Windows computers have long been equipped with the ability to take screenshots. However, it seems that Microsoft wants to expand our options. Now, we have many ways to take screenshots on Windows computers. We'll explore them one by one below.
Best Ways to Capture a Screenshot on PC 1. Take a Screenshot on PC with ‘Windows + Print Screen' Shortcut. The first, and probably the most widely used, way you can take screenshots on your PC is by using the ‘Windows + Print Screen' shortcut. As you probably know, tapping your Windows PC's Print Screen key will place a 'snapshot' of the current screen contents onto the Windows Clipboard. This process is commonly known as 'taking a screenshot', and it's one of the most useful features in all of Windows for many users.
Take a Screenshot of Your Entire Screen
To take a screenshot of your screen, you have the following options:
1. The Snipping Tool
You've probably used this tool before. The Snipping Tool utility is the most popular way to take a screenshot of your screen. To use it, input Snipping Tool into the search box. From the search results, click on Snipping Tool to open the utility. Take a snapshot of your screen by clicking New. Drag the cursor to the area you want to capture. Lastly, save the screenshot.
2. Windows Key + Print Screen Button
By pressing the Windows key and the Print Screen button together, you can take a screenshot of your screen and save it to the clipboard. It will also save a screenshot file in the Screenshots folder.
3. Print Screen Button
Pressing the Print Screen button on your keyboard will save a shot of your current screen to the clipboard. To see it, use the paste shortcut (CTRL + V) on Microsoft Paint or Microsoft Word.
Take a Screenshot of an Active Window
If you prefer to take a screenshot of an active window, try any of these methods:
1. ALT + Print Screen
Pressing the ALT and Print Screen buttons together will save a screenshot of an active window to the clipboard. To view this screenshot, use the paste shortcut (CTRL + V) on Microsoft Paint or Microsoft Word.
2. The Snipping Tool
The Snipping Tool utility can also be used to take a screenshot of an active window. To do so, enter Snipping Tool into the search box. Click on Snipping Tool from the search results. Hit New to take a snapshot of an active window. Drag the cursor to the area of the active window. Save the screenshot.
It is worth noting, though, that the Snipping Tool can only capture the active window at the forefront. It cannot take a screenshot of a window that is fully or partially hidden.
Take a Screenshot with a Mouse Pointer
Do you want to capture your screen with a mouse cursor? Unfortunately, the screenshot methods above won't allow you to do so. Even the new Snipping Tool isn't capable of getting that mouse cursor in the image. So, we listed a few options you can try below:
1. Steps Recorder
How To Take A Screenshot On Windows
The Steps Recorder is a built-in program that allows you to troubleshoot an issue on your computer by recording the exact steps you took when it surfaced. You can then use and send this recording to a technician or to a support professional so they can help diagnose the problem.
Here's how to use Steps Recorder:
- Input Steps Recorder into the search box.
- Click Steps Recorder from the search results. The Steps Recorder app should now open.
- In the menu bar, click The app will now start capturing your actions.
- To stop the recording, hit A window will then pop up with all the recorded steps.
- Scroll down to locate the screenshot you need. Right-click on it to access the Context
- Hit Save to save the screenshot.
- Give the screenshot a name. Click Save.
- Close Steps Recorder by hitting the X button in the upper-right corner of your screen.
How To Take A Screenshot Of Your Pc Screen
2. Third-Party Apps
If you don't feel like using the built-in screen recording app of Windows, you can install third-party screen recording apps to take a screenshot of your screen with your mouse cursor.
One of the most popular apps today which you can use to capture an image of your screen with your mouse cursor is IrfanView. This app works as an image viewer, organizer, editor, and converter program for Windows computers. It also plays audio and video files, as well as taking screenshots.
To use it to take screenshots, make sure you have it installed on your computer first. After that, launch the app and go to Options. Go to the menu bar and click Screenshot or Capture. A new window will now open. Select the Desktop Area – Current Monitor (Mouse) option. By default, CTRL + 11 are the hotkeys associated with screen capture. Hit Start to start capturing the screen with your mouse cursor. Hit the hotkeys to capture a screenshot.
Aside from IrfanView, there are other apps you can use to capture the mouse cursor in a screenshot. But they are mostly designed to show only the default look of a cursor. If that is fine with you, try Greenshot.
This app works the same way as IrfanView. Its only advantage is that it lets you move the cursor in the screenshot before you save it.
Before you install any third-party app on your Windows 10 computer, we suggest that you download and install a reliable PC repair tool to get your computer running fast and smooth, even when taking loads of screenshots. This tool can be used to locate unnecessary files, get rid of them, and create more room for new screenshots.
Summary
There are many different ways to take a screenshot of your screen. But among all, the Snipping Tool is, by far, the most popular. Not only does it capture active windows and full screens, but it can also be used to take shots in freeform shapes.
Then again, even with its popularity, it still isn't perfect. It doesn't have the ability to capture your screen with your mouse cursor on it. This is where third-party apps come in. Although these apps mostly require paid subscriptions, they actually come with loads of interesting features and functions, which are all worth trying. So, if you have some dollars to spare, then third-party apps may be your best and most reliable options.
