Screen Recording Tools Comparison Chart

Software/Tool Recommended Uses Best Features Concerns and Limitations Editing Capability Repurposing Video Content Cost

Kaltura Screen Recorder (Available in Blackboard My Media)

“Quick” recording projects that do not require extensive video editing, such as lecture captures.

Built right into Blackboard (Bb), so it is very fast to use.

Sensitive to poor wireless connections.

Must have current updates on computer.

Minimal editing features, can only remove ends of video to make clips.

Picture in picture video

Minimal, can take existing videos in My Media and create clips.

Free. It is included in Blackboard

Screencast-O-Matic (SOM)

(Free Version)

“Quick” recording projects that do not require extensive video editing, such as lecture captures.

Easy to use. Same interface controls as Kaltura screen recorder.

Save video file on computer then easily upload videos into Bb Kaltura My Media.

Less sensitive to poor wireless connections

Less sensitive to updates on computer

15 minute maximum

No editing features

Picture in picture video

Minimal, can create clips of video content once it is uploaded to Kaltura My Media.

Free. Use directly on website.

Screencast-O-Matic (SOM) (Pro version)

Recording projects that require editing features and titles, transitions, annotations etc..

Editing features that enhance video quality.

Ability to use software on computer offline.

Save video file on computer then easily upload videos into Bb Kaltura My Media.

Can download software to local computer for offline use, as well as use it web-based.

Working files saved in .som format, which can only be edited in SOM.

Intermediate level editing features: Titles, transitions, annotations, zoom, add caption files, can remove sections of video.

Picture in picture video

Can only bring in and edit video content created with SOM (.som file format).

$15/year subscription from SOM Website

Groups can get a shared pro license of 10 seats for $99/year

Camtasia Studio 8

Recording projects requiring maximum features and flexility.

Professional quality screen capture and video editing.

Extensive editing features, effects, titles, audio, animations, HTML5 player, captioning

Save video file on computer then easily upload videos into Bb Kaltura My Media.

It is fully featured video editing software, so it takes time to learn.

Extensive: Titles, transitions, animations, callouts, effects, zoom and pan, audio fine-tuning, green screen, quality fine-tuning, create and add captions, excellent file compression, html5 interactive video player

Can bring in and edit, incorporate and repurpose video content from any source on several file formats (.mp4, .mov, wmv, etc..)

~$175 one-time purchase Camtasia Website