In this article, we will show you how to screen capture on Windows using the Print Screen button, Snipping Tool, Game Bar, and third-party apps.

Whether you’re creating a tutorial, capturing an error message, or simply saving a moment on your screen, knowing how to screen capture on Windows is a valuable skill. Screen capturing allows you to easily share information, save content, and create instructional material.

Here, we will guide you through different methods for screen capturing on Windows devices, from basic tools to more advanced options.

See Also: 5 Ways to Convert HEIC to JPG on iPhone, Windows, macOS

How to Screen Capture on Windows

1. How to screen capture on Windows Using the Print Screen Button (PrtScn)

The Print Screen button, often labeled PrtScn, is the easiest way to capture your screen. Depending on what you want to capture, you can use different variations of the button.

Full-Screen Capture

1. Press the PrtScn button.

2. This action captures the entire screen and copies the screenshot to your clipboard.

3. Open an image editing tool like Paint, Word, or PowerPoint and press Ctrl + V to paste the screenshot. Then, you can save the image file by clicking File > Save As.

Active Window Capture

If you only want to capture the active window (the one you are currently working in), press Alt + PrtScn. This will capture only the currently focused window.

Capture and Save Automatically

If you want to capture the entire screen and save the screenshot immediately:

1. Press Windows + PrtScn.

2. Your screen will briefly dim, indicating the screenshot was taken.

3. The image will be saved automatically in the Pictures > Screenshots folder.

See Also: 4 Methods to Update Graphics Card Drivers on Windows

2. How to screen capture on Windows Using the Snipping Tool

For more precision and flexibility in capturing specific parts of your screen, the Snipping Tool is a great option. This built-in tool allows you to capture a free-form snip, rectangular snip, window snip, or full-screen snip.

How to Use the Snipping Tool:

1. Search for Snipping Tool in the Windows search bar and open the app.

2. Click New to start a screenshot.

3. Select the type of snip you want (Free-form, Rectangular, Window, or Full-screen).

4. Drag your cursor to select the area you want to capture.

5. Once you release the cursor, the screenshot will appear in the Snipping Tool window, where you can edit or save it.

Snip & Sketch Tool

In addition to the Snipping Tool, Windows also offers Snip & Sketch, which works similarly but has more editing options. To access it:

1. Press Windows + Shift + S.

2. The screen will darken, and you can select the portion you want to capture.

3. After selecting, the screenshot is copied to the clipboard, and you’ll get a notification where you can edit or annotate it.

3. How to screen capture on Windows Using Windows + G for Game Bar

Windows also includes a built-in Game Bar that’s not just for gamers! It allows you to capture screenshots while you’re in an app, game, or working on any task.

How to Use Game Bar for Screenshots:

1. Press Windows + G to open the Game Bar.

2. Click on the Camera icon or press Windows + Alt + PrtScn to capture the screen.

3. The screenshot will automatically be saved in the Videos > Captures folder.

See Also: 4 Methods to Force Quit on Windows

4. Third-Party Screen Capture Tools

While Windows devices offer basic screenshot tools, there are several third-party applications that provide enhanced functionality. These tools often come with more features like custom keyboard shortcuts, advanced editing, and cloud sharing.

Some popular screen capture tools include:

• Lightshot: A lightweight tool that allows you to capture regions of your screen, edit images instantly, and share them easily.

• Greenshot: A powerful tool that enables capturing, editing, and annotating screenshots.

• Snagit: A professional-level tool offering advanced screen capture options, including video recording and editing.

How to Use Lightshot:

1. Download and install Lightshot from its official website.

2. Press the PrtScn key to capture your screen.

3. Drag to select the area you want to capture, then edit the image if needed.

4. You can save the screenshot, copy it, or share it online using Lightshot’s built-in options.

5. Recording Your Screen with Xbox Game Bar

If you need to capture more than just still images, such as video, the Xbox Game Bar also allows you to record your screen.

How to Record Your Screen:

1. Press Windows + G to open the Game Bar.

2. Click the Record button (or press Windows + Alt + R) to start recording.

3. To stop recording, click the Stop button or press Windows + Alt + R again.

4. The video will be saved in the Videos > Captures folder.

See Also: 15 Best Free Screen Recorders for Windows

Conclusion

Knowing how to screen capture on Windows is essential for productivity, whether you’re creating tutorials, troubleshooting issues, or sharing content. From the simple Print Screen button to more advanced tools like Snipping Tool and third-party apps, there’s a method for every need.

If you often capture screenshots, it’s worth experimenting with the different tools available on Windows to find the one that best suits your needs. Whether you prefer basic or advanced features, Windows has you covered with a variety of built-in and external tools to make screen capturing easy.

Share This Post: