How to Screen Record on Snapchat (Without Them Knowing) – 2025 Guide

Introduction: How to Screen Record on Snapchat 

Snapchat wasn’t built for saving stuff. Messages vanish, stories disappear, and if you try to record something — boom, the app tells the other person. That’s the whole point of Snapchat: it’s meant to feel temporary and private.

So, here’s the good news: there are a few ways to screen record on Snapchat without setting off alerts. Some are simple, others take a bit of effort — but they can work, if you know how to use them right.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through what Snapchat detects (and what it doesn’t), the tricks people still use in 2025, and the methods that actually work — whether you’re on an iPhone, Android, or even a computer.

How to Screen Record on Snapchat Without Sending a Notification

If you’ve ever tried to record a Snap, you’ve likely noticed a pop-up saying “[User] took a screenshot” or “[User] screen recorded your chat.” Snapchat doesn’t exactly keep secrets when it comes to saving content. 

Does Snapchat Really Detect Everything?

Yes — and no.

Whether you take a screenshot or hit “record” using your phone’s built-in tools, the app usually detects it and sends an automatic notification to the person on the other end.

Methods That Might Avoid Notifications

Here’s what’s been known to work (though Snapchat keeps updating, so nothing is guaranteed long-term):

• Airplane Mode trick: This old method involves loading the Snap, turning on airplane mode, and then recording while offline. (Spoiler: it doesn’t always work anymore — we’ll break it down later.)

• Screen recording with a second device: Simple but effective. Use another phone or camera to record your screen. No detection, but not the most convenient.

• Third-party screen recording apps: Some claim to bypass Snapchat’s alert system, but using these can be risky — Snapchat might block them or flag your account.

• Desktop emulators or screen mirroring: These let you view and record Snapchat on your computer without the app realizing it. It’s more advanced, but also safer in terms of avoiding alerts.

We’ll cover each of these in detail in upcoming sections, with step-by-step guides.

Method 1: How to Screen Record on Snapchat from a PC or Mac (Best method)

If you’re serious about screen recording on Snapchat without setting off alerts, your best option might not be your phone at all — it’s your computer.

Recording from a PC or Mac isn’t something Snapchat really expects users to do, which makes it a more effective workaround. With the right setup, you can view Snaps on your desktop and record them quietly — no notifications, no stress.

Why Use a Computer?

The big advantage here is Snapchat doesn’t run natively on desktops — so when you find a way to mirror or emulate the mobile app on your computer, Snapchat doesn’t “see” the recording in the same way it does on iOS or Android.

Plus, desktop screen recording tools like OBS Studio, Bandicam, or QuickTime don’t get flagged, because they’re outside the mobile environment Snapchat monitors.

This makes it one of the most effective — and quiet — methods out there.

Method 1: Use a Screen Mirroring App

This is one of the simplest ways to bring Snapchat to your desktop screen.

Here’s how:

For iPhone:

1. Connect your iPhone and Mac to the same Wi-Fi.

2. Use AirPlay to mirror your screen to your Mac.

3. Open QuickTime Player or any screen recorder and start recording.

4. View the Snap while it records on your Mac.

For Android:

1. Use a tool like scrcpy (free), ApowerMirror, or Vysor to mirror your Android screen to your PC.

2. Start a screen recorder on your computer.

3. Open Snapchat on your phone and play the Snap — it gets recorded on your PC.

Does Snapchat notify the sender?
No. Since you’re not directly recording on the mobile device, Snapchat doesn’t know a thing.

Method 2: Use an Emulator (Advanced)

If you’re comfortable with installing software, you can run Snapchat directly on your computer using an emulator like BlueStacks or NoxPlayer.

Here’s what you do:

1. Download and install BlueStacks (or another emulator).

2. Log into Snapchat just like you would on your phone.

3. Use a desktop screen recorder to capture anything inside the emulator.

One thing to keep in mind: Snapchat doesn’t love emulator logins. You might get a verification prompt, and sometimes login can be a little buggy. But if it works, it’s a clean and discreet way to record Snaps or Stories without tipping anyone off.

While you’re brushing up on your Snapchat skills, you might’ve come across “IMY” in a message and paused for a second. It’s simple once you know — but easy to misread if you don’t.

 Here’s what “IMY” really means on Snapchat.

Method 2: How to Screen Record on Snapchat with Third-Party Apps (Safely)

So, let’s say you’ve tried using your phone’s built-in screen recorder, only to get busted by Snapchat’s notification system. Frustrating, right? That’s usually when people start exploring third-party screen recording apps — hoping one of them might do the job a little more quietly.

Most third-party apps won’t magically bypass Snapchat’s alerts, and some could actually do more harm than good if you’re not careful.

Why People Turn to Third-Party Apps

If you’ve ever used something like AZ Screen Recorder or Mobizen, you know they offer more flexibility than your phone’s default tools. You can choose video quality, control audio settings, even record without that annoying countdown timer. That’s why they’re so popular for general screen recording.

