How to Record YouTube Live Stream on All Platforms Easily

32 mins read

How to record YouTube live stream – Windows, Mac, iOS & Android

You can watch live stream on YouTube every day and sometimes you might want to record it for later viewing. Now, follow these quick tips to record a YouTube live stream with ease!

Jasmin Woods Updated on Dec 18, 2024 8:31 PM

Quick options to capture a YouTube live stream video:

  • There are a variety of ways to record YouTube live stream on different platforms.
  • If you’re watching YouTube live on your computer, you can use the pre-installed Xbox Game Bar on Windows PC or the Screenshot Toolbar on macOS to record the on-screen streaming.
  • You can also record a YouTube live stream on your iPhone, iPad or Android using the native screen recording feature that came with your device.
  • AppGeeker Screen Recorder is one of the best YouTube live stream recorders because of its excellent screen capture feature that provides excellent video quality and crystal-clear audio.

This guide shows how you can record YouTube live stream on different platforms with ease.

YouTube has become one of the most popular platforms for video sharing and live streaming. It wound not be wrong to say that YouTube has not only restricted itself to video-watching channels but has broadened its scope and is providing live-streaming services as well. There may be multiple instances when you want to record YouTube live stream to keep your favorite music live, sports, games, live TVs and other interesting things you care about.

So if you want to record a live stream on YouTube and save the video file, no worries. Here in this guide, we will show you some of the best methods to record YouTube live streams for offline watching. No matter if you’re using Mac, Windows PC, iPhone or Android, we’ll show you the easiest recording options that will equally help you in any platform. So now, check out the quick solutions below to create a new YouTube live stream record:

  • Part 1. How to record YouTube live stream with built-in screen recorders
  • Part 2. How to use YouTube live stream recorders — Windows & macOS
  • Part 3. How to capture YouTube live stream on iPhone, iPad & Android
  • FAQs about YouTube live stream recording

Part 1. How to record YouTube live stream with built-in screen recorders

Both Windows and macOS offer some built-in tools that allow you to screen record YouTube live streams on your computer. While native recording tools can be somewhat limited and only do standard recordings, they offer basic and quick options for YouTube live stream record and save the captured video quickly on computer.

Record YouTube live stream on Windows PC

If you’re a Windows user, the pre-installed app Xbox Game Bar on your computer can record game clips as well as media videos playing on your screen. As an easy and efficient tool, it can quickly access multiple capture sources while recording a YouTube live stream, including the computer screen, speaker outputs, as well as microphone. This allows you to capture every moment and every sound in a YouTube live stream recording from your screen for offline watching.

How to record a YouTube live stream with Xbox Game Bar while watching it on your computer:

Step 1. Open the live YouTube video on your screen.

Step 2. Press Windows + G to enable the Xbox Game Bar toolbar.

Open the Xbox Game Bar for YouTube live stream record.

Note: If the Xbox control panel doesn’t show up, head to Windows Settings > Gaming. Then select Xbox Game Bar option and enable it to create local recordings. Once set, you can use the shortcut Win + G to open the Game Bar recording controller.

Step 3. Select the video camera icon at the top, then the Capture box will pop up.

By default, Xbox will record the YouTube video along with audio. You can turn on the microphone option if you want to add your own voice to the recording.

Enable the Capture option for recording.

Step 4. Click the Start Recording button or press Win + Alt + R to begin recording on YouTube.

The capturing bar floats on the screen while recording the live stream from YouTube.

Step 5. Once the YouTube live ends, click on the Stop Recording button to exit capturing mode. You can also use the Win + Alt + R shortcut again.

Step 6. Click on the floating thumbnail Game Clip recorded to view the captured YouTube video.

The live streaming you just recorded on YouTube will be saved as an MP4 file on your Windows PC automatically.

Note: The Xbox Game Bar can only record a single window on your screen. Make sure not to switch to a different display while recording the YouTube stream videos. Otherwise, the screen recording stops. Also, Xbox has a time limit and can only record YouTube video up to 2 hours.

Record YouTube live streaming video on Mac

Just like Windows, macOS also comes with screen capture features that can help you in recording YouTube live streams and other on-screen videos. You can use its built-in QuickTime Player or Screenshot toolbar (only for macOS Mojave or newer versions) to record live stream from YouTube easily. Here’s how to record a live stream on YouTube with QuickTime:

Step 1. Access the YouTube live streaming video on the screen.

