Learn how to create a timelapse on Mac using built-in tools, OBS, and Tau (the simplest option). Step-by-step guide with the best settings.
What is a Timelapse
A time lapse is a video made by capturing frames at set intervals over time, then playing them back at a higher speed. It's commonly used to show long processes — like studying, designing, coding. The frames are compressed into a short visually engaging clip.
On macOS, there's no built-in method for recording timelapses, so you'll need to to use workarounds or dedicated tools.
Method 1: Using Photo Booth/QuickTime (basic but limited)
Photo Booth and QuickTime player come pre-installed on every Mac device and can record you and your screen respectively.
Steps (Photo Booth)
- Open Photo Booth
- Switch to Video mode
- Record yourself working
- Manually speed up the recorded footage in an editing software
Steps (QuickTime Player)
- Open QuickTime Player
- Click File → New Screen Recording
- Record your session
- Manually speed up the footage in editing software
Pros:
- Free and built-in
- Simple to use
Cons:
- Large file sizes
- No native timelapse support
- Requires manual editing
They both work, they're just not ideal
Method 2: Using OBS Studio (more control, but more setup)
OBS Studio is a powerful free tool often used for recording and streaming.
Steps:
- Install OBS Studio
- Set up a display capture source
- Record your screen
- Export and speed up footage
Pros:
- Highly customizable
- Free and widely used
- Many guides online for setup
Cons:
- Steep learning curve
- Large file sizes
- Still requires editing in another software after
- Not optimized for timelapse creation
Method 3: Using Tau (easiest way)
If you need a dedicated timelapse workflow, Tau simplifies everything.
Instead of recording everything and editing later, Tau:
- Captures frames at customizable frame rates and intervals
- Builds the timelapse immediately after recording
- Lets you customize output
- Provides fun overlays to personalize the timelapse even more
Steps to Record a Timelapse with Tau
1. Setup
Choose:
- Project name (used in final export)
- Duration (the length of time you'll be recording)
- Frame interval (how often you want to capture frames)
- Camera source (screen recording coming soon 👀)
- Permanent or temporary storage (decide if frames should be kept after recording)
Tau shows you the final timelapse length and frame count upfront, so you're not left guessing.
2: Record
One set up is complete, you're free to start recording.
Tau will automatically capture frames based on your interval settings, so there's no need to manage large video files.
3: Edit
Inside Tau's editor, you can:
- Preview the timelapse
- Scrub through frames
- Trim the start and end
- Add an audio attachment
- Add overlays and widgets
The editor is designed to stay lightweight while giving you useful control over the final result.
4: Export
Here you can choose:
- Video resolution
- Output frame rate
- Quality
- Output format (.mp4, .webm, .gif)
Then you can export the timelapse to your desired folder. Easy.
Best timelapse settings for Mac
If you're not sure where to start, here's a helpful guide for most use cases
Frame Interval: The higher it is, the shorter the video will be Duration: You can choose a duration preset or use the "Unlimited" mode which will let you decide when to stop Output: 24FPS or 30FPS (this is usually personal preference) Resolution: Choosing a higher resolution will also increase the file size
or in short
→ shorter intervals = smoother videos
→ longer intervals = more compressed, quicker looking videos
Which method should you use?
- Use PhotoBooth/QuickTime if you want something quick and basic
- Use OBS studio if you need more control
- Use Tau if you want the easiest, purpose-built timelapse workflow
Final Thoughts
Making a timelapse on Mac isn't straightforward with the default tools, but with the right setup it can be incredibly easy/
If you plan to make timelapses regularly, a dedicated tool will save you a lot of time and effort. Why not try Tau.