9 Best Online Video Recorders for Any Budget (2024)

Video content is a powerful tool for sharing your ideas or for marketing a business online, but how can you get started with ease in a user-friendly, budget-conscious way?

Using high-quality online video recorders and production software, you can take control of your content strategy and start creating excellent video content. By choosing the right software solution, you can quickly learn the ropes and produce rich, engaging videos you can be proud of. 

Wondering where to get started when it comes to selecting the right online video recording tool? Read on to discover our top tips and recommendations!

Can you record video online?

Thanks to new technological innovations, it is possible to produce high-quality video content online!

Many video recorders and production tools offer app-based systems, while many more also provide web-based software.

With a little research and even a basic understanding of what it takes to create great videos, you can use online video production tools and resources to craft better content than ever before. 

Why should you use an online video recorder?

There are many benefits to using an online video recorder. These budget-friendly systems are designed to support easy usability, regardless of how experienced you are in video production. 

Working online, you can make the most of automatic saving, remote recording, and native publishing and sharing tools that make it easy to get your content in front of larger audiences. 

Another advantage of online video recording is that it allows you to access advanced tools and features that will enhance your content quality, all without needing to download software for your advice.

What to consider when choosing the best online video recorder

When selecting an online video recorder, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure that you’re making the right choice to accommodate your video production goals and needs. 

Software compatibility

First, you need to consider the compatibility of your chosen recording tool with the device and equipment you are using. Some online video recorders are better suited to a PC or Mac, while others might be designed for mobile use. Choosing a program that aligns with your equipment can help you get the best possible value.

Video quality

Next, it’s a good idea to think about video quality results. Some video recorders offer only grainy or pixelated video quality, while others can produce high-definition or even 4K-resolution content. The better quality you can achieve with your final video, the more professional your content will appear.

Editing tools

Editing tools are essential if you want to produce great video content! Some online video recording tools may include on-built editing features. Others may not. If you’re looking to perform quick edits, then it’s a good idea to look for a program that allows for native editing functionality.

Sharing and distribution

Once your video is complete, you’ll be ready to share it with an audience, so it’s worth planning this ahead of time. When possible, it’s best to choose a video recorder that can allow for simple saving or sharing, allowing you to reach viewers more easily.

Program cost

Last but not least, cost is an important factor to consider. While some online video recorders may be available for free, others may incur a subscription cost. Good software is a worthwhile investment, but you need to ensure that your investment aligns with your available budget.

9 best online video recorders for 2024 (free & paid)

If you’re keen to get started with online video recording, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve created a list of the top 9 online video recorders you can try today!

1. Riverside

Price: Free plan, or paid plans starting from $15

Riverside offers studio-quality video recording and production tools that make it easy to create high-end content with remote guests. Using Riverside, you can access advanced editing tools and multi-track audio files that enable you to create the ultimate video experience. 

Pros:

• Excellent quality with up to 4K video resolution and 48kHZ audio
• Local recording so files are captured directly on your device to ensure high-quality resolution regardless of internet connection 
• User-friendly interface to support all video production skill levels
• Cloud storage with automatic uploading for extra file security
• Text-based video and audio editor for quick professional editing as easily as editing a transcript
• Mobile app for easy recording when you’re on the go
• Remote recording with up to 10 participants in each session
• Separate audio and video tracks for each participant to give you more editing control
• Magic Clips feature to transform your long-form recordings into short shareable videos at the tap of a button
• Media board to add in sound effects live
• Live streaming capabilities across major video-sharing platforms

Cons:

• Editing is not available with the mobile app
• Select features are only available with a paid plan

2. Movavi Webcam Recorder

Price: Free

The Movavi Webcam Recorder offers easy-to-use, beginner-friendly features that allow users to capt ure video and audio content using their device’s in-built webcam and microphone. Movavi runs on all major internet browsers, making it a great choice for diverse applications.

Pros:

• Exports completed videos as MP4 files
• Various recording options for versatility
• Relies on in-built camera and mic, eliminating the need for costly equipment 

Cons:

• Final videos include a watermark
• Editing features are limited

3. Clipchamp

Price: Free plan, or paid plans starting from $9 / month

Clipchamp is designed to support unlimited no-download video production, offering 480p quality. The program is fast-working and secure, and it includes a range of visual and sound effects alongside simple, intuitive editing tools. This means you can easily create content as you wish to see it.

Pros:

• Fully customizable video templates
• Simple editing and special effects tools
• Includes an in-built video stock library

Cons:

• Videos are only 480p with the free plan
• Beginner-focused software may not suit professional recording needs

4. Loom

Price: Free plan, or paid plans starting from $8 / month

Loom is a simple online video recording solution, offering both camera and screen recording functionality. The program supports a variety of operating systems and is designed to include user-friendly features that make it suitable for a range of tasks. It’s best suited for presentations, meetings, and tutorials. 

