Whether you’re a student, a teacher, a gamer, or a content creator in the UK, screen recording software is essential.
Fortunately, you don’t need to spend a penny to get high-quality recordings — many free tools today offer amazing features without watermarks, ads, or time limits.

In this guide, we’ll reveal the top 5 free screen recording software for Windows 11 users in 2025.

Why Use Screen Recording Software?

Screen recording tools help you:

• Record online meetings and webinars

• Create tutorials or training videos

• Capture gaming sessions

• Make YouTube content

• Save live streaming moments

Free screen recorders can offer professional results — you just need to pick the right one.

Top 5 Free Screen Recorders for Windows 11 (UK)

1. OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software)

OBS Studio is the gold standard for free screen recording and live streaming.

Key Features:

• Unlimited HD recording

• Multi-source capture (screen, webcam, mic)

• Customizable scenes and transitions

• No watermark or time limits

Pros:
✅ Professional-level features
✅ Totally free and open-source
✅ Works great for streaming to YouTube, Twitch, Facebook

Cons:
❌ Steeper learning curve for beginners

2. ShareX

ShareX is a lightweight, open-source screen recorder that’s highly customizable.

Key Features:

• Fullscreen, window, or custom area recording

• GIF creation

• Annotation tools built-in

• Instant uploading to cloud services

Pros:
✅ Completely free, no watermark
✅ Advanced screenshot and editing features
✅ Hotkey support for fast recording

Cons:
❌ Interface can feel overwhelming at first

3. Xbox Game Bar (Built into Windows 11)

Xbox Game Bar is Microsoft’s built-in screen recorder for Windows 10/11 — perfect for casual users.

Key Features:

• Quick screen recording with Windows + G shortcut

• Audio and microphone recording

• Performance monitoring overlay

• Ideal for gamers

Pros:
✅ Pre-installed (no downloads needed)
✅ Simple and fast to use
✅ Great for recording gameplay

Cons:
❌ Limited editing options
❌ No full desktop recording (only apps or games)

4. FlashBack Express

FlashBack Express is a free version of a popular paid screen recorder — with no watermark!

Key Features:

• Record full screen, webcam, and mic simultaneously

• Scheduled recordings

• Simple video editor (cut, trim)

Pros:
✅ No time limit, no watermark
✅ User-friendly interface
✅ Good for training videos, tutorials

Cons:
❌ Advanced editing tools require a paid upgrade

5. ScreenRec

ScreenRec is a modern, simple tool aimed at quick screen recordings and sharing.

Key Features:

• Instant recording and link generation

• Cloud backup (free account needed)

• 1-click screen capture

• Lightweight and fast

Pros:
✅ Unlimited recording with free account
✅ Good for creating quick tutorials or feedback videos
✅ No watermark

Cons:
❌ Requires sign-up for cloud storage (optional)

What to Look for in Free Screen Recording Software

When picking your tool, consider:

• Watermark policies (some “free” tools sneak in logos!)

• Recording quality (HD, Full HD, 4K)

• Ease of use (important if you need quick recordings)

• Editing tools (basic trimming, annotations)

• Cloud vs Local storage (depending on your needs)

If you’re aiming for professional YouTube tutorials, OBS Studio is your best bet.
If you want quick, simple recordings, Xbox Game Bar or ScreenRec might be better.

Final Thoughts

Screen recording software has become a crucial tool for students, teachers, YouTubers, and gamers alike.
Thankfully, in 2025, free tools like OBS Studio, ShareX, and FlashBack Express offer powerful features without forcing you to pay or suffer watermarks.

Start creating professional-quality screen recordings today — for free!