Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

AutoKey VS Macro Recorder

Compare AutoKey VS Macro Recorder and see what are their differences

AutoKey logo AutoKey

A Python 3 port of AutoKey, the desktop automation utility for Linux and X11.

Macro Recorder logo Macro Recorder

Records mouse and keyboard input for infinitive replay.
  • AutoKey Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-27
  • Macro Recorder Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-10

AutoKey features and specs

  • Open Source
    AutoKey is a free and open-source software, which means that the source code is available for modification and improvement. This provides a high level of transparency and flexibility for users who want to customize the software.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility
    AutoKey runs on multiple Linux distributions and also works on Windows via AutoHotKey compatibility, making it versatile across different operating systems.
  • Customization and Scripting
    The software supports Python scripting, which allows for highly customizable automation tasks. Users can create complex macros and automate repetitive tasks efficiently.
  • Community Support
    Being an open-source project, AutoKey has a community of users and developers who contribute to the project and provide support through forums and other channels.
  • Text Expansion
    AutoKey offers robust text expansion features, enabling users to insert predefined text snippets using abbreviations. This can significantly speed up typing and reduce errors.

Possible disadvantages of AutoKey

  • Steep Learning Curve
    Users who are not familiar with Python scripting or programming in general may find AutoKey difficult to use and set up initially.
  • Linux-Centric
    While AutoKey offers some compatibility with Windows through AutoHotKey, it is primarily designed for Linux, which may limit its appeal or functionality for Windows users.
  • Stability Issues
    As with many open-source projects, there may be occasional bugs and stability issues, depending on the specific Linux distribution or system configuration.
  • Limited Documentation
    Although there is community support, users may find the official documentation lacking, making it harder to find detailed guidance on advanced features.
  • Resource Intensive
    Running multiple scripts and macros can consume significant system resources, which may impact performance on older or less powerful machines.

Macro Recorder features and specs

  • Ease of Use
    Macro Recorder features a user-friendly interface that allows users to easily record, edit, and replay mouse and keyboard activities without any prior programming knowledge.
  • Comprehensive Recording Features
    It accurately captures all mouse movements, clicks, and keyboard inputs, providing flexibility to automate a variety of tasks. It even supports recording multiple monitors.
  • Customizable Playback
    Users can adjust the playback speed and loop recordings, enabling them to tailor automation processes to their specific needs or system performances.
  • Versatile Application
    Macro Recorder can be used in multiple contexts, from gaming to productivity tasks, making it a versatile tool for various users.
  • No Programming Required
    Even users without any coding experience can create automation scripts, making it accessible to a broader audience.

Possible disadvantages of Macro Recorder

  • Resource Intensive
    The software can be resource-intensive, which may lead to slower system performance during recording or playback on less powerful computers.
  • Limited Complexity
    For users needing highly complex and conditional automation scripts, Macro Recorder may be too simplistic without advanced scripting capabilities.
  • Price
    Unlike some open-source alternatives, Macro Recorder requires a purchase, which could be a drawback for budget-conscious users or those who only need basic functionality.
  • Platform Availability
    Primarily available for Windows, limiting its accessibility for users on other operating systems like macOS or Linux.
  • Potential for Errors
    Automation tasks can sometimes fail if there are changes in the environment (such as UI updates or resolution changes), requiring manual adjustments.

AutoKey videos

No AutoKey videos yet. You could help us improve this page by suggesting one.

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Macro Recorder videos

Macro Recorder - Smart Record

More videos:

  • Review - JitBit Macro Recorder Review Dec-2015
  • Review - Introduction to Using Macros with JitBit Macro Recorder

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to AutoKey and Macro Recorder)
Automation
84 84%
16% 16
Windows Tools
73 73%
27% 27
Tool
100 100%
0% 0
Scripts
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare AutoKey and Macro Recorder

AutoKey Reviews

9 Best AutoHotkey Alternative Apps
AutoKey is also capable of serving the perfect text/ command insertion, depending on the type of application/ program you are using.
Autohotkey Alternatives and Similar Free Software
This software was previously named AutoKey Py3, and this one works fine with Linux and Windows 11. This software allows you to collect the scripts, and execute the programs as you need them.

Macro Recorder Reviews

We have no reviews of Macro Recorder yet.
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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, AutoKey seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 37 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

AutoKey mentions (37)

  • Learn AutoHotKey by stealing my scripts
    I use AutoKey on Linux. It's less powerful than AHK but uses native Python which is nice: https://github.com/autokey/autokey. - Source: Hacker News / over 1 year ago
  • AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D: Windows 11 vs. Ubuntu 23.04 Linux Performance
    On Linux, the more direct equivalent to AHK is the similarly named AutoKey. AHK itself is never going to be cross-platform, due to the low-level it interacts specifically with Windows, but AutoKey is the Linux equivalent, designed to interact low-level with Linux in a similar way to AHK on Windows. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Text expansion app for Linux
    I've seen people mention AutoKey but I've never used it myself: https://github.com/autokey/autokey. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Ergonomic lefty for Chromebook, with a good middle-click?
    You can also try remapping mouse buttons. I use autohotkey to remap the middle clock to the right click. Autohotkey is windows only, but there is autokey which might help if you are a heavy middle click user like me. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Macros for Linux? Like autoit, or automated mouse/keyboard presses.
    There's also Autokey, not Wayland compatible though. Source: about 2 years ago
View more

Macro Recorder mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Macro Recorder yet. Tracking of Macro Recorder recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing AutoKey and Macro Recorder, you can also consider the following products

Pulover’s Macro Creator - Pulover’s Macro Creator is a Free Automation Tool and Script Generator.

AutoHotkey - The ultimate automation scripting language for Windows.

AutoIt - Other Articles You May Like AutoIt Script Editor AutoIt Downloads AutoIt Scripting Language

Hammerspoon - This is a tool for powerful automation of OS X.

Sikuli - Sikuli Script

Microsoft Power Automate - Microsoft Power Automate is an automation platform that integrates DPA, RPA, and process mining. It lets you automate your organization at scale using low-code and AI.