in real time. Users can select various capture options, including recording the entire screen, or a specific application window.
Here's how to get started:
- Open the free online screen recorder in your pre-installed browser.
- Adjust the recording settings like enabling audio and webcam.
- Select the recording area: web page, app window, or the whole screen. Check the box if you want to share browser or screen sounds.
- Press "Share" to start taking a video.
- Once the stream is finished, click the "Stop Recording" button.
Pros:
- No Additional Screen Recording Software Required. Being an online screen recorder, it eliminates the need for users to install additional software, providing a hassle-free recording process.
- Intuitive Interface. The service features an intuitive and user-friendly interface, catering to users of all experience levels.
Cons:
- Internet Dependency. The service relies on a stable internet connection. Users in areas with limited or unreliable internet access may face challenges in using the tool seamlessly.
Video Candy is a good choice for those seeking an uncomplicated and efficient web-based screen recording solution. Its user-friendly design and flexibility in capture options make it a valuable asset for recording a streaming video.
Movavi Screen Recorder
Movavi Screen Recorder is a versatile tool for capturing streaming video. It facilitates the recording of HD video from websites, screencasting Skype calls, webinars, lectures, and more.
Here's how to make a stream record:
- Obtain and set up the program.
- Open it and click "Screen recording".
- Choose the area on the screen you wish to record.
- Select the audio source you are aiming to capture - system sound or microphone. Adjust the volume level suitably.
- Click "REC" to begin recording the live stream.
- When you're done, hit "Stop" and save your recording in the preferred format and destination folder.
Pros:
- Audio-Only Recording Option. The program provides the possibility to create an audio-only version of recordings.
- Versatility for Various User Levels. The screen recording software strikes a balance between simplicity and advanced functionality, making it suitable for users seeking an easy-to-use tool with extra features.
Cons:
- High Cost. While the screen recorder offers a range of features, it's quite expensive.
- Prone to Crashing. This may result in interruptions during recording sessions, potentially leading to the loss of unsaved work and affecting user experience.
In conclusion, Movavi Screen Recorder is a powerful and versatile app, suitable for capturing, editing, and enhancing videos. While users report some bugs, the utility's wide range of features makes it a good choice for content creators and educators.
Aiseesoft Screen Recorder
Operating Aiseesoft Recorder is a breeze and has lots of features, such as capturing activities in full HD, and adding annotations while video recording.
Look how to record streaming videos:
- Download and launch the application. Then click the "Video Recorder" option.
- Adjust the recording area by dragging the edges or selecting a predefined area.
- Customize settings such as video format, quality, frame rate, and hotkeys according to your preferences.
- Press the "REC" button to start recording.
- Once you've captured the desired content, click the stop button on the floating toolbar.
Pros:
- High Frame Rate Recording. The screen recording software supports video recording up to 60 frames per second (FPS), ensuring smooth and high-quality playback.
- YouTube Video Recording. It allows users to record videos directly from YouTube.
Cons:
- Limited Output Formats. The software supports only MP4 and WMV as output formats, potentially restricting compatibility with certain devices or platforms.
- Free Plan Limitations. The free plan permits recordings of up to 3 minutes without editing capabilities, which may be insufficient for users with longer recording needs.
In conclusion, Aiseesoft Screen Recorder stands as a competent and user-friendly tool for capturing desktop and webcam activities. With features such as scheduled recordings, and the ability to record YouTube videos, it caters to a variety of recording needs.
Bandicam
Bandicam is a popular recording software that supports capturing a live streamed video. It offers straightforward usage and gives a high-quality recording of both video and audio. You can add voice narration while recording, that is perfect for creating tutorials or instructional videos.
Follow these steps to commence recording your streaming video:
- Download and install the app on your PC from the official website.
- Launch the software and select the target area you want to record.
- Tap the gear icon to access the configuration options.
- Click on the "Record" button (red circle) to start recording.
- Press the "Stop" button (square) to end the recording.
Pros:
- Device Recording Support. The possibility to record from diverse devices such as XBOX, PlayStation, webcam, and IPTV in high quality expands the tool's utility for different purposes.
- 4K Ultra HD Recording. Users have the capability to record videos in 4K resolution, ensuring high-quality visuals for a more immersive viewing experience.
- Hardware Acceleration. Being a hardware-accelerated game recording tool, it likely provides efficient and optimized performance, reducing the burden on the system resources.
Cons:
- Modes Limitations. The restriction on recording the PC screen in the game mode may inconvenience users.
- Limited Compatibility. The stream capturer is exclusively available for Windows, limiting its accessibility for users of other operating systems such as Linux and Mac.
- Performance Impact. The screen recording software may experience a considerable decrease in FPS when used on low-spec PCs or laptops.
