Zoom gives you two ways to record a meeting. The right choice depends on your plan, your device, and what you'll do with the recording.
The comparison
| Local recording | Cloud recording | |
|---|---|---|
| Account needed | Free or paid | Paid (licensed) |
| Devices | Desktop app only | Desktop, iPhone, iPad, Android |
| Saved to | Your computer | Your Zoom account online |
| Uses your storage | Yes, your disk | Your plan's cloud storage |
| Sharing | Upload the file yourself | Share a link from the web portal |
| Processing | Converts after the meeting on your computer | Processed by Zoom after the meeting |
When to use local recording
- You're on a free account.
- The recording is sensitive and you want it only on your computer.
- You'll edit it in a desktop video editor anyway.
When to use cloud recording
- You're recording from a phone or tablet.
- You want to share by link without uploading files.
- You want recordings available on any device you sign in on.
- You don't want large files filling your laptop.
How to start each
Click Record in the meeting controls and choose Record on this Computer or Record to the Cloud. On mobile, only cloud is offered. Step-by-step local recording.
Finding your recordings
- Local: in the Zoom folder inside Documents (or your chosen location).
- Cloud: sign in at zoom.us and open Recordings.
Where MobileStudio fits
Recording a product demo on Zoom? For mobile apps, record the app on your phone too. MobileStudio turns that into a polished demo video. Get MobileStudio.
Quick FAQ
Is Zoom cloud recording free?
No, it requires a paid plan.
Which has better quality?
Both are good. Local recordings can be more reliable on unstable internet.
