CleanShot X vs Monosnap: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between CleanShot X and Monosnap 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 Monosnap if you need a free tier to start with.
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:
- • 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
Monosnap
Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and screen recordings with ease.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Capture screenshots and record screen videos.
- • Built-in image editor for annotations.
| At a Glance |  CleanShot X |  Monosnap |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $29/onceOne-time | Free tier + paid plansFree tier available |
Best For | Screenshot Tools | Screenshot Tools |
Rating | - | - |
Choose CleanShot X or Monosnap?
Choose CleanShot X if
Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and recordings
- Beautiful annotations
- Cloud storage
- Scrolling capture
Choose Monosnap if
Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and screen recordings with ease.
- Intuitive user interface for quick captures.
- Powerful annotation tools directly after capture.
- Flexible sharing options to various cloud services.
- You want a free tier before you commit
| Feature | CleanShot X | Monosnap |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.9/5 7 reviews | ★4.6/5 9 reviews |
| Categories | Screenshot ToolsScreen Recording | Screenshot ToolsScreen Recording |
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
Monosnap
Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and screen recordings with ease.
Strengths
- +Intuitive user interface for quick captures.
- +Powerful annotation tools directly after capture.
- +Flexible sharing options to various cloud services.
- +Ability to record both video and animated GIFs.
- +Cross-platform availability (macOS, Windows).
Weaknesses
- -Some advanced features or cloud storage integrations might be behind a paywall.
- -Video editing capabilities are basic, not a full-fledged video editor.
- -The free tier might have limitations on cloud storage or features over time.
Key features
Pricing: CleanShot X vs Monosnap
| Plan | CleanShot X | Monosnap |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $29 once One-time | N/A |
| Tier 2 | $8 month Cloud | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on CleanShot X pricing and Monosnap pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Monosnap has a free tier. CleanShot X is paid only.
Go with: Monosnap
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: CleanShot X
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: CleanShot X
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
CleanShot X is paid. Monosnap is freemium. Monosnap lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are screenshot tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
CleanShot X
- Higher user rating: 4.9/5 vs 4.6/5
- Our pick for this comparison
Monosnap
- Has a free tier
- Larger review base (9 reviews)
The Bottom Line
CleanShot X is our pick. Monosnap has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CleanShot X or Monosnap better?
CleanShot X is rated in our evaluation. CleanShot X is paid and Monosnap is freemium.
What are CleanShot X and Monosnap used for?
CleanShot X: Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and recordings. Monosnap: Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and screen recordings with ease..
What does CleanShot X cost vs Monosnap?
CleanShot X is a paid tool. Monosnap is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.