How to Record Zoom Meetings
Local recording, cloud recording, and AI alternatives — everything you need to know.
Quick answer: Click the Record button in Zoom's toolbar. Choose local (free, saves to your computer) or cloud (paid plans only). For automatic notes without recording, use Convo.
Two built-in recording options
Local Recording
Saves to your computer. Free for all users.
Cloud Recording
Saves to Zoom's servers. Requires paid plan.
Step-by-step: Record locally (free)
Start or join your meeting
Open the Zoom desktop app and begin your meeting.
Click the Record button
Find it in the toolbar at the bottom of your screen.
Select "Record on this Computer"
Recording starts immediately. You'll see a red indicator.
Stop when finished
Click Stop Recording or end the meeting. Zoom converts the file automatically.
Limitations of Zoom recording
- • Cloud requires paid subscription
- • Everyone sees "Recording" notification
- • Large files consume storage
- • No automatic meeting notes
- • Must rewatch to find key moments
Better alternative
Convo captures transcripts, summaries, and action items automatically — no recording needed. Works invisibly without bots.
See how it worksFAQ
Related guides
Skip the recording. Get the notes.
Convo captures everything automatically — no video files to manage.
Download for MacSources & References
- Zoom Help Center - Local Recording
- Zoom Help Center - Cloud Recording