Can These Apps Record Snapchat Without Alerting the Other Person?

In most cases, no — Snapchat still catches it. Whether it’s an app from the Play Store or something more obscure you found in a Reddit thread, Snapchat monitors screen recording at the system level. If the app’s just recording what’s happening on your screen, it’s probably getting flagged.

That said, some users have reported occasional success with combinations — like using a third-party recorder in airplane mode, or pairing it with screen mirroring. But it’s hit or miss. And Snapchat is constantly updating how it detects activity, so what works today might not tomorrow.

The Real Risk: Privacy and Security

Beyond Snapchat knowing what you’re up to, there’s another layer of risk. Some apps ask for permissions they shouldn’t need, like access to your photos, files, or even your microphone when you’re not using it. 

Worse, a few shady ones have been known to inject malware or adware. And if you ever download one from outside the official app store, you’re taking a serious gamble with your data.

Here’s my rule: If an app promises to record Snapchat secretly, and it sounds too good to be true — it probably is.

A Smarter Approach (If You Still Want to Try)

If you’re curious, here’s how to test things safely:

• Start on your own Snapchat account. Send yourself a Snap, and try recording it. That way, you can see exactly what happens — without risking anyone else’s trust.

• Stick to well-reviewed apps. AZ Screen Recorder is a decent option for Android, and TechSmith Capture works okay on iOS.

• Pair it with offline tricks. Airplane mode, fast app-closing, or mirrored recording might give you a better shot.

Snapchat’s full of abbreviations that can leave you guessing — and “WTMS” is one of those that pops up in chats a lot. If you’ve seen it and weren’t sure what your friend meant, here’s a quick explainer that breaks it down clearly.

Check out what “WTMS” means on Snapchat.

Method 3: How to Screen Record on Snapchat in Airplane Mode: Does It Still Work?

The airplane mode trick has been floating around for years. But here’s the real question: Does it still work in 2025?

The Classic Airplane Mode Method (Step-by-Step)

This is how most people attempt the trick:

1. Open Snapchat and let the Snap load completely (but don’t open it yet).

2. Turn on Airplane Mode (kills Wi-Fi, mobile data, and Bluetooth).

3. Open the Snap while offline.

4. Use your phone’s built-in screen recorder (or take a screenshot).

5. Force close Snapchat right after (swipe it out of recent apps).

6. Turn Airplane Mode off and reconnect.

The theory is that Snapchat can’t track your screen activity while offline, and by closing the app before reconnecting, you’re preventing it from “sending” the notification.

Does It Actually Work in 2025?

Sometimes — but don’t count on it.

Snapchat has gotten smarter with each update. Many users report that even after using airplane mode and force-closing, the app still sends a notification once they go back online. It seems Snapchat prepares the alert in advance, then pushes it through when your device reconnects.

Other users say it still works — but only if you’re fast and precise. The success rate is inconsistent, and results may vary depending on:

• Your phone model

• Your operating system version

• Snapchat app version

• Whether you’re recording a Snap, Story, or chat

Pros and Cons of the Airplane Mode Method

✅ Pros:

• No third-party apps needed

• Doesn’t require a second device

• Easy to try (if you’re curious)

❌ Cons:

• No guarantee it works

• Still risks sending a notification

• Snapchat may flag your activity

• Can cause you to lose access to the Snap if done wrong

Verdict: Use at Your Own Risk

The airplane mode trick is kind of like a Snapchat urban legend — it’s based on how things used to work, but it’s far from reliable now.

Is It Ethical to Screen Record on Snapchat? What You Should Know

Just because you can screen record on Snapchat without someone knowing, doesn’t always mean you should.

It’s easy to get caught up in the “how-to” side of things. But before you hit record, it’s worth stepping back and asking the more important question: Is this respectful? Is this right?

People use Snapchat because they know their messages, photos, and videos are temporary. That sense of privacy is the whole appeal. When you save something — especially without telling the other person — you’re potentially breaking that trust.

Not Every Snap Should Be Saved

Sure, there are totally valid reasons to screen record. Maybe you want to:

• Save a video your friend said you could keep

• Capture a memory that made you laugh

• Hold onto something meaningful for personal use

If both sides are cool with it, no problem.

But secretly recording someone’s Snap — especially if it’s private or personal — crosses into murky territory. It’s not just about breaking app rules.

Think of it this way: If you sent a photo or message assuming it would disappear, would you feel okay knowing someone kept a copy behind your back?

Conclusion

There are a few ways to get around Snapchat’s recording notifications — some better than others. We’ve walked through built-in recorders, airplane mode tricks, third-party apps, and even desktop solutions. If you’re after the most reliable, discreet method, recording from a PC or Mac is probably your best bet right now.

But here’s the part that matters most: just because you can save something, doesn’t always mean you should. Snapchat was built for moments that feel temporary — and that trust matters.

Use the tips in this guide to stay informed, not to cross lines. Be smart, be respectful, and use the tools the right way.