Monosnap is still another free Snipping Tool for Mac that allows for quick and easy image and video captures of your screen. Like Snipping Tool, it allows you to capture (as well as timed capture) the entire screen, a selected window, or any desired portion of the screen. For example, the procedure followed by Mac users will be very different from that of Windows or Android. Naturally, you need to be cautious about the kind of snipping tool software you’re downloading. It should be compatible with the device you’re using. Free Snipping Tool Software for Windows – DuckLink.
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So, you’re on your desktop and you find yourself needing to do a quick screengrab. What do you do? Do you just buy Snagit because the internet has been force-feeding it to you for years? Or do you roll up your sleeves and decide to look for a free alternative to Snagit?
Snagit is a program that works as a screen recorder with an image screen capturing tool, a snipping tool, and video/audio recording capabilities. Here’s the thing, though, there are so many other programs like Snagit that are free, and, dare we say, even better.
Is there a free version of Snagit?
Actually there are many Snipping Tool alternative on Mac, such as the built-in Grab for Mac, it can be used to take screenshots on Mac, but it can automatically save screenshot in TIFF format. You need to use the 'Preview' app to change the format. We have to admit, Snagit is the gold standard of screen capture software.
Let’s get this out of the way now; no, THERE IS NO FREE VERSION OF SNAGIT.
Snagit is available to purchase for $49.95.
Why you have to pay for a tool so simple as screen capture is beyond our understanding, but Snagit only comes in a premium package.
Snagit Alternatives at a Glance
Platforms | Capture Video? | Built-in Editor? | Private Sharing? | Free Version Unlimited? | Best Feature | |
ScreenRec | Windows | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Private Sharing Link |
TuneFab Screen Recorder | Windows | Yes | Yes | No | No | Real-time editing |
Windows Snipping Tool | Windows | Yes | No | No | Yes | Built-in to Windows OS |
Greenshot | Windows | No | Yes | No | Yes | Incredibly easy-to-follow interface |
Lightshot | Windows | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No need to download or install |
Jing | Windows | No | Yes | Yes | No | Easy to use editor |
PicPick | Windows | No | Yes | Yes | No | Extensive editing features |
TinyTake | Windows | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Can add text to recorded videos |
Screen spresso | Windows | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Built-in document generator |
Shutter | Linux | No | Yes | No | Yes | Additional plugins for effects |
ShareX | Windows | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Dozens of upload destinations |
Steam | Windows | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Easily take screenshots during gameplay |
SnapDraw | Windows | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Professional image effects |
The best free alternatives to Snagit
1. Screenrec
Screenrec is a powerful alternative to Snagit for Windows (Lastest Windows 10, 8, 7 are supported), Linux and Mac. It is both screenshot capture tool and screen recording software . Powered by StreamingVideoProvider , Screenrec uses a sophisticated algorithm to upload your recording to the cloud in real time. So, as soon as you finish recording, you instantly get a shareable link.
The interface is mind-blowingly simple. Capturing screencasts or screenshots is as easy as opening the app, selecting your capture area, and pressing a button. It comes with a very simple but yet powerful screenshot annotation tool and lets you add comments, draw rectangles and arrows or add text.
You have the option of recording audio from a mic or your system, or both. Yes, both! That, plus the ability to record unlimited videos for free, makes Screenrec the best free alternative to Snagit.
Screenrec does much more than Snagit (and for $0) which makes it the best snagit alternative
Pros:
- Instant private link sharing
- Can record HD video with webcam
Cons:
- No Mac version (Coming Soon)
2. TuneFab Screen Recorder
TuneFab Screen Recorder is also a great Snagit alternative that is perfectly compatible with Windows and Mac systems. It provides 4 different modes to capture any screen activity easily, including the video recorder, audio recorder, webcam recorder, and screen capture function. You can flexibly record any type of content revealed on the desktop screens. It supports common video/audio formats such as MP4, MOV, AVI, GIF, MP3, M4A, AAC, and more.
Besides the basic screen recording functions, some advanced functions are offered. For example, its real-time editing panel makes it convenient to draw and add notes while recording. Before saving a recording, you can also trim or cut some unnecessary parts or adjust the sound volume to create a satisfying screen recording.
When the recording task is completed, you will also have a shortcut to upload and share the recorded content to popular social media platforms. And the greatest part is that the video recording doesn't even come with a watermark!
For first-time users, the free version can only support recording video within 3 minutes, but its screen capture feature doesn’t have any limits.