Which of these screenshot methods do you find easy to use? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy Policy.
A screenshot is an image captured of whatever is on your screen. It is well-known that you can take a screenshot for entire screen with the Print Screen button; however, what about screenshot specific area on PC?
In fact, there are both built-in utilities and third-part tools able to capture custom region and send the screenshot to clipboard or save as an image. This guide identifies three easiest methods and shares their steps.
Part 1: Screenshot a Part of Screen with Button Combination
In addition to the single Print Screen key, you can use some shortcuts on PCs to take screenshots based on your need. To screenshot a specific area, like a window, for example, Alt + Print Screen buttons are available.
Step 1: Put whatever you want to screenshot on your desktop, such as a program window or a video playback.
Step 2: Press Alt + Print Screen buttons together if you wish to screenshot an active window. To screenshot a part of screen, press Win + Shift + S at the same time.
Pressing the Print Screen button on your keyboard will save a shot of your current screen to the clipboard. To see it, use the paste shortcut (CTRL + V) on Microsoft Paint or Microsoft Word.
Take a Screenshot of an Active Window
If you prefer to take a screenshot of an active window, try any of these methods:
1. ALT + Print Screen
Pressing the ALT and Print Screen buttons together will save a screenshot of an active window to the clipboard. To view this screenshot, use the paste shortcut (CTRL + V) on Microsoft Paint or Microsoft Word.
2. The Snipping Tool
The Snipping Tool utility can also be used to take a screenshot of an active window. To do so, enter Snipping Tool into the search box. Click on Snipping Tool from the search results. Hit New to take a snapshot of an active window. Drag the cursor to the area of the active window. Save the screenshot.
It is worth noting, though, that the Snipping Tool can only capture the active window at the forefront. It cannot take a screenshot of a window that is fully or partially hidden.
Take a Screenshot with a Mouse Pointer
Do you want to capture your screen with a mouse cursor? Unfortunately, the screenshot methods above won't allow you to do so. Even the new Snipping Tool isn't capable of getting that mouse cursor in the image. So, we listed a few options you can try below:
1. Steps Recorder
How To Take A Screenshot On Windows
The Steps Recorder is a built-in program that allows you to troubleshoot an issue on your computer by recording the exact steps you took when it surfaced. You can then use and send this recording to a technician or to a support professional so they can help diagnose the problem.
Here's how to use Steps Recorder:
- Input Steps Recorder into the search box.
- Click Steps Recorder from the search results. The Steps Recorder app should now open.
- In the menu bar, click The app will now start capturing your actions.
- To stop the recording, hit A window will then pop up with all the recorded steps.
- Scroll down to locate the screenshot you need. Right-click on it to access the Context
- Hit Save to save the screenshot.
- Give the screenshot a name. Click Save.
- Close Steps Recorder by hitting the X button in the upper-right corner of your screen.
How To Take A Screenshot Of Your Pc Screen
2. Third-Party Apps
If you don't feel like using the built-in screen recording app of Windows, you can install third-party screen recording apps to take a screenshot of your screen with your mouse cursor.
One of the most popular apps today which you can use to capture an image of your screen with your mouse cursor is IrfanView. This app works as an image viewer, organizer, editor, and converter program for Windows computers. It also plays audio and video files, as well as taking screenshots.
To use it to take screenshots, make sure you have it installed on your computer first. After that, launch the app and go to Options. Go to the menu bar and click Screenshot or Capture. A new window will now open. Select the Desktop Area – Current Monitor (Mouse) option. By default, CTRL + 11 are the hotkeys associated with screen capture. Hit Start to start capturing the screen with your mouse cursor. Hit the hotkeys to capture a screenshot.
Aside from IrfanView, there are other apps you can use to capture the mouse cursor in a screenshot. But they are mostly designed to show only the default look of a cursor. If that is fine with you, try Greenshot.
This app works the same way as IrfanView. Its only advantage is that it lets you move the cursor in the screenshot before you save it.
Before you install any third-party app on your Windows 10 computer, we suggest that you download and install a reliable PC repair tool to get your computer running fast and smooth, even when taking loads of screenshots. This tool can be used to locate unnecessary files, get rid of them, and create more room for new screenshots.
Summary
There are many different ways to take a screenshot of your screen. But among all, the Snipping Tool is, by far, the most popular. Not only does it capture active windows and full screens, but it can also be used to take shots in freeform shapes.
Then again, even with its popularity, it still isn't perfect. It doesn't have the ability to capture your screen with your mouse cursor on it. This is where third-party apps come in. Although these apps mostly require paid subscriptions, they actually come with loads of interesting features and functions, which are all worth trying. So, if you have some dollars to spare, then third-party apps may be your best and most reliable options.
Which of these screenshot methods do you find easy to use? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy Policy.
A screenshot is an image captured of whatever is on your screen. It is well-known that you can take a screenshot for entire screen with the Print Screen button; however, what about screenshot specific area on PC?
