Local-first screen recorder for Mac
Direct answer: A local-first screen recorder keeps capture, project files, editing, and export on your Mac by default. OurScreen is being built for that workflow, with optional sharing only after you decide to export.
Cloud tools are useful when sharing is the product. They are not always the right default when the recording contains classroom material, unreleased product work, client context, or unfinished drafts.
What local-first means for OurScreen
- Local projects: recordings and drafts stay in your Mac workflow.
- No account dependency: the core recorder/editor should work without a cloud account.
- Manual sharing: export files when you are ready, then upload wherever you choose.
- Creator ownership: one-time pricing matches the ownership message better than a required subscription.
Why this matters
Local-first is not only a privacy message. It is a product strategy. It makes OurScreen attractive to teachers, consultants, founders, agencies, and product teams who need to record sensitive explanations without turning every draft into a hosted asset.
Features that support local-first recording
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Import video and audio | Edit previous clips and voiceovers locally. |
| Captions and SRT | Make accessible videos without sending drafts through a cloud editor. |
| Camera scenes | Polish your presence after recording. |
| Social export presets | Create YouTube, Shorts, square, portrait, and classroom-ready files. |
For teacher-specific privacy positioning, read the Loom alternative for teachers guide.