Bandicam is a popular screen recording software that’s known for its user-friendliness and impressive video quality. However, its free version comes with a watermark, which can be distracting and unprofessional for many users.
If you’re looking to record videos without the watermark, you have several options. This article will explore the different methods, explain their advantages and disadvantages, and provide a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Understanding the Watermark
Before diving into the solutions, it’s essential to understand why Bandicam uses a watermark in the first place. It’s a simple business strategy: they offer a free version to attract users and entice them to upgrade to the paid version, which removes the watermark.
However, many users simply need a free screen recorder for occasional use, and the watermark can be a major annoyance. Fortunately, there are legitimate ways to use Bandicam without the watermark, without breaking any rules or resorting to illegal means.
Option 1: The Free Trial
Bandicam offers a free trial that allows you to use the software without the watermark for a limited time.
Here’s how it works:
- Download and Install: Download the Bandicam installer from the official website and install it on your computer.
- Launch the Trial: Run Bandicam and you’ll be presented with the free trial option.
- Enjoy Watermark-Free Recording: You can now record videos and take screenshots without the watermark for the duration of the trial period.
Advantages:
- No Payment Required: This is the most straightforward way to use Bandicam without a watermark, and it doesn’t require any financial commitment.
- Full Functionality: You have access to all of Bandicam’s features during the trial period.
Disadvantages:
- Limited Duration: The free trial is typically limited to a few days or weeks, depending on the specific trial offer.
- Trial Limitations: Some features, like extended recording time or custom watermark removal, might be restricted during the trial.
Option 2: The “Upgrade” Option:
If you find yourself constantly bumping against the limitations of the trial or need to use Bandicam regularly, you may want to consider the paid version. It offers a permanent solution to the watermark issue, along with additional features.
Key Features of the Paid Version:
- Watermark Removal: This is the primary benefit of purchasing the paid version. You’ll be able to record videos and capture screenshots without any watermark.
- Longer Recording Time: The free version often has a recording time limit. The paid version allows you to record for unlimited time.
- Enhanced Features: You’ll gain access to advanced features like hardware acceleration for smoother recording and the ability to record games with higher frame rates.
Pros:
- No More Watermark: This is the most obvious benefit, as you can finally record videos without any distractions.
- Unlimited Recording: Record for as long as you need, without worrying about any time limits.
- Access to All Features: Unleash the full potential of Bandicam with all the premium features unlocked.
Cons:
- Financial Investment: You need to purchase the paid version, which involves a one-time cost or a subscription fee, depending on the chosen plan.
- Potential for Alternative Options: If you need a screen recording tool only occasionally, the cost of the paid version might not be justifiable. There are other free and open-source screen recording options available, some of which may be a better fit for your specific needs.
Option 3: Free Alternatives to Bandicam
If you’re on a tight budget or only need a screen recorder occasionally, there are a number of free and open-source alternatives to Bandicam that offer excellent features without the watermark limitations.
Here are a few popular choices:
- OBS Studio: A free and open-source screen recorder that is widely used by streamers and content creators. It offers excellent video quality, extensive customization options, and a user-friendly interface.
- Camtasia: Camtasia is a powerful video editing software that also includes a free screen recorder. It offers a simple and intuitive user experience, as well as a wide range of editing tools.
- ShareX: This lightweight and versatile screen recorder and screenshot capture tool offers a variety of features, including watermark-free recording and uploading options.
Before deciding on a free alternative, consider these factors:
- Features: Ensure the free tool meets your recording needs, including resolution, audio quality, and recording time limits.
- Compatibility: Verify that the chosen software is compatible with your operating system and desired recording sources.
- User Interface: Opt for a user-friendly interface that you find easy to navigate and use.
Tips for Using Bandicam Effectively
Whether you choose the free trial, the paid version, or a free alternative, here are some tips for using Bandicam (or any screen recording software) effectively:
- Optimize Recording Settings: Adjust the resolution, frame rate, and audio settings based on your needs and the performance of your computer.
