Lightshot vs Snagit: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Lightshot and Snagit 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:
Lightshot
Capture, edit, and share customizable screenshots quickly and easily.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Quickly capture customizable screenshots of any selected area.
- • Edit screenshots instantly with powerful built-in and online editors.
Snagit
Create visual documentation with screenshots, GIFs, and video
Best for you if:
- • Snagit is a screen capture tool with editing and annotation features
- • It captures screens, creates GIFs, and adds markup for documentation
| At a Glance |  Snagit | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $39/moIndividual |
Best For | Screenshot Tools | Screenshot Tools |
Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.7/5 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose Lightshot or Snagit?
Choose Lightshot if
Capture, edit, and share customizable screenshots quickly and easily.
- Very fast and easy to take screenshots
- Offers instant editing capabilities
- Convenient sharing options with short links
- You want a fully free tool (Snagit requires payment)
Choose Snagit if
Create visual documentation with screenshots, GIFs, and video
- Powerful editor
- Templates included
- Cross-platform
| Feature | Lightshot | Snagit |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.8/5 169 reviews | ★4.7/5 6,285 reviews |
| Categories | Screenshot ToolsImage Editing | Screenshot ToolsVideo & Media |
In-Depth Analysis
Lightshot
Capture, edit, and share customizable screenshots quickly and easily.
Strengths
- +Very fast and easy to take screenshots
- +Offers instant editing capabilities
- +Convenient sharing options with short links
- +Unique 'similar image search' feature
- +Cross-platform availability (desktop and browser extensions)
Weaknesses
- -Online editor might require an internet connection
- -No advanced organizational features mentioned for saved screenshots
Key features
Value 95/100. Lightshot's pricing is extremely generous as it offers a fully-featured screenshot tool completely for free.
Watch out: No hidden costs, it's genuinely free.
Snagit
Create visual documentation with screenshots, GIFs, and video
Strengths
- +Powerful editor
- +Templates included
- +Cross-platform
Weaknesses
- -Expensive
- -Perpetual license model
Key features
Value 80/100. Snagit's pricing is fair, especially the $39/year Individual plan, which offers good value for its feature set.
Watch out: Maintenance renewal after 1st year for One-Time license
Pricing: Lightshot vs Snagit
| Plan | Lightshot | Snagit |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | $39 Individual |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $48 Business |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $62.99 One-Time |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Lightshot pricing and Snagit pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Lightshot is free. Snagit is paid.
Go with: Lightshot
Want the highest-rated option?
Lightshot: 4.8/5 (169 reviews). Snagit: 4.7/5 (6,285 reviews).
Go with: Lightshot
Value user reviews?
Lightshot: 169 reviews (4.8/5). Snagit: 6,285 reviews (4.7/5).
Go with: Snagit
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Lightshot is free. Snagit is paid. Go with Lightshot if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are screenshot tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Lightshot is rated higher: 4.8/5 vs 4.7/5.
Key Takeaways
Snagit
- Larger review base (6,285 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
Lightshot
- Completely free
- Higher user rating: 4.8/5 vs 4.7/5
The Bottom Line
Snagit is our pick. That said, Lightshot is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lightshot or Snagit better?
Snagit is rated in our evaluation. Lightshot is free and Snagit is paid.
What are Lightshot and Snagit used for?
Lightshot: Capture, edit, and share customizable screenshots quickly and easily.. Snagit: Create visual documentation with screenshots, GIFs, and video.
What does Lightshot cost vs Snagit?
Lightshot is completely free. Snagit is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.