If you’re using a dual-monitor or multi-monitor setup on Windows 11, you probably know the struggle: you just want a screenshot of one screen, but Windows insists on capturing everything. Frustrating, right? Don’t worry—this guide will walk you through how to screenshot only one monitor in Windows 11 with simple, step-by-step methods. By the end, you’ll be a pro at taking precise screenshots without wasting time cropping out the other screen.
Why Take a Screenshot of Only One Monitor?
Screenshots are powerful. They help you share information quickly, save visual references, or capture moments on your screen. But when you have multiple monitors, grabbing just the relevant screen is much more efficient. Here’s why:
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Saves Time – No need to crop later.
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Keeps Focus – Shows only the screen you want others to see.
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Looks Professional – Cleaner presentations, documents, or tutorials.
It’s like taking a close-up photo instead of a wide shot—you get exactly what you want.
Different Methods to Screenshot One Monitor in Windows 11
There’s no single “one-size-fits-all” way. Depending on your needs, you can use built-in tools, shortcuts, or third-party apps. Let’s break down the best methods.
Method 1: Use the Print Screen Key (PrtScn) with Active Window Trick
Most keyboards have a Print Screen (PrtScn) key, and Windows pairs it with a few neat shortcuts.
Steps:
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Select the window you want on your chosen monitor by clicking on it.
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Press Alt + PrtScn.
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Windows captures only the active window.
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Paste the screenshot into Paint, Word, or any app using Ctrl + V.
Pros:
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Quick and easy.
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No need for extra software.
Cons:
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Only works with the active window, not the full monitor.
Method 2: Use Windows Snipping Tool
The Snipping Tool is Windows’ built-in screenshot app, and it’s more powerful than people realize.
Steps:
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Press Windows + Shift + S.
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Your screen will dim, and a small toolbar will appear.
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Choose from:
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Rectangular Snip – Drag a box around the monitor area.
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Freeform Snip – Draw a custom shape.
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Window Snip – Select a specific app window.
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Full-Screen Snip – Capture one screen at a time.
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The screenshot is copied to your clipboard and can be saved.
Best For:
Users who want precision without downloading extra tools.
Method 3: Windows + Print Screen
This method saves screenshots automatically.
Steps:
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Go to the monitor you want.
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Press Windows + PrtScn.
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The screenshot is automatically saved in your Pictures > Screenshots folder.
Note:
This usually captures all monitors, but if you maximize a window on one screen, it can help keep things neat.
Method 4: Using Third-Party Tools (Snagit, Lightshot, Greenshot)
Sometimes built-in tools just aren’t enough. If you frequently screenshot only one monitor, these apps are game-changers.
1. Snagit
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Paid but extremely powerful.
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Lets you capture one screen, scrollable windows, or custom regions.
2. Lightshot
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Free and lightweight.
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Quick drag-and-snap interface.
3. Greenshot
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Free and open-source.
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Perfect for productivity-focused users.
Tips for Cleaner Screenshots on Windows 11
Screenshots can sometimes capture unnecessary clutter. Here’s how to keep things clean:
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Maximize your window before taking a shot.
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Close irrelevant apps to reduce distractions.
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Hide desktop icons temporarily with right-click > View > Show Desktop Icons.
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Adjust resolution for sharper results.
Think of it like setting the stage before taking a photo—your screenshot will look way better.
How to Screenshot One Monitor in a Dual Setup
Here’s the exact process for dual monitors:
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Move your mouse to the monitor you want to capture.
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Use Windows + Shift + S to snip that monitor’s area.
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If you prefer shortcuts, make the window on that monitor active, then use Alt + PrtScn.
That’s it—you now have a clean screenshot of just one screen.
Troubleshooting Screenshot Issues
Sometimes screenshots don’t go as planned. Here are common issues and fixes:
Issue 1: Screenshots Capture Both Monitors
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Fix: Use Snipping Tool or a third-party app for precise captures.
Issue 2: Screenshot Looks Blurry
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Fix: Check display resolution under Settings > Display > Scale & Layout.
Issue 3: Shortcut Keys Not Working
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Fix: Ensure your keyboard’s Fn (Function) key isn’t blocking shortcuts.
Advanced Tricks for Power Users
If you take lots of screenshots, these tricks will save you hours:
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Map Snipping Tool to PrtScn Key:
Go to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard > Toggle Use the Print Screen button to open screen snipping. -
Use Clipboard History:
Enable with Windows + V to access multiple screenshots quickly. -
Cloud-Sync Screenshots:
Save directly to OneDrive for automatic backup.
When Should You Use Third-Party Tools?
While Windows tools work fine, third-party apps are worth it if:
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You need annotations (arrows, highlights, text).
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You capture lots of screenshots daily.
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You want scrolling capture (entire webpages, documents).
For everyday users, Windows Snipping Tool is enough. But for creators, educators, and professionals, investing in a tool like Snagit pays off.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to screenshot only one monitor in Windows 11 is all about choosing the right method for your needs. Whether it’s a quick Alt + PrtScn, the built-in Snipping Tool, or advanced third-party software, you now have the tools to grab the perfect shot every time. No more wasting time cropping or editing—just clean, precise screenshots that keep the focus where it belongs.
FAQs
1. How do I make Print Screen only capture one monitor?
Use Alt + PrtScn to capture the active window, or remap your Print Screen button to open the Snipping Tool.
2. Where do my screenshots go in Windows 11?
Screenshots taken with Windows + PrtScn are saved in Pictures > Screenshots by default.
3. Can I take a screenshot of a specific app on one monitor?
Yes! Simply click on the app window to make it active, then press Alt + PrtScn.
4. What’s the easiest way to screenshot one monitor in a dual setup?
Use Windows + Shift + S, then drag and select the area of the monitor you want.
5. Is there a free tool better than Snipping Tool?
Yes—Lightshot and Greenshot are free, user-friendly tools that offer extra features like editing and annotations.