Imagine: you need to walk someone through a difficult software aspect and they are halfway around the world, or you are an educator who has to get a lesson to materialize with learners who can not get in a classroom at the same time. It is cumbersome to use email and to arrange a meeting is a logistical nightmare. Step in Loom, one of my new favorites when it comes to loom free screen recorder and sharing videos.
It’s not just another free screen recorder, it’s a game-changer that makes capturing your screen, adding a personal touch with your webcam, and sharing it all as easy as sending a text.
In this deep dive, I’ll walk you through why Loom is hands-down the best screen recording software, how it works on Windows 10, Windows 11, and even as a Chrome screen recorder, and why it outshines other free screen recording software. With over 14 million users and big names like Atlassian and Netflix on board, Loom is doing something right. Let’s get into it.
What is Loom ?
So, in case you are not familiar with the tool called Loom, it is a free screen recorder, which is also a video messaging app. Lightshot is available as a desktop program (Windows 10 and 11, or Mac) or mobile app (iOS or Android) and also as a good-looking Chrome extension that adds a screen capture option directly to your browser. The magic of Loom is the ability to know that you can record in your screen, or on your face, or both, and immediately get a link to share your video. Not having to play around with the uploading of files or cumbersome email attachments. They are all saved in the cloud and are readily available.
I first stumbled across Loom when I needed to show a coworker how to navigate a tricky spreadsheet without typing a novel. Within minutes, I recorded a quick demo, sent the link via Slack, and got a “Whoa, that was so clear!” response.
That’s Loom’s vibe fast, clear, and personal. It’s built for everyone from remote workers to teachers, gamers to marketers, and it’s trusted by over 200,000 companies. Whether you’re on a screen recorder Windows 10 setup or prefer the free online screen recorder through Chrome, Loom makes video creation feel like second nature.
Why Loom’s My Top Pick for Free Screen Recording
There are tons of free screen recorders out there, so why does Loom get my vote as the best free screen recorder? Let’s break it down with some real talk about what makes it special.
1. It’s Stupidly Easy to Use
I’m not a tech wizard, and I bet most of you aren’t either. Loom gets that. Open the app or Chrome extension, and you’re hit with a simple screen: pick your recording mode (screen, webcam, or both), choose your audio, and hit record. Done. No digging through menus or Googling “how to record screen on Windows 11.” It’s so intuitive that my 60-year-old colleague, who still calls the internet “the Google,” was recording tutorials on day one. Whether you’re on Windows 10, Windows 11, or a Mac, Loom feels like it was designed by someone who gets how we actually work.
2. Sharing Videos Is a Breeze
Here’s where Loom really shines. The second you stop recording, it uploads your video to the cloud and copies a shareable link to your clipboard. Paste it into an email, Slack, or even a Notion page, and boom your video’s out there. I once sent a Loom video to a client to walk them through a product demo, and they replied within minutes, saying it was clearer than any Zoom call we’d had. You can lock down who sees your video with password protection or restrict it to specific email domains, which is great for sensitive stuff. This instant-sharing magic makes Loom a standout among free video recording software.
3. Works Everywhere You Do
When I am sitting at my desk working on Windows 11, on the road with my iPhone, or I am loaning a computer to my friend with a Mac, Loom will take care of me. Its desktop app can be used easily on Windows 10, Windows 11, and during the current macOS, whereas the mobile apps can be used in iOS 15+ and Android 8.0+. And of course there is the Chrome screen recorder extension, which saves me when I cannot install software, or the computer I am using is a shared one. It is as though Loom was designed to trail after you wherever you go including the device at hand.
4. Free Plan That Actually Delivers
Let’s talk about the Loom free plan, because it’s honestly kind of ridiculous how much you get for zero bucks:
- 25 Videos: You can store up to 25 videos, each up to 5 minutes long. Perfect for quick updates or tutorials.
- 720p Quality: Looks sharp enough for most needs, from presentations to YouTube uploads.
- Screen + Webcam: Record your screen, your face, or both in a little bubble that you can move around.
- Basic Editing: Trim the awkward “uh, hang on” moments or add arrows and text to point stuff out.
- Engagement Tools: Let viewers leave comments or emoji reactions, so you know what’s landing.
- Integrations: Hook it up with Slack, Google Drive, or Microsoft Teams to keep your workflow tight.
If you need more, Loom’s Business plan is $12.50 a month and unlocks unlimited videos, longer recordings, and fancy stuff like 4K and AI tools. But honestly, the free plan is enough for most people starting out.
