How to Use Loom for Developers

Loom is a quick‑capture tool that lets developers record code walkthroughs, debug sessions, or API demos. This guide shows you how to install Loom, set up optimal settings for programming, record with terminal focus, and share videos in GitHub, Jira, or Slack. Follow the steps and use the screenshots to get results in minutes.

Table of contents

• 1. Install Loom on Windows, macOS, or Linux
• 2. Configure Developer‑Friendly Settings
• 3. Record a Code Walkthrough
• 4. Embed Loom Videos in Documentation
• 5. Loom vs. Competitors
• FAQ

1. Install Loom on Windows, macOS, or Linux

Windows 10/11

1. Visit loom.com/download and click “Download for Windows”.
2. Run the LoomSetup.exe file.
3. Accept the permissions prompt; the installer adds Loom to your start menu.

macOS (Intel & Apple Silicon)

1. Download the Loom.dmg from the same page.
2. Drag the Loom icon to the Applications folder.
3. Open Loom, then allow screen recording in System Preferences → Security & Privacy → Privacy → Screen Recording.

Linux (Ubuntu/Debian)

Loom does not ship a native Linux client, but you can use the web version with Chrome or Chromium:

1. Open Chrome
2. Go to https://www.loom.com/
3. Click “Install Loom” → “Add to Chrome”
4. Accept the extension permissions.

2. Configure Developer‑Friendly Settings

General preferences

• Video quality: 720p – balances clarity and file size.
• Length limit: 25 minutes on the free tier; upgrade to Pro for 8 hours.
• Audio source: Select “System audio” + “Microphone” for live commentary.

Advanced options for code

Option	Recommended Setting	Why
Hide cursor	Enabled	Reduces visual noise when scrolling through long files.
Show keystrokes	Enabled	Viewers see exact commands typed in the terminal.
Frame rate	30 fps	Smooth enough for scrolling, low CPU usage.

3. Record a Code Walkthrough

Step‑by‑step example

1. Open your IDE (VS Code, IntelliJ, etc.) and the terminal.
2. Click the Loom icon in the system tray → choose “Screen + Audio”.
3. In the selection dialog, click the window that contains your code editor.
4. Press the red “Start Recording” button.
5. Explain the code while typing. Loom will automatically capture keystrokes.
6. When finished, click the Loom icon again → “Stop”.
7. After processing, the video appears in your Loom library; copy the share link.

Sample code block captured

// Example: Simple Express server
const express = require('req
uire('express');
const app = express();

app.get('/', (req, res) => {
  res.send('Hello Loom!');
});

app.listen(3000, () => console.log('Server running on :3000'));

4. Embed Loom Videos in Documentation

GitHub README

Copy the share URL, add ?embed=1, then place an <iframe> inside the markdown.

<iframe src="https://www.loom.com/embed/abc123?embed=1"
        frameborder="0"
        webkitallowfullscreen
        mozallowfullscreen
        allowfullscreen
        style="width:100%;height:400px;"></iframe>

Confluence or Jira

• Open the article editor.
• Insert “HTML macro”.
• Paste the same <iframe> code.

Slack message

Paste the plain Loom link. Slack unfurls it automatically, showing a playable preview.

5. Loom vs. Competitors

Feature	Loom (Free)	Screenflow (Pro)	OBS Studio (Free)
Max video length	25 min	Unlimited	Unlimited
Built‑in editor	Basic trim	Advanced cuts, transitions	None (requires external editor)
Keystroke overlay	Yes	No	Yes (via plugin)
Export formats	MP4, embed link	MP4, MOV, GIF	MP4, MKV
Price	Free / $8/mo Pro	$299 one‑time	Free

For most developers, Loom’s free tier offers the quickest path to shareable code videos. Choose Screenflow only if you need heavy post‑production, and OBS if you prefer a fully open‑source stack.

FAQ

Do I need a paid Loom plan to record code?

No. The free plan allows up to 25 minutes per video, which is enough for most code walkthroughs.

Can Loom record terminal windows?

Yes. Select “Screen + Audio” and choose the terminal window as the source.

How do I embed a Loom video in a GitHub README?

Copy the share link, add “?embed=1” to the URL, then use an HTML <iframe> inside the markdown.

Is there a way to hide my cursor in Loom recordings?

In Loom’s Settings → Advanced, toggle “Hide cursor” before you start recording.

Can I export a Loom video as MP4?

Yes. After the video processes, click the three‑dot menu and select “Download” to get an MP4 file.

Using Loom for developers saves time and keeps knowledge inside your codebase. Install the app, tweak the settings, record clear walkthroughs, and embed them where your team works. The result is faster onboarding and fewer debugging sessions.