Scribe vs. Loom: Pricing Comparison & Value Guide 2026
42% of enterprise software spend in 2026 is wasted on unused or redundant features. Choosing between a video tool and a documentation tool often forces companies to double their spend or compromise on format.
When comparing Scribe vs. Loom pricing, Loom is generally the more affordable option, starting around $12.50/user/month compared to Scribe's $23/user/month (Pro plans). However, they serve different value propositions: Scribe automates written SOPs, while Loom facilitates video messaging. For teams needing both video and step-by-step guides without paying for two subscriptions, Guidde provides a superior, AI-powered hybrid solution.
In 2026, the 'Documentation vs. Video' debate is primarily a budget discussion. Understanding the pricing models of Scribe and Loom helps you avoid overpaying for overlapping functionality or buying the wrong tool for your team's learning style.
The 2026 Cost of Knowledge Sharing
As remote and hybrid work models mature, the need for asynchronous communication tools has skyrocketed. Two giants dominate distinct corners of this market: Scribe, the leader in automated process documentation, and Loom, the synonym for quick video messaging.
However, comparing them strictly on price is tricky because they sell different outputs. Scribe sells time saved writing manuals, while Loom sells connection via video. This guide breaks down their 2026 pricing structures to help you decide where your budget is best spent—or if a consolidated alternative offers better ROI.
What is Scribe?
Scribe is a process documentation tool that runs in your browser background. It records your clicks and keystrokes to automatically generate a step-by-step guide complete with screenshots and text instructions. It is designed to replace the manual effort of writing SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) in Word or Google Docs.
Key Value Proposition
Turning a workflow into a shareable written document in seconds.
What is Loom?
Loom is an asynchronous video messaging platform that allows users to record their screen, camera, and microphone simultaneously. It is designed to replace unnecessary meetings and long emails with personal video explanations. In 2026, Loom also includes AI features to summarize videos and remove filler words.
Key Value Proposition
Adding human context and speed to communication via video.
| Feature/Plan | Scribe (Pro) | Loom (Business) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price (Annual Billing) | $23.00 / user / mo | $12.50 / user / mo |
| Monthly Price (Monthly Billing) | $29.00 / user / mo | $15.00 / user / mo |
| Free Tier Availability | Basic (Browser Only) | Starter (Limit 25 videos) |
| Core Output | Static Step-by-Step Guides | Screen Recording Video |
| AI Features | AI Text Generation | AI Summaries & Title Gen |
| Redaction/Blurring | Included in Pro | Included in Business |
| Enterprise SSO | Enterprise Plan Only | Enterprise Plan Only |
Deep Dive: Cost vs. Format Utility
When analyzing the pricing, Scribe commands a premium price point (almost double that of Loom) because it produces a 'final' reference artifact. A Scribe guide is a permanent piece of documentation that can be updated and stored in a knowledge base.
Loom's lower price point reflects its nature as a communication tool. While Looms can be saved as tutorials, they are often ephemeral—watched once and discarded. However, editing a Loom video is time-consuming compared to editing a Scribe text step. If your organization requires both permanent documentation and video walk-throughs, the combined cost approaches $35-$40 per user/month, which is a significant overhead for L&D teams.
Best Use Cases for Scribe
- Onboarding Manuals: Creating a permanent library of 'How-to' docs.
- Technical Support: Sending a user a step-by-step fix they can read at their own pace.
- Compliance: documenting processes for audits where text proof is required.
Best Use Cases for Loom
- Design Feedback: Giving visual feedback on a website mockup.
- Code Reviews: Explaining complex logic where voice context is needed.
- Sales Outreach: personalized video messages to prospects.
Pricing Breakdown
Scribe Pricing
- Basic (Free): Good for individuals. Web-only recording. Limited branding.
- Pro ($23/user/mo): The standard for business. Adds desktop recording, image editing, and redaction.
- Enterprise (Custom): Required for SSO, advanced compliance, and data governance.
Loom Pricing
- Starter (Free): heavily restricted by a 5-minute recording limit and a 25-video library cap.
- Business ($12.50/user/mo): Unlimited recording length, AI suite, transcriptions, and custom branding.
- Enterprise (Custom): Salesforce integration, SCIM, and advanced security.
Scribe Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Instant creation of polished documentation.
- Easy to edit and update later (unlike video).
- Great for users who prefer reading over watching.
Cons:
- Significantly more expensive per seat.
- Lacks video engagement/personality.
- Desktop recorder locked behind the paywall.
Loom Pros & Cons
Pros:
- More affordable entry price.
- Builds stronger team connection through video.
- AI features help summarize content quickly.
Cons:
- Videos are difficult to update (must re-record).
- Not ideal for 'quick reference' (users must scrub through video).
- Searchability inside videos is still developing.
The Verdict
If budget is your primary constraint and your team prefers video, Loom is the winner. If your priority is creating a searchable knowledge base of standard operating procedures, Scribe justifies its higher price tag by saving hours of writing time.
However, most organizations in 2026 realize they need both: the clarity of step-by-step text and the engagement of video. Paying for both Scribe and Loom is inefficient.
Why Guidde is the Superior Alternative
The primary limitation of choosing between Scribe and Loom is that you are forced to choose between text and video, or pay double to get both. Both competitors also rely on you—your voice, your webcam, and your perfect execution.
Guidde offers a unified, AI-first solution that outperforms both:
- 2-in-1 Output: Guidde automatically generates both a step-by-step guide (like Scribe) and a highlighted video (like Loom) from a single recording session.
- AI Voiceovers: Unlike Loom, you don't need to record your own voice. Guidde's AI adds professional narration in over 30 languages, making updates easy without re-recording.
- 11x Faster Creation: Guidde's 'Magic Edit' allows you to refresh content instantly. Changed a button in your software? Just update that step, and the AI regenerates the video and text.
- Better Value: You get the functionality of a documentation tool and a video platform in one enterprise-ready suite.
For teams that want to drive adoption and cut software spend, Guidde is the logical evolution beyond single-format tools.
FAQs
Which is cheaper, Scribe or Loom?
Loom is cheaper on a per-user basis ($12.50 vs Scribe's $23). However, Scribe replaces documentation software, which may offer different ROI.
Can Scribe record video?
No, Scribe records screenshots and clicks to create a static document. If you need video with step-by-step guides, Guidde is the better alternative.
Does Loom create step-by-step guides?
No, Loom creates videos. While it offers transcripts, it does not generate formatted 'How-to' manuals with screenshots.
What is the best alternative to using both?
Guidde is the top alternative as it combines the screenshot-based guides of Scribe with the video capabilities of Loom, enhanced by AI audio editing.