- Minimize System Resource Usage: Close unnecessary programs and applications to improve recording performance.
- Use a Dedicated Microphone: For clear audio, connect a microphone to your computer, ideally a dedicated microphone designed for recording.
- Utilize Editing Software: Once you have your recording, use video editing software to enhance your video, trim unwanted parts, add transitions, and add a personal touch.
Conclusion
Using Bandicam without a watermark is achievable, and the best option depends on your specific needs and budget. You can take advantage of the free trial, invest in the paid version, or explore the wide range of free alternatives available.
By understanding the different methods and following the tips provided, you can capture high-quality screen recordings without any distracting watermarks, allowing you to create professional-looking videos for educational purposes, presentations, gaming, or any other need.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I really use Bandicam without a watermark?
Yes, you can definitely use Bandicam without a watermark. Bandicam offers a free version, but it adds a watermark to your recordings. However, you can get rid of this watermark by purchasing a license for the full version. This gives you access to all of Bandicam’s features, including watermark-free recording, as well as other benefits like unlimited recording time and support for additional formats.
The paid version of Bandicam is a one-time purchase, so you only need to pay once to enjoy the benefits of watermark-free recording forever. The cost is relatively low compared to other screen recording software, making it an attractive option for users who need to create professional-looking videos without a watermark.
2. What are the different ways to remove the Bandicam watermark?
There are two main ways to remove the Bandicam watermark:
- Purchase a license: This is the most straightforward and reliable way to remove the watermark. By purchasing a license for the full version of Bandicam, you unlock all of its features, including watermark-free recording.
- Use a third-party watermark remover: You can find various watermark remover tools available online that can help you remove the Bandicam watermark after recording. However, using these tools can be less reliable and may not always produce optimal results. It’s important to choose a trustworthy tool and be cautious about potential risks associated with using third-party software.
3. Does using Bandicam’s free version with a watermark affect video quality?
No, using the free version of Bandicam with a watermark doesn’t affect the video quality. The watermark is simply a small image that is superimposed on the video, and it doesn’t impact the video’s resolution, frame rate, or other technical aspects.
So, if you’re only concerned about video quality and don’t mind the watermark, you can freely use the free version of Bandicam to record your screen. However, for a more professional look and to avoid distractions, purchasing the full version is a great option.
4. What are the benefits of using Bandicam’s full version?
Bandicam’s full version comes with several benefits, including:
- Watermark-free recording: You can record videos without any watermarks, making them suitable for professional use and distribution.
- Unlimited recording time: You can record videos for as long as you need, without any time restrictions.
- Support for additional formats: The full version allows you to export your videos in various formats, including MP4, AVI, and MKV, giving you more flexibility.
- Additional features: The full version offers various features that aren’t available in the free version, such as webcam recording, scheduling recordings, and using the mouse pointer highlighter.
5. Is it possible to remove the watermark after recording with the free version?
While there are some third-party watermark remover tools available, removing the Bandicam watermark after recording can be challenging and may not always produce satisfactory results.
It’s generally recommended to purchase the full version of Bandicam to avoid the watermark altogether, ensuring a clean and professional-looking video without any post-processing hassle.
6. Is there a trial version of Bandicam available?
No, Bandicam does not offer a trial version. However, it does offer a money-back guarantee if you purchase the full version and are not satisfied with it. This allows you to try the full version risk-free and request a refund if you don’t find it suitable for your needs.
This guarantee gives you peace of mind and ensures you can explore the full potential of Bandicam before committing to a purchase.
7. What are the best alternatives to Bandicam if I don’t want to pay for a license?
Several free screen recording software alternatives offer watermark-free recording without requiring a paid license. Some popular options include OBS Studio, Camtasia, and Screencast-O-Matic.
These programs are known for their user-friendliness, wide range of features, and compatibility with various platforms. However, it’s important to research and compare features to find the best alternative for your specific needs.