CleanShot X vs StreamYard
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The best screen capture for Mac.
Live streaming and recording from your browser.
The verdict
Both CleanShot X and StreamYard are credible screen recording tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
CleanShot X — The best screen capture for Mac.
Choose StreamYard if you'd rather have a lower starting price (free – $25/mo) and a free plan to start on. Live streaming and recording from your browser.
CleanShot X vs StreamYard: side by side
| Dimension | CleanShot X | StreamYard |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $29 once | Free – $25/moWinner |
| Free plan | No | YesWinner |
| Pricing model | One-time | Freemium |
| Best for | Apple Users, Designers | Creators, Marketers |
| Platforms | Mac | Web |
| 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
StreamYard key facts
- Vendor
- StreamYard
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $25/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web
- Best for
- Creators, Marketers
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2018
- Headquarters
- Remote
Frequently asked questions
Is CleanShot X better than StreamYard?
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 StreamYard cheaper?
StreamYard is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $25/mo. CleanShot X starts at from $29 once; StreamYard starts at free – $25/mo.
Can CleanShot X replace StreamYard?
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.