How to Record Switch Gameplay for Free (No Time Limit!)

Learn how to record Switch gameplay step by step in this article. You can use the built-in recording feature to capture 30-second footage without a capture card, or use EaseUS RecExperts and a capture card for unlimited, high-quality recordings.

Learning how to record Switch gameplay is easier than you might think. Depending on your needs, you can either use the built-in capture button for short clips or a desktop solution for unlimited recordings. This guide will walk you through both methods step by step so you can choose the one that suits you best.

How to Record Nintendo Switch Gameplay More Than 30 Seconds

By combining a capture card with EaseUS RecExperts, you gain full control over recording settings - game sound, microphone input, overlays, and editing. It requires extra hardware and setup, but delivers the flexibility and quality needed for streaming or long-form videos when recording gameplay on PC.

🚩Here is how to record Nintendo Swicth gameplay for more than 30 seconds:

Part 1. Connect the Switch to PC with the Capture Card

Step 1. Place your Nintendo Switch in the Dock and get your capture card, two HDMI cables, and a computer ready.

Step 2. Plug one HDMI cable into the Dock's HDMI OUT port and the other end into the capture card's HDMI IN port.

Step 3. Use the second HDMI cable to connect the capture card's HDMI OUT port to your monitor or TV for real-time display.

Step 4. Use a USB cable to link the capture card to your computer. Most cards are plug-and-play and will be detected automatically.

📽️Here is a video tutorial for how to connect Nintendo Switch to monitor:

Part 2. Record Switch Gameplay on PC

Step 1. Launch the gameplay that you want to record. Next, open EaseUS RecExperts and click on the Game mode on the main interface.

Step 2. Then, choose a Game Window. Then, you can enable the audio and webcam recording if needed. When all are done, click the REC button to start the gameplay recording.

Step 3. A floating toolbar will pop up, allowing you to pause or stop the recording. Additionally, the camera icon lets you take a screenshot, and the timer icon enables you to set an automatic stop for the recording.

Step 4. After saving the recorded gameplay video, you can preview it. This tool provides a built-in feature to trim the recording, add a watermark (text/image), add video intro and outro, or transcribe with AI.

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How to Record Switch Gameplay Without Capture Card

This game recorder is free and convenient, but limited to short clips and select games. It's perfect if you just want to save memorable in-game moments, but not ideal for creating long YouTube videos or streaming content.

🚩How to Record on Nintendo Switch with Built-in Tool:

Step 1. Start your gameplay on Nintendo Switch.

Step 2. Press and hold down the Capture Button on the left Joy-Con. (The Capture Button is a square button located under the directional pad).

Step 3. Make a long press to start the recording. Once done, you can view the captured video in the Album.

📽️Here is a video tutorial about how to record Switch gameplay, and you can take a look:

Apart from recording videos, it also supports taking screenshots from the saved gameplay video.

🚩How to Screenshot on Switch:

• Back to the HOME Menu, tap "Album" > "All Screenshots and Videos".
• Choose a video to edit, and the video playback will begin. While playing, you can press "Y" to stop it.
• Tap "Editing and Posting" > "Save as Screenshot" to take a screencast.

✅Note: The built-in recorder only supports recording for up to 30 seconds. So, if you want to record your gameplay for more than 30 seconds, you need to download and try EaseUS RecExperts.

What are Capture Cards & Benefits of Recording Switch on PC

Recording Switch gameplay on PC with a capture card is a good idea for many reasons. This part will offer you more related information about this method so that you can get your own Switch gameplay video conveniently.

1. What is a capture card for Switch?

The capture card is a device that can be connected to a computer to record on-screen content. In addition to that, the capture card can help encode what is happening on the screen so that you can play it as a Live stream or save it as a video file. However, the capture card cannot encode the data itself, and it helps an important role in transmitting the data from one end to the other.

You can follow the guide on the following picture to set up and use a capture card.

2. What are the benefits of recording Switch on PC?

Recording Switch gameplay on PC using a captured card is a great choice for those following reasons:

• Good quality of the output video: EaseUS RecExperts can help you record videos in 1080P, 60fps.
• Unlimited recording time: A powerful screen recorder on PC enables you to capture gameplay without the 30-second restriction, while Nintendo only allows you to record the gameplay for 30 seconds.
• No limitation of the update version: Switch supports recording some games directly on the device, however, some of them rquries the latest version. But screen recorders on PC can record any game on Switch.

Essential Tips for Recording Nintendo Switch Gameplay Like a Pro

1. Ensure a Smooth Recording Setup

✅Use the Right Capture Card: The quality of your capture card directly impacts the recording experience. Choose a reliable capture card, such as the Elgato HD60 S or AVerMedia Live Gamer, that supports 1080p/60fps recording for smooth gameplay capture.

✅Set Up Proper HDMI Connections: Ensure your Nintendo Switch is properly connected to the capture card via HDMI, and then link the capture card to your PC. Always use high-quality HDMI cables to avoid connection issues or signal drops.

2. Optimize Your Switch Settings

✅Switch to TV Mode: If you're using a capture card, ensure you use the "TV Mode" on your Switch, as it enables the device to send a signal to your capture card. This ensures you can record your gameplay without interruptions.

✅Adjust Display Settings: Depending on your capture card's capabilities, you can adjust the resolution of the Switch’s output. If you’re aiming for the highest quality, set the resolution to 1080p or 4K.

3. Select the Right Resolution and Frame Rate

✅Choose 1080p or 4K for Maximum Quality: If you want the best possible recording, set your capture card and Switch to 1080p or 4K resolution. This ensures your gameplay looks crisp and clear during playback.

✅Set Frame Rate to 60fps: For smooth, fluid gameplay capture, set the frame rate to 60 frames per second. A higher frame rate provides better visuals, particularly for fast-paced games where precision matters.

By following these essential tips, you can significantly enhance the quality of your Nintendo Switch gameplay recordings. 

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Conclusion

This post discussed how to record Switch gameplay in high quality with or without a capture card. 

• If the recording time is less than 30 seconds, you can capture the Switch gameplay with the default recorder.
• If you need to record a long Nintendo gameplay video for YouTube, you'd better try EaseUS RecExperts with a capture card.

Whatever you choose, make sure the solution suits you best. We hope this post can help you!

FAQs about How to Record Switch Gameplay

Check the frequently asked questions related to this topic below.

1. Can you record your gameplay on Nintendo Switch?

Yes, to capture video gameplay footage, you need to press and hold down the "Capture" button on the left Joy-Con. The captured videos can be viewed within the "Album".

2. How do I record my Nintendo Switch for more than 30 seconds?

Recording Nintendo Switch for more than 30 seconds requires external hardware. A capture card or a third-party screen recorder is needed.

3. Can you record Switch gameplay without a capture card?

The most regular way to record Switch gameplay without a capture card is using the pre-installed gameplay capturing tool. This is free and convenient for users who don't want to set up a capture card.