Show HN: I made an open-source Loom alternative

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

An open-source alternative to Loom called Cap is drawing interest as a simpler way to record screens, overlay webcam video, and instantly share browser-playable links with comments and analytics, positioning itself as more convenient than raw tools like QuickTime, OBS, or ffmpeg. Commenters probe its value versus existing workflows and self-hosted options such as PeerTube, question its pricing tiers and “lifetime” promises, and highlight gaps like limited free usage, missing countdowns, and the need for clearer post-recording features. Others focus on its AGPL licensing, planned self-hosting and S3 support, and critique choices like Discord for community and marketing copy that assumes familiarity with Loom instead of explaining the core problem it solves.

Product & Positioning

  • Cap is presented as an open-source alternative to Loom for screen recording and sharing.
  • Mac app + web are available; Windows and Linux builds are in development.
  • Self‑hosting and custom storage backends (e.g., S3, possibly S3‑compatible) are “coming soon.”
  • Several commenters say the landing page over-emphasizes “Loom alternative” and doesn’t explain the core value for people unfamiliar with Loom or the term “screen sharing” (which many read as live, not recorded).

Comparison to Other Tools

  • Compared to macOS screen recording, OBS, and ffmpeg: Cap’s value is positioned around frictionless sharing, segmentation/streaming, comments, and analytics, not just capture.
  • Some say existing workflows (QuickTime + manual upload; PeerTube; Dropbox; Jira/GitHub/Slack uploads) are “good enough” and question whether Cap adds enough.
  • Others highlight Loom-like benefits: instant link, clipboard integration, auto-upload, social features, and transcripts/editing as key differentiators vs. bare recording tools.
  • Discussion of integrating Cap with PeerTube appears but is considered possibly overcomplicating for those already satisfied with their setup.

Features & UX Feedback

  • Strong requests for:
    • Countdown before recording and “start over” button.
    • Clear demonstration video or GIF on landing page showing webcam bubble + screen + instant share link.
    • Better explanation of post-recording features (comments, reactions, analytics, link workflow).
  • Debate over the importance of webcam “face bubble”; many consider it a core value for communication.
  • Some dislike requiring login before use.

Open Source, Community & Licensing

  • Code is AGPL, which several see as a good guard against future license tightening.
  • Some worry about reliance on Discord and GitHub for community/collaboration, arguing it’s inconsistent with FOSS ideals; others respond that running alternative infra is overhead.
  • There is concern that locking the community to Discord deters some potential contributors, while others say Discord is where most users already are.

Business Model & Pricing

  • Free tier is criticized as too limited, offering little reason to switch from Loom.
  • “Lifetime locked” subscription pricing triggers skepticism; commenters note practical and legal escape hatches and risk of abuse (e.g., unlimited storage).
  • A few request a one‑time “lifetime” purchase option.