screen-recording

Record the macOS main monitor from the command line using tmux, ffmpeg, and sox.

19|14|Updated Feb 4, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/X-School-Academy/skill-pilot --skill screen-recording-x-school-academy
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: screen-recording
Source: https://github.com/X-School-Academy/skill-pilot/tree/main/core/skills/system/screen-recording
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/X-School-Academy/skill-pilot --skill screen-recording-x-school-academy

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill provides a command-line interface for recording the main monitor on macOS, allowing for background operation without relying on a graphical user interface.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Background Recording: Start and stop screen recordings discreetly in the background.
  • CLI Control: Manage recordings entirely through terminal commands.
  • Use Case: You need to record a long process on your Mac that requires you to step away, and you want to ensure the recording continues without interruption and can be stopped later via the command line.

Quick Start

Start a background screen recording using the screen-recording skill.

Frequently Asked Questions about screen-recording

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I record my macOS screen in the background from the command line?

You can record your macOS screen in the background using a CLI process that leverages tmux, ffmpeg, and sox. This allows you to discreetly start and stop screen recording without needing a graphical interface.

Can I start and stop a screen recording from the terminal without an active SSH session?

Yes, you can control screen recording start and stop actions from the terminal using tmux. Running ffmpeg as a background process inside a tmux session ensures the recording continues even if you disconnect.

Does ffmpeg support recording a specific monitor on macOS?

ffmpeg can record the main monitor on macOS, and this CLI tool supports an optional explicit screen device index argument. You can specify frames per second and the output file path to customize the capture.

What is the best way to record a long unattended Mac process?

The best way to record an unattended Mac process is by initiating a background recording via terminal commands. This ensures the capture runs continuously without interruption and can be stopped later remotely.

How do I set the output file path and framerate for a macOS screen recording?

You can set the output file path and framerate by passing optional arguments to the screen recording command. The script accepts explicit values for frames per second and the destination file before starting ffmpeg.