Article updated on June 5, 2026 by Byothe
Are you still taking screenshots with your phone? It's time to switch to a cleaner method. Since Windows Vista, and therefore in Windows 10 et Windows 11Microsoft offers a built-in utility called Screen Capture Tool ( Snipping Tool), which easily replaces the old Print Screen key. This tool allows you to precisely capture what you want to show, annotate the result, and then share it in seconds.
In the following lines, you will (re)discover its ultra-fast launch, its new functions (delayed capture, video recording or integration to the clipboard…) as well as the best way to keep it handy on a daily basis.
Why prefer the Snipping Tool to Print Screen?
The old key Print screen Copy the entire desktop to the clipboard: then you can crop the area you need.Capture ToolThis one lets you select only the necessary portion and offers four modes: rectangle, freeform, window, or full screen. As soon as the capture is complete, a small window opens allowing you to draw, highlight, or erase before saving the file (PNG, JPEG, or GIF) or copying it. Since the current version, a button even allows you to... switch to video capture (ideal for an animated bug or a quick demonstration).
Another advantage: each capture is automatically placed in the clipboard and therefore ready to be pasted into a document, chat, or email. Enable clipboard history (Win + V) to retrieve multiple successive captures and save even more time.
How do I launch the tool instantly using Win + Shift + S?
Since the October 2018 update of Windows 10, and of course in Windows 11the shortcut Win + Shift + S is the fastest method:
- Press these three keys simultaneously.
- The screen goes grey and a small bar appears at the top of the screen.
- Choose the mode (rectangle, freeform, window or full screen) then select the area with the mouse.
As soon as you release the button, the screenshot is copied to the clipboard and a notification prompts you to open it in the Snipping Tool editor for annotation. It couldn't be simpler!
Overview of the Modern Capture tool interface
By opening the full application (Start menu › Capture Tool), you will find a clean, minimalist top bar:
- New : immediately launches a capture.
- Camera / Video Camera : switch between image or screenshot video.
- Delay dropdown menu : triggering immediate, 3 s, 5 s or 10 s — useful for capturing a stubborn drop-down menu.
- Icon “…” : opens the settings, including automatic saving in Images\Screenshots and the color of the styluses.
In the center is the preview area; below it, the annotation toolbar includes stylet, Highlighter, your shape of urethane, rule et croppingOnce you have finished making your adjustments, click on Save ou Copier enough.
Delayed captures and other advanced features
You need to capture a Contextual menu What disappears when you click elsewhere? Click the arrow with the crossed-out clock icon, choose the timer delay, and then position your screen during the countdown. The Capture Tool will automatically start recording when the time is up.
Since 2023, the module also includes a Lightweight video recorder accessible via the camera icon: perfect for a quick tutorial without having to use a cumbersome solution.
By adopting the shortcut Win + Shift + S By mastering timing, video recording, and clipboard history, you'll have a complete solution for illustrating a tutorial, reporting a bug, or sharing an in-game achievement. Try it now: you won't be able to live without it!
