How To Screen Record Netflix – Updated Guide 2024

Netflix offers an ocean of content, spanning from cult classics to the latest blockbuster releases. Sometimes, though, you may want to screen record a portion of your favourite show, a memorable scene, or perhaps a personal movie review.

This might seem simple at first glance, but Netflix’s robust copyright protection measures can present some hurdles. From my experience, however, there are certain workarounds and solutions that make this process smoother and more efficient. So, how does one go about screen recording Netflix? 

Screen Recording Netflix: Unpacking the Process

As an expert, I recommend you familiarize yourself with the legalities involved before you begin. It might be worthwhile to consider that any form of screen recording that infringes copyright laws could result in penalties. A useful suggestion would be to only use these methods for personal use and never for distributing or selling recorded content.

Choosing the Right Screen Recording Tool

Different tools are available for screen recording Netflix content. Some of the most reliable and commonly used include OBS Studio, Camtasia, Bandicam, and Replay Video Capture.

These tools have robust functionality to capture on-screen content effectively, with minimal lag or quality loss.

Here are step-by-step instructions to use OBS Studio, one of the most popular and free-to-use tools:

1. Download and install OBS Studio from the official website.
2. Open OBS Studio and select ‘Sources’ at the bottom of the screen.
3. Click on the ‘+’ button and select ‘Display Capture’.
4. Choose the screen where your Netflix content is playing.
5. Adjust the capture area as necessary and hit ‘Start Recording’.
6. When done, click on ‘Stop Recording’. The video file will be saved in the designated folder.

Dealing with Black Screen Issues

If you’re experiencing a black screen during your attempts to record, there’s a simple reason. Netflix uses a digital rights management system (DRM) that prevents recording directly from the screen. Essentially, DRM ensures the screen turns black when you try to record.

One workaround is to use a secondary screen. I’d recommend using an HDMI cable to connect your device to an external screen. Record the playback from this secondary screen instead of the primary one, which should circumvent the black screen issue.

The Art of Screen Recording on an iPhone

While Android users can use apps like AZ Screen Recorder or Mobizen, iOS users might face additional challenges. The in-built iOS screen recording feature often results in a black screen when recording Netflix. A workaround might be to use a Mac along with the QuickTime player to record the screen of your iPhone. Here’s how:

1. Connect your iPhone to your Mac using a lightning cable.
2. Open QuickTime Player and select ‘File’ > ‘New Movie Recording’.
3. Click the arrow next to the record button and select your iPhone as the camera source.
4. Play the Netflix show on your iPhone and click the record button in QuickTime.

Additional Tips and Alternatives

Now that we’ve covered the basics, I believe it’s essential to share a few more tips and alternatives that can enhance your screen recording experience.

• Try a VPN: If you’re facing persistent issues while recording, a VPN could be a solution. Some experts suggest that using a VPN can sometimes bypass the DRM system of Netflix. However, remember to use reliable and legal VPN services.
• Using PlayOn: PlayOn is a robust streaming video recorder that can be used as an alternative. It’s a legitimate tool that allows users to record and download Netflix videos, which can then be watched offline on any device.
• High-Quality Recording: For a higher quality recording, ensure your device’s system sound is turned on, and the microphone is turned off to prevent ambient noise. You might also want to adjust the frame rate and bit rate to your preference before you start recording.
• Consider Hardware solutions: If software solutions aren’t doing the trick, you might want to explore hardware solutions like a capture card. These devices can record the video output from your computer, bypassing DRM protections.

Remember, no matter what tool or workaround you use, the critical aspect is to respect copyright laws and the intellectual property of others. Always use recordings for personal use and refrain from distributing or selling them.

Conclusion

While recording Netflix content might seem tricky due to various restrictions, the right tools and techniques can certainly make it possible. Remember, it’s essential to respect the copyright rules and use these methods responsibly. Happy recording!

FAQ

How does Netflix block screen recording?

Netflix uses a Digital Rights Management (DRM) system that prevents users from recording directly from the screen. This DRM system can detect when screen recording tools are used and it responds by making the screen go black.

Why is the screen black when I screen record Netflix?

The black screen issue arises due to Netflix’s DRM system. When a screen recording tool is detected, the DRM system intervenes and turns the screen black to prevent the recording.

What app lets you screen record Netflix?

There are several apps that can screen record Netflix, such as OBS Studio, Bandicam, Camtasia, and Replay Video Capture. However, remember that the black screen issue might still occur due to Netflix’s DRM system.

How do I record my screen on Netflix on my iPhone?

The built-in iOS screen recording feature usually results in a black screen when trying to record Netflix. A workaround is to use a Mac and QuickTime Player. Connect your iPhone to your Mac, open QuickTime Player, select ‘File’ > ‘New Movie Recording’, and choose your iPhone as the camera source.