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How to Enable and Use Xbox Game Bar on Windows 10 and 11

Enable Xbox Game Bar, open its overlay, record gameplay with audio controls, and take screenshots on Windows 10 and 11.
Length2 min Posted Quest giverVGSources Team

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To enable Xbox Game Bar, open Windows Settings, search for “Xbox” or “Game Bar,” and turn the feature on. Press Windows key+G to open it. You can start a recording with Windows key+Alt+R, toggle the microphone with Windows key+Alt+M, and take a screenshot with Windows key+Alt+Print Screen.

How to enable Xbox Game Bar

  1. Press Windows key+I to open Settings.

  2. Search Settings for “Xbox” or “Game Bar,” then open the matching setting and enable Xbox Game Bar. The exact result name or route can vary between Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Microsoft documents this process for both Windows versions in its Xbox Game Bar recording guide.

How to open Game Bar

Press Windows key+G while using Windows to open the Game Bar overlay. Microsoft lists this shortcut in its Windows keyboard shortcuts. Press the same keys again to hide the controls.

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XBOX Wireless Gaming Controller | Shock Blue
  • MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
  • PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
  • SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
  • VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
  • BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.

How to record a game or app

Choose audio before recording

If you want system or game sound in the clip, open Game Bar settings and check the options under Capturing. Microsoft’s screen-reader instructions describe an “All” audio choice for including computer sounds. Review the available options on your PC, since labels and availability may vary.

Start and control a recording

  1. Bring the game or app you want to capture into focus.

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    Xbox Wireless Gaming Controller | Deep Pink
    • MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
    • PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
    • SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
    • VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
    • BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
  2. Press Windows key+Alt+R to start recording.

  3. During recording, press Windows key+Alt+M to toggle microphone capture on or off.

These are Microsoft-documented shortcuts for Windows 10 and Windows 11. The guide does not establish that every game, app, device, Windows edition, or managed PC supports every capture option.

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Xbox Wireless Gaming Controller | Electric Volt
  • MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
  • PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
  • SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
  • VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
  • BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.

How to take a screenshot and find it

Press Windows key+Alt+Print Screen to capture a screenshot. Microsoft says the image is saved as a PNG in the Captures folder. If you cannot find it, look for the Captures folder associated with your Windows videos or capture location.

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If Game Bar does not open or capture

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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