Loom vs Shadow: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Loom and Shadow 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: Loom wins this matchup. Our overall Screen Recording pick is LogRocket. Our free Screen Recording pick is OBS Studio. Pick Shadow 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:
Loom
Record screen and camera for async video messages
Best for you if:
- • Async video messaging for teams
- • Screen and camera recording
Shadow
Capture and share your screen activity with a focus on privacy and control.
Best for you if:
- • Privacy-focused screen recording and sharing.
- • Intelligent content capture to protect sensitive data.
| At a Glance |  Loom | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Screen Recording | Screen Recording |
Rating | 4.7/5 | 3.3/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Loom or Shadow?
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
Choose Shadow if
Capture and share your screen activity with a focus on privacy and control.
- Strong emphasis on user privacy.
- Granular control over shared content.
- Simplifies secure screen sharing.
| Feature | Loom | Shadow |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.7/5 2,937 reviews | ★3.3/5 24 reviews |
| Categories | Screen RecordingCommunication | Screen RecordingProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
Loom
Record screen and camera for async video messages
Loom's pricing is generally fair, offering a generous free tier for basic use.
Watch out
AI features are an additional $5/user/month.
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
Shadow
Capture and share your screen activity with a focus on privacy and control.
Strengths
- +Strong emphasis on user privacy.
- +Granular control over shared content.
- +Simplifies secure screen sharing.
Weaknesses
- -Currently in alpha, so features may be limited or subject to change.
- -Specific advanced features are not yet detailed.
Key features
Pricing: Loom vs Shadow
| Plan | Loom | Shadow |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Starter | N/A |
| Tier 2 | $15 Business | N/A |
| Tier 3 | $20 Business + AI | N/A |
| Tier 4 | Custom Enterprise | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Loom pricing and Shadow pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Loom
Want the highest-rated option?
Loom: 4.7/5 (2,937 reviews). Shadow: 3.3/5 (24 reviews).
Go with: Loom
Value user reviews?
Loom: 2,937 reviews (4.7/5). Shadow: 24 reviews (3.3/5).
Go with: Loom
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are screen recording tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Loom is rated higher: 4.7/5 vs 3.3/5.
Key Takeaways
Loom
- Higher user rating: 4.7/5 vs 3.3/5
- Larger review base (2,937 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Shadow
- Choose if you want capture and share your screen activity with a focus on privacy and control
The Bottom Line
Loom wins this matchup. Our overall Screen Recording pick is LogRocket. Our free Screen Recording pick is OBS Studio.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Loom or Shadow better?
Loom is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Loom and Shadow used for?
Loom: Record screen and camera for async video messages. Shadow: Capture and share your screen activity with a focus on privacy and control..
What does Loom cost vs Shadow?
Loom is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Shadow is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.