Cap vs Loom
Self-host swap-in for Loom. · Self-host Loom · Cap on os-alt
Cap is one of the open-source self-host replacements for Loom — license AGPL-3.0, 30min (Cap Web — Next.js app + Postgres + S3-compatible store) to stand up, and $10 vps for the web app + an s3 bucket for video storage. Compare against Loom's Free up to 25 videos; $15/creator/mo on Business below.
| Capopen-source | Loompaid SaaS | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Async video messaging | Async video messaging |
| License / pricing | AGPL-3.0 | Free up to 25 videos; $15/creator/mo on Business |
| Starting price | $0 self-host | $15/user/mo |
| GitHub | CapSoftware/Cap | closed source |
| Setup time | 30min (Cap Web — Next.js app + Postgres + S3-compatible store) | SaaS — sign up + bill |
| Monthly cost | $10 VPS for the web app + an S3 bucket for video storage. | from $15/user/mo (Free up to 25 videos; $15/creator/mo on Business) |
Switching from Loom to Cap
Loom → Account → download all videos (.mp4). In Cap Web, upload via the dashboard or POST to the upload API. Loom comments/views do not transfer.
- Good fit for
- Teams that want the Loom flow (record → instant link → comments) end-to-end on their own infra.
- Weak at
- AI transcripts/chapters need wiring up to a Whisper service yourself.
Other open-source self-host alternatives to Loom
In a terminal? npx os-alt loom prints Loom's self-host options —
how the CLI works →
FAQ
Is Cap a free alternative to Loom?
Yes — Cap is open source under AGPL-3.0. Self-host cost: $10 VPS for the web app + an S3 bucket for video storage.. Loom starts at $15/user/mo (Free up to 25 videos; $15/creator/mo on Business).
How long does Cap take to set up vs Loom?
Self-hosting Cap: 30min (Cap Web — Next.js app + Postgres + S3-compatible store). Loom is a hosted SaaS — sign up and you're in.
What is Cap good at, and what is it weak at?
Good fit for: Teams that want the Loom flow (record → instant link → comments) end-to-end on their own infra.. Weak at: AI transcripts/chapters need wiring up to a Whisper service yourself..