CleanShot X vs Loom
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The best screen capture for Mac.
The verdict
Both CleanShot X and Loom are credible screen recording tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
CleanShot X — The best screen capture for Mac.
Choose Loom if you'd rather have a lower starting price (free – $15/mo), a free plan to start on and broader platform coverage. Async video messaging for work.
CleanShot X vs Loom: side by side
| Dimension | CleanShot X | Loom |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $29 once | Free – $15/moWinner |
| Free plan | No | YesWinner |
| Pricing model | One-time | Freemium |
| Best for | Apple Users, Designers | Remote Teams, Support Teams |
| Platforms | Mac | Web, Mac, Windows, Ios, AndroidWinner |
| Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.7/5 |
CleanShot X key facts
- Vendor
- MakeTimeBuild
- Pricing
- One-time — From $29 once
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Mac
- Best for
- Apple Users, Designers
- Editor rating
- 4.8 / 5
- Founded
- 2019
- Headquarters
- Remote
Loom key facts
- Vendor
- Atlassian
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $15/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Mac, Windows, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Remote Teams, Support Teams
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2015
- Headquarters
- San Francisco, CA, USA
Frequently asked questions
Is CleanShot X better than Loom?
Neither is universally better — CleanShot X edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is CleanShot X or Loom cheaper?
Loom is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $15/mo. CleanShot X starts at from $29 once; Loom starts at free – $15/mo.
Can CleanShot X replace Loom?
Yes for most teams — both are screen recording tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.