Snipping on Windows 10 used to be pretty straightforward with the built-in Snipping Tool, but yeah, of course, Windows has to make it a bit more complicated sometimes. Basically, it’s still the easiest way to grab a quick screenshot, especially if you prefer the old method. You can snag specific areas, full screens, windows, or even free-form shapes. Once you get the hang of it, it’s really handy for saving, sharing, or annotating images. Just be aware that with newer Windows updates, Microsoft seems to be pushing toward the newer Snip & Sketch (or Snipping Tool in later versions), but both still work similarly. So, here’s how to do it, and what to watch out for.
How to Snip on Windows 10
Method 1: Using the Snipping Tool (classic way)
If your PC still has the classic Snipping Tool, this method’s for you. The key thing — it’s buried in the Windows Accessories menu, and sometimes it’s not very obvious. On some setups, it pops right up when you type “Snipping Tool” into the search bar, but on others, you might need to navigate there manually via Start > Accessories > Snipping Tool. Once it’s open, you’ll see the options to pick your snip type. Honestly, it’s kind of nice to have that control.
- Type Snipping Tool into the Windows search bar and click on it, or find it through Start > Accessories > Snipping Tool.
- Pin it to your taskbar if you plan to use it a lot — because of course, Windows has to make things just a little more annoying every update.
Method 2: Using the newer Snip & Sketch / Snipping Tool
Yup, Windows moved all the snipping options into a more unified app called Snip & Sketch. It’s kinda weird because it’s integrated into the same app that replaced the old Snipping Tool, but on some machines, it prompts you when you press the shortcut Windows + Shift + S. This shortcut is basically the secret weapon for quick snips. It also works on most Windows 10 setups—so give it a shot.
- Press Windows + Shift + S. Your screen will darken a bit, and your mouse cursor will change into a crosshair.
- Select the area you want to capture—release the mouse, and the snip gets copied to your clipboard.
- A notification pops up—you can click that to edit the snip further or save it.
This is often faster and more flexible than hunting down the old app, especially if you’re used to the quick shortcuts. Just note that if nothing happens when you press that combo, it might be disabled in settings or the app isn’t installed right. You can check this in Settings > Privacy > Keyboard shortcuts or reinstall the app from the Microsoft Store if necessary.
Why these methods matter
Using the classic tool applies if you still see it and prefer its interface. The snip shortcut (Windows + Shift + S) is better for quick captures, especially on newer updates. When you snip this way, the image goes directly to your clipboard, so you can paste it anywhere — Word, an email, or an image editor. On some setups, the snip won’t automatically save unless you explicitly do it, so don’t forget to save if you need a file. On the other hand, the old Snipping Tool has a built-in save function, which is nice for keeping things organized.
Extra tips based on experience
Sometimes, the snipping shortcut stops working after a Windows update, or the Snipping Tool doesn’t appear in the search. In those cases, try resetting the app via PowerShell (Get-AppxPackage) or reinstalling it from the Microsoft Store. The command Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft. ScreenSketch* | Remove-AppxPackage can remove the app, then install it again from the Store. Yeah, Windows has to overcomplicate things sometimes, but you do get used to it.
Tips for snipping on Windows 10
- Get familiar with the keyboard shortcut Windows + Shift + S; it’s quick once you get used to it.
- Buttons on the taskbar for Snip & Sketch can save time — just right-click the taskbar, pick Show Windows Ink Workspace Button, then pin the snipping toolbar.
- Use the delay feature in the newer apps to grab flyout menus or tooltips — it’s hidden but worth exploring.
- Save frequent snips in a dedicated folder — keeps things tidy and avoid the hassle of hunting through Downloads or Desktop.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between Snipping Tool and Snip & Sketch?
The old Snipping Tool is basic but reliable. Snip & Sketch (or the newer integrated app) offers faster shortcuts, editing tools, and annotation options. Windows is kinda trying to phase out the classic, but both still work on Windows 10.
Can I edit my screenshot after snipping?
Yep, the newer apps come with built-in editing tools like pen, highlighter, and crop options. The old Snipping Tool doesn’t have editing, so you’d need to open the saved image in another app for that.
Is there a shortcut to directly save the snip?
Not really — unless you paste it immediately into an image editor. The Windows + Shift + S shortcut gives you the snip, but you need to click on the notification to save or edit it.
Why doesn’t my snip save automatically?
Because on most setups, snipping just copies it to your clipboard. You have to manually save it if you want a file. On some versions or settings, the save option might not be visible right away, so watch out for that.
Summary
- Try the new Windows + Shift + S combo for quick snips.
- Use the old Snipping Tool if you want a GUI with save options.
- Check your settings if shortcuts aren’t working.
- Explore the provided tips to speed up your workflow.
Wrap-up
Snipping still isn’t perfect in Windows, but once you get the hang of those shortcuts and apps, it’s pretty fast. It’s kinda weird how MS keeps moving things around, but the core idea is there. Probably the best bet is to keep both the classic Snipping Tool (if you can find it) and the shortcut handy — then switch depending on what you need. Not sure why, but sometimes a simple restart fixes weird snip bugs, so don’t forget that classic troubleshooting move.
Hopefully, this shaves off a few hours for someone, and capturing screens becomes just a little less frustrating.