In fact, there are both built-in utilities and third-part tools able to capture custom region and send the screenshot to clipboard or save as an image. This guide identifies three easiest methods and shares their steps.
Part 1: Screenshot a Part of Screen with Button Combination
In addition to the single Print Screen key, you can use some shortcuts on PCs to take screenshots based on your need. To screenshot a specific area, like a window, for example, Alt + Print Screen buttons are available.
Step 1: Put whatever you want to screenshot on your desktop, such as a program window or a video playback.
Step 2: Press Alt + Print Screen buttons together if you wish to screenshot an active window. To screenshot a part of screen, press Win + Shift + S at the same time.
Step 3: Search for MS Paint in Start menu at the bottom left corner of your desktop. Then open it and click Paste menu on the top ribbon to paste the screenshot. Then you can crop the screenshot on Windows as you like.
Step 4: Edit it as a normal picture. Then go to File menu, select Save as and choose a proper format. On the popup dialog, navigate to a location, enter a filename and click the Save button My passport air how to use.
Part 2: How to Screenshot Specific Area on PC with Snipping Tool
The Snipping Tool is a built-in utility to take screenshot for specific area on PC. Moreover, you can use the basic picture editing tool to redesign the screenshot.
Step 1: Go to your Start menu at the bottom left corner, search for Snipping Tool and open it.
Step 2: Click the Mode menu on the too menu bar and choose a proper mode. To screenshot a specific area on PC, you can select Rectangular Snip, Windows Snip or Free-form Snip.
Tip: To change destination folder and more, click Options menu.
Step 3: Next, hit the New menu and your screen will turn to gray. Click the window if you select Window Snip. Or use your cursor to cover the desired area.
Step 4: Release your mouse and the screenshot will be put in the editing panel. Then simply edit it and click the Save icon to save screenshot to your hard drive. Alternative, press the Clipboard icon to send it to your clipboard.
More screenshots tools on Windows like Snipping Tool are here.
Part 3: Best Free Way to Screenshot a Part of Screen
How To Take Screenshots On Computer
Many people do not like pre-installed utilities and shortcuts, partly because they are too simple sometimes. The screenshot shortcut, for example, does not offer any picture editing. Vidmore Screen Recorder is a more flexible option to screenshot part of your screen.
- Take a screenshot for any part of your screen easily.
- Completely free to use with no restriction, like signup.
- Offer extensive bonus functionalities, like picture editing.
Briefly speaking, it is the best way to take a screenshot for specific area on PCs.
How to Screenshot Specific Area on PC
Step 1: Install screenshot utility How to publish video on imovie.
When you want to screenshot a specific area on PC, install the best screenshot utility. There is another version for Mac. Click the Menu icon at the upper right side and choose Preferences. Go to the Output tab, and change Screenshot format and Location of screenshot files. Otherwise, the utility will save screenshots as PNG files and store it in picture library.
Tip: Though the screenshot function is just a part of the software, you can use it for free without ads or registration.
Step 2: Screenshot specific area
Enter the screen you wish to capture, such as a window. Turn to the screenshot utility and click Screen Capture. Then your cursor will turn to a cross. If take a screenshot on a window, click on it. For custom region, click and drag your left mouse to get it.
Step 3: Edit and save screenshot
When screenshotting specific part on PC is done, let left mouse go and the menu bar will pop up. Now, you can add shape, text or painting to the screenshot. Pick the right tool, select other and other options, and add it to your screenshot directly. If you are not satisfied with the painting, the Eraser icon can remove it. Finally, click on the Save button to export the screenshot to your hard drive. If you intend to use the screenshot in other programs, select the Clipboard button instead.
Part 4: FAQs of Screenshot Part of Screen
How do I screenshot a specific area on iPad?
When you see the screen you want to screenshot, hold down both Home and Power buttons together until your screen flashes. For iPad Pro 2020, replace Home button with Volume Up. Then go to Photos app, find the screenshot and crop unwanted part. Otherwise, you can use a third-party screenshot app to get it.
Where is the Print Screen key?
How To Take A Screenshot Of Your Pc Screen
The Print Screen key is usually on the top line of your keyboard next to function keys. Sometimes, it is abbreviated as Prscr, PRTSC, PrtScrn, Ps, etc.
Where are print screens saved?
By default, screenshots are saved in your clipboard if you use the Print Screen key. Then you can go to a proper program, like Office Word, and paste the screenshot directly. The location folder is different depending on what way you use. In most cases, the default location is C: UsersYour Namepictures on PC.
ConclusionThis guide has talked about how to screenshot a specific area on PC. It is a useful screen to take pictures for everything on your desktop. The shortcut is the easiest way to do it, though you cannot edit the screenshots directly. If you prefer to Snipping Tool, it can meet your need too. Vidmore Screen Recorder is worth to try as well. More importantly, it offers pro-level functions in the way that everyone can master quickly. More questions related to screenshot a part on PC, leave a message below.