Step 2. Press the Command + Shift + 5 at the same time to open the Screenshot toolbar.

Screen record YouTube live streaming video with built-in Screenshot toolbar on Mac.

Step 3. Choose a recording area which should include the YouTube live stream.

You can select the entire screen or just a portion of the screen, then drag the YouTube window into the recording region. If needed, click the Options arrow to add a microphone sound.

Adjust the recording options before you start capturing the YouTube live on the screen.

Step 4. To begin recording, press the Record button on the toolbar.

Step 5. When you want to stop capturing the YouTube live video, hit the Stop button.

Once finish, click on the preview thumbnail in the bottom right corner to watch the recording.

Alternatively, you can open the QuickTime Player if you’re using an older macOS. And then select File > New Screen Recording at the top of the screen to create a new recording of the YouTube live stream you want to save for later watching.

  • Neither the Screenshot Toolbar nor QuickTime Player can record the computer audio on Mac, so you may not be able to record the YouTube live stream with sound unless you use an extra audio capture tool along with it.

Part 2. How to use YouTube live stream recorders — Windows & macOS

Additionally, some helpful screen recorders can also capture the activities happening on the YouTube screen. These YouTube live stream recorders usually offer more video recording options that allow you to capture a YouTube live stream in an easier way.

Record live YouTube stream with AppGeeker Screen Recorder

For those who want to capture YouTube live streams, AppGeeker’s Screen Recorder is a full-featured tool that allows video recording without any complicated steps. Packed with numerous video capture features and different recording options, this YouTube live stream recorder can help you record YouTube live from your computer screen, webcam and microphone.

Besides the basic YouTube live recording, it also supports a picture-in-picture mode, allowing you to record yourself and the on-screen YouTube streams at the same time. You can also take advantage of its Task Schedule feature to record a YouTube live streaming in real time or on a schedule so that you won’t miss any important online YouTube live.

Download Now!

Step 1: Open the YouTube live stream and run Screen Recorder.

Access the YouTube live stream you wish to record, and run this video recorder on your Windows PC or macOS computer.

Step 2: Select Video Recorder and configure the record settings.

Make sure to turn on the System Sound to record YouTube live stream with audio. Then select full screen or only the live stream to record. Enable the Webcam and Microphone if you’d like to record the YouTube live stream with your face and voice simultaneously.

If necessary, click the Task Schedule at the bottom to start live recording at the scheduled time accordingly; the top gear icon is to adjust the video format and quality for better results.

Step 3: Click the REC button to start YouTube live stream recording.

You can pause, annotate, or stop the YouTube live recording when needed.

Step 4: Hit the red Stop square and save the YouTube live stream recording.

Once done, the preview window shows up, letting you play, trim and edit the recording result and save the YouTube stream video to anywhere you want.

The recorded YouTube live streams will be saved and listed in the History.

Record online live stream using VLC

VLC, short for VideoLan Client, is one of the most popular cross-platform media players. Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, it’s also an efficient online stream recorder that allows you to record live YouTube stream videos.

1. Open the target YouTube live stream and copy its URL.

2. Run VLC on your computer and select the Media / File option on the upper left corner.

3. Choose Open Network Stream from the menu list.

4. Paste the URL in the box under Please enter a network URL option and click on Open.

Copy and paste the URL of the YouTube live stream into the Network box on VLC.

5. Press the Record button to start and end recording the YouTube stream.

When the recording stops, go to the Media > Open Recent Media to find the newly added YouTube live stream recordings. It can also be used to record YouTube videos on Mac or PC.

Part 3. How to capture YouTube live stream on iPhone, iPad and Android

Much like you record a live video on your computer, you can also record a YouTube live stream on your Android or iPhone. Typically, both iOS and Android devices have their own native screen recording tools that allow for recording of online YouTube live stream.

Whether you want to record a YouTube live streaming on your iPhone, iPad, or Android, simply enable the built-in screen recorder to capture everything from an online YouTube live stream:

YouTube live stream record on iPhone / iPad:

  • Head to Settings > Control Center on your iPhone or iPad.
  • Find the Screen Recording option and tap the plus + icon next to it.
  • Open the YouTube live streaming you’d like to record.
  • Swipe down from the top right of your screen, and tap on the Record button in white circle.
  • The video recording will start after three-second countdown.
  • Press the Record button again when you want to stop recording.

