If you’re using a Dell with Windows 10 and need to screen record, you’re in luck. You can quickly capture your screen using built-in features or a free tool like OBS Studio. Let’s dive into how you can do it, step-by-step, to make sure you get everything just right.
How to Screen Record on Dell Windows 10
We’ll go over two easy ways to screen record on your Dell Windows 10: using the built-in Xbox Game Bar and using a free tool called OBS Studio. Regardless of your tech skills, you’ll be recording in no time with these methods.
Step 1: Open the Xbox Game Bar
Press Win + G
on your keyboard to open the Xbox Game Bar.
When you press Win + G
, a small overlay menu will appear on your screen. This menu is part of the Xbox Game Bar, a built-in feature in Windows 10 that lets you capture and record your screen.
Step 2: Start Screen Recording
Click on the "Capture" button, then click the red "Record" button to start recording.
The Capture widget will have several icons, including a camera for screenshots and a circle for recording. Clicking the red circle starts the recording. Make sure your screen shows whatever you want to record before hitting record.
Step 3: Stop Screen Recording
Click the "Stop" button when you’re done recording.
Once you’re finished capturing your screen, click the blue square to stop the recording. This button is located in the same Capture widget. Your recording will automatically save to your VideosCaptures folder.
Step 4: Download and Install OBS Studio (if you prefer another tool)
Go to the OBS Studio website, download the installer, and follow the setup instructions.
If you want more control over your screen recordings, OBS Studio is a great option. Download it from the OBS website and follow the installation prompts to get set up.
Step 5: Configure OBS Studio
Open OBS Studio, add a new "Display Capture" source, and configure your settings.
Once OBS Studio is installed, open it and click the "+" button under "Sources" to add a new "Display Capture." This lets OBS know you want to record your screen. Set any additional preferences like resolution and frame rate.
Step 6: Start Recording in OBS Studio
Click "Start Recording" in OBS Studio to begin capturing your screen.
After configuring your settings, click "Start Recording" at the bottom right corner of OBS Studio. Make sure your screen is ready to be recorded before you start.
Step 7: Stop Recording in OBS Studio
Click "Stop Recording" when you’re finished.
Once you’re done, click "Stop Recording" in the same location where you started it. OBS will save your recording to the folder you specified in the settings.
After completing these steps, you’ll have a video file saved on your Dell computer. You can edit it, share it, or review it as needed.
Tips for Screen Recording on Dell Windows 10
- Make sure your system audio is properly configured if you want to capture sound.
- Close any unnecessary programs to avoid lag or recording unwanted elements.
- Use a second monitor to keep your recording setup organized.
- Test record a short segment to ensure everything works before recording longer sessions.
- Keep an eye on your storage space; screen recordings can take up significant space.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I access my recordings?
Your Xbox Game Bar recordings are saved in the VideosCaptures folder, while OBS Studio saves to the folder specified in its settings.
Can I record my voice as well?
Yes, both Xbox Game Bar and OBS Studio allow you to capture your microphone audio.
Is OBS Studio free?
Yes, OBS Studio is open-source and completely free to use.
Can I edit my recordings within the Xbox Game Bar?
No, but you can use other free software like Windows Photos or more advanced editors like Adobe Premiere.
What if the Xbox Game Bar doesn’t open?
Ensure Game Bar is enabled in settings: Go to Settings > Gaming > Xbox Game Bar and toggle it on.
Summary
- Press
Win + G
to open Xbox Game Bar. - Click "Capture" and then the red "Record" button.
- Click the "Stop" button to finish recording.
- Download and install OBS Studio.
- Configure OBS Studio’s settings.
- Click "Start Recording" in OBS Studio.
- Click "Stop Recording" in OBS Studio.
Conclusion
Screen recording on a Dell Windows 10 is pretty straightforward once you know the steps. Whether you use the Xbox Game Bar for a quick capture or OBS Studio for more advanced features, you have the tools you need at your fingertips. The built-in Xbox Game Bar is great for quick tasks and light users, while OBS Studio offers robust options if you need more control.
Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you tinker with these tools, the more proficient you’ll become. Screen recording can be a powerful method to create tutorials, share gaming moments, or record online meetings. So, give it a try and see what works best for you. Happy recording!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.