5. AI That Makes You Look Pro
Loom sprinkles in some AI magic that takes your videos to the next level without making you feel like you’re wrestling with complicated software. It can:
- Transcribe Your Video: Turns your words into text, great for accessibility or if someone wants to skim instead of watch.
- Add Captions: Supports over 50 languages, so your video can reach people worldwide.
- Zap Filler Words: Cuts out those “um” and “like” moments that make you cringe.
- Summarize Content: Creates a quick text summary of your video, which is a lifesaver for busy viewers.
- Reduce Background Noise: Keeps your audio crisp, even if your neighbor’s dog is going wild.
I used the transcription feature for a training video, and it saved me hours of manually typing out captions. This stuff makes Loom feel like a premium tool, even on the free plan.
6. Plays Nice with Your Tools
Loom hooks into over 100 apps you probably already use. Slack? Drop a video link in a channel. Google Docs? Embed a Loom video to explain your edits. Jira? Share a bug report with a quick screen capture. It also works with Microsoft Teams, Notion, Salesforce, and more. For my team, this means we’re not jumping between a million tools just record, share, and keep moving. If you’re in a big company, the Enterprise plan adds extra security and team management features, but the free plan’s integrations are plenty for most.
7. Keeps Your Videos Safe
Nobody wants their videos floating around for the wrong eyes to see. Loom stores everything in the cloud with solid security, and you can control who gets access. Make a video public, limit it to your team, or slap a password on it. For big organizations, the Enterprise plan adds single sign-on (SSO) and advanced permissions, but even the free plan feels secure for everyday use.
How to Use Loom: A Comprehensive Guide
Ready to give Loom a spin? Here’s a step-by-step on how to start recording, whether you’re on a screen recorder Windows 10, Windows 11, or using the Chrome screen recorder.
Step 1: Get Set Up
- Visit to www.loom.com and sign up with your email, Google account, or Apple ID. It takes like 30 seconds.
- Grab the desktop app for Windows 10, Windows 11, or Mac if you want the full experience. It’s lightweight and installs fast.
- Prefer no downloads? Add the Loom Chrome screen recorder extension from chrome web store.google.com.
- On the go? Download the mobile app from the App Store (iOS 15.0+) or Google Play (Android 8.0+).
Step 2: Pick Your Recording Setup
- Open Loom (app or extension).
- Choose what to record:
- Screen Only: Grab your whole screen, one window, or a specific area.
- Camera Only: Just your face, great for personal messages.
- Screen + Camera: Your screen with a little webcam bubble for that personal touch.
- Pick your audio: microphone for your voice, system audio for computer sounds (like a game or video), or both.
- Tweak settings like webcam size or where the bubble sits. You can even test your mic to avoid sounding like you’re underwater.
Step 3: Hit Record
- Click “Start Recording.” You’ll get a 3-second countdown to collect your thoughts.
- Do your thing explain a process, show off a design, or narrate a gameplay clip.
- Use Loom’s drawing tools to scribble or point at stuff while recording. It’s like having a laser pointer on your screen.
- Hit the red “Stop” button when you’re done.
Step 4: Edit and Enhance
- Loom uploads your video to the cloud and opens it in your browser or app.
- Trim out any awkward bits (like when I accidentally started singing off-key during a recording).
- Add text, arrows, or shapes to highlight key points.
- Use AI features to add captions or cut filler words. You can also swap out the thumbnail for something snappier.
- Preview to make sure it’s all good.
Step 5: Share and Track
- Grab the shareable link Loom auto-generates.
- Send it via Slack, email, or embed it on a website. I’ve even dropped Loom links into X posts for quick feedback.
- Set privacy: public, team-only, or password-protected.
- Check who’s watched your video and how long they stuck around with Loom’s analytics.
Loom on Windows 10 and Windows 11
If you’re rocking Windows 10 or Windows 11, Loom is a dream as a screen recorder Windows 10 or screen recorder Windows 11. Unlike the built-in Xbox Game Bar, which is mostly for gamers and lacks polish, Loom gives you pro-level features:
- Sharp Video: Free plan records in 720p, with 1080p or 4K if you upgrade.
- Flexible Recording: Capture your whole screen, one app, or a custom box.
- Webcam Bubble: Add your face for a personal vibe, movable anywhere on the screen.
- Pause and Rewind: Fix mistakes mid-recording (Chrome or paid plans).
- Instant Sharing: No waiting for uploads your link’s ready to go.
