A Comprehensive Review of Snagit and Camtasia Alternatives

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Table of contents

The number of screen recorder alternatives is increasing.  This thorough review of screen recorders covers forty screen recording software tools.  

Screen capture tools are an essential method of content creation. Choosing the suitable alternative depends on your use case.  Paid alternatives provide richer functionality and support. However, a free recorder may serve your needs. 

Snagit is the leading quick-share screen capture tool. Camtasia is the leading multi-track recorder and video editor.  This article lists alternatives for the screen recording portion of these products.

Refer to the Ultimate Screen Recorder Guide for information on use case considerations and product feature sets.

Table 1: Best quick-share screen capture for knowledge sharing and Snagit alternatives

Screenshot of Snagit's video recording settings

Snagit is the top-ranked screen recorder.  Quick-share recorders focus on efficient, casual visual communication for knowledge-sharing. Snagit, like others in this category, offers simple editing features. 

A fully-functioning trial of Snagit is available, so you can try it, risk-free, and get acquainted with all of the available functionality. The trial is fully functioning and lasts initially for 15 days. Additionally, there is a robust series of tutorials available for Snagit which is helpful to review when new to the software.

These types of products–quick-share recorders–consistently provide:

  • One click to start recording
  • User-friendly interface
  • Full screen and region capture
  • Screen recording tool with capture of audio and video (webcam)
  • Automatic conversion to a shareable video format
  • Automatic link generation to share your video via email

Common strengths across this category include HD capture, scrolling screenshots, and integration with other platforms.  Unique features include custom branding (Snagit), prospecting (Vidyard), and educational integrations (Screencastify).  

These tools lack advanced video editing. Instead, these products focus on sharing a video instantly. Other common limitations include comprehensive system audio capture or platform-based limitations (e.g., only desktop or Chrome extension).

G2’s rankings for Best Screen and Video Capture Software guide this list.  In addition, consider built-in screen recorders tied to a specific software app.  Examples include Screenjar (Capture for Jira), Screen Recordings (by Screendesk), and Birdie.

ProductPlatformUnique StrengthsWeaknesses
SnagitDesktop Windows and Mac$39/yr ($139/yr if optionally using TechSmith cloud to share)

HD capture

Live draw and annotation

Mouse animations

Configure for local storage, provided cloud, or designated secure location

Scrolling and panoramic screenshots

Advanced image editing

Replace, edit, and markup shared documents without changing the link

Create video from images

Extensive file format support

Custom branding elements

Integration with Slack, Teams, Screencast 

Stock library

GIF creation

Auto-generate step by step documentation from screen recording (v25)

Additional AI features (optional)
Desktop Only

Lacks advanced video editing, but integrated with Camtasia
Atlassian LoomDesktop, Chrome extension, mobileHD capture

Live draw

Mouse animations

Video splitting

Delightful effects like confetti spray

Fastest at returning a link

The most significant number of integrations, including Slack and Trello via an SDK

Additional AI features
$150/yr

Lacks advanced image editing

Lacks advanced video editing

All content shared through Loom’s cloud
VidyardDesktop, Chrome extensionHD content

Specializes in video messaging for sales prospecting
$228/yr

Lacks system audio and cursor capture

Lacks image capture and image editing

Lacks video editing beyond trimming
Vimeo RecordChrome extensionFreeLacks system audio and cursor capture

Lacks image capture and image editing

Lacks video editing beyond trimming

All content shared through Vimeo cloud
Veed.ioOnlineFree tier

Advanced video editing features, including assets library, overlays, and subtitles
Lacks cursor capture

Cannot suppress system audio capture

Lacks image capture or image editing

Online recorders have lower-resolution quality

Online only

All content shared through Veed cloud
Wistia Recorder (Soapbox)Chrome extensionAdvanced tracking with Wistia OVP license 

Video trimming, zooming, transitions
Lacks system audio or mouse cursor capture

Lacks image capture and image editing

Lacks advanced video editing

All content Shared through the Wistia cloud

Limitations of Chrome extension
ScreenPal (Screencast-O-Matic)Desktop, Chrome extensionScrolling Capture

Integration with learning management systems

Interactivity features

Advanced video editing, including transitions, text overlays

Image capture and some editing
Lacks some advanced video editing features (multi-track editing, animations, effects)

Lacks audio editing/ background noise removal
DropBox CaptureDesktopIntegration with DropBox OVP 

Can replace/revoke a file without changing the link

Specialty in sensitive documents with DocSend integration
Desktop only
Zight (CloudApp)Desktop, Chrome extensionIt also supports image annotation

