Flameshot

Flameshot is free, open-source desktop software for capturing and annotating screenshots on Linux, macOS, and Windows. It suits people who want to mark up a screen area and save it without a paid plan. Its focused workflow is a strong fit for annotated captures, while Imgur uploads call for caution.

Overview

Flameshot centers on a simple sequence: select part of the screen, add annotations if useful, then save the image locally. That makes it practical for documenting an issue or directing attention to interface details without a separate editing step. It is not the right choice for someone looking for a broader recording or collaboration tool.

Key features

Capture and annotation

Built-in tools include arrows, text, highlighting, blur or pixelation, drawing, shapes, counters, and solid color boxes. The range covers common explanatory markups in the capture workflow itself. For sensitive information, the project recommends pixelation or a filled rectangle instead of blur.

Customization and automation

Users can change the interface color, button selection, keyboard shortcuts, and image-saving behavior. The command-line interface can run without launching the graphical interface and supports scripting and key bindings, making Flameshot useful for repeatable capture workflows as well as occasional use.

Saving and sharing

Flameshot saves screenshots to the computer and supports PNG, TIFF, WebP, and additional Qt image formats. Imgur integration offers an upload option and allows deletion after upload, but uploaded images are no longer under the user's control. The warning before upload is helpful; users handling sensitive content should avoid uploading it.

Pricing

Flameshot is free and open source, with a free plan priced at $0. There is no paid tier to unlock the capture, annotation, or platform options described for the software. It is a straightforward choice for individuals or teams seeking a no-cost desktop screenshot tool, though Imgur sharing means the free workflow is not purely local.

Platforms

Flameshot supports Linux, macOS, and Windows, with 64-bit downloads for each. Linux users can install through an AppImage, package manager, Snapcraft, or Flathub; macOS users can choose Homebrew or a DMG; Windows has installer and portable downloads. This range makes it a flexible option across desktop systems, though it does not extend the capture workflow to other platforms.

Who it's for

Choose Flameshot if you need desktop screenshots with built-in markup, customizable controls, or command-line support for scripting. It is especially suitable for people who want to save captures locally and use annotations to explain a visual point. Look elsewhere if your priority is a broader screen-recording or collaboration workflow.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Free and open source across Linux, macOS, and Windows, with multiple installation choices on each platform.
• Pros: A broad set of annotation tools reduces the need to switch to a separate editor for common markups.
• Pros: Customizable controls and CLI support suit both manual use and scripted workflows.
• Cons: Imgur uploads carry a privacy tradeoff because uploaded images leave the user's control.
• Cons: The focused screenshot workflow is a poor fit for people seeking broader recording or collaboration capabilities.

Alternatives

ShareX is another free, open-source option; consider it if you specifically want a Windows-only alternative. Awesome Screenshot may suit readers seeking screenshot and recording options across browser, web, mobile, and desktop platforms, with a free plan capped at 100 screenshots and 20 recordings. Screenpresso is a Windows-focused alternative whose free plan includes image capture and HD video capture with branding, alongside a limited image editor. Greenshot offers Windows users free screenshot annotation and exports to files, clipboard, printer, and email. PicPick is another Windows option, with its Home plan limited to personal, non-commercial use. Monosnap may be worth considering if you want a cross-platform alternative with a free plan that includes cloud storage and video recording. Markup Hero suits readers seeking annotation, sharing, and export features, with its free plan capped at 25 screenshots and history. ScreenAI is a cross-platform alternative whose free plan includes OCR, quick redaction, and 10 AI requests per day.

Browse more options in Screenshot Annotation Software, Screen Capture Software, and Screenshot Software.

Verdict

Flameshot is a strong choice for people who want free, cross-platform screenshot capture with capable built-in annotation and a locally saved workflow. Its customization and CLI support add useful flexibility without complicating the core task. Choose another tool if you need more than screenshots, or avoid Imgur uploads when the image contains sensitive information.