I used Loom on Windows 11 to record a demo for a client, and they were blown away by how clear and professional it looked compared to a clunky Game Bar clip. Just download the app from www.loom.com, sign in, and you’re off.
Loom Free Screen Recorder for Chrome: No Install Needed
Sometimes you don’t want to download anything, or you’re on a computer that’s not yours. That’s where the Loom Chrome screen recorder comes in clutch. It’s a free online screen recorder with a 4.6/5 rating from over 10,000 Chrome Web Store reviews. Here’s how to use it:
- Add the extension from chromewebstore.google.com.
- Pin it to your Chrome toolbar for quick access.
- Click the Loom icon, pick your recording settings, and go.
- Record, trim, and share right from your browser.
I’ve used the Chrome screen recorder on a library computer to send a quick feedback video, and it was seamless. It’s perfect for fast captures, though the desktop app is better for heavy editing or 4K.
How Loom Free Screen Recorder Stacks Up Against Other Free Screen Recorders
Let’s see how Loom holds up against other free screen recording software. I’ve tried a bunch, so here’s the real scoop.
1. Loom vs. Xbox Game Bar (Windows 10/11)
- Loom: 720p, webcam support, cloud sharing, and basic editing. Works on Windows, Mac, and Chrome.
- Xbox Game Bar: Built into Windows 10 and Windows 11, but no webcam, no editing, and no easy sharing. It’s fine for basic gameplay but feels bare-bones.
Winner: Loom, hands down, for its polish and versatility.
2. Loom vs. OBS Studio
- Loom: Dead simple, cloud-based, and great for quick sharing. 5-minute limit on free plan.
- OBS Studio: Free, open-source, and super powerful for streaming or long recordings. But it’s a beast to learn, and you’re stuck manually uploading files.
Winner: Loom for most users; OBS if you’re a streaming pro.
3. Loom vs. Screencastify
- Loom: Modern interface, AI tools, and tons of integrations. 5-minute cap on free plan.
- Screencastify: Another Chrome screen recorder, with a 30-minute limit and Google Classroom integration. Feels outdated and lacks Loom’s polish.
Winner: Loom for its sleek design and features.
4. Loom vs. ScreenRec
- Loom: Cross-platform, webcam support, and AI features. Limited to 25 videos.
- ScreenRec: No time limit, 1080p, and cloud storage, but Windows/Linux only and no webcam.
Winner: Loom for its all-around utility.
5. Loom vs. Vmaker
- Loom: AI captions, integrations, and a clean interface. 5-minute limit.
- Vmaker: No time limit, 4K on paid plans, but fewer features and integrations.
Winner: Loom for its collaboration tools and ease.
Where Loom Shines: Real-World Uses
Loom isn’t just a tool, it’s a Swiss Army knife for all sorts of scenarios. Here’s how it fits into different worlds:
1. Remote Work: Less Meetings, More Clarity
My team used to waste hours in meetings explaining the same processes. Now, we record Loom videos for project updates, feedback, or onboarding. I made a 3-minute video showing how to use our CRM, and it saved us dozens of “can you show me again?” emails. Share via Slack or Teams, and you’re golden.
2. Teaching and Training: Make Learning Stick
Teachers, listen up: Loom is your new best friend. Record lessons with your webcam to keep it personal, add captions for accessibility, and share with students on Google Classroom. I helped a friend create math tutorials, and her students loved the clear, bite-sized videos. It’s also great for employee training and new hires can watch at their own pace.
3. Customer Support: Solve Problems Faster
Customer support teams can record quick guides to fix issues, like “here’s how to reset your password.” I saw a support rep use Loom to walk a customer through a tricky setup, and the customer was thrilled. Analytics show who’s watching, so you know your video’s helping.
4. Content Creation: Stand Out Online
Content creators, Loom is a gem for tutorials, reviews, or quick social media clips. The Chrome screen recorder is perfect for fast YouTube drafts, while the desktop app lets you polish longer videos. I recorded a software demo for my blog, and it got way more engagement than text alone.
5. Sales and Marketing: Close Deals with Personality
Sales folks can send personalized Loom videos to prospects, showing off products with their face in the corner. A friend in sales used Loom to pitch a client, and they signed on because the video felt “human.” Embed in emails or LinkedIn messages for a pro touch.
6. Developers: Explain Code Clearly
Devs can record bug reports or code walkthroughs with Loom. I used it to show a teammate a UI glitch, circling the issue with the drawing tool. It’s faster than typing a Jira ticket, and integrations make it easy to share.
