Bandicam vs Loom: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Bandicam and Loom comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Bandicam
Capture anything on your PC screen with high-quality video and superior performance.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Records screen, gameplay, and external devices in high quality.
- • Offers advanced features like real-time drawing and scheduled recording.
Loom
Record screen and camera for async video messages
Best for you if:
- • Async video messaging for teams
- • Screen and camera recording
| At a Glance |  Bandicam |  Loom |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Screen Recording | Screen Recording |
Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.7/5 |
Choose Bandicam or Loom?
Choose Bandicam if
Capture anything on your PC screen with high-quality video and superior performance.
- Lightweight and high-performance software
- Supports 4K UHD video and high frame rates for gaming
- Versatile recording options including screen, game, and external devices
- You want a fully free tool (Loom requires payment)
Choose Loom if
Record screen and camera for async video messages
- Faster than writing long emails
- AI transcriptions in 50+ languages
- Easy screen and camera recording
| Feature | Bandicam | Loom |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.3/5 44 reviews | ★4.7/5 5,060 reviews |
| Categories | Screen RecordingScreenshot Tools | Screen RecordingCommunication |
In-Depth Analysis
Bandicam
Capture anything on your PC screen with high-quality video and superior performance.
Strengths
- +Lightweight and high-performance software
- +Supports 4K UHD video and high frame rates for gaming
- +Versatile recording options including screen, game, and external devices
- +Includes useful features like real-time drawing and scheduled recording
- +Maintains high video quality with good compression
Weaknesses
- -Primarily for Windows (macOS version launched in 2025)
- -Personal license does not include an invoice
- -Perpetual license only guarantees updates within the same software title
Key features
Loom
Record screen and camera for async video messages
Strengths
- +Faster than writing long emails
- +AI transcriptions in 50+ languages
- +Easy screen and camera recording
Weaknesses
- -Video quality limited on free tier
- -Storage limits for free users
Key features
Pricing: Bandicam vs Loom
| Plan | Bandicam | Loom |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free Download | Free Starter |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $15 Business |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $20 Business + AI |
| Tier 4 | N/A | Custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Bandicam pricing and Loom pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Bandicam is free. Loom is freemium.
Go with: Bandicam
Want the highest-rated option?
Bandicam: 4.3/5 (44 reviews). Loom: 4.7/5 (5,060 reviews).
Go with: Loom
Value user reviews?
Bandicam: 44 reviews (4.3/5). Loom: 5,060 reviews (4.7/5).
Go with: Loom
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Bandicam is free. Loom is freemium. Go with Bandicam if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are screen recording tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Loom is rated higher: 4.7/5 vs 4.3/5.
Key Takeaways
Loom
- Higher user rating: 4.7/5 vs 4.3/5
- Larger review base (5,060 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Bandicam
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Loom is our pick. That said, Bandicam is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bandicam or Loom better?
Loom is rated in our evaluation. Bandicam is free and Loom is freemium.
What are Bandicam and Loom used for?
Bandicam: Capture anything on your PC screen with high-quality video and superior performance.. Loom: Record screen and camera for async video messages.
What does Bandicam cost vs Loom?
Bandicam is completely free. Loom is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.