By Adminn 
Snip Tool Mac is a must-have for anyone who takes screenshots often. Whether you need to capture a full screen, a selected area, or a specific window, your Mac has built-in tools to make it easy. But did you know there are also advanced third-party apps that can make snipping even better?
In this guide, we will explore the best ways to use Snip Tool Mac, from built-in shortcuts to powerful third-party apps. You’ll learn how to take quick screenshots, edit them, and even record your screen like a pro. Let’s dive in and find the best tool for your needs!
What is Snip Tool Mac and Why Do You Need It?
Snip Tool Mac helps you take screenshots quickly and easily. Whether you want to capture the full screen, a specific window, or just a small part, this tool makes it simple. Screenshots are useful for work, school, or saving important information.
Using a snipping tool can help you keep track of online transactions, save chat conversations, or create tutorials. Mac has a built-in tool, but there are also better third-party options. These tools offer advanced features like editing, annotations, and scrolling screenshots.
A good snipping tool should be fast, easy to use, and have editing options. If you take screenshots often, choosing the right tool will save you time and make your work easier. Let’s explore how you can use it effectively.
How to Use Mac’s Built-in Snipping Tool Like a Pro
Mac comes with a built-in snipping tool called Screenshot. It is simple and doesn’t need extra downloads. You can find it in the Utilities folder or use keyboard shortcuts for quick access.
To capture the entire screen, press Command + Shift + 3. If you want to select a specific area, press Command + Shift + 4 and drag the mouse. To take a screenshot of a window, press Command + Shift + 4, then press the Spacebar, and click on the window.
The built-in tool also allows screen recording. Press Command + Shift + 5 to see all options, including video recording. You can save screenshots in different formats and choose where to store them.
Snip Tool Mac Shortcuts: Quick and Easy Commands
Keyboard shortcuts make taking screenshots faster. Here are the most important ones:
- Command + Shift + 3 – Captures the full screen
- Command + Shift + 4 – Lets you select an area
- Command + Shift + 4, then Spacebar – Captures a window
- Command + Shift + 5 – Opens the screenshot menu
Using these shortcuts saves time and effort. You don’t have to open the snipping tool manually. Once you capture the screen, the file is saved automatically.
If you need to edit the image, click on the small preview that appears at the bottom-right corner. This lets you crop, highlight, or add text before saving.
Best Third-Party Snipping Tools for Mac (Better Than Built-in Tool!)
While Mac’s built-in snipping tool works well, third-party apps offer more features. These tools allow better editing, scrolling captures, and cloud storage.
Top Third-Party Snipping Tools:
- CleanShot X – Allows annotations, scrolling screenshots, and cloud storage.
- Snagit – Best for professional editing and video capture.
- Monosnap – Free tool with great customization options.
These tools help improve productivity. They also support formats like GIFs and PDFs. If you need advanced features, third-party tools are a great choice.
How to Take Scrolling Screenshots on Mac (Capture Full Page Easily!)
Scrolling screenshots let you capture an entire webpage or document. Mac’s built-in tool doesn’t support this, but third-party apps do.
To take a scrolling screenshot, use tools like CleanShot X or Snagit. These apps have a special scrolling feature. Simply open the app, choose scrolling capture, and drag to select the area.
This is useful for saving long articles, chat conversations, or social media feeds. Instead of taking multiple screenshots, you get everything in one image.
Snipping vs. Screenshot: What’s the Difference?
Many people think snipping and screenshotting are the same. While similar, there are key differences.
- Screenshot – Captures the entire screen instantly.
- Snipping – Lets you choose a specific area to capture.
Snipping is better when you don’t need the whole screen. It helps in creating focused images without unnecessary parts. Both methods are useful, depending on your needs.
How to Edit Screenshots After Using Snip Tool Mac
Editing screenshots makes them more useful. Mac has basic tools, but third-party apps offer more options.
To edit a screenshot, open it in Preview or a snipping tool. You can crop, highlight, draw, or add text. Some apps allow blurring sensitive information.
Advanced tools like Snagit offer effects and templates. If you edit screenshots often, investing in a good tool is worth it.
GIFs, Annotations, and More: Advanced Features You Must Try
Modern snipping tools do more than capture images. They allow you to create GIFs, record videos, and add professional annotations.
Advanced Features:
- GIF Creation – Convert screen recordings into animated GIFs.
- Annotations – Add arrows, text, and highlights.
- Instant Sharing – Upload to cloud storage for easy access.
These features are helpful for tutorials and presentations. If you need more than basic screenshots, consider upgrading to a feature-rich tool.
How to Record Your Mac Screen With Snip Tool (Step-by-Step Guide)
Screen recording is useful for tutorials and presentations. Mac’s built-in snipping tool allows basic recording, but third-party apps offer better control.
To record the screen, press Command + Shift + 5 and choose the recording option. Select the entire screen or a specific window.
For advanced recording, use tools like CleanShot X or Snagit. They allow editing, mouse tracking, and audio capture.
Cloud vs. Local Storage: Where to Save Your Snips for Easy Access
Saving screenshots properly helps with organization. You can store them on your Mac or in the cloud.
- Local Storage – Keeps files on your Mac’s hard drive.
- Cloud Storage – Saves screenshots online for access anywhere.
Cloud storage is great for teams and backup. Services like Google Drive or Dropbox sync files across devices. Choose what works best for your workflow.
Best Free and Paid Snip Tool Mac Apps (Pros & Cons)
Choosing the right tool depends on your needs. Free apps offer basic features, while paid tools have advanced options.
Free vs. Paid Snipping Tools:
- Free Tools – Basic snipping with limited editing.
- Paid Tools – Advanced features like scrolling screenshots and cloud storage.
If you only need simple screenshots, a free tool is enough. For professional work, investing in a paid tool is a smart choice.
Conclusion
Using a good snipping tool on Mac makes your work easier. Whether you use the built-in tool or a third-party app, taking screenshots should be quick and simple. Choose a tool that fits your needs, whether it’s for basic snips or advanced editing.
A great snipping tool can save you time and help you work more efficiently. Try out different options and see which one works best for you. With the right tool, capturing and editing images will be smoother and more fun!
FAQs
Q: How do I take a screenshot on a Mac?
A: Press Command + Shift + 3 to capture the full screen or Command + Shift + 4 to select an area.
Q: Can I record my screen using Snip Tool Mac?
A: Yes, press Command + Shift + 5 to open the screenshot menu and choose screen recording.
Q: What is the best free snipping tool for Mac?
A: Monosnap is a great free option with good editing features.
Q: Can I take scrolling screenshots on Mac?
A: The built-in tool doesn’t support this, but third-party apps like CleanShot X can do it.
Q: Where are my screenshots saved on Mac?
A: By default, they are saved to the desktop, but you can change the location in settings.