In summary, Bandicam is a comprehensive screen recorder with advanced features tailored for Windows users. The software offers a range of features to facilitate the capturing of various content, including gameplay, screen activities, and external device inputs.
ScreenRec
ScreenRec is an inventive tool for recording and transmitting video. It features a range of advanced capabilities for capturing and sharing your screen. You can easily record any streaming video from the web, or your desktop activity in real-time.
Here's how to do it:
- Download and install the software.
- Open it and click the gear icon or "Settings" to configure your recording preferences.
- Determine the area you want to capture by choosing "Full Screen" or "Select Area".
- Once everything is set up, click "Start Recording" and begin playing your streaming video.
- Hit "Stop Recording" to end the session.
Pros:
- Hotkey Functionality. Capture screenshots and videos swiftly using a single hotkey, streamlining the recording experience.
- Instant Sharing. Share your screencasts and video recordings quickly through a private link, facilitating seamless sharing with others.
Cons:
- Limited Recording Time. Users are initially restricted to recording up to only 5 minutes. To remove this limitation, creating a paid account is necessary.
- Lack of Video Editing Features. The screen recorder does not come with video editing features.
ScreenRec also supports multiple output formats, so you can convert your recordings to the format of your choice. Whether you're creating a tutorial video, recording a live stream, or just capturing something off the web, it is an ideal solution.
Clipchamp
Clipchamp is a free online video recording and editing tool. It facilitates capturing of their screen, webcam, or a combination of both. It also offers features such as trimming, merging, cropping, and adding music to a video.
Here's how you can capture streaming video:
- Navigate to the stream capturer website.
- Click "Record and Create".
- Select the method you want to use to record your video: either from your webcam, screen, or both.
- Press the red button and then decide what area to share.
- Hit "Stop Recording" when you want to finish capturing your stream.
Pros:
- No Downloads Required. Users can start recording without the need to download or install any additional applications.
Cons:
- Watermark on Videos. All videos made with this service carry a watermark, which might be undesirable for users seeking a professional and watermark-free final product.
- Export Time Consumption. The process of exporting videos may be time-consuming, which could be a drawback for users with tight deadlines.
Overall, Clipchamp is an excellent choice for recording streaming video thanks to its ease of use, quality output, and customer support. However, users should be mindful of potential downsides such as occasional slowness, and watermarks.
The demand for video game streaming is experiencing a swift rise among consumers, making it a thriving industry with an annual valuation of $9.3 billion.
Is it illegal to record streaming video?
The answer is both yes and no. Generally speaking, it is permissible to acquire streaming video for personal use. This includes downloading or saving a stream, recording it with a video capture device, or even screen recording software.
However, the legality of recording streaming video will vary depending on where you live and what the laws of your country are.
If you want to use the recorded content for commercial purposes, like broadcasting or selling it, then this is usually prohibited by copyright law and may be punishable by fines or even jail time.
Finally, you should also be aware that some websites and streaming services have terms of service agreements that prohibit any form of recording or downloading of their content. If you violate these terms, you risk having your account suspended or terminated.
So make sure to read any terms carefully before recording a stream.
FAQ
- Can I record live streams from any website?
- Most websites allow users to record streams for personal use. However, some platforms may have restrictions, so it's essential to review their terms and conditions.
- What format is the most suitable for recording streaming video?
- The best format for storing streaming video is MP4, as it offers good quality and smaller file size than other formats. You can also choose an AVI or WMV format if you need higher resolution or compatibility with certain players.
- Is it possible to record live streaming video in HD quality?
- The recording quality depends on the capabilities of the chosen tool. Some software supports HD recording, so be sure to check the settings before capturing.
- Can streaming platforms detect screen recording?
- Yes, some streaming platforms have technologies to detect and prevent recording live streams.
- What should I do if the streaming platform prohibits recording?
- Respect the terms of service of the website or platform. If recording is prohibited, seek alternative ways to access the content legally, or contact the platform for permission.
- How can you bypass DRM (Digital Rights Management)?
- Bypassing DRM is illegal and violates the terms of service of most streaming platforms.
- Can I capture a video stream for educational purposes?
- Educational use might fall under fair use in some jurisdictions, but it's often still restricted without explicit permission.
- How to reduce the file size of screen recordings?
- Lower the resolution and frame rate, use efficient video codecs like H.264, and trim unnecessary footage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, capturing streaming video is an excellent approach for safeguarding content for further viewing. It may sound daunting at first, but with the right software and equipment, the process can be accomplished quickly and easily.
Remember that it's important to have a fast internet connection, and ensure that you have the correct permissions before sharing your recordings. By following these steps, you will be able to capture high-quality recordings from streaming video effortlessly.
Editor-in-Chief at Icecream Apps
