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CleanShot X vs Ecamm Live

Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.

The best screen capture for Mac.

Live streaming studio for Mac.

The verdict

Both CleanShot X and Ecamm Live are credible screen recording tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.

Choose CleanShot X if you want a higher overall rating (4.8/5). The best screen capture for Mac.

Choose Ecamm Live if you'd rather have a lower starting price (from $16/mo) and a longer free trial (14 days). Live streaming studio for Mac.

CleanShot X vs Ecamm Live: side by side

DimensionCleanShot XEcamm Live
Starting priceFrom $29 onceFrom $16/moWinner
Free planNoNo
Free trial14 daysWinner
Pricing modelOne-timeSubscription
Best forApple Users, DesignersStreamers, Podcasters, Educators
PlatformsMacMac
Rating4.8/5Winner4.6/5

CleanShot X key facts

Vendor
MakeTimeBuild
Pricing
One-time — From $29 once
Free tier
No
Platforms
Mac
Best for
Apple Users, Designers
Editor rating
4.8 / 5
Founded
2019
Headquarters
Remote

Ecamm Live key facts

Vendor
Ecamm
Pricing
Subscription — From $16/mo
Free tier
Free trial (14 days)
Platforms
Mac
Best for
Streamers, Podcasters, Educators
Editor rating
4.6 / 5
Founded
2018
Headquarters
Boston, Massachusetts

Frequently asked questions

Is CleanShot X better than Ecamm Live?

Neither is universally better — CleanShot X edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.

Is CleanShot X or Ecamm Live cheaper?

Ecamm Live is the more affordable of the two to get started, at from $16/mo. CleanShot X starts at from $29 once; Ecamm Live starts at from $16/mo.

Can CleanShot X replace Ecamm Live?

Yes for most teams — both are screen recording tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.