6 of the Best Free Linux Screencasting Software

A screencast is a digital recording of computer screen output, typically carrying audio narration. Screencasting software takes a series of screenshots of a running application, recording the user's actions, and creating a video file. The movies can be output in a variety of different formats such as Theora, Macromedia Flash (SWF), AVI, and Flash Video (FLV). This type of software was brought into prominence by the commercial Windows application Lotus ScreenCam in 1994.

Screencasts have a wide variety of uses. This type of software is also often deployed to describe software projects, report bugs, and for evaluating technical skills.

As broadband has become mainstream and video-sharing websites are ten a penny, this has encouraged the development of a wide selection of free and open source screencasting tools. YouTube is full of recordMyDesktop screencasts showing all different kinds of captures.

To provide an insight into the quality of software that is available, we have compiled a list of 6 slick Linux screencasting tools. All of these tools are released under a freely distributable license, with the exception of Wink which is a no-charge closed source application. One commercial application which is also worth a mention is DemoRecorder by Christian Linhart Software, as it has excellent features and export options.

So let's explore the 6 screencasting tools at hand. For each application we have compiled its own portal page, a full description with an in-depth analysis of its features, a screenshot, together with links to relevant resources and reviews. Start recording activities today!

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Last Updated Tuesday, April 09 2013 @ 02:32 PM EDT