Alternatives · checked
Snipping Tool alternatives for Windows
The verdict
The verdict: Windows 11's own Snipping Tool now covers most jobs: region snips, screen recording, copying text out of a screenshot and quick redaction. If you want more, ShareX is the free, open-source power tool, Greenshot is a simpler free option, and Snagit is the paid choice for polished guides with arrows and callouts.
Side by side
| Feature | Snipping Tool | ShareX | Greenshot | Snagit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Free, built in | Free | Free | Paid |
| Screen recording | Yes | Yes, including GIF | No | Yes |
| Copy text from a capture | Yes, Text actions | Yes | Through a plugin | Yes |
| Scrolling capture | No | Yes | Limited | Yes |
| Annotation | Pen, highlighter, shapes | Good | Good | Best |
| Learning curve | None | Steep | Low | Low |
Which one to pick
- Pick Snipping Tool if you take a few screenshots a week. It is already on your PC.
- Pick ShareX if you want scrolling captures, GIFs or automation, and do not mind settings.
- Pick Greenshot if you want arrows and blur on a screenshot in two clicks.
- Pick Snagit if screenshots are part of your job and the time saved pays for it.
The alternatives
Snipping Tool
Built in
Best for: Everyday screenshots.
Good
- Windows + Shift + S from anywhere
- Text actions copy text out of a snip
- Screen recording
Not so good
- Basic drawing tools
ShareX
Free, open source
Best for: Power users who want everything.
Good
- Scrolling capture, GIF recording, text recognition
- Automate what happens after each capture
Not so good
- A lot of settings
- Can upload captures, so check its after-capture tasks
Greenshot
Free, open source
Best for: Quick annotated screenshots without fuss.
Good
- Light and simple
- Good arrows, boxes and blur
Not so good
- No screen recording
- Updates are slow
Snagit
Paid
Best for: Writing guides and documentation.
Good
- Best annotation and templates
- Scrolling capture and video
Not so good
- Costs money
Questions people ask
Is ShareX safe?
It is open source and well known. It can upload captures to image hosts, so check its after-capture tasks and leave uploads off if you do not want them.
Can Snipping Tool take a scrolling screenshot?
Not at the moment. ShareX and Snagit can.
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