JSystems

How to record your screen with your voice on Windows

By JSystems2 min read

Short answer

In Simple Recorder, pick your microphone in the studio, press Test to check the level meter, and turn Sound on in the recorder bar before you press Record. If the take is silent, allow desktop apps to use the microphone in Windows Settings under Privacy & security, Microphone.

A screen recording with someone talking over it explains things that text cannot. Here is how to record your screen and your voice together, and what to check when the video comes out silent.

Record your screen and microphone with Simple Recorder

  1. Open Simple Recorder.
  2. In the studio, choose your microphone from the list. If you have a headset, pick it here rather than the laptop's built-in mic.
  3. Press Test and say a few words. The level meter should move. If it does not, see the fixes below.
  4. Click Start Recorder Bar, and make sure Sound is on in the bar.
  5. Press Record and talk as you work. Press Stop when you are done.

The take is saved as an MP4 with your voice in it, in Videos\Simple recorder.

What Simple Recorder records

Simple Recorder records your microphone. It does not record your computer's sound, such as a video, game, or call playing in the background. If you need that, Snipping Tool on Windows 11, Xbox Game Bar, and OBS Studio can record computer sound.

For most walkthroughs, bug reports, and tutorials, microphone only is what you want: your voice, without notification sounds.

If the recording has no sound

Check these in order:

  1. Sound was on in the bar. The Sound button on the recorder bar has to be on before you press Record.
  2. The right microphone is picked. Press Test in the studio and watch the meter.
  3. Windows allows desktop apps to use the mic. Open Windows Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone. Turn on Microphone access and Let desktop apps access your microphone.
  4. The mic is not muted. Many headsets have a mute switch or button on the cable or earcup.
  5. Another app has the mic. Some call apps take exclusive control of a headset. Close them and test again.

Tips for clear voice

  • Use a headset or a USB mic if you have one. Laptop mics pick up keyboard noise and fans.
  • Stay close to the mic and keep the same distance the whole time.
  • Use the start delay so you are not talking over the first click.
  • Pause, do not restart. If you lose your place, press Pause, collect your thoughts, and resume.

Common questions

How do I record my screen with audio on Windows 10?

Use a free recorder that supports a microphone, such as Simple Recorder. Pick your mic, turn Sound on in the recorder bar, and press Record. Xbox Game Bar can also record one app with sound.

Why does my screen recording have no sound?

Usually the microphone is blocked in Windows Settings under Privacy & security, Microphone, or sound was off when the take started. Check that Let desktop apps access your microphone is on and test the mic first.

Can Simple Recorder record system audio?

No. It records your microphone only.

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