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Linux · Sound & Video

ScreenGrab

ScreenGrab is a lightweight desktop screen recording tool for Linux with simple controls and basic editing features.

Open sourceFree
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License
GPL-3.0
Latest version
3.2.0

What is ScreenGrab?

ScreenGrab is a Qt-based screen recording application originally developed as part of the KDE ecosystem. It has evolved into a cross-desktop tool available on major Linux distributions, offering straightforward screen capture and recording functionality. While not as feature-rich as professional tools, it’s stable and well-integrated in many default Linux setups.

It's best suited for users who need quick recordings—like tutorials, bug demonstrations, or simple video clips—without complex setups. Beginners and casual users appreciate its simplicity, especially those transitioning from basic Windows tools like Game Bar. It doesn’t target streamers or advanced editors, but fills the gap for no-fuss recording.

Compared to OBS Studio with Game Bar, ScreenGrab feels more limited but also more immediate. There’s no scene composition or audio mixing, but startup and recording are fast. If you’re used to Game Bar’s minimal interface, ScreenGrab will feel familiar—though less customizable and not designed for long or multi-source sessions.

Best for: Users who want a simple, no-setup screen recorder for quick clips and basic editing.

Key features of ScreenGrab

  • Full-screen, region, or window-specific recording
  • Basic video editing (trimming, merging clips)
  • Audio capture from microphone and system sound
  • Timer-based start (3s, 5s, 10s delays)
  • Lightweight interface with system tray integration
  • Supports MP4 and WebM output formats
  • Keyboard shortcut customization
  • KDE and GNOME desktop compatibility

Pros

  • Simple, intuitive interface—great for beginners
  • Light on system resources
  • Pre-installed or easily available in most distros
  • Decent audio-video sync for short clips
  • No setup needed for basic use

Cons

  • No live preview or scene composition
  • Lacks advanced features like filters or streaming
  • Editing tools are minimal compared to dedicated apps
  • Not suitable for multi-track recording or professional work

Windows programs ScreenGrab replaces

How to install ScreenGrab on Linux

Ubuntu / Mintsudo apt install screengrab
Debiansudo apt install screengrab
Fedorasudo dnf install screengrab
Arch / Manjarosudo pacman -S screengrab
openSUSEsudo zypper install screengrab

Tips for Windows users

If you're used to Windows Game Bar, ScreenGrab offers similar one-click recording but with fewer options. Recordings save as MP4 or WebM by default—check your preferred format in settings. Keyboard shortcuts are customizable but not always consistent across desktops. Unlike Game Bar, there's no background service, so launch ScreenGrab before you need it. Workflow is linear: record, stop, edit, export—no real-time preview or overlay tools.

ScreenGrab: frequently asked questions

Can ScreenGrab record audio and video at the same time?

Yes, ScreenGrab can capture system audio and microphone input simultaneously, provided your system’s audio sources are correctly configured in PulseAudio or PipeWire.

Where are ScreenGrab recordings saved by default?

Recordings are typically saved in the Videos folder in your home directory, but you can change the default path in the settings menu before starting a capture.

Does ScreenGrab support recording specific windows only?

Yes, you can select a specific window or region to record. The interface allows you to choose between full screen, a defined area, or an active window.

Is ScreenGrab available on non-KDE desktops like GNOME or XFCE?

Yes, ScreenGrab runs on GNOME, XFCE, and other desktop environments. It’s packaged for major distributions and doesn’t require KDE to function.

Updated