ScreenFloat vs CleanShot X: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between ScreenFloat and CleanShot X 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 wins this matchup. Our overall Screenshot Tools pick is Snagit. Our free Screenshot Tools pick is Greenshot. Pick ScreenFloat 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:
ScreenFloat
Capture and keep screenshots, text, and images floating above other windows for quick reference.
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
- • You want significantly improves workflow for tasks requiring constant reference to information
- • You want keeps important visual or textual data always in view, reducing context switching
CleanShot X
Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and recordings
Best for you if:
- • You want beautiful annotations
- • You want cloud storage
| At a Glance | ScreenFloat | CleanShot X |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $8/monthCloud |
Best For | Screenshot Tools | Screenshot Tools |
Rating | - | 4.9/5 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose ScreenFloat or CleanShot X?
Choose ScreenFloat if
Capture and keep screenshots, text, and images floating above other windows for quick reference.
- You want a free tier before you commit
- You want significantly improves workflow for tasks requiring constant reference to information
- You want keeps important visual or textual data always in view, reducing context switching
Choose CleanShot X if
Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and recordings
- You want beautiful annotations
- You want cloud storage
| Feature | ScreenFloat | CleanShot X |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.9/5 5 reviews |
| Categories | Screenshot ToolsProductivity | Screenshot ToolsScreen Recording |
In-Depth Analysis
ScreenFloat
Capture and keep screenshots, text, and images floating above other windows for quick reference.
The pricing for ScreenFloat is fair, offering a good progression from free to paid tiers.
Watch out
Storage limits on lower tiers
Strengths
- +Significantly improves workflow for tasks requiring constant reference to information.
- +Keeps important visual or textual data always in view, reducing context switching.
- +Flexible capture options and extensive customization for floating content.
- +Dedicated browser for easy organization and retrieval of past captures.
Weaknesses
- -Only available for macOS.
- -Requires a one-time purchase, no free tier available.
Key features
CleanShot X
Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and recordings
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.
Strengths
- +Beautiful annotations
- +Cloud storage
- +Scrolling capture
Weaknesses
- -Mac only
- -Subscription model
Key features
Pricing: ScreenFloat vs CleanShot X
| Plan | ScreenFloat | CleanShot X |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | $29 once One-time |
| Tier 2 | $10/mo Basic | $8 month Cloud |
| Tier 3 | $25/mo Pro | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on ScreenFloat pricing and CleanShot X pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
ScreenFloat has a free tier. CleanShot X is paid only.
Go with: ScreenFloat
Want the highest-rated option?
CleanShot X is rated 4.9/5. ScreenFloat has no ratings yet.
Go with: CleanShot X
Value user reviews?
ScreenFloat: no ratings yet. CleanShot X: 5 reviews (4.9/5).
Go with: CleanShot X
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
ScreenFloat is freemium. CleanShot X is paid. ScreenFloat 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; ScreenFloat has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
CleanShot X
- Our pick for this comparison
ScreenFloat
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
CleanShot X wins this matchup. Our overall Screenshot Tools pick is Snagit. Our free Screenshot Tools pick is Greenshot. ScreenFloat has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ScreenFloat or CleanShot X better?
CleanShot X is rated in our evaluation. ScreenFloat is freemium and CleanShot X is paid.
What are ScreenFloat and CleanShot X used for?
ScreenFloat: Capture and keep screenshots, text, and images floating above other windows for quick reference.. CleanShot X: Capture, annotate, and share screenshots and recordings.
What does ScreenFloat cost vs CleanShot X?
ScreenFloat is freemium (free tier + paid plans). CleanShot X is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.