Head-to-Head Comparison · Alternative to Shots.so · 🖼️ screenshots
Shots.so vs macshot
Gradients, padding, rounded corners and shadows in a native Mac app that also takes the screenshot. Here is how macshot ($0/mo open source) stacks up against Shots.so ($5/mo) across cost, hosting, data privacy, and real-world trade-offs.
Shots.so vs macshot Specification Matrix
facts verified 2026-08-11
| Dimension | Shots.so (Paid) | macshot (Replacement) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $5 / mo | $0 / mo |
| 1-Year Cost (1 seat) | $60 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $60) |
| 1-Year Cost (5 seats) | $300 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $300) |
| 1-Year Cost (10 seats) | $600 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $600) |
| Source & License | Proprietary SaaS | open source GPL-3.0 |
| Where It Runs | Vendor Cloud | Local (on your machine) |
| Platforms | Web / Cloud | desktopone-click install |
| GitHub Stars | — | ★ 2.8k (active aug 2026) |
Deep Dive: Switching from Shots.so to macshot
Trade-offs, installation & data architecture
What you trade away
It is macOS-only and has fewer reusable templates, batch operations and AI/redaction conveniences than the more mature paid screenshot tools.
How to deploy macshot
Homebrew cask or signed macOS DMG dragged to Applications
What it takes to run
macOS must grant Screen Recording permission on first capture
Where your data lives
Screenshots and recordings are normal files in the chosen folder, capture history lives under ~/Library/Application Support/com.sw33tlie.macshot/history/, and preferences use macOS UserDefaults; optional uploads go directly to the user's Drive, imgbb or S3 service
Why fork macshot instead of vibe-coding a Shots.so clone?
Gradient background, padding, rounded corners, export. Pure client-side canvas work; there is no server to even build.
Shots.so vs macshot FAQ
Is macshot a good free alternative to Shots.so?+
Yes. macshot is a verified open-source (GPL-3.0) replacement for Shots.so. Gradients, padding, rounded corners and shadows in a native Mac app that also takes the screenshot.
What is the catch when switching from Shots.so to macshot?+
It is macOS-only and has fewer reusable templates, batch operations and AI/redaction conveniences than the more mature paid screenshot tools.
How much do you save switching from Shots.so to macshot?+
Shots.so costs $5/mo ($60/yr) per seat, whereas macshot is $0/mo. Switching saves $60/yr for a solo user, $300/yr for a 5-person team, and $600/yr for a 10-person team.
How do I install or self-host macshot instead of Shots.so?+
Install: Homebrew cask or signed macOS DMG dragged to Applications. Setup: macOS must grant Screen Recording permission on first capture