Tech Specs: What You Need to Run Loom
To avoid any hiccups, here’s what Loom needs:
- Desktop App:
- Windows: 10 (64-bit) or 11.
- Mac: macOS 10.15+.
- RAM: 4GB minimum, 8GB for smoother performance.
- Storage: Barely any, since videos live in the cloud.
- Mobile App:
- iOS 15.0+ or Android 8.0+.
- Chrome Extension:
- Works on Chrome, Edge, or any Chromium browser.
- Needs a decent internet connection (2 Mbps upload minimum, 5 Mbps for HD).
- Recording Quality:
- Free: 720p.
- Business: Up to 4K.
- Internet: Stable connection for cloud uploads.
I’ve run Loom on an old laptop with no issues, so it’s not a resource hog.
Pro Tips for Killer Loom Videos
Want your Loom videos to pop? Try these:
- Plan Ahead: Jot down a quick outline to stay on track, especially with the 5-minute free limit.
- Nail the Audio: Use a decent mic and turn on noise suppression. Nobody wants to hear your coffee machine.
- Draw Attention: Use Loom’s drawing tools to circle or highlight stuff it’s like pointing in real life.
- Make It Clickable: Add a custom thumbnail that screams “watch me.”
- Use CTAs: Drop a button at the end to send viewers to your site or form.
- Check Analytics: See who’s watching to tweak your next video.
What’s the Catch with Loom’s Free Plan?
No tool’s perfect, and Loom’s free plan has some limits:
- 25-Video Cap: You can only store 25 videos. Delete old ones or upgrade.
- 5-Minute Limit: Fine for quick hits, but long tutorials need the Business plan.
- 720p Only: Looks good, but 1080p/4K is paid.
- Basic Editing: You get trimming and annotations, but no fancy effects.
For most people, these aren’t dealbreakers. If they are, the Business plan ($12.50/month) or Enterprise (contact sales) fixes them.
Loom’s Pricing: What You Get
- Starter (Free): 25 videos, 5 minutes, 720p, basic editing, integrations.
- Business ($12.50/month): Unlimited videos, no time limit, 1080p/4K, AI tools, analytics. 14-day trial.
- Enterprise: SSO, advanced security, team features. Check www.loom.com for pricing.
Real Users, Real Wins
Here’s what folks are saying on www.loom.com:
- “Loom cut our training time in half. We send videos instead of scheduling calls.” – HR Lead, Tech Company.
- “My students love Loom videos. The captions make it easy for everyone to follow.” – High School Teacher.
- “I closed a deal with a Loom pitch. Clients say it feels personal.” – Sales Rep, SaaS Firm.
These stories show why Loom’s a hit across the board.
What’s Next for Loom?
Loom keeps getting better. Recent updates include slicker AI transcription, better mobile app features, and new integrations with tools like Zoom. As remote work and async communication grow, Loom’s poised to stay the best free screen recorder with more features on the way.
Want to explore ZoomInfo in detail? Check out our full overview, features, and pricing guide here.
Conclusion: Loom Free Screen Recorder
Loom isn’t just another free screen recorder, it’s a tool that makes your life easier, whether you’re collaborating, teaching, or creating content. Its dead-simple interface, instant sharing, and compatibility with Windows 10, Windows 11, and the Chrome screen recorder make it a no-brainer. Add in AI goodies and integrations, and it’s clear why Loom’s the best screen recording software out there.
Ready to give it a shot? Head to www.loom.com and start recording. Trust me, once you try Loom, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Loom free screen recorder
Q1. Is Loom really free to use?
Yes, Loom offers a free plan with up to 25 videos, 5-minute recordings, and 720p quality. Perfect for quick captures with the free screen recorder!
Q2. Can I use Loom on Windows 10 or 11?
Absolutely! Loom works seamlessly as a screen recorder Windows 10 and Windows 11, with a desktop app for both.
Q3. Does Loom have a Chrome extension?
Yup, the Loom Chrome screen recorder lets you record directly in your browser as a free online screen recorder.
Q4. What’s the video length limit on Loom’s free plan?
Free plan videos are capped at 5 minutes, ideal for short tutorials or updates using free screen recording software.
Q5.Can I edit videos with Loom?
Yes, Loom offers basic editing like trimming and annotations, plus AI tools like captions on the best screen recording software.Q6. How do I share Loom videos?
Stop recording, and Loom auto-generates a shareable link. Send it via email, Slack, or embed it anywhere with this free video recording software.