Record Your Desktop Screen Using Chrome Extension "SnagIt"

This post can be useful for IT peoples. Specially for those who work on web-based applications using web browser or on some web testing. Many time while testing any web-based application or during web testing, we come across some defect for which we need to record it. This can used as proof or you can say a backup for explaining the defect if necessary. Many times client asks for such video to get better understanding of the defect.

There are many tools available on the internet using which you can record whatever you want. All you have to do is to download the software then run it when needed. But this is something very common and may sometimes takes more time. Also you have chances of installing spyware or ad-ware using this applications. Recently i came across an Chrome extension, SagIt. SnagIt is popular screen capture app for Google Chrome, now includes support for recording screencasts as well. It can record the video as the background audio and your screencasts can be uploaded to YouTube or Google Drive with a click.

Installing it is very simple. Follow the steps below to install this extension

1. Install the SnagIt extension by clicking here.

2. You will see the SnagIt symbol next to your address bar.

3. Now open the blank page in your chrome browser and type; "chrome://flags" and press enter.

4. You will see the list of features that runs on your browser. Search (Cntrl+F) for "Enable Screen Capture Support in getUserMedia()" and Enable this feature.

5. Once Enabled, restart your browser.

6. Now open the SnagIt app from the Chrome launcher, click the Settings gear icon and turn on the option “Enable Experimental Features.” You are now all set to record your first screen video, including audio, with Chrome.
Note: Chrome Launcher allows you to launch your favorite apps right from the desktop. If you dont have it, install it by clicking here.

SnagIt is using WebRTC to record the screencast. When you hit the record button, it starts a private screen sharing session, with no other participants, and all your on-screen activity during the session is saved as .AVI video.

Developers says that its a experimental version, so you might find some limited features. Like, you wont be able to record particular area or a particular. It will record the whole webpage. There’s no option to save the recorded video to the desktop (at least on the Mac version).

The features will soon be updated and you will be able to use it the way you want. But still if you feel that it does not satisfy your needs, you can use Screencastify extension for recording. This extension allows you to record particular tab or gives you an option to record the whole screen.

Cheers!!!