Pros:
- Intuitive UI and useful hotkeys
- Can record webcam and set a specific recording length
Cons:
- Free trial limits the recording to 3 minutes only
- Few video editing tools
3. Windows Snipping Tool
The Windows snipping tool is a PC screenshot tool that is included in Windows Vista and later by default. It simply takes a “photo” of the screen. Whether it’s an open window, rectangular area, free-form area or the entire full screen itself, the snipping tool makes it easy.
When you have a snip, you can add annotation or edit the image.
Now, you might be thinking, “How is it free if it comes with Windows?” Yes, technically you have to buy Windows , but since you don’t have to purchase the screenshot tool separately, we’ll say it’s free.
So, if you want to capture the contents of the screen and don’t want to pay 50 bucks for something so basic, the Windows Snipping Tool works as a viable alternative to Snagit. But, if you need to record a video of your screen, you’re out of luck.
The Snipping Tool is a simple screenshot utility built into Windows
Pros:
- No need for download
- Can copy image to clipboard
Cons:
- Lack-luster editing
- Can’t insert a text box
4. Greenshot
Greenshot is a free and open source screen-capture tool that can serve as a Snagit free alternative for Windows 7. It is quite unfortunate that Greenshot is only compatible with Windows, but hey, it’s free, so we can’t judge.
Greenshot is a fairly simple program that gives you all you need when capturing screenshots. It is very lightweight and refrains from making you climb a steep learning curve.
We are lazy. Give us something that we can understand in five minutes. That’s what Greenshot does and it makes us happy.
Greenshot is simple, lightweight screenshot software
Pros:
- Simple interface
- Lightweight app
Cons:
- Can’t screen record
- Insecure file sharing to Imgur
5. Lightshot
Lightshot is yet another free software like Snagit (well, besides the ‘free’ part obviously). Lightshot, available in Google Chrome Web Store , is a browser extension app that not only allows you to easily take a screenshot, but allows you to upload it to the server and creates a short link, similar to Screenrec .
With Lightshot, you can also search for images similar to the one you captured. We’re not exactly sure what the point of that is, but it’s cool nonetheless. Either way, Lightshot is still a free Snagit alternative worth downloading for Chrome users.
It is worth mentioning, however, that these plugins often cause lagging.
Lightshot is a free Chrome extension that allows you to capture screenshots
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Powerful online editor
Cons:
- Must create an account and upload to save and edit screenshots
- Lacks security when you upload to edit pics
6. Jing
Jing is an interesting alternative to Snagit in that they were both created and released by TechSmith . With both a free and premium version, Jing allowed you to record audio and video then upload directly to the internet automatically creating a shareable link.
You’ve probably noticed that we used the term “allowed”, in the past tense. That is because Jing is no longer available for video capture and has been replaced with Snagit.
But before you begin shouting at us, you should know that Jing can still be used for simple image capturing and, yes, it is still free. It may have lost a capability or two, but it’s still a Snagit alternative.
Jing is another screenshot utility by Techsmith (the creators of Snagit)
Pros:
- Basic editing features that don’t require a learning curve
- Can be saved in multiple formats
Cons:
- Can no longer record videos
- App can be taxing on systems causing lagging
7. PicPick
We’re going to keep this one as simple as the app itself. PicPick is an easy screen capture tool that allows you to extensively edit the image you’ve captured. With cool graphics accessories like a color picker, pixel ruler, and color palette, there are hundreds of ways to edit and design anything on your screen.
Their free version excludes you from automatic updates and tech support (which we found quite rude) but it’s not a bad alternative to Snagit for Windows. You certainly won’t be displeased… unless you end up needing support, then yes, you are on your own.
PickPick captures screenshots and lets you edit them
Pros:
- Can capture rolling screen
- Advanced photo editor
Cons:
- Editor may be a little hard to get used to
- Can only share publicly
8. TinyTake
TinyTake is in the same realm as Screenrec in that it allows for video and image capture for free. Yet, unlike Screenrec, you can only record up to 5 minutes of video.
You have the ability to add text to your recording and share it online. It’s fairly easy to use with a simple interface and easy to understand options.
Sadly, it is only available for Windows. So, all you Mac and Linux users, we apologize on their behalf. Yet, we can’t be too hard on TinyTake. There aren’t too many free Snagit alternatives for windows that can record video along with images.
TinyTake is one of the free Snagit alternatives that can also record video
Pros:
- Can capture webcam
- Can blur sensitive information
Cons:
- Limited recording time
- Only available for Windows.
9. Screenpresso
Screenpresso sounds like an app that’s exclusive to coffee shop owners, but don’t worry, it’s available to anyone. Adding to our list of image and video captures for free, Screenpresso fits snuggly among the elites.