Integration with Slack, Confluence, and Teams
Lacks advanced video editing beyond annotations
TechSmith CaptureWindows and MacFree screen recording with no recording time limit  and no watermark

Integrated with Screencast OVP

Save locally

It also supports screenshots and screenshot annotation
Cannot suppress cursor capture

Lacks video editing capabilities
ScreencastifyChrome extensionK12 focus

Interactive questions

Collect video submissions

Integration with Google Classroom
Lacks image capture and image editing

Limitations of Chrome extension
DroplrDesktop, Chrome ExtensionIt also provides image editingLacks advanced video editing
Nimbus CaptureChrome, Firefox, and Opera extension, DesktopIt also includes image editing

Multiple browsers supported
Features vary by platform

Limitations on  audio and mouse capture

Lacks advanced video editing beyond trimming and annotations
JumpshareDesktopExtensive file format support

Custom branding
Desktop only

System audio capture is limited based on the platform

Lacks advanced video editing beyond annotations
ScreenRecDesktopFree screen recording with unlimited recording and no watermarkDesktop only

Lacks optional mouse capture

Lacks video editing capabilities
BerrycastDesktop, Browser ExtensionEditing functionality in the browser extensionLacks or limited system audio and mouse cursor capture

Lacks image capture and image editing

Lacks advanced video editing
Cleanshot XMac onlyScrolling screenshots

Some Image editing tools

The choice to configure for local storage or their provided cloud
Lacks video editing beyond trimming and annotations

System audio capture requires configuration
MonosnapWindows and MacScrolling screenshots
Image capture and some editing tools
Lacks advanced video editing beyond annotations

Record your screen with Camtasia

Camtasia is the best way to share information via video without out the hassle of learning how to edit.

Try Camtasia for Free!
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Table 2: Best multi-track screen recorder/video editors and Camtasia alternatives

Multi-track recorders focus on precision video editing of screen-recorded content.

These products minimally provide:

  • Capture of screen, webcam, microphone, and system audio in separate tracks
  • Flexible design and repurposing
  • An integrated non-linear video editor

G2 rankings for Top Video Editor Software guide this list. Camtasia is the leader in this category.

Screenshot of Camtasia recording options
Screenshot of Camtasia video editor

Products in this category consistently offer advanced video editing features, including animations and transitions. A few, such as Camtasia and ActivePresenter, provide interactive elements.

Common weaknesses are often platform-specific, such as ScreenFlow, which is only available for Mac.  A subscription and perpetual pricing model is available for only a few products.

ProductCapture CapabilitiesEditing CapabilitiesPricing
CamtasiaSpecialized cursor and keystroke capture capabilities to create tutorials and high-quality video filesAdvanced editing suite, animations, interactive elements, unlimited transcription$179.88/yr subscription or $299.99 one-time fee
DescriptSpecialized audio capabilities for podcastersText-based video editing, transcription, AI-powered tools$288/yr for features specified (or $144/yr hobbyist)
ScreenFlowMac only, multiple audio and screen sourcesAdvanced video editing, animations, transitions$149 one-time fee
Wondershare FilmoraMulti-track capabilities recently introducedAdvanced video editing, animations, transitions$155.88/yr
ActivePresenterScreen, webcam, software simulations – eLearning authoring categoryPowerful editing, interactive elements, simulations$199 one-time fee

Table 3: Alternatives for gameplay recorders

Recorders for gaming focus on high-quality recording with minimal system impact.  

They minimally provide:

  • 4K 60 FPS recording
  • Limited performance impact
Screenshot of OBS Studio

This list includes combined screen recorders/video editors like Camtasia with medium system impact. These specialize in editing high-resolution screen content.  Use these to edit OBS recordings in order maintain the quality.

  • They also offer the convenience of a recorder plus integrated editing.  However, they may only be suitable for recording some kinds of gameplay.

A free trial of Camtasia is available, so you can test it out, and get started right away. The trial is fully-functioning, though any videos produced during the trial will have a watermark. There is a library of tutorials available which is useful content to get acquainted with the software.

