Gyazo - Instant Screenshot Sharing

A Lightweight Solution for Instant Screenshot Sharing: Gyazo

For much of my blogging and technical documentation, I rely on Jing. It’s a versatile screen capture utility offering features like annotation, markup, and even video recording. However, Jing can sometimes consume significant system memory, and its upload process isn’t always the fastest.

Recently, I discovered a compelling alternative: Gyazo, a remarkably small application with a mere 1MB installer. This tool excels at a single function – capturing screenshots and instantly sharing them online.

How Gyazo Works

Gyazo streamlines the screenshot process. It allows you to capture a screen area using crosshairs, automatically uploading the image to the web and copying the URL to your clipboard. Notably, no account registration is required!

Furthermore, Gyazo boasts cross-platform compatibility, supporting Mac, Linux, and Windows operating systems.

Let’s explore its functionality. Begin by visiting either the English or Japanese Gyazo website to download the installer.

Once installed, launch the application from your start menu.

Upon activation, your mouse cursor transforms into crosshairs:

As you define the screenshot area, a light gray overlay appears, displaying the dimensions of the selected region in the bottom left corner.

(note: Jing was utilized for these demonstration captures, as it uniquely captures the mouse cursor itself.)

Releasing the mouse button initiates the upload process. Your default web browser will then display the resulting webpage when the upload is complete.

The generated URL can then be copied and pasted to share the screenshot with colleagues or friends. An example URL is:

http://gyazo.com/4aee403789e9ba4acb0d5e6b0e3509eb.png

The image is hosted on the Gyazo website in PNG format. You can download it by right-clicking and selecting the 'save image' option.

Sharing Options

Gyazo provides convenient sharing links that appear when you hover over the upper left corner of the image. It directly supports sharing to Twitter, Tumblr, and Flickr, but the URL can also be used anywhere images are permitted.

Clicking the Twitter logo initiates the following:

If you are not currently logged into Twitter, you will be prompted to enter your credentials after adding an optional tweet and clicking the post button.

The Tumblr sharing option requires you to enter your Tumblr authentication details and an optional caption before posting to your blog.

The Flickr button posts your image directly to your Flickr page, prompting you to log in if necessary.

Finally, the information button simply displays the image URL and a link to the Gyazo website.

Do you utilize a different method for quickly sharing screenshots online? Share your recommendations in the comments below!