After that, you can go the Photos app to view and edit the YouTube stream recording.

Record YouTube streaming video on Android

The process for capturing YouTube live stream on Android is largely the same across devices. Just find the screen recording widget and use it to record.

  • Open the live stream on YouTube.
  • Swipe down from your Android screen to access the Quick Settings.
  • Tap the pencil icon to customize the settings.
  • Add the screen recording widget to the Quick Settings.
  • Press the Screen Recorder icon and allow it to start recording.
  • When you need to end recording, tap on the Screen Recorder button again.

The captured video will be saved in the Photos or Gallery app on your Android phone. You can play or share the recording result as you want. Alternatively, you may record YouTube videos on Windows PC or Mac and then transfer videos to your iPhone, iPad or Android to watch offline.

FAQs about YouTube live stream recording

Q1: How to save a YouTube live stream?

  • To save a YouTube live stream, simply go the YouTube Studio and sign in to your channel.
  • Select the Content option from the left options.
  • Then click on the Live tab at the top to view all your live streams.
  • Hover over the stream video you want to save and click on the three-dots option.
  • Select Download from the list to save it.

However, you can only save live streams from your own channel this way. And YouTube doesn’t archive live streams longer than 12 hours.

Q2: Can you record an online live stream?

Yes. The online live streaming can be recorded in various ways. You can use either the built-in tools on your computer or some advanced screen recorders to capture the streaming videos you want:

  • Xbox Game Bar (Windows only)
  • Screenshot Toolbar (macOS Mojave and later)
  • QuickTime Player (macOS only)
  • AppGeeker Screen Recorder (Windows & macOS)

Q3: How to download a live stream from YouTube?

Actually, you can only download live streams from your personal YouTube channel. If you want to download a live streaming video from other people’s YouTube channel, you’ll have to screen record it and save the video recording for later use. All the methods we mentioned in this guide are able to help you in recording live streaming on YouTube.

Q4: How to record a YouTube live streaming on Mac?

To record a HD YouTube live stream on Mac, simply install the Screen Recorder on your macOS and follow the quick steps below:

  • Open the YouTube streaming live video.
  • Launch the Screen Recorder app and select the Video Recorder mode.
  • Use the Custom option to auto-select the YouTube player window for recording.
  • Enable the System Sound and click on REC button to start capturing.
  • Hit the Stop button to end recording and save the live stream on your Mac.

Once complete, you can edit, share, or upload the recording as desired.

How To Record YouTube Live Stream? (All Devices)

Record YouTube Live Stream

Ever wondered how to capture the excitement of a YouTube livestream? Whether you want to create viral TikToks, Instagram reels or analyze gaming strategies, knowing how to record a YouTube live stream is essential. You can record YouTube live streams using built-in applications on your Mac, Windows, Android, and iOS devices and using different third-party software and mobile applications. With content creators like MrBeast allowing their streams to be used without copyright issues in an announcement , a world of possibilities opens up for content creators. You can attract new viewers with reaction videos and engage them with your unique commentary. This guide, ‘How to Record a YouTube Live Stream,’ will walk you through the process step-by-step, tailored to your device—whether it’s a Mac, Windows, iPhone, or Android. Let’s unlock the potential of recording YouTube livestreams and transform your content engagement.

Contents show

How to Record a YouTube Live Stream on Mac

Record a YouTube Live Stream on Mac

If you’re an avid Mac user and want to record YouTube live streams, you’re in luck. Mac offers a convenient built-in stream recorder feature as well as third-party software options to capture those captivating live moments. By following these steps, you can confidently record YouTube live streams on your Mac using either the built-in stream recording tool or popular third-party software.

