Bandicam review: what it is, pricing and who it's for
Lightweight screen, game and webcam recorder for Windows and Mac with a free version.
In short: Lightweight screen, game and webcam recorder for Windows and Mac with a free version. Starting price: $33.26/year (personal, 1 PC). Best for: Recording gameplay, tutorials and webcam videos.
What is Bandicam?
Bandicam is desktop software for recording what happens on your screen. It can capture the full screen, a window, games, webcams, external devices such as consoles, or audio only.
The free version records up to 5 minutes per clip. A paid license removes the time limit and unlocks watermark-free exports, webcam background effects and full transcription. Bandicut, a companion video cutter, is sold in a bundle.
Key features
- Screen recording of the full screen, a window or a selected area, including multi-monitor setups.
- Game recording mode that detects the running game.
- Webcam overlay so you can record your screen and face together.
- Recording from external devices such as webcams, phones, HDMI capture and consoles.
- Audio-only recording to MP3 or WAV.
- Scheduled and automatic recording by time or file size.
- Transcription, auto zoom and webcam background removal tools (full features in the paid version).
- Image capture and a game FPS overlay.
Plans and pricing
| Plan | Price / limit | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | 5-minute limit per recording; exports with edits are watermarked |
| Personal annual (1 PC) | $33.26/year | Unlimited recording, updates and support for one year |
| Personal perpetual (1 PC) | $53.90 one-time | Bandicam 2027 license; one year of support included |
| Personal Bandicam + Bandicut | $49.97/year | Recorder plus video cutter |
| Business annual (1 PC) | $49.46/year | Commercial use with invoice |
Prices are in US dollars as listed on the buy page on 14 Nov 2026 and include current discounts; business licenses cost more than personal ones.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free version records without a watermark
- Strong game recording mode
- Choice of annual or one-time license
- Records external devices like consoles and webcams
Cons
- Free version is limited to 5-minute recordings
- Commercial use needs a pricier business license
- Full editing requires the separate Bandicut tool
- No Linux version
Who it's for
Bandicam fits gamers, teachers and support staff who need a simple recorder on Windows or Mac. If you need a full video editor or free unlimited recording, look at other tools.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bandicam?
Bandicam is desktop software for recording what happens on your screen. It can capture the full screen, a window, games, webcams, external devices such as consoles, or audio only.
How much does Bandicam cost?
Bandicam starts at $33.26/year (personal, 1 PC). Prices are in US dollars as listed on the buy page on 14 Nov 2026 and include current discounts; business licenses cost more than personal ones.
Who is Bandicam best for?
Bandicam fits gamers, teachers and support staff who need a simple recorder on Windows or Mac. If you need a full video editor or free unlimited recording, look at other tools.
What are the downsides of Bandicam?
Main drawbacks: Free version is limited to 5-minute recordings. Commercial use needs a pricier business license. Full editing requires the separate Bandicut tool. No Linux version.
What are some alternatives to Bandicam?
Other pc & phone utilities options we cover include Aiseesoft, AOMEI, Tenorshare, Apowersoft and Paragon Software.
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This summary is based on Bandicam's official website, pricing page and public documentation as of November 14, 2026. Prices and features change, so confirm the details on the official site. Some links on this site may be affiliate links. See our affiliate disclosure.