Find Your Best Snipping Tool
Finding the best snipping tools is essential for capturing good-quality screenshots.
Whether you're a manager who needs to share detailed instructions or a software engineer looking to capture an application's bug, having the right program is the key. A versatile and practical utility that can greatly improve your workflow.
This guide will explore the top 6 screenshot takers for Windows and macOS, helping you find the perfect fit for your needs.
How we picked the best snipping tools
Discovering the ultimate screen capture program can be a challenging endeavor, given the abundance of choices on the market.
When compiling our list, we considered several key factors:
- Ease of Use. An intuitive interface to make taking screenshots an effortless task.
- Functionality. Various capture modes (full desktop, window, region) and additional features like screen recording.
- Editing Tools. The ability to crop, annotate, and highlight screenshot content.
When you choose the screenshot maker for you, assess your unique needs. Do you want a basic tool for simple screenshots or a more advanced one with editing features?
Also, consider the app's compatibility with your device and operating system.
Best snipping tool for Windows: top 3
Icecream Screen Recorder
Icecream Screen Recorder is the app that allows users to capture any area of their desktop, either as an image or a video file. This makes it particularly useful for creating tutorials, recording webinars, and capturing gameplay.
This screen capture software provides a range of tools to annotate the taken images, add text, draw, and highlight specific areas. Additionally, users can schedule tasks, which is helpful for filming live streams at a specific time.
Another notable feature is the ability to add watermarks to your recordings or screenshots ensuring that your content is branded and protected. This is the best free screenshot tool for Windows chosen by many users.
The free version is available and quite capable. The PRO license for advanced and commercial use is only $29.95 per year or $ 59.95 for a lifetime.
Pros:
- The intuitive interface ensures ease of navigation for all users.
- Several capturing modes are available, including selected area, window, and full screen.
- Users can take screenshots and upload them to the integrated server for seamless sharing.
- The screen recorder allows to capture of the display activity in the video form. Web camera and microphone input are both supported.
ShareX
ShareX is an open-source snipping tool renowned for its extensive features and customization options. It supports a wide range of capture methods, including the ability to take scrolling shots.
This screenshot maker provides a comprehensive set of editing tools, including image effects, watermarks, and annotations. The app also integrates with numerous cloud services, enabling easy uploading and sharing of captured content.
This program, apart from the snipping tool, also includes screen recording capabilities, making it a robust solution for both static and dynamic content creation.
Pros:
- The screenshot maker is free and its code can be modified as needed.
- There is a wide array of capture and editing options for quick image customization.
- Users can streamline their tasks through the scheduling feature.
Cons:
- The program’s interface, while functional, may appear dated compared to more modern software designs.
- The extensive feature set may require significant time to fully explore and utilize effectively.
PicPick
PicPick is a comprehensive snipping program that combines a versatile capture utility with a full-featured image editor.
The software offers multiple modes, catering to various user needs. The built-in picture editor provides powerful tools for modifying and annotating screenshots. These include text addition, drawing, and image effects, making it easy to create polished and professional-looking visuals.
Beyond its capture and editing capabilities, this screenshot maker provides several graphic accessories that can aid in design tasks, like a color picker, pixel ruler, and protractor.
Pros:
- This snipping tool is designed to be simple, offering users a straightforward interface for efficient capture.
Cons:
- While the tool is free for personal use, some advanced features and the enterprise version require a paid license.
- The app comes without screen recording capabilities.
Best snipping tool for macOS: top 3
Monosnap
Monosnap is a feature-rich snipping tool that offers both screenshot and desktop recording capabilities. It provides several capture settings - the full screen, specific windows, or selected regions.
The screenshot taker's editing tools are extensive, including options for annotations, blurring sensitive information, and adding text, making the app a versatile solution for creating detailed and informative visuals.
The program also supports customizable hotkeys, which can streamline the capture process for users who frequently take screenshots.
Pros:
- The screenshot maker seamlessly integrates with cloud storage services, facilitating easy storage and sharing of captured content across platforms.
Cons:
- To access cloud storage integration, users need to create and log into a Monosnap account
- While this screenshot maker offers robust free features, advanced functionalities such as higher storage capacity require a paid subscription.
