Honest comparison
Scribbble vs CleanShot X
CleanShot X is a screenshot powerhouse. Scribbble focuses on drawing on the live screen. They're complementary, but here's how to choose.
What is CleanShot X?
CleanShot X is an all-in-one screenshot and screen recording app for macOS. It includes annotation tools — but only after you've captured a screenshot.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Scribbble | CleanShot X |
|---|---|---|
| Live on-screen annotation | Limited | |
| Spotlight (focus dim) | ||
| Measure tool | ||
| Highlighter | ||
| Screenshot annotation | Yes (free companion web tool) | |
| Screen recording | ||
| Cloud upload & shareable links | ||
| Scrolling capture | ||
| Pricing | One-time | One-time or subscription |
| Pricing | Free download with optional one-time license. | Paid (one-time or subscription via Setapp). |
Where Scribbble wins
- Annotates the LIVE screen — not just captured images
- Works during Zoom calls, OBS streams and screen recordings
- Includes Spotlight, Highlighter and Measure tools for live presentations
- Lighter weight, single-purpose tool
- More affordable for users who only need live annotation
- Includes a free Screenshot Annotate web tool for static markup with blur, depth-of-field and numbered markers
Where CleanShot X wins
- Best-in-class screenshot capture
- Cloud upload and shareable links
- Scrolling capture
- Screen recording with annotations
Choose Scribbble if…
- You annotate during live presentations, calls or streams
- You want drawings to appear on the actual live screen, not just on a saved screenshot
- You don't need cloud sharing, screen recording or scrolling capture
Choose CleanShot X if…
- Your main workflow is capture → annotate → share
- You need cloud links, scrolling capture or video screen recording
FAQ
Can I use Scribbble and CleanShot X together?
Yes — many users do. CleanShot for capture and async sharing, Scribbble for drawing on the live screen during calls and presentations.
Other comparisons
Scribbble for your role
Scribbble for TeachersScribbble for StreamersScribbble for YouTubersScribbble for DesignersScribbble for Sales teams