CleanShot X vs QuackScreen: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between CleanShot X and QuackScreen 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 QuackScreen 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
QuackScreen
Record and share screen clips instantly from your menu bar
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Native macOS screen recorder and screenshot tool with notch integration.
- • Enables quick drag-and-drop sharing of captures directly from the menu bar.
| At a Glance |  CleanShot X |  QuackScreen |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $8/monthCloud | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Screenshot Tools | Screenshot Tools |
Rating | 4.9/5 | - |
Free plan | No | Yes |
Choose CleanShot X or QuackScreen?
Choose CleanShot X if
Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and recordings
- Beautiful annotations
- Cloud storage
- Scrolling capture
Choose QuackScreen if
Record and share screen clips instantly from your menu bar
- Streamlined workflow for sharing captures without uploads or links.
- Integrated annotation tools for quick markup of screenshots.
- Optimized for macOS and Apple silicon, with a native feel.
| Feature | CleanShot X | QuackScreen |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.9/5 7 reviews | No ratings yet |
| 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
Value 95/100. CleanShot X is the best screenshot tool on macOS, and its pricing reflects unusual honesty: $29 one-time gets you a permanent license with 1 GB cloud storage and one year of updates.
Watch out: The $19/year update renewal is optional but recommended. Without it, you keep the current version permanently but miss new features, OS compatibility updates, and bug fixes. A major macOS update could eventually break an un-renewed license.
QuackScreen
Record and share screen clips instantly from your menu bar
Strengths
- +Streamlined workflow for sharing captures without uploads or links.
- +Integrated annotation tools for quick markup of screenshots.
- +Optimized for macOS and Apple silicon, with a native feel.
- +Lifetime license available with no subscriptions.
Weaknesses
- -Limited to macOS and Apple silicon, excluding older Macs.
- -Free version has recording length limits and watermarks.
- -Requires the menu bar to be on the notched display for correct functionality with multiple monitors.
Key features
Value 95/100. The pricing for QuackScreen is exceptionally fair and generous, especially with its robust free tier and affordable lifetime option.
Watch out: No hidden costs identified.
Pricing: CleanShot X vs QuackScreen
| Plan | CleanShot X | QuackScreen |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $29 once One-time | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $8 month Cloud | €20 Lifetime |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on CleanShot X pricing and QuackScreen pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
QuackScreen has a free tier. CleanShot X is paid only.
Go with: QuackScreen
Want the highest-rated option?
CleanShot X is rated 4.9/5. QuackScreen has no ratings yet.
Go with: CleanShot X
Value user reviews?
CleanShot X: 7 reviews (4.9/5). QuackScreen: no ratings yet.
Go with: CleanShot X
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
CleanShot X is paid. QuackScreen is freemium. QuackScreen lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are screenshot tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
CleanShot X is rated 4.9/5; QuackScreen has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
CleanShot X
- Our pick for this comparison
QuackScreen
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
CleanShot X is our pick. QuackScreen has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CleanShot X or QuackScreen better?
CleanShot X is rated in our evaluation. CleanShot X is paid and QuackScreen is freemium.
What are CleanShot X and QuackScreen used for?
CleanShot X: Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and recordings. QuackScreen: Record and share screen clips instantly from your menu bar.
What does CleanShot X cost vs QuackScreen?
CleanShot X is a paid tool. QuackScreen is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.