Enable or Disable Print Screen Key for Snipping Tool in Windows 11

By default, Windows 11 assigns the Print Screen key to the Snipping Tool for easy screenshot access.
This mapping can be customized through the Keyboard settings.
Disabling this feature reactivates the Windows key + Shift + S screenshot shortcut.
Turning off the Snipping Tool setting allows other applications to utilize the Print Screen key functionality.

UPDATED 12/17/2025: In Windows 11, the Print Screen (Prt Scr) key is preconfigured to open the Snipping Tool, simplifying the screenshot process. However, if you prefer to use a different screenshot application, you might find that it cannot capture the Print Screen function. Fortunately, you can modify this setting anytime to revert to the original Windows key + Shift + S shortcut, which many users find familiar and convenient.

Additionally, if pressing the Print Screen key does not activate the Snipping Tool interface, you can easily adjust the settings to enable smoother access to screen capture tools using a single key, rather than a keyboard shortcut.

This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to modify your Windows 11 settings, allowing you to enable or disable the Print Screen key function in relation to the Snipping Tool for your screenshot needs.

Disabling the Snipping Tool shortcut on Windows 11
Enabling the Snipping Tool shortcut on Windows 11
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Print Screen Key Mapping

Disabling the Snipping Tool Shortcut in Windows 11

Follow these straightforward steps to disable the Snipping Tool shortcut linked to the Print Screen key:

Open the Settings menu on your Windows 11 device.
Select Bluetooth & devices.
Navigate to the Keyboard settings.
Toggle off the option “Use the Print screen key to open screen capture” to disable the Snipping Tool integration with the Print Screen key.

After completing these steps, the Snipping Tool will revert to the default Windows key + Shift + S shortcut for screen captures, allowing you to assign the Print Screen key to a different screenshot application.

Stay ahead with the latest guides and updates delivered straight to your inbox by signing up for my newsletter.

If you’re reassigning the Print Screen key to another application, such as Lightshot or Greenshot, you may need to restart either the app or your computer for the changes to take effect.

Enabling the Snipping Tool Shortcut in Windows 11

To activate the Print Screen key for instant access to the Snipping Tool and eliminate the need for the Windows key + Shift + S shortcut, follow these steps:

Access the Settings menu.
Select Bluetooth & devices.
Go to the Keyboard settings page.
Turn on the option “Use the Print screen key to open screen capture” to enable the Snipping Tool shortcut.

Once these steps are completed, pressing the Print Screen key will immediately launch the Snipping Tool, providing a quick and efficient way to take screenshots on Windows 11.

In previous iterations of Windows, these settings could be found under Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Print Screen Key Mapping

Below are some common questions and answers regarding the management of the Print Screen key mapping on Windows 11.

Why is the Print Screen key linked to the Snipping Tool on Windows 11?

The Print Screen key is remapped by Windows 11 to directly open the Snipping Tool, enhancing efficiency and user accessibility for taking screenshots without needing additional keyboard shortcuts.

Is it possible to disable the Print Screen key function in the Snipping Tool?

Indeed. You can disable this feature by going to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Keyboard and toggling off the “Use the Print screen key to open screen capture” setting.

What occurs after I disable the Print Screen shortcut?

Disabling this feature will revert Windows 11 to the traditional Windows key + Shift + S shortcut for the Snipping Tool, releasing the Print Screen key for use by other applications.

Can I still use the Print Screen key with different screenshot software?

Yes. By disabling the Snipping Tool’s integration, you’re free to use third-party screenshot applications such as Lightshot, Greenshot, or ShareX that can take advantage of the Print Screen key.

What should I do if the Print Screen key does not activate the Snipping Tool?

If pressing the Print Screen key yields no result, check under Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Keyboard to ensure that the “Use the Print screen key to open screen capture” option is enabled.

Where were these settings located in earlier versions of Windows 11?

In earlier versions, the Print Screen settings could be found under Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard, differing from its current placement in the Keyboard settings under Bluetooth & devices.

Update December 17, 2025: This document has been revised for accuracy and to reflect procedural updates.

Source & Images