Pros:

• In-built communication and collaborative production tools
• Drawing, commenting, and design features included
• Native audience insights and other marketing resources

Cons:

• For new creators, Loom’s system might be a learning curve
• The program works best on Chrome, so users may need to download a new browser

5. Wondershare

Price: Starting from $3.83 / month 

Wondershare is built for Chrome, offering easy video recording and sharing functions. This program incorporates basic editing tools and recording management structures that make it easier to stay in control of your video content strategy.

Pros:

• Lightweight editing tools designed for beginners
• Integration with Google Drive, Gmail, YouTube, and more
• Multi-platform sharing capabilities for better distribution

Cons:

• The program may not work smoothly on browsers other than Chrome
• Editing tools are restricted to basic functions

6. Droplr

Price: Starting from $6 / month

Droplr is a dedicated online screen recording tool, making it a great solution for presentations and similar video styles. This software accommodates video annotations, native video editing, and easy content sharing. This means that reaching audiences is fast and simple.

Pros:

• Advanced screen capture and recording tools available
• Easy Cloud storage and link-based video sharing
• In-built markups, annotations, and other editing options

Cons:

• The platform is not suitable for videos that don’t include screen recording
• More advanced video creators may require additional editing capabilities

7. Screencastify

Price: Free plan, or paid plans starting from $49 / year

Screencastify features a simple, user-friendly interface and offers basic recording and editing tools for professional contexts. This program supports webcasting and interactivity, as well as incorporating native editing options and capabilities.

Pros:

• User-friendly design suitable for video production novices
• Interactive questions and other unique video features
• Native video sharing/publishing options available 

Cons:

• Tools may not be well suited to marketing or entertainment videos
• Advanced video producers may need to use additional tools

8. Camtasia

Price: Starting from $299.99 

Camtasia is an all-in-one video recording software program, designed to support novice and experienced creators alike. The system includes a variety of templates and presets, as well many royalty-free assets and in-built editing and design tools.

Pros:

• Audio and video import options available for recordings
• Wide range of editing tools and special features available
• Stock assets and simple presets to support easier production processes

Cons:

• The program may take time for beginners to get used to
• Software requires a steep initial investment

9. Webcamera

Price: Free plan, or paid plans starting from $5 / month

Webcamera is a secure online video recording tool with great user-friendly features. The program includes a range of effects and basic editing functionalities, all while operating on a secure web-based interface.

Pros:

• 100 percent online recording with flexible settings 
• Great options available with a free plan
• Recording options for both long- and short-form content

Cons:

• Video quality is lower than quality provided by some other recording tools
• The simple interface may be too basic for some advanced users

Best overall online video recorder

When it comes to selecting an online video recorder, what’s most important is that you make the right choice to suit your needs. All of the listed video recording tools have great benefits and are likely to suit different production goals and skill levels. 

However, if you’re looking for the best professional video results, we recommend trying Riverside, where you can count on studio-quality content every time you record.

For high-quality videos, start recording on Riverside today.

Best free online video recorder

Many of the best online video recording tools include free options! This means that you can make the most of basic features and discover which program you like best before you commit to purchasing a paid subscription. For example, Riverside has a free plan, for those who aren’t ready to commit to a paid plan yet.  Alternatively, you can use Movavi, which is completely free for all features.

Best online video recorder for podcasting

For podcasters, Riverside is the best online video recorder tool. Riverside is designed with premium podcasting features that make it possible to capture excellent-quality audio and video. Plus, you can create separate audio tracks for up to 10 local or remote call participants!

Best online video recorder with backgrounds

Often, the best video recorder programs don't include artificial background options. However, with some recording software solutions, you may be able to download a compatible extension, such as ManyCam. 

FAQs on the best online video recorders

Still have questions about recording videos online? Here are our answers to a few FAQS!

Which recorder do YouTubers use?

YouTubers use a range of video recording platforms. Some YouTubers may use app-based systems or external equipment. Others may rely on Riverside or another online video recording tool. 

How can I record online for free?

Recording video content for free is easy! All you need is a great web-based recording tool that offers useful features under a free plan. Many of the platforms included in this blog post do just that!

How do I record a professional video on YouTube?

If you want to create professional-quality YouTube videos, you need a professional setup. Select a high-quality recording tool with great video resolution, and make the most of editing software to produce a smooth viewing experience for your audience.

Are you ready to take the leap and start producing video content using online recording tools? Sign up for Riverside today, and create studio-quality videos with ease.