How To Record Gameplay For YouTube: A Beginner's Guide


If you want to learn how to start recording your gameplay so that you can upload it to YouTube, we're here to help.

There are several different ways to approach this, such as grabbing yourself one of the best capture cards to record with or using recording software on your PC.

Plus, the Xbox Series X and PS5 allow you to record directly from them without the need for a capture card and so this can be a good way to produce gameplay videos as well.

In this guide, we'll take you through the step-by-step process of recording gameplay using each of the aforementioned methods.

So, with that being said, let's get straight into it!

How To Record Gameplay For YouTube Using A Capture Card

Whether you're looking to record on a console or PC, a dedicated capture card is likely going to be your best option.

The best capture cards tend to produce the highest quality recordings, with options like the ASUS TUF Capture Card allowing for filming in 4K.

As an example, we're going to talk you through how to record using the Elgato HD60 S+ capture card.

However, the process should be very similar, regardless of which capture card you use.

Elgato HD60 S+
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Credit: Elgato
Elgato HD60 S+

Step 1

First off, you'll need to install the capture card device software onto your PC or laptop.

Step 2

Secondly, plug an HDMI cable into the HDMI OUT port of your console or device you wish to record from.

Step 3

Next, connect the other side of the HDMI cable to the 'in' port on your capture card.

Step 4

Then, use a second HDMI cable to connect your capture card to your gaming monitor or TV.

Step 5

Now, attach the USB-C end of the USB cable to your capture card, and the USB 3.0 side to your PC or laptop.

Step 6

After this, simply turn on your console and you're ready to record.

How To Record Gameplay For YouTube On PS5

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Credit: Sony

The PS5 comes with built-in recording capabilities that do not require you to purchase any additional software or devices.

In order to record on PS5, follow these steps...

Step 1

Firstly, press the create button on your PS5 DualSense controller.

Step 2

After this, select the option to "Start New Recording". Once you have done this a black box will appear in the top right of your screen with a timer.

Step 3

In order to stop recording, simply press the create button once again and select the option "Stop Recording".

Step 4

Now, you should see a small film strip icon appear in the top right corner with a tick next to it. This means that your recording has been successfully saved.

And there you have it, it is as simple as that to record gameplay on your PS5.

You can see your recordings in the media section of your console and you can even upload them to YouTube directly from your PS5.

How To Record Gameplay For YouTube on Xbox Series X

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Credit: Microsoft

Recording gameplay directly from your Xbox Series X works in a very similar way to PS5.

Step 1

First off, simply press the central Xbox / Guide button.

Step 2

Navigate through the pop-up menu using your right and left bumpers until you reach the "Capture & Share" section.

Step 3

After this, select the option to "Start recording" and you're all set.

How To Record Gameplay For YouTube Using Bandicam

Bandicam is an incredibly popular choice for people that upload gameplay to YouTube.

Not only does it allow you to record gameplay, but it also allows you to edit and directly upload your footage to YouTube.

Step 1

First things first, you're going to need to download Bandicam.

You can do this directly from their website here.

Step 2

You'll then want to select either the "Screen Recording Mode" or "Game Recording Mode".

Step 3

Click the "Record" button to start recording and press it again once you wish to stop recording.

After this, you can navigate to "Home" and then "Video" to play, edit and upload your recording.

How Long Can You Record Gameplay On PS5 or Xbox Series X?

When it comes to recording on your PS5 or Xbox Series X the amount of time you're able to record is limited.

On the PS5 you can record up to one hour of footage per recording while on the Xbox Series X you're limited to clips of up to 5 minutes in length.

Therefore, If you are looking to record videos for a longer period of time, using one of the best capture cards may be preferable.

Of course, recording and keeping videos on your console also takes up a lot of storage and so equipping yourself with any of the best external SSDs for gaming could be worthwhile.

Read More: How to Connect Second Monitor to PC: Our Step by Step Guide for Dual Monitors

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