Can a Laptop Record a Video in Sleep Mode? [Guide]

You’re here because, of course, you’re also one of those who were wondering if a laptop can continue recording even when it’s in sleep mode. Whatever reason you may have, whether you want to record your screen or just want to test it out of curiosity, then, let’s find out.

In this article, we’ll answer that question clearly, explain what happens during sleep mode, and show you three effective ways to work around this limitation. Let’s not make this any longer. Continue reading!

Part 1. Can a Computer Record in Sleep Mode?

Unfortunately, no. A computer can't record in sleep mode because when it goes to sleep, it stops most of its activities to save power, and that includes running apps, recording tools, or background processes.

Basically, it pauses everything. If you want to record your screen in sleep mode, you'll need to prevent it from going to sleep by adjusting the power settings. You can do this by going to your computer's power options and setting it to never sleep while plugged in or running on battery, depending on your setup. This way, your screen can turn off if you want, but the system itself stays awake and keeps recording.

Part 2. How Can I Record My Screen in Sleep Mode

In this section, learn 3 screen recorder tools that can help you record your laptop in sleep mode. Not exactly in sleep mode, but rather by preventing your computer from sleeping while keeping the screen off or idle. These tools work effectively in the background and allow you to continue capturing your screen activity for long periods without interruption.

FVC Screen Recorder

FVC Screen Recorder is a reliable and user-friendly tool that lets you record your screen in various ways, which is especially useful when you want to record your screen in sleep mode. With this tool, users can record their full screen, an area of their screen, or a fixed region or active window, allowing them to be flexible in how they record their screen based on their needs. Also, this screen recorder allows voice recording and screen capturing. Lastly, this tool offers a wide range of output formats that can be chosen once the screen recording is done and is ready to be saved.

To record your screen using the FVC Screen Recorder, follow the steps below:

Step 1. Download and install the FVC Screen Recorder on your computer. It is available for Windows and macOS.

Step 2. After that, launch the tool and choose Video Recorder in the menu on the right side of your screen. After that, click the REC button to start recording your screen. You can choose the size or method of recording your screen. Once you’re done, just click the stop button.

Step 3. Now, you have options to edit the video. Once you’re satisfied, click the Import button to save your recorded video.

With FVC Screen Recorder, it is guaranteed that your recorded screen is saved in high quality. Moreover, using this tool to record your screen in sleep mode is one of the best methods because it works seamlessly when paired with settings that prevent your computer from sleeping. By keeping your system awake and the screen turned off, FVC Screen Recorder can continue capturing everything without interruption.

OBS Studio

OBS Studio is a free and open-source screen recording and live streaming tool widely used by gamers, content creators, and professionals. It allows users to record their entire screen, specific windows, or custom areas, with advanced features like audio mixing, multiple source recording, scene transitions, and customizable settings for video quality and formats.

However, just like any recording software, OBS cannot operate while the computer is in actual sleep mode, because the system suspends all processes to save power. Despite this, this screen recorder tool has the ability to screen record in sleep mode when you adjust your computer’s settings to stay awake while the screen turns off.

Step 1. First, you need to download and install OBS Studio on your computer.

Step 2. Next, after installation, launch the tool, and once it is opened, click the + at the bottom left of the Sources box. From there, a menu option will appear, click the Display Capture, and in the pop-up window, create your title and click OK.

Step 3. Now, choose your capture method. Once you have selected your preferred method, just click OK.

Step 4. Once you’re settled, customizing your settings, click the Start Recording button on the OBS Studio record screen.

Note: While OBS can’t record your screen in sleep mode, you can still use it for long recordings by adjusting your power settings to keep the computer awake. Let the display turn off to save energy, but ensure the system stays active to allow OBS to keep recording in the background.

EaseUS RecExperts

The last screen recorder tool that you can use is EaseUS RecExperts. This tool is simple, flexible, and packed with features for recording your screen, audio, webcam, or even gameplay. What makes it more useful for recording while you're away is its smart Record Silently mode. This lets you start recording, then lock your screen, and the tool will keep recording in the background without stopping. While it can’t record your screen in sleep mode, it’s a great option if you want to leave your computer idle and still capture everything smoothly.

Step 1. First, you need to install and download EaseUS RecExpert on your computer. After that, launch the tool and choose your capture method.

Step 2. After that, on the System Sound, click on it and choose Record silently among the options.

Step 3. Once settled, click the REC button to start recording, and if you want to pause it, just click the Stop button.

EaseUS RecExperts is a simple yet powerful screen recorder. Its Record Silently mode is especially useful if you need to record while your screen is locked. Just make sure your computer doesn’t go into sleep mode, and it will continue recording smoothly in the background. It’s a great choice for long or unattended recordings.

Part 3. FAQs about Recording Screen in Sleep Mode

Conclusion

Recording your screen in sleep mode isn’t possible, but there’s a simple workaround. Just stop your computer from sleeping and let the screen turn off instead. With tools like FVC Screen Recorder, OBS Studio, or EaseUS RecExperts, you can still record everything smoothly even while you’re away. Easy setup, non-stop recording!