Built-in YouTube Live Stream Recording Tool

  1. Start up your preferred web browser and navigate to the YouTube live stream you wish to record.
  2. Press Command+ Shift + 5 to open the built-in screen recording software.
  3. You can also launch “Launchpad” and look for “QuickTime Player.”
  4. Open the program and go to the “File” menu, where you should select “New Screen Recording.
  5. A panel to manage the recording of your screen will pop up. By selecting the appropriate buttons, you can record either the entire screen or just a selected area.
  6. If you want to begin recording, hit the red “Record” button.
  7. Start the live stream from YouTube and have QuickTime Player record it.
  8. Stop recording by either clicking the “Stop” button in the menu bar or by pressing the “Command” + “Control” + “Esc” + keys all at once.
  9. It’s up to you where on your Mac you keep the recording.

Remember The Magic Keys For Screen Recording on Mac (Shortcut Keys)
“Command” Key + “Shift” + “5”

Using Third-party Software For Recording the YouTube Live Stream

Mac users have access to renowned third-party live stream recording software in addition to the built-in screen recording capability. ScreenFlow and Camtasia are two useful options.

1. Loom

Available both for Windows and Mac users, you can record YouTube live streams with Loom’s Mac free Online Screen Recorder. This application combines ease of use with a suite of powerful features, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of users, from content creators to professionals looking to archive live digital events.

Key Features of Loom’s Mac Screen Recorder:

  • Simple Setup: Start recording your screen, voice, and audio with just a few clicks.
  • High-Quality Videos: Record in impressive up to 4K quality, ensuring crystal-clear playback of your live streams.
  • Editing on the Go: Trim and stitch your recordings effortlessly. Loom’s intuitive editing tools let you perfect your videos instantly.
  • Easy Sharing: Generate links for your screen recordings quickly, making it easy to share your captures with the world.
  • Mobile Compatibility: Take Loom with you and record on the move with its iPhone and Android apps.

Next: Camtasia also offers a comprehensive solution. Camtasia is recognized for its ease of use and robust editing capabilities, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users.

Key Features of Camtasia’s Mac Screen Recorder:

  • High-Resolution Recording: Camtasia allows recording in high quality, including up to 4K resolution, ensuring your live stream captures are clear and detailed.
  • Advanced Editing Tools: The software includes professional editing options, such as trimming, stitching, and adding captions or subtitles. This makes it possible to refine your recordings and tailor them to your needs.
  • Audio Editing: With Camtasia, you can edit your voice over, text and automatically generate captions, enhancing the audio quality of your recordings.
  • Cursor Effects: The software offers various cursor effects, including cursor replacement and path smoothing, to emphasize key points in your video.
  • Templates and Assets: Camtasia provides a range of templates and assets like video clips, music, and images, facilitating quick and professional video creation.
  • Ease of Use: The intuitive interface and drag-and-drop features of Camtasia make it accessible for anyone to create quality videos without needing extensive video editing experience.
  • System Requirements: It’s compatible with recent versions of Windows and macOS, requiring a minimum of 8GB RAM and 4GB of available disk space for optimal performance.
  • Trial and Purchase Options: Camtasia offers a 3-day free trial, with watermarking on exported content during the trial. Various subscription and perpetual purchase options are available, including a bundle with Audiate for enhanced audio editing.

How to Record a YouTube Live Stream on Windows

YouTube Live Stream on Windows

Navigating the Windows landscape, you’re showered with opportunities.

Two options dance before you – the simplicity of a built-in screen recorder and Third-party software for recording live stream videos on YouTube.

Built-in YouTube Live Stream Recording Tool

Windows serves up a quick and effortless method, seamlessly baked right into the operating system. Tempting, isn’t it? Here’s your step-by-step walkthrough:

  1. Start by firing up your preferred web browser. Navigate to the YouTube livestream. All set?
  2. Now, initiate a secret handshake with your keyboard. Press the “Windows” key + “G” simultaneously. The result? The Game Bar swings into view.
  3. Spot the “Record” button (a small circle) in the Game Bar overlay. Click it. Or, if you love keyboard shortcuts as much as we do, use “Win” + “Alt” + “R” instead. Your recording journey has begun.
  4. Let your live stream play. Sit back and relax, as Windows does the heavy lifting, capturing both the video and audio for you.
  5. Done recording? Hit the “Win” + “Alt” + “R” shortcut again, or simply click the “Stop” button in the Game Bar overlay.

A professional tool right at your fingertips, letting you savor those YouTube live streams again and again.