RecorderCapabilitiesPerformance ImpactIntegrated Video Editing
OBS StudioHigh-quality recording, live streaming, hardware acceleration, configurable pluginsMinimal with proper setupNo
NVIDIA ShadowPlayGPU-accelerated, up to 4K resolution, instant replayMinimal for NVIDIA usersNo
AMD ReLiveGPU-accelerated, up to 4K resolutionMinimal for AMD usersNo
BandicamHigh compression, low resource usage, hardware accelerationLow impactOffers basic editing tools
Action! by MirillisHigh-quality recording, real-time frame rates, live commentaryLow impactOffers basic editing tools
Camtasia4K 60FPS, GPU acceleration configuration optionsMedium impactTop Rated Video Editor
DemoCreator4K 60FPS, GPU acceleration configuration optionsMedium impactOffers some video editing, including annotations
Movavi Screen Recorder4K 60FPS, GPU acceleration configuration optionsMedium impactNo, but Movavi provides a video editor separately

Table 4: Best free screen recorders without time limits and watermarks

Operating systems, online video editors, and online video hosting platforms often include built-in features to record your screen.

These products minimally provide:

  • Free-for-life access
  • Screen, webcam, and microphone capture
  • No watermarks appear on the free tier
  • Unlimited recording time on the free tier

This list excludes these products due to limitations on free use.

ProductRecording Time LimitsWatermarkTrial or Tier
Snagit, mmhmm, DrplrNoNoShort trial
ScreenPal (Screencast-O-Matic), Movavi, Free Cam, BandicamNoYesShort trial
CamtasiaNoYesInfinite trial
ScreenpressoNoYesFree tier
Vmaker, Jumpshare, CALIPIO, ClipChamp, Loom, Zight (CloudApp)YesNoFree tier
ScreencastifyYesYes – on exportFree tier
IcecreamYesYesFree tier

Common strengths in this category include cross-platform support, often via browser plugins.  Less common strengths include online storage with instant sharing links and editing.  OBS is unique as open-source, with many configuration options.

Several tools cannot hide mouse capture or have limited system audio capabilities.  Items with online storage only may have a cost if usage grows.

Screen RecorderPlatformOnline StorageLimitations
OBS StudioWindows, Mac, LinuxNoNo formal support and training
ApowersoftOnline + Browser PluginCan upload to YouTube, Vimeo, Google Drive, and Dropbox
TechSmith CaptureWindows, MacYes, but local use is supportedCannot suppress mouse capture
ScreenRecWindows, Mac, LinuxYes, onlyCannot suppress mouse capture
ShareXWindowsCan upload to YouTubeCannot suppress mouse capture
Canva Screen RecorderOnlineYes, onlyLimited system audio capture

Limited mouse capture
Windows Xbox Game BarWindows 10 and 11NoLimited system audio capture
Snipping Tool (Windows)Windows 11NoLimited system audio capture

Cannot capture mouse cursor
macOS Screenshot ToolbarMac (Mojave and later)NoLimited system audio capture
Fenêtre Capture ToolWindows 10 and 11No, but it has integration with Teams and Outlook
MonosnapMac and WindowsYes, onlyThe free tier is for non-commercial use only
Camtasia WebOnlineYesUnranked TBD, currently in beta

Record your screen with Snagit

Snagit makes it easy to share quick updates and how-to’s by capturing exactly what’s happening on your screen.

Get Started for Free
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Deciding on Snagit, Camtasia, or an alternative screen recorder

Step 1: Identify your general use case from this document.

Step 2: Identify platform preferences and budget constraints.

  • Some prefer online recorders, while others are concerned about security and privacy.  
  • The most powerful recorder and editors are on-device.
  • Start with a free screen recorder if budget is a limitation.

Step 3: Research the type of use case and target customer associated with the product. Picking a product based on its leadership in a niche is the safest approach since feature comparisons change.

Step 4: Consider the vendor in your selection.

  • Do they provide comprehensive training and phone support?  
  • What is the vendor’s capability and reputation for customer service? 
  • Do you trust the vendor with privacy and security?  
  • Are they a stable company with stable pricing or a struggling start-up?

More about TechSmith

TechSmith has been the market leader in screen capture for thirty years.  Our niche is instructional content creation, such as documentation, training, software demos, and educational presentations. 

We take pride in customer satisfaction. TechSmith has the highest customer NPS and CSAT scores in the industry. Our large, diverse customer community includes:

  • All Fortune 500 companies
  • The top 100 higher education organizations in the US
  • Every country globally
  • At least 200 established social media influencers
    • Our products have produced tens of millions of YouTube videos.

We invest in our customers’ success.  Comprehensive free training includes weekly live webinars, certification training, and podcasts with industry experts.  We provide 24/5 live chat support. And we are about the last software vendor that still provides phone support to all customers. 

We are a family- and 30% employee-owned company, entirely bootstrapped, headquartered in Michigan with an office in Berlin. All our level two+ support agents and product software developers are employee-owners.

Consider a free trial of Snagit, Camtasia, or free TechSmith Capture.