Simple, easy to use, minimal interface, immediate sharing. You know the drill. The recurring issue, however: it is only available for Windows. It is still a sweeter option than the $50 Snagit.
Screenpresso is a simple image screen capturing tool
Pros:
- Has a document generator
- Can delay capture
Cons:
- Limit on video recorder
- Comes with watermark
10. Shutter
Hey, Ubuntu /Linux users! Have we got an app for you! Shutter swings in to attempt to help you capture your computer screen. If you’re looking for a simple Linux screenshot tool , this could be it.
Video capture is not available, but they make up for this flaw with fairly decent editing features and available plugins for cool effects. It is without a doubt worth a shot for Ubuntu loyalists that don’t need to record screen video.
Shutter is an image screen capturing tool for Linux/Ubuntu
Pros:
- Open-source which allows for additional editing features and effects
- Can upload directly to sharing sites
Cons:
- Only for Linux
- Can’t capture video
11. ShareX
This Windows-only screen tool doesn’t just give Snagit a run for its money, it’s also a direct competitor of the Windows Snipping Tool, and it seems to be doing a fine job of it. Share X is a busy little app that seems to jam-pack tons of features into a single desktop app.
There are dozens of editing features including a color picker, image splitter, image combiner, and of course your basics like annotation and blur effects. You can even upload your screen grabs to over one dozen sites. There are just so many features and so many options, does anyone else have decision fatigue?
Pros:
- Extensive editing features
- 19 annotation tools
Cons:
- Too many options flood the user interface with multiple menus and drop-down options making it difficult to find what you’re looking for
- No instant link for easier sharing
12. Steam
For you gamers out there, you don’t have to rely on an app that is best suited for enterprises. For you, there’s a not-so-little app called Steam . Steam is an easy to use screen recorder, live stream app, and screenshot tool.
While in gameplay, you can simply press F12 on Windows or Option+fn+F12 on Mac to capture an in-game screenshot. After the screenshot is automatically saved to the Steam cloud, you can edit it with basic annotation features and upload it to Steam or share it on Facebook.
Pros:
- Simple screenshot hotkey
- Can manipulate computer screen before taking a screenshot
Cons:
- Can only be used for screenshotting gameplay
- Limited sharing options
13. SnapDraw
Talk about professional features in a free app! ScreenRec isn’t the only one. While SnapDraw can’t record video, it makes up for it with the awesome screenshot editing capabilities. Yes, you can capture regions of your screen and fullscreen. Yes, you can capture a webcam.
But it’s what you can do with your captures that makes SnapDraw a better free alternative to SnagIt. You can turn any of your images into 3D. It can also capture transparency/translucency. If that weren’t enough, you can also arrange and manipulate screenshots and set background colors or images.
Pros:
- High-quality editing features
- Simple user-interface
Cons:
- Doesn’t record video
- No easy way to share
What is the best Snagit alternative?
We’ll leave that decision up to you. Each program offers unique features and tools, but in our opinion, Screenrec takes the cake. It is the only tool that runs on most operating systems such as Windows, Linux and Mac, captures images as well as it works as a video recorder and offers instant sharing. Screenrec is a triple threat that no other free screen capture tool has been able to match.
Conclusion
In all, Snagit hurts our brains and our wallets. It doesn’t offer nearly enough features or capabilities to not be free. With 9 proven top snagit alternatives, you have plenty of options though. We hope this breakdown has been helpful and you will find here the right tool for your needs.
Snagit is a screen capture tool that can record your desktop and grab screenshots. Camtasia can record your screen but can't capture screenshots. Camtasia is designed for more professional video editing and it has many more options compared to SnagIt. In short, SnagIt is like an easier, more basic version of Camtasia that can capture screenshots.
Yes. Go to the Video tab and select the option that best fits your use case. You can capture your desktop with the cursor and include your webcam (face cam) if you want.
Yes, you can record the computer audio. Go to the Video tab and switch on 'Record System Audio'.
References and Further Reading?
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How To Screenshot On PC, Edit And Add Annotations
Ever since Windows 7, Microsoft has included a Snipping Tool that makes it easy to take customized screenshots of your desktop. If you’re used to the Snipping Tool, and if you’ve just moved to the Mac, you might be thinking to yourself, is there a Snipping Tool for Mac?
Quite a few, in fact. There’s a basic, but robust built-in tool, just like in Windows. And you’ll find many feature-rich third-party options as well. It’s just that they go by a different name in macOS. Instead of a snipping tool, they are usually referred to as screenshot utilities.
