To stop screen recording on Windows 10, particularly when using the built-in Xbox Game Bar, the quickest method is to press the Windows key + Alt + R keyboard shortcut again, or click the Stop button on the Game Bar's recording widget. Once stopped, you'll receive an alert confirming that your "Game clip recorded."
Stopping Screen Recording with Xbox Game Bar
Windows 10 includes a native screen recording feature, primarily through the Xbox Game Bar, which is designed for recording gameplay but can capture most application windows.
Using the Keyboard Shortcut (Win + Alt + R)
The most efficient way to end a recording session initiated with the Xbox Game Bar is to use the same shortcut you used to start it:
- Simply press Windows key + Alt + R once more.
- This action acts as a toggle, stopping the active recording immediately.
Stopping via the Game Bar Widget
If the Game Bar's recording widget is visible on your screen, you can also stop the recording directly:
- Look for the small, floating recording widget, which typically shows the recording time.
- On this widget, you will find a prominent Stop button (often represented by a square icon).
- Clicking this button will cease the recording.
What Happens After You Stop Recording?
Once you stop the recording using either method:
- You will see a notification pop up, typically stating: "Game clip recorded."
- This confirms that your footage has been successfully saved.
- The notification usually includes an option to "Show all captures" or open the folder where the recording is saved.
Locating Your Recordings
All recordings made with the Xbox Game Bar are automatically saved to a specific folder on your PC.
- Navigate to
This PC>Videos>Captures. - Alternatively, you can open the Xbox Game Bar (
Windows key + G), go to the "Capture" widget, and click "See my captures" to view and manage your recorded clips.
Table of Stopping Methods
Here's a quick summary of how to stop your screen recording:
| Method | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Keyboard Shortcut | Press Windows key + Alt + R |
Quick and efficient, works even if the Game Bar widget isn't prominent. |
| Game Bar Widget | Click the Stop button (square icon) on the recording timer widget | Requires the Game Bar overlay or widget to be visible. |
Other Screen Recording Options on Windows 10
While the Xbox Game Bar is built-in, many users opt for third-party screen recording software for more advanced features, such as:
- Recording the entire desktop (not just specific windows).
- More robust editing tools.
- Different output formats and quality settings.
If you are using a third-party application (e.g., OBS Studio, ShareX, Bandicam), the method for stopping the recording will depend on that specific software, typically involving a dedicated stop button within its interface or a custom hotkey set by the user.