Lightshot Screenshot
LightShot Screenshot is a straightforward snipping tool designed for quick and easy display captures. It features a simple interface that allows users to select any area of their screen and capture it with just a few clicks.
The app's basic editing tools enable users to add annotations, arrows, and text to their screenshots, making it ideal for those who need to highlight specific areas or leave brief comments.
The standout feature of this screenshot taker is that users can upload their captures directly to platforms like Facebook and Twitter or save them to cloud storage services like Google Drive.
Pros:
- The screenshot maker excels in swift operation, ensuring minimal system resource usage and quick screenshot capture.
- There is an option to directly upload taken pictures to social media platforms and various cloud services.
Cons:
- This snipping tool provides basic functionality without the inclusion of advanced features found in more comprehensive software.
- The application focuses solely on capturing screenshots and does not include functionality for recording desktop activity.
iScreen Shooter
iScreen Shooter is a powerful snipping tool for macOS that combines versatility with ease of use. Several modes for taking a screenshot are available.
The desktop screen capture maker offers a comprehensive suite of editing and annotation features, enabling users to enhance their images with text, shapes, and highlights. The app also integrates seamlessly with various cloud services, making it easy to store and share screenshots.
Pros:
- The intuitive interface ensures straightforward navigation for all levels of users.
- OCR capabilities are integrated for the captured images.
Cons:
- Certain advanced functionalities are accessible only through paid subscriptions.
- The snipping tool provides basic screen recording features and its capabilities in this area are limited compared to other software.
Best snipping tools: final comparison table
| Feature / Tool | Icecream Screen Recorder | ShareX | PicPick | Monosnap | Lightshot | iScreen Shooter |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Recording | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Annotation Tools | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Editing Capabilities | Basic | Advanced | Basic | Basic | Basic | Basic |
| Cloud Integration | Google Drive, Dropbox | Multiple (e.g., Dropbox, Imgur) | Google Drive, Dropbox | Google Drive, Dropbox | None | None |
| Cross-Platform | Windows, macOS | Windows | Windows | Windows, macOS | Windows, macOS | Windows, macOS |
| Cost | Free version available | Free | Free version available | Free version available | Free | Free version available |
| Extra Features | Scheduled captures, hotkeys | Custom workflows, FTP upload | Color picker, pixel ruler | Video editing, cloud storage | Instant sharing, simple interface | Timed captures, adjustable settings |
FAQ
- Can I use a snipping tool on my mobile device?
- Yes, there are various screenshot apps available for both iOS and Android devices. There are also basic built-in screen capture functionalities on all types of phones.
- Can I save my screenshots in various file extensions using a snipping tool?
- Most snipping makers allow you to save your screenshots in various file formats such as PNG, JPG, or even PDF.
- Are there snipping tools that support both Windows and macOS?
- Yes, programs like Icecream Screen Recorder and Monosnap run on Windows and macOS. These cross-platform screen recorders offer consistent features such as various capture modes, editing tools, and cloud integration, making them ideal for professionals working in diverse environments.
- What security features should I consider when using snipping tools?
- Pay attention to encryption, secure cloud storage, and access controls like password protection and two-factor authentication. Software that allows local storage can keep sensitive data offline, and regular updates help address potential security vulnerabilities.
- Can snipping tools take high-resolution screenshots?
- Specialized programs like Icecream Screen Recorder allow to capture desktop pictures and video in HD. The app is optimized for high-resolution screens, ensuring that the content maintains clarity and detail.
Tips on picking a snipping tool
To ensure that you make the right choice, pay attention to the following key points:
- Consider the features offered by the snipping tool, such as capture modes, annotation tools, and file-saving options.
- Look for user-friendly interfaces and customizable settings to suit your specific needs.
- Make sure to check for compatibility with your operating system and device.
- Consider the pricing options and whether they offer good value for money.
- Read reviews and compare different programs to gather insights from other users.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing the best snipping tool has the potential to significantly improve your productivity and efficiency when capturing and editing screenshots.
Whether you are looking for the best free screenshot tool for Windows or a powerful desktop capture taker for macOS, our list and tips will help you make an informed choice.
By using our guide, you can find the optimal screenshot maker that meets all your requirements. So go ahead and start taking professional-looking screenshots with ease!
Expert Tech Writer
