CleanShot X vs Tella
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The best screen capture for Mac.
The verdict
Both CleanShot X and Tella are credible screen recording tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose CleanShot X if you want a higher overall rating (4.8/5). The best screen capture for Mac.
Choose Tella if you'd rather have a lower starting price (free – $19/mo) and a free plan to start on. Screen recording that looks professional.
CleanShot X vs Tella: side by side
| Dimension | CleanShot X | Tella |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $29 once | Free – $19/moWinner |
| Free plan | No | YesWinner |
| Pricing model | One-time | Freemium |
| Best for | Apple Users, Designers | Creators, Founders |
| Platforms | Mac | Web, Mac |
| Rating | 4.8/5Winner | 4.6/5 |
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
Tella key facts
- Vendor
- Tella
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $19/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Mac
- Best for
- Creators, Founders
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2021
- Headquarters
- London, UK
Frequently asked questions
Is CleanShot X better than Tella?
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 Tella cheaper?
Tella is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $19/mo. CleanShot X starts at from $29 once; Tella starts at free – $19/mo.
Can CleanShot X replace Tella?
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.