How to record a Zoom meeting (local and cloud)
Click Record in the meeting controls and choose Record on this Computer or Record to the Cloud (cloud recording needs a paid account). Click Stop Recording or end the meeting to finish.
Local recordings are converted to MP4 when the meeting ends and saved in your Documents > Zoom folder. If you're not the host, ask the host to give you permission to record.
Applies to Zoom Workplace on Windows and Mac and the Zoom mobile apps. Always tell participants before recording - Zoom shows a recording notice, and some places legally require consent.
Record a meeting
On your computer (local recording)
- Start or join the meeting.
- Click Record (or More > Record).
- Choose Record on this Computer. A Recording... label appears at the top.
- Use Pause or Stop as needed.
- After the meeting ends, wait while Zoom converts the file; the folder opens automatically.
To the cloud (paid plans)
- Click Record > Record to the Cloud.
- Stop when you're done or end the meeting.
- You'll get an email when the recording is ready; find it at zoom.us > Recordings (or in the Zoom web portal).
iPhone and Android
- Tap More (...).
- Tap Record to the Cloud - mobile apps can't record locally.
- Tap More > Stop or Pause to finish.
Can't see the Record button?
- You're a participant: the host must allow it. Host: click Participants, hover over your name > More > Allow Record.
- Local recording is disabled: in the web portal go to Settings > Recording and turn on Local recording.
- Free account on mobile: cloud recording isn't included in the free plan.
Where are Zoom recordings saved?
| Type | Location |
|---|---|
| Local, Windows | C:\Users\[you]\Documents\Zoom |
| Local, Mac | /Users/[you]/Documents/Zoom |
| Cloud | zoom.us > Recordings > Cloud recordings |
Change the folder in Settings > Recording > Store my recording at.
Recording didn't convert
If Zoom closed before conversion finished, open the meeting's folder and double-click the double_click_to_convert file, or in the Zoom app go to Meetings > Recorded and choose Convert.
Frequently asked questions
Does Zoom notify people when you record?
Yes. Participants see a recording indicator and a notice; you can't hide it.
How long can I record?
Local recording is limited by disk space. Cloud recording is limited by your plan's storage.
Can I record only my own screen without a meeting?
Start a meeting by yourself, share your screen and record locally - or use the Windows Snipping Tool or Mac Screenshot app to record the screen.