How to Record Online Classes for Free [3 Tested Ways]

With the rise of e-learning and online education, more and more students are taking classes virtually. However, not everyone can attend these online classes in real time due to scheduling conflicts, time zone differences, or other personal reasons. This is where recording online courses comes in handy. By recording online classes, students can review the material at their own pace, replay important sections, and catch up on missed lessons.

But how exactly can you record online classes? In this blog, we'll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to record online classes using different tools and techniques. So let's dive in!

👀👀You can check out the editor's viewpoints for each method below:

Can You Record Online Classes?

Yes, you can record online classes on your laptop or smartphone, but only if you have the right screen recorder tool. Once you get excellent screen recording software, you can launch and use it to start recording online courses during the class.

However, remember to request permission from the appropriate individuals, such as teachers, meeting moderators, or institution administrators, prior to recording online lectures, as it is both ethical and legal.

Next, we will show you some practical ways. If your friends also have the same problem, share this post now!

3 Easy Ways to Record Online Classes Free

In the following, we will walk you through detailed tutorials to help you easily record online courses with audio for free. Just continue reading to find the one that suits your needs best.

#1. Use All-in-One Screen Recorder - EaseUS RecExperts

As one of the best all-in-one screen recorders, EaseUS RecExperts performs professionally in recording online classes. While attending an online class, you can choose to record it in full screen or a selected window. And it offers some real-time editing tools, like the highlighter, pencil, shapes, etc., with which you can circle the key points or take notes freely during recording.

Besides, it supports a schedule recording feature. You can set a specific recording time before, then it will start recording your online class automatically even if you are not around. Most importantly, this software supports recording up to 8K and exports your recorded files without compromising the quality. In a word, if you want to record online lectures with great advanced features, this software is worth trying.

Here's how to record online classes on PC/Mac using EaseUS screen recorder:

Step 1. Launch EaseUS RecExperts. There are two modes for screen recording. Choose "Full Screen", this tool will capture the whole screen; choose "Region", you will need to select the recording area manually.

Step 2. After that, you can choose to record the webcam, system sound, or microphone as you like. Of course, you can turn them off if you only need to record the silent screen.

Step 3. Then, you can click the red "REC" button to start recording. Now you will see a menu bar on your screen. If you want to pause the recording, click on the white "Pause" button; to end the recording, click on the red "Stop" button.

Step 4. After recording, you will be led to the recording list interface. Here you can view or edit your recordings easily.

#2. OBS Studio

Another program that helps you capture online courses is OBS Studio, an open source screen recorder. This free program is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, so almost all of you can use it to record online lessons. Like EaseUS RecExperts, this software allows you to record screens in various modes. 

However, this software is difficult to operate because of its complicated UI. So, if you are familiar with it, you can use it to start recording. If not, you'd better spent a long time learning how to use it or try other OBS alternatives.

Step 1. Download and install this freeware on your device, and launch it.

Step 2. Click Settings to adjust your recording parameters, like video (audio) quality, format, frame rate, etc.

Step 3. Join your online class. Then, go back to OBS, click + > Display Capture to add your class screen at the Source tab, and hit OK.

Step 4. When you are ready, click Start Recording in the bottom right corner to begin your recording.

#3. AZ Screen Recorder

AZ Screen Recorder is your destination if you need to record online classes in mobile. This app is available on Android and iOS mobile phones and can record online courses and other videos in 1080P. Once done, you are even able to edit your recorded clips according to your needs. Next, let's check how to use this application:

Step 1. Download and install this app on your mobile device.

Step 2. Open it, then grant this app access to your mobile phone's microphone and camera.

Step 3. Then play the class you want to record, and select Start Now.

How to Record Online Classes FAQs

Below are some related questions about how to record online courses, and you can have a look!

1. What is the best way to record online classes?

The best way to record online classes is to find a fantastic screen recorder, like EaseUS RecExperts. This kind of program allows you to record online courses with audio and webcam flexibly. Besides, you can even use the drawing tools provided to take notes while recording. 

2. Is there any app to record online classes?

Sure! There are many apps that enable you to record online classes:

• OBS Studio
• Loom
• EaseUS RecExperts
• Office Lens
• ....

If you want to get more information, you can move to this page: Best Apps to Record Lectures for Students or Teachers

3. Is recording online classes illegal?

Recording online classes without permission from the instructor or the institution may be a violation of privacy laws, copyright laws, or academic policies. Checking with the instructor or institution's policies is always best before recording any online class.