How to Record Zoom Meetings

It's possible to easily record Zoom meetings, which can be useful for when you need to look back at important details and re-evaluate what was said. You can use the built-in Zoom recorder, or opt to use a third-party app. So, what should you use?

Do I Use the Zoom Recorder or a Third-Party Solution?

The built-in Zoom local recorder is very useful for getting the basics done. It also offers cloud saving functionality if you have a paid membership to the service. However, you need to get authorization from the host to record a meeting.

However, a third-party app can offer additional formats for how you record footage, as well as doesn't require you to gain permission from the meeting host. Zoom only lets you record in MP4 format, which isn't always practical. One of the best alternatives we've found is VideoSolo, which offers more file formats and better preview functions. 

How to Record a Zoom Meeting From Within the App

Zoom's local recorder is incredibly useful if you want to record a meeting, but you don't want the hassle of installing extra apps. It takes seconds to set up. Here's what you need to do. 

1. Open Zoom.

2. Click New Meeting or join an existing arranged meeting.

3. Click Record.

4. Click the Stop icon to stop the recording. 

   Click pause at any time to pause the recording.

5. When the meeting ends, Zoom automatically converts the video file and saves it to the location you've chosen to save files to. 

How to Do More With the Zoom Local Recorder

Zoom local recorder is a little basic compared to third-party options but it has some useful options. Here's where to find them.

1. Open Zoom.

2. Click Settings.

3. Click Recording.

4. Here, you can choose to add timestamps to the recording, choose where to save video files, and opt to save separate audio files for each participant. 

How to Allow Others to Record a Meeting in Zoom

If you're a host of a meeting and you're fine with participants recording the proceedings, you need to allow it in permissions. Here's how to do it.

1. With a meeting running, click Manage Participants.

2. Hover over the participant's name.

3. Click More.

4. Click Allow Record.

5. The participant can now record the meeting.

How to Use a Third-Party Screen Recording App With Zoom

VideoSolo is an app we've found to be really easy to use alongside Zoom, but it's not free. A free trial version allows you to record three minutes of footage, while the full app will cost you $40. Here's how to use VideoSolo to record with Zoom, avoiding the need to get permission from the host.

1. Open VideoSolo.

2. Click Video Recorder.

3. Click Record to begin recording your screen.

   To adjust the file quality and type, click Output settings to the left of Record.

4. Click Stop to finish recording.