Greenshot vs Lightshot: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Greenshot and Lightshot 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:
Greenshot
Capture, annotate, and share screenshots effortlessly on Windows.
Best for you if:
- • Quickly capture screenshots of regions, windows, or full screens.
- • Annotate, highlight, and obfuscate parts of your screenshots.
Lightshot
Capture, edit, and share customizable screenshots quickly and easily.
Best for you if:
- • Quickly capture customizable screenshots of any selected area.
- • Edit screenshots instantly with powerful built-in and online editors.
| At a Glance |  Lightshot | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Screenshot Tools | Screenshot Tools |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Greenshot | Lightshot |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Screenshot ToolsImage Editing | Screenshot ToolsImage Editing |
Understanding the Differences
Both Greenshot and Lightshot solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Greenshot positions itself as "capture, annotate, and share screenshots effortlessly on windows." while Lightshotfocuses on "capture, edit, and share customizable screenshots quickly and easily.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Greenshot
Greenshot makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution.
When to Choose Lightshot
Lightshot is worth considering if you need a free tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Greenshot lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Greenshot
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Lightshot is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Lightshot
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Greenshot
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? Greenshot is completely free.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Greenshot higher (/100). But the community has upvoted Lightshot more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Greenshot Does Better
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Lightshot If
- You need a completely free solution
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Greenshot. But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Greenshot scores higher in our analysis, but Lightshot might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Greenshot or Lightshot better?
Based on our analysis, Greenshot scores higher with high/100. Greenshot isfree while Lightshot is free. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Greenshot to Lightshot easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Greenshot and Lightshot offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Greenshot is completely free.Lightshot is completely free. Visit their websites for current trial offers.