Remember The Magic Keys For Screen Recording on Windows (Shortcut Keys)
“Windows” Key + “G”

Using Third-party Software For Recording YouTube Live Streaming

Want to record YouTube live streams on Windows but looking for a touch more flexibility? Let’s discuss third-party software to record a live stream. Allow us to introduce two stellar options you might consider:

For Windows users looking to record YouTube live streams, OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software) is a highly regarded choice. OBS Studio is an open-source software, widely used for video recording and live streams.

Key Features of OBS Studio Screen Recorder

  • High-Quality Recording: OBS Studio allows you to record live streams at high resolutions, ensuring your captures are of excellent quality.
  • Customizable Setup: It offers a highly customizable interface and settings, enabling you to set up your recording layout exactly as you need it. This includes the ability to capture full-screen, windowed mode, or specific portions of the screen.
  • Advanced Audio Options: OBS Studio provides extensive audio settings, allowing for the capture of both in-game/system sounds and microphone input simultaneously, essential for recording live

2. Movavi

Movavi Screen Recorder is a versatile tool suitable for Windows users, especially for recording YouTube live streams. Here are some key features and functionalities that make it a good choice for this purpose.

Key Features of Movavi Screen Recorder

  1. Ease of Setup: Movavi Screen Recorder offers a straightforward process to start recording. You can quickly select the area of the screen you want to capture and start recording with a simple click.
  2. Recording Features: It allows you to capture both video and audio from your computer. This is particularly useful for recording live streams where both video and audio are important.
  3. Editing Capabilities: After recording, Movavi provides options for basic editing. You can trim unwanted sections and make minor edits like adding text, which can be useful for personalizing or annotating your recorded live streams.
  4. Scheduling and Noise Reduction: The software comes with a scheduling feature, allowing you to set up recordings in advance. Additionally, the noise reduction feature helps in minimizing background disturbances during recording.
  5. Flexible Output Options: Movavi Screen Recorder enables you to save your recordings in various formats, depending on your needs. This flexibility is beneficial if you plan to share your recorded content across different platforms or devices.
  6. Usability: Users have found Movavi Screen Recorder easy to use, making it suitable for a range of users from beginners to more experienced individuals.
  7. Pricing: Movavi Screen Recorder offers a free trial, but the full version is available for purchase. The pricing is considered reasonable, especially given the range of features it offers.

How to Record a YouTube Live Stream on an iPhone

YouTube Live Stream on an iPhone

Recording live streams on your iPhone is more simple than recording live streams on your computer.

Recording YouTube live streams on your iPhone allows you to capture and relish those exciting moments on the go.

In this section, we’ll explore two main methods: utilizing the built-in screen-capturing feature and using third-party applications available on the App Store.

Built-in YouTube Live Stream Recording Tool

Your iPhone could double up as a recorder for YouTube live streams. Thanks to its built-in screen recording feature. So, how do we tap into this functionality?

Let’s take a look:

  1. Got a YouTube livestream to catch? Hop onto the YouTube app or pick your favourite browser and land on your desired stream.
  2. Summon the Control Center, simply by swiping down from the top-right corner if you’re on an iPhone X or newer, or swiping up from the bottom for older models.
  3. See a button that looks like a circle inside another? That’s your screen recording button. Give it a tap!
  4. Notice a countdown? This is your window to ensure the YouTube live stream is good to go.
  5. As the countdown hits zero, the magic begins. Your iPhone starts recording both the screen and audio.
  6. Done with recording? Access the Control Center once more and stop the recording by tapping the screen recording button.
  7. Your recorded video finds a home in your Photos app.

Stream Recording Applications Available on the Apple Store

If you’re looking for different options to record YouTube live videos, the Apple Store offers a variety of third-party applications for recording your screens on your iPhone. Here are some popular options:

  1. Record it!: Record it! is a powerful and user-friendly screen recording app designed compatible with the latest iPhone 15. It offers a simple interface and a range of features, including high-quality recording, customizable settings, and the ability to add commentary during the recording.
  2. DU Recorder: DU Recorder for iPhone is a reliable screen recording and live streaming app. It supports online streaming to YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch, along with high-quality screen recording. Notably, it allows simultaneous recording of the microphone and internal audio, making it ideal for capturing both commentary and in-game/system sounds. Additionally, DU Recorder offers powerful video editing features, enabling users to enhance their recorded content.

