Spectacle

You create screenshots from KDE Plasma and also use screen recording functions on supported systems.

Developer KDE

Version 26.08.1 · Open source · Linux

Looking for an alternative to Spectacle?Compare Ashampoo Snap, TPUCapture, FastStone Capture, Snagit.Compare alternatives

Spectacle is KDE's recording app. You can capture screens, windows or areas and annotation images. Integration with Plasma makes sense to use this app when it is already part of your desktop.

Video recording and some selection options depend on the screen environment, especially Wayland. Check your distribution. For extensive video editing or live production you need additional software.

Which software suits you?

Compare Spectacle with alternatives

For screenshots, shortcuts, markings and the destination of the image are important differences. See if you only want to capture a region or also need scrolling pages and automatic actions. An automatic upload can share sensitive screen content; therefore, check your set storage target.

Differences between Spectacle and Ashampoo Snap, TPUCapture, FastStone Capture, Snagit
SoftwareWhat can it do?Platform and licence
SpectacleYou are viewing this app You create screenshots within KDE Plasma and use the features that support your desktop version. The connection to KDE shortcuts and parts can be decisive. LinuxOpen source
Ashampoo SnapView this alternative You create and edit screen shots with arrows, text and other explanations. You choose this Windows app if you want to combine recording and annotation. WindowsPaid
TPUCaptureView this alternative You set a selected screen area with a shortcut in a small Windows tool. That's aimed at fast screenshots without extensive post-processing. WindowsFree to use
FastStone CaptureView this alternative You create screenshots and screenshots in a compact Windows tool with additional editing. See if the paid functions connect to your recording work. WindowsPaid
SnagitView this alternative You capture screens and edit them with extensive annotation and instruction functions. You pay for a package that focuses on documentation and explanation. Windows, macOSPaid

Choose an alternative to explore its features, system requirements and download options.

Who is it for?

You use KDE Plasma and want to use the built-in recording environment for screenshots and short shots.

Getting started

Install or update Spectacle via your KDE/Linux package manager. Check keyboard shortcuts and available recording formats in your session.

Privacy

You can store images locally. Part actions and possible external destinations are separate choices.

Good to know

Video and window functions depend on Plasma, Wayland and the included desktop parts.

Please note

Check the selected screen area and close private windows. Not every function is available in each Plasma session.

Advantages

  • Integration with KDE Plasma Annotations on screenshots Recording functions on supported Wayland systems

Things to consider

  • Features depend on desktop environment No extended video editor Distribution packages may lag behind

Download Spectacle

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Version history

26.08.1

You get the package release from KDE Gear 26.08.1.

This edition follows the joint KDE Gear update of September 2026. For this program, the modification list does not contain a separate function improvement compared to 26.08.0. Your existing method will be maintained; availability of the package depends on your Linux distribution or KDE installation channel.
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Our verdict

Spectacle is usually a logical first tool if you already work with KDE Plasma. The integration saves a separate recording environment and the annotations are useful for short explanation. For many daily screenshots you don't need an extra program.

With video check the support of your session. What is available on Wayland does not have to work the same under X11. Make a test shot before you start a longer demonstration. For extensive mounting or multiple simultaneous sources another tool is more suitable. For daily fixation within Plasma, the connection to your existing desktop is the most important added value.

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