Either way, here are the best snipping tool (and screenshot utility) alternatives for the Mac.
Mac’s Built-In Option
Before we look at alternatives, let’s start with the native snipping tool for Mac. Use the Command + Shift + 3 keyboard shortcut to capture the entire screen. The Command + Shift + 4 shortcut lets you select an area of the screen.
Here, if you keep holding the Shift button, and then press the Space key, you’ll enter the window capture mode. Just highlight and click on a window to capture it.
Once the screenshot is taken, you’ll see a little floating preview of it in the bottom-right corner of the screen (if you’re running macOS Mojave and higher). Clicking on it opens the screenshot in a Quick Look window where you can easily edit it.
If you’re using macOS Mojave, you get a feature-rich snipping tool alternative in the form of a floating bar. Use the Command + Shift + 5 keyboard shortcut, and you’ll see options to capture the entire screen, selected window, or the selected portion. You can also record your screen here.
From the Options menu, you’ll be able to change the screen destination and set a timer. Once you’re ready, either press the Enter button, or click the Capture button.
Snagit
Snagit is the ultimate screen capture and snipping tool for Mac. While it costs $49.95 (15-day free trial) for a license, it’s totally worth it if you’re looking for a workhorse screenshot utility. Snagit lets you capture your screen as an image or video (which can then be converted to a GIF). You can also annotate and edit your images right in Snagit.
What makes Snagit stand out is its sheer number of features, starting from Snagit’s menu bar utility, which makes it easy to capture screenshots. From here, you can decide which kind of screenshot you want to capture, if you want to add any effects, and if you want to use the timer.
Snagit offers multiple options when it comes to selection. It lets you capture individual menus, webpages, webcams, and you can even take panoramic screenshots.
Snipping Tool For Mac Free Download
Once the screenshot is captured, it opens in Snagit’s editor. Here, you can annotate it with arrows, shapes, callouts, and more. You can crop the image and export it in the format of your choice.
In our experience, Snagit has one of the best GIF makers on Mac. You can record a video of your Mac’s screen, trim it down, and convert it into a GIF all in a couple of minutes.
But if you’re only looking for a simple screenshot utility, something to quickly capture parts of your screen and sometimes annotate them, Snagit would be an overkill. In that case, take a look at other options below.
Lightshot
Lightshot is a free and simple real-time screenshot utility that’s been around since 2009. While it hasn’t been updated with a modern macOS interface, it’s still a solid option if you want to quickly capture and annotate screenshots.
Once you capture a screenshot using Lightshot (you can configure the keyboard shortcut from the Preferences), you’ll see annotation and saving options right next to the shortcut. From here, you can doodle over the screenshot, and annotate it using shapes.
You can then choose to save the screenshot, copy it to the clipboard, or you can upload it to Lightshot’s image sharing website. When you choose the cloud sharing option, you’ll get a public link for the image in a second. You don’t even need to sign up for an account to do this.
Monosnap
Monosnap is a more feature-rich and modern version of Lightshot. You can use Monosnap to capture your screen using a keyboard shortcut (fullscreen and region), record videos, and create GIFs. Once the screenshot is captured, you can annotate it using shapes, arrow tools, and blur parts of the image.
How To Snip On A Mac
Once you’re done, you can choose to save the image to the local drive, or you can share the image using Monoscape Cloud Storage. A free account gives you 2GB storage space for sharing photos. You can upgrade to a Pro plan to add your own storage providers like Google Drive, Dropbox, and more.
CloudApp
CloudApp is another screenshot and GIF sharing snipping tool for Mac that comes with robust annotation features. All you need to use the app is a free CloudApp account (you can sign in using your Google account).
The free CloudApp account lets you capture your fullscreen, regions, and app windows using the menu bar utility, and configurable keyboard shortcuts. There’s a separate shortcut for timed screenshots as well.
Microsoft Snipping Tool For Mac Free Download
Once you capture the screenshot, CloudApp automatically opens its screenshot editor. From the sidebar, you’ll be able to annotate the screenshot using arrows and shapes. You can even blur or highlight parts of the image here. When you’re done, you can click the Share button to upload the screenshot (and to copy a link to the clipboard).
Snipping Tool Mac Freeware
You can skip the cloud uploading process altogether by clicking the arrow next to the Share button and selecting the Download File (Command + D) option instead.
Free Snipping Tool For Macos
If you’re looking for a free and robust screenshot capture tool that has all the basic features for capturing and editing screenshots, CloudApp can be the perfect fit (you can disable some of the automatic online upload options from the settings).