How to Record a YouTube Live Stream on Android Smartphones

YouTube Live Stream on Android Smartphones

Your Android smartphone is a powerful ally at your fingertips, ready to encapsulate each moment of a YouTube live stream.

Just like its Apple counterpart, Android opens up a dual-faceted approach to your recording endeavor.

The inbuilt recording prowess, concealed within the device’s ecosystem, offers you one avenue.

Alternatively, a treasure trove of third-party applications on the Google Play Store extends another inviting pathway

Inbuilt Recording System for Recording Live Streaming Tool

Android phones, such as Huawei, Samsung, OnePlus, and Google Pixel, often provide a built-in screen recording system that allows you to record not only your activities but also the online streaming of others. Follow these steps to utilize the inbuilt recording system:

  1. Launch the YouTube app or a web browser on your Android phone and navigate to the live stream you want to record.
  2. Swipe down twice from the top of your screen to access the quick settings panel.
  3. Look for the screen recording icon, which usually resembles a rectangle with a circle inside or says “Screen Record” or “Record Screen.”
  4. Tap the screen recording icon to start recording. A countdown might appear, indicating that the recording will begin shortly.
  5. Open the YouTube live stream and ensure everything is set up as desired.
  6. Once the countdown finishes or the recording starts, the Android phone will capture the screen and audio of the YouTube live stream.
  7. To stop the recording, access the quick settings panel again and tap the screen recording icon.

Stream Recording Applications Available on Google Play Store

You can also record videos by simply downloading an application from your Play Store account. The Google Play Store offers a variety of third-party applications for recording YouTube live streams on Android phones. Here are some popular options worth considering:

  1. AZ Screen Recorder: AZ Screen Recorder is a highly regarded application that helps you record YouTube live streams with ease. It offers features such as adjustable video quality, audio recording, and the ability to draw on the screen during recording.
  2. Mobizen Screen Recorder: Mobizen Screen Recorder is another versatile option that provides a seamless recording experience for Android phone users. It offers features like screen capture, face cam recording, and the ability to edit recorded videos directly within the app.

Understanding YouTube’s Policies on Recording Live Streams

YouTube provides popular and necessary guidelines for recording live streams, allowing you to enjoy and engage with the content at your convenience.

By following these guidelines, you can effortlessly record and save online streams from other creators, delve into the excitement of gaming sessions, educational webinars, or live events, and even study strategies from expert players. Let’s explore these recommended guidelines for recording YouTube live streams, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable viewing experience:

1. Respect Copyright and Fair Use

When recording YouTube streams, ensure you respect the intellectual property rights of the original content creator. Seek permission or focus on recording content that falls within fair use policies.

2. Authorized Recording Methods

Utilize authorized third-party software or screen recording tools that comply with YouTube’s policies. These tools allow you to capture the live stream smoothly and ensure a high-quality recording.

3. Maintain Privacy and Consent

Respect the privacy of individuals featured in the online stream. Obtain necessary consent before recording and sharing any personal information or sensitive content.

4. Comply with Community Guidelines

Adhere to YouTube’s Community Guidelines while recording real-time streams. Avoid actions or commentary that may violate these guidelines or promote harmful behavior.

5. Attribute and Credit

Give appropriate credit to the original content creator when sharing or using recorded live streams. Provide clear attribution and acknowledge their work.

6. Personal Use Only

Limit the use of recorded live streams for personal viewing and reference purposes. Avoid distributing or monetizing the recorded content without proper authorization.

Conclusion

This comprehensive guide, your roadmap to the art of capturing YouTube live streams, spans across an array of devices – Mac, Windows, iPhone, and Android. If your phone doesn’t come up with a built-in video and audio recorder, don’t worry your choice isn’t confined to the built-in screen recording feature only but extends to the realm of advanced third-party software.

These mobile and web video recording applications are more than enough and they will meet your need of recording a YouTube live stream for you.

Nonetheless, every path chosen should honor YouTube’s code of conduct. This isn’t just about mastering the techniques, is it? It’s about navigating the labyrinth of copyright and fair use, striking a balance with authorized recording methods, and threading the needle of privacy and consent.

https://www.appgeeker.com/record/how-to-screen-record-youtube-live-stream.html

How To Record YouTube Live Stream? (All Devices)