SimpleScreenRecorder as a Linux alternative to OBS Studio Game Capture
Updated
Our verdict
SimpleScreenRecorder is a good replacement for OBS Studio Game Capture if you prioritize straightforward screen recording with minimal setup and don’t need live streaming or advanced scene composition. It’s ideal for users who want to capture desktop activity, games, or specific windows reliably without the complexity of a full studio suite. While it lacks OBS’s flexibility in overlays, multiple sources, and streaming, its lightweight design and live preview make it suitable for basic recording tasks on modest hardware. Not recommended if you stream or use multiple audio/video sources.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 0.4.4
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both record full screen, specific windows, or custom regions
- Support audio capture from PulseAudio and microphone
- Offer hardware-accelerated encoding for better performance
- Save recordings in common formats like MP4, MKV, and AVI
- Allow configurable frame rates and quality settings
What is different
- SimpleScreenRecorder does not support live streaming
- No support for multiple sources or scene switching like OBS
- Lacks filters, chroma key, or audio mixing features
- No plugin system or browser source integration
- Pause/resume is available, but fewer in-app editing tools
Opening your OBS Studio Game Capture files
SimpleScreenRecorder saves in standard formats like MP4, MKV, and AVI, which are playable in the same tools that handle OBS output. However, project files or scene configurations from OBS Studio cannot be imported, as SimpleScreenRecorder does not use a project-based system. You can't open OBS .json profiles or scene collections. Both produce compatible video files, but settings and layouts aren't transferable.
Switching from OBS Studio Game Capture to SimpleScreenRecorder, step by step
- Install SimpleScreenRecorder via your distro’s package manager (e.g., apt or zypper)
- Launch the app and select recording area: full screen, window, or custom region
- Configure audio input sources under the Audio tab using PulseAudio
- Choose output format and location, then set video quality and frame rate
- Use the live preview to adjust settings before starting the recording
Key features of SimpleScreenRecorder
- Record full screen, window or custom area
- Live preview while recording
- Audio capture from PulseAudio and microphone
- Multiple output formats (MP4, MKV, AVI)
- Hardware‑accelerated encoding support
- Pause/resume during recording
- Command‑line interface for scripting
- Configurable frame rate and quality presets
How to install SimpleScreenRecorder on Linux
sudo apt install simplescreenrecordersudo apt install simplescreenrecordersudo zypper install simplescreenrecorderFrequently asked questions
Can SimpleScreenRecorder capture fullscreen games smoothly?
Yes, it can capture fullscreen games using OpenGL, but performance depends on your GPU and whether hardware encoding is enabled. Some games may require compatibility settings.
Does it support recording with a webcam overlay?
No, SimpleScreenRecorder does not support picture-in-picture or webcam overlays. It records only the screen and audio sources, not multiple video inputs.
Can I automate recordings with SimpleScreenRecorder?
Yes, it includes a command-line interface, allowing you to script recordings with predefined settings for unattended use.
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