The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →For a selected area, press Windows key + Shift + S. For a full-screen image saved straight to a file, press Windows key + PrtScn. The Print Screen key by itself can open the snipping overlay instead of copying the whole screen, depending on its Windows setting. The Copilot key opens Copilot; it does not take a screenshot on its own.
Which Windows 11 screenshot shortcut should you use?
| Shortcut or tool | What it captures | Where the image goes | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows key + Shift + S | A selected region, window, full screen, or freeform area | Clipboard; select the Snipping Tool notification to edit or save | Choosing exactly what to capture |
| Windows key + PrtScn | Entire screen | PicturesScreenshots | Saving a full-screen image directly as a file |
| Alt + PrtScn | Active window | Clipboard; paste into another app | Capturing one application without cropping |
| PrtScn alone | On current Windows guidance, opens screen snipping when that setting is enabled; behavior can vary with the setting | Typically clipboard after you make a snip | Quick capture using the configured Print Screen behavior |
| Snipping Tool app | Freeform, rectangle, window, full screen, or video | Image snips are automatically saved to Screenshots; they can also be edited or saved separately | Capture modes, editing, delay, and sharing |
| Copilot key or Windows key + C | Does not capture by itself; Copilot has a separate Take a Screenshot option | After explicitly sharing a capture in Copilot, ask and submit a question | Asking Copilot about selected screen content |
Microsoft describes Snipping Tool as a way to “take a snapshot to copy words or images from all or part of your PC screen” in its Snipping Tool guidance. The right choice depends on whether you need a selection, a window, or the whole screen—and whether you want a clipboard image or a saved file.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Capture a selected area with Windows key + Shift + S
- Press Windows key + Shift + S to open the Snipping Tool capture overlay.
- Choose a capture mode if needed: rectangular, freeform, window, or full screen.
- Select the area or window to capture. The image is copied to the clipboard.
- To edit, save, or share it, select the Snipping Tool notification that appears after capture. If you only need to paste it, switch to the destination app and use Ctrl + V.
Microsoft lists those four image-snip modes in its Snipping Tool instructions and Windows keyboard shortcut reference.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Save the whole screen or capture one window
Save the full screen as a file
Press Windows key + PrtScn. Windows captures the entire screen and saves the image in the Screenshots subfolder of Pictures. If Pictures is redirected or synced elsewhere on your device, look for its Screenshots folder there.
#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
Copy only the active window
Press Alt + PrtScn to copy the active window to the clipboard, then paste it into the app where you want to use it. This captures the active window rather than the whole desktop; Microsoft documents the shortcut in its Windows shortcut list and Print Screen guidance for Microsoft 365 apps.
Why does PrtScn open Snipping Tool?
Windows 11 can be configured so the standalone Print Screen button opens screen snipping. Microsoft’s current guidance documents that behavior and the switch to disable it. To change it, open Start > Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard, then turn Use the Print Screen button to open screen snipping on or off.
Rank #2
- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
With that option enabled, pressing PrtScn opens the selection overlay. Turn it off if you prefer the older behavior in which PrtScn copies a full-screen capture to the clipboard. Microsoft’s documentation also includes the classic clipboard behavior, so check this setting if your key does something different from what you expect: Print Screen and keyboard settings guidance and Microsoft 365 Print Screen help.
What Snipping Tool adds
Open Snipping Tool from Start when you want to choose a capture mode, set a delay, edit an image, or manage saved captures. It supports freeform, rectangle, window, and full-screen image snips, plus video recording. Microsoft says image snips are automatically saved to the Screenshots folder; you can save an additional copy or change automatic-save behavior in the app.
Rank #3
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
To record rather than take a still image, press Windows key + Shift + R and select the screen region to record. Microsoft says recordings save by default as MP4 files under VideosScreen Recordings. Snipping Tool’s Perfect Screenshot and Color picker features are limited to Copilot+ PCs, not all Windows 11 computers. See Microsoft’s Snipping Tool documentation for its current feature details.
Does the Copilot key take a screenshot?
No. The Copilot key—or Windows key + C—launches Copilot (or Microsoft 365 Copilot on supported setups); it does not automatically capture the screen. To share screen content with Copilot, open Copilot, choose + > Take a Screenshot, select all or part of the screen, then enter and submit your question. The app, account, and organization settings can affect what Copilot features are available. Microsoft’s steps are in Copilot on Windows support.
Rank #4
- Durable and Reliable: This USB keyboard features a curved space bar, spill-resistant design (2), durable keys that can withstand 10 million keystrokes, and sturdy, adjustable tilt legs
- Comfortable, Familiar Typing: You’ll enjoy a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys and number pad
- Full-size Sculpted Mouse: The high-definition optical USB mouse puts comfort and control in your hands with smooth, accurate tracking and an ambidextrous shape that feels good hour after hour
- Simple Set-Up: Simply plug the keyboard and mouse into the USB ports on your desktop, laptop, or netbook and you're ready to work; compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
- Clear and Convenient: The bold, bright white and long-lasting characters make the keys on this PC or laptop keyboard easy to read and extra durable
A dedicated Copilot key is included on some Windows 11 devices, not every keyboard. On supported hardware, it may replace the Right Ctrl or Context Menu key. Microsoft documents ways to remap it and notes some keyboard combinations may not work consistently: Copilot key updates.
Recommended Free Tools
If your keyboard has no PrtScn key
Some keyboards place Print Screen on another key or omit a dedicated key. Microsoft lists Fn + Windows logo key + Space Bar as a possible screenshot shortcut on devices without PrtScn. It depends on the hardware, so check your laptop maker’s instructions if it does not work. See Microsoft’s Print Screen shortcut guidance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 7 Unique Backlight Color: 7 Elegant LED backlight with 3 brightness level.
- Easy Setup: Simply insert the 1.2M (4 feet) USB wire into your computer and use the keyboard instantly.
- Ergonomic design: Scissors X structure gives you the comfortable typing experience, low-profile keys offer quiet and comfortable typing.
- Ultra Thin and Light: Compact size (16.7 X 4.5 X 0.24in) and light weight (17.4oz) but provides full size keys, arrow keys, number pad, shortcuts for comfortable typing.
- Package contents: Arteck Backlit USB wired Keyboard, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
