Taking screenshots on Windows 11 without a Print Screen key

Windows 11 offers several alternatives for capturing screenshots when you don’t have access to the Print Screen key. Whether your keyboard lacks this button or it’s malfunctioning, you can still easily take screenshots using built-in tools and third-party applications.

Method 1: Snipping Tool

The Snipping Tool is Windows 11’s native screenshot application, offering versatile capture options and editing features.

  1. Access the Snipping Tool by searching for it in the Start menu.

  1. Once open, click ‘New’ to capture a screenshot or use the camcorder icon for screen recording. You can also adjust the snipping mode or set a delay.

  1. After taking a screenshot, you’ll see a notification. Click it to open the image in the Snipping Tool for editing.

  1. Use the editing tools to annotate, highlight, or erase parts of your screenshot. When finished, click the ‘Save’ icon to store your image.

Note: For quick screenshots, use the Win + Shift + S shortcut to instantly capture any area of your screen without opening the Snipping Tool first.

Method 2: Game Bar application

The Game Bar, while primarily designed for gamers, is a handy tool for taking screenshots on any Windows 11 device.

  1. Launch Game Bar by pressing Win + G.

  2. Click the camera icon in the Game Bar overlay to capture your entire screen.

  1. To view your screenshots, open Game Bar and select ‘See my captures’.

Method 3: Third-party applications

Various third-party tools offer advanced screenshot capabilities. PicPick is a popular free option with extensive features.

  1. Download PicPick from their official website.

  1. After installation, open PicPick and choose from options like ‘Full-screen’ or ‘Window’ capture.

  1. PicPick also allows you to capture specific areas or fixed regions of your screen.

  1. Use PicPick’s editing tools to enhance your screenshots with effects, drawings, text, and shapes.

Method 4: Surface tablet buttons

For Microsoft Surface Pro 4 and newer tablets:

  1. Simultaneously press the Power and Volume Up buttons to capture a screenshot.
  2. On older Surface models, use Win + Function + Spacebar instead.

Method 5: On-screen keyboard

If your physical keyboard lacks a Print Screen key, the on-screen keyboard can help:

  1. Open the on-screen keyboard through the Start menu search.

  1. Click the PrntScrn key on the virtual keyboard to take a screenshot.

Method 6: Microsoft Edge screenshot feature

For capturing web pages, Microsoft Edge offers a built-in screenshot tool:

  1. Navigate to the desired webpage in Edge.
  2. Right-click on an empty area and select ‘Screenshot’.

  1. Choose to capture the entire page or a specific section, then annotate or copy the image as needed.

Note: Firefox has a similar built-in feature, while Chrome users can add screenshot functionality through extensions.

Additional tips

  • If your Print Screen key is faulty, consider remapping it using the PowerToys utility.
  • Troubleshoot Snipping Tool issues by resetting the app in Windows Settings.
  • Some screenshot methods may not work with exclusive fullscreen applications.
  • Older Windows 10 screenshot shortcuts like Fn + Win + Spacebar are no longer functional in Windows 11.