Softshot is a lightweight Windows screenshot and screen recording tool built for the moments when the default tools feel too slow, too crowded, or too detached from the thing you are trying to share.
Hit a shortcut, drag the exact region you want, mark it up, and save or copy it without falling into a full editing suite.
- Fast capture flow: press
PrintScreen, select an area, and save withEnteror copy withCtrl+C. - Built-in markup: add quick pen strokes and arrows before you save the shot.
- Cursor-free region recording: switch the same selection into video mode, then record just that part of the screen with desktop audio and an optional microphone.
- Simple quality controls: choose
720por1080pand30fpsor60fps. - Trim before sharing: recordings open in a focused editor so you can keep only the useful part.
- Local-first sharing: no account, cloud workspace, or project library between the capture and your clipboard.
- Tray-first desktop app: Softshot stays out of the way until you need it.
| Capture and annotate | Record and trim |
|---|---|
 |
 |
- Start Softshot.
- Press
PrintScreento open the capture overlay. - Drag over the region you want to capture.
- Save the screenshot, copy it, or switch to video mode.
- When a recording finishes, trim it in the editor and save or copy the result.
If Windows or another app has already taken your capture shortcut, Softshot explains the conflict and keeps Capture available from the tray menu. You can choose another shortcut in Settings.
Softshot is currently Windows-focused and expects Node.js 24.x with npm available on your PATH. Clone the repository, then run:
cd Softshot
npm install
npm run devnpm run packageThe packaged Windows installer is written to release/.
npm run build
npm run lint
npm test
npm run test:mediaSoftshot is source-available under the PolyForm Noncommercial License 1.0.0. You may use, inspect, modify, and share it only for noncommercial purposes. Commercial use requires separate permission from Akinsoft.
Softshot is early, practical, and intentionally small. The current app is focused on Windows desktop capture, region screenshots, cursor-free GPU recording, and quick trimming before sharing.