CleanShot X vs Loom: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between CleanShot X 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.
Bottom line: CleanShot X is our overall pick for screenshot tools workflows. Pick Loom if you need screen recording.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
CleanShot X
Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and recordings
Best for you if:
- • You need screenshot tools features specifically
- • CleanShot is a screen capture tool for Mac that makes taking and annotating screenshots effortless
- • It provides scrolling capture, GIF recording, annotations, and cloud upload in one elegant app
Loom
Record screen and camera for async video messages
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need screen recording features specifically
- • Async video messaging for teams
- • Screen and camera recording
| At a Glance |  CleanShot X |  Loom |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $8/monthCloud | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Screenshot Tools | Screen Recording |
Rating | 4.9/5 | 4.7/5 |
Choose CleanShot X or Loom?
Choose CleanShot X if
Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and recordings
- Beautiful annotations
- Cloud storage
- Scrolling capture
- Budget matters ($8/month vs Free)
- Your work is screenshot tools-shaped, not screen recording-shaped
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
- Your work is screen recording-shaped, not screenshot tools-shaped
| Feature | CleanShot X | Loom |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.9/5 7 reviews | ★4.7/5 5,060 reviews |
| Categories | Screenshot ToolsScreen Recording | Screen RecordingCommunication |
In-Depth Analysis
CleanShot X
Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and recordings
Strengths
- +Beautiful annotations
- +Cloud storage
- +Scrolling capture
Weaknesses
- -Mac only
- -Subscription model
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: CleanShot X vs Loom
| Plan | CleanShot X | Loom |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $29 once One-time | Free Starter |
| Tier 2 | $8 month Cloud | $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 CleanShot X pricing and Loom pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Loom has a free tier. CleanShot X is paid only.
Go with: Loom
Want the highest-rated option?
CleanShot X: 4.9/5 (7 reviews). Loom: 4.7/5 (5,060 reviews).
Go with: CleanShot X
Value user reviews?
CleanShot X: 7 reviews (4.9/5). Loom: 5,060 reviews (4.7/5).
Go with: Loom
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
CleanShot X is paid. Loom is freemium. Loom lets you start free.
What's your use case?
CleanShot X is a screenshot tools tool. Loom is in screen recording. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
CleanShot X is rated higher: 4.9/5 vs 4.7/5.
Key Takeaways
CleanShot X
- Higher user rating: 4.9/5 vs 4.7/5
- Our pick for this comparison
Loom
- Has a free tier
- Larger review base (5,060 reviews)
- Better fit for screen recording
The Bottom Line
CleanShot X is our pick. Loom has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CleanShot X or Loom better?
CleanShot X is rated in our evaluation. CleanShot X is paid and Loom is freemium.
What are CleanShot X and Loom used for?
CleanShot X: Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and recordings. Loom: Record screen and camera for async video messages.
What does CleanShot X cost vs Loom?
CleanShot X is a paid tool. Loom is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.