Screen recording is a useful feature on macOS, allowing you to capture your screen for tutorials, presentations, or troubleshooting. However, once your recording is complete, stopping it correctly ensures your file is saved and ready for use. Here’s a complete guide on how to stop screen recording on your Mac.
Table of Contents
Stopping a Screen Recording
1. Using the Screenshot Toolbar
If you started your screen recording using the Screenshot Toolbar (Shift + Command (⌘) + 5):
- Look for the Stop Button:
- While recording, a small Stop icon (a circle inside a square) appears in the menu bar at the top-right corner of your screen.
- Click the Stop Icon:
- Click the icon to stop the recording.
- File Location:
- The screen recording will automatically be saved to the default location, typically the Desktop or the location specified during setup.
2. Using Keyboard Shortcuts
If you prefer shortcuts, use the following:
- Press Command (⌘) + Control (⌃) + Esc while recording.
- This stops the recording immediately.
3. Using QuickTime Player
If you started the screen recording with QuickTime Player:
- Look for the Recording Controls:
- A small floating control bar appears when recording begins.
- Click the Stop Button:
- Click the Stop button in the control bar, or click QuickTime Player > Stop Recording from the menu bar.
- Save Your Recording:
- A preview window opens with your recording. Click File > Save to save it in your desired location.
4. If the Stop Icon or Controls Are Missing
Sometimes, the Stop icon may not appear due to macOS bugs or user settings. In such cases:
- Press Shift + Command (⌘) + 5:
- This reopens the Screenshot Toolbar.
- Click the Stop Button:
- The Stop button will appear on the toolbar. Click it to end the recording.
5. Force Quit Screen Recording (Last Resort)
If the recording doesn’t stop due to a system glitch:
- Press Command (⌘) + Option (⌥) + Esc to open the Force Quit Applications menu.
- Select QuickTime Player (if applicable) or the recording app and click Force Quit.
- Note: Forcing quit may result in loss of your recording.
Where to Find Saved Recordings
By default, screen recordings are saved to:
- Desktop: Look for files named
Screen Recording [Date] at [Time].mov. - Custom Location: If you set a different save location, check that folder.
To change the save location:
- Press Shift + Command (⌘) + 5 to open the Screenshot Toolbar.
- Click Options and select your desired save location.
Tips for Managing Screen Recordings
- Preview Before Saving: Use QuickTime Player to trim or edit recordings before sharing.
- Use Shortcuts: Memorize
Shift + Command (⌘) + 5for quick access to recording tools. - Check File Size: Screen recordings can be large. Compress them or use external storage if necessary.
FAQs
1. What if my screen recording won’t stop?
Try pressing Command (⌘) + Control (⌃) + Esc or reopening the Screenshot Toolbar with Shift + Command (⌘) + 5. If it still doesn’t stop, force quit the recording app.
2. Can I pause a screen recording on Mac?
macOS does not natively support pausing a screen recording during capture. You must stop and start a new recording.
3. Where are my screen recordings saved?
By default, recordings are saved to the Desktop. Check the Options menu in the Screenshot Toolbar to confirm or change the location.
4. Can I edit my screen recordings?
Yes, you can use QuickTime Player or third-party apps like iMovie or Final Cut Pro to edit recordings.
5. Can I record audio with my screen recording?
Yes, you can enable audio recording by selecting Options in the Screenshot Toolbar and choosing a microphone before starting the recording.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Stop icon in the menu bar or Shift + Command (⌘) + 5 to stop recordings.
- Default save locations are typically the Desktop unless changed.
- Manage and edit your recordings with built-in tools like QuickTime Player or external software.
By following these steps, you can stop and manage your screen recordings efficiently on macOS
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