Screencastify vs Loom: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Screencastify and Loom 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 is our overall pick for screen recording workflows. Pick Screencastify 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:
Screencastify
Record, edit, and engage with AI-powered screen videos
Best for you if:
- • Screencastify is a Chrome extension for screen recording and editing
- • It records screen, webcam, and audio for tutorials and presentations
Loom
Record screen and camera for async video messages
Best for you if:
- • Async video messaging for teams
- • Screen and camera recording
| At a Glance |  Screencastify |  Loom |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Screen Recording | Screen Recording |
Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.7/5 |
Choose Screencastify or Loom?
Choose Screencastify if
Record, edit, and engage with AI-powered screen videos
- Easy screen recording
- Chrome-based
- Good for teachers
- Budget matters (Free vs Free)
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
| Feature | Screencastify | Loom |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 226 reviews | ★4.7/5 5,060 reviews |
| Categories | Screen RecordingVideo Editing | Screen RecordingCommunication |
In-Depth Analysis
Screencastify
Record, edit, and engage with AI-powered screen videos
Strengths
- +Easy screen recording
- +Chrome-based
- +Good for teachers
- +Fair pricing
- +Easy sharing
Weaknesses
- -Chrome only
- -Limited editing
- -Better alternatives exist
- -Time limits free
- -Feature gaps
Key features
Loom
Record screen and camera for async video messages
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
Pricing: Screencastify vs Loom
| Plan | Screencastify | Loom |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Starter |
| Tier 2 | $7 Starter | $15 Business |
| Tier 3 | $10 Pro | $20 Business + AI |
| Tier 4 | Enterprise/EDU | Custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Screencastify pricing and Loom pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Screencastify
Want the highest-rated option?
Screencastify: 4.5/5 (226 reviews). Loom: 4.7/5 (5,060 reviews).
Go with: Loom
Value user reviews?
Screencastify: 226 reviews (4.5/5). Loom: 5,060 reviews (4.7/5).
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 4.5/5.
Key Takeaways
Loom
- Higher user rating: 4.7/5 vs 4.5/5
- Larger review base (5,060 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Screencastify
- Choose if you want record, edit, and engage with AI-powered screen videos
The Bottom Line
Loom is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Screencastify or Loom better?
Loom is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Screencastify and Loom used for?
Screencastify: Record, edit, and engage with AI-powered screen videos. Loom: Record screen and camera for async video messages.
What does Screencastify cost vs Loom?
Screencastify is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Loom is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.