Table of Contents
- 1 Introduction CleanShot X
- 2 What is CleanShot X?
- 2.1 Key Features of CleanShot X
- 2.2 1. Smart Screenshot Capture
- 2.3 2. Built-in Annotation Tools
- 2.4 3. Screen Recording & GIF Creation
- 2.5 4. CleanShot Cloud
- 2.6 5. Scrolling Capture
- 2.7 6. Clipboard & Quick Access Overlay
- 2.8 7. Pin Screenshots
- 2.9 8. Customizable Shortcuts
- 2.10 Pros and Cons of CleanShot X
- 3 Final Thoughts

Introduction CleanShot X
CleanShot X is an advanced screenshot and screen recording app designed exclusively for macOS users. It goes far beyond the built-in macOS capture tools by offering a rich set of editing, annotation, and sharing features in a sleek, minimalist interface. Whether you’re a designer, developer, content creator, or business professional, CleanShot X helps you capture, explain, and share your screen effortlessly and professionally.
What is CleanShot X?
It is a powerful productivity tool that lets you capture screenshots, record videos, and annotate visuals all in one place. Unlike macOS’s default screenshot shortcut, CleanShot X gives users full control over what and how to capture — from scrolling screenshots and GIFs to instantly shareable cloud links.
It’s trusted by creative professionals, teams, and educators for its speed, polish, and seamless macOS integration.
Key Features of CleanShot X
1. Smart Screenshot Capture
CleanShot X offers several capture modes:
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Full screen, window, or custom area
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Scrolling capture for entire web pages or documents
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Self-timer capture to grab delayed screenshots
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Hide desktop icons automatically for clean results
2. Built-in Annotation Tools
After taking a screenshot, you can instantly edit it — draw arrows, add text, blur sensitive information, highlight elements, or add shapes. The annotation editor is fast, elegant, and easy to use.
3. Screen Recording & GIF Creation
Record your screen in high-quality video or create lightweight GIFs. You can:
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Record audio narration and camera overlay
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Show clicks and keystrokes
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Export recordings in multiple formats
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Trim and share instantly
4. CleanShot Cloud
Every screenshot or recording can be uploaded to the CleanShot Cloud with one click. You’ll get an instant shareable link, making collaboration faster.
Cloud storage includes:
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Auto-upload and copy link features
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History of all uploaded captures
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Custom domain and branding (for teams or pros)
5. Scrolling Capture
Capture full webpages, documents, or chat threads that extend beyond the visible screen — perfect for presentations, tutorials, or reports.
6. Clipboard & Quick Access Overlay
Captured items stay in the CleanShot overlay for quick access — you can copy, edit, pin, or delete them right away. The overlay also keeps your workspace clean and organized.
7. Pin Screenshots
You can pin a screenshot on your desktop — a floating window that stays above all apps — useful for referencing information while working or coding.
8. Customizable Shortcuts
Define your own keyboard shortcuts for each type of capture, making your workflow faster and more personalized.

System Requirements
- Operating System: macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later
- Processor: Intel or Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3)
- RAM: Minimum 2 GB
- Internet: Required for cloud sharing features
How to Download and Install CleanShot X
- Click Download or purchase via Setapp subscription.
- Open the
.dmgfile and drag CleanShot X to your Applications folder. - Launch the app and grant necessary permissions (screen recording, microphone, etc.).
- Set up shortcuts and preferences from the menu bar icon.
Pros and Cons of CleanShot X
Pros:
- Modern, intuitive interface
- Powerful editing and annotation tools
- Cloud storage and instant sharing
- Scrolling and GIF capture options
- Excellent macOS integration
Cons:
- macOS-only (no Windows version)
- Paid app (requires a license or Setapp)
- Limited advanced video editing tools
Why Choose CleanShot X?
It is a professional-grade screen capture solution built for people who value speed, organization, and aesthetics. It replaces multiple tools — screenshot apps, screen recorders, and image editors — with a single, seamless experience. For teachers, marketers, developers, and teams who share visuals daily, CleanShot X is a massive productivity booster.
Final Thoughts
CleanShot X continues to set the gold standard for macOS screenshot and screen recording tools. With its smooth performance, smart cloud integration, and extensive editing features, it’s perfect for anyone who wants to create polished visuals quickly and efficiently.
Whether you’re capturing a quick bug report, recording a tutorial, or documenting your design work, CleanShot X makes the process fast, clean, and professional.