When it comes to taking screenshots in Windows 11, the Snipping Tool is the default go-to app. But what if you don’t want it? Maybe you’re setting up a work computer, managing a classroom environment, or you simply prefer a third-party tool. Whatever the case, knowing how to disable Snipping Tool in Windows 11 can save you time and give you more control over your system.
In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through multiple ways to disable it—step by step. Ready? Let’s dive in.
Why Disable the Snipping Tool in Windows 11?
Before we jump into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.”
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Workplace restrictions – Prevent employees from taking screenshots of sensitive data.
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Parental control – Stop kids from snapping images when you’d rather keep restrictions in place.
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Alternative tools – Maybe you prefer apps like Greenshot, Lightshot, or Snagit.
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System security – In some environments, screenshots can be a privacy concern.
So, if any of these sound familiar, disabling the Snipping Tool is the way to go.
Different Methods to Disable the Snipping Tool
Windows 11 gives you multiple ways to manage system apps. Some are easy, while others are more advanced. Let’s break them down.
Method 1: Disable Snipping Tool Using Group Policy Editor
If you’re using Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education, this is the simplest way.
Step 1: Open Group Policy Editor
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Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
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Type
gpedit.mscand hit Enter.
Step 2: Navigate to Snipping Tool Settings
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Go to:
User Configuration→Administrative Templates→Windows Components→Tablet PC→Accessories.
Step 3: Disable the Snipping Tool
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Find Do not allow Snipping Tool to run.
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Double-click it.
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Select Enabled.
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Hit Apply → OK.
Boom! Snipping Tool is disabled for that user account.
Method 2: Disable Snipping Tool with Registry Editor
This method works for all editions of Windows 11, including Home.
Step 1: Open Registry Editor
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Press Win + R, type
regedit, and hit Enter.
Step 2: Find the Right Key
Navigate to:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\TabletPC
Don’t see the TabletPC folder? No worries. Just right-click Microsoft, select New → Key, and name it TabletPC.
Step 3: Create a New Value
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Inside TabletPC, right-click the right pane.
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Choose New → DWORD (32-bit) Value.
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Name it
DisableSnippingTool.
Step 4: Change Its Value
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Double-click
DisableSnippingTool. -
Set the value to 1.
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Hit OK and restart your computer.
Now the Snipping Tool is disabled.
Method 3: Rename or Delete the Snipping Tool Executable
A bit of a “hands-on” method, but it works.
Step 1: Locate the Executable File
The Snipping Tool is located in:C:\Windows\System32\SnippingTool.exe
Step 2: Rename or Delete
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Right-click SnippingTool.exe.
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Choose Rename and call it something like
SnippingTool.old.
Alternatively, delete it (though renaming is safer in case you want it back later).
Method 4: Disable Snipping Tool with App Permissions
Windows 11 lets you restrict apps individually.
Step 1: Open Settings
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Press Win + I.
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Go to Apps → Installed apps.
Step 2: Manage Snipping Tool
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Scroll down to Snipping Tool.
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Click the three dots (…) → Advanced options.
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Toggle App permissions (like Camera, Background apps) to Off.
This doesn’t fully uninstall it, but it limits what the app can do.
Method 5: Disable Snipping Tool Using PowerShell
For tech enthusiasts, PowerShell offers more control.
Step 1: Open PowerShell as Admin
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Search PowerShell in the Start menu.
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Right-click → Run as administrator.
Step 2: Run the Command
Type this command:
This will remove the Snipping Tool (Snip & Sketch) from your system.
Method 6: Use Third-Party App Blockers
If you don’t want to mess with the registry or system files, you can install third-party application blockers. These tools let you choose which apps to disable without editing system settings manually.
How to Re-enable Snipping Tool (If You Change Your Mind)
Don’t worry if you regret disabling it. Here’s how to bring it back:
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Group Policy Method → Set it back to Not Configured.
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Registry Method → Delete or set
DisableSnippingToolvalue to 0. -
Deleted File → Restore from Recycle Bin or copy from another system.
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PowerShell → Reinstall from Microsoft Store.
Tips Before Disabling Snipping Tool
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Always create a restore point before editing Registry or Group Policy.
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Consider installing a better screenshot tool first.
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Think about whether you need to disable it for all users or just one.
Alternatives to Snipping Tool in Windows 11
Just because you disable Snipping Tool doesn’t mean you can’t take screenshots. Here are some great alternatives:
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Lightshot – Simple, lightweight, and fast.
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Greenshot – Open-source with editing options.
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Snagit – Professional-grade with advanced features.
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ShareX – Free, powerful, and highly customizable.
Common Issues When Disabling Snipping Tool
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Registry edits not working? Make sure you restart your computer.
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Group Policy not available? You’re probably on Windows 11 Home.
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Accidentally deleted the executable? You’ll need another copy of SnippingTool.exe.
Conclusion
And that’s it—six solid ways to disable the Snipping Tool in Windows 11. Whether you’re doing it for security, productivity, or personal preference, you’ve got multiple options at your fingertips. From the beginner-friendly Settings method to the advanced PowerShell approach, it’s all about choosing the path that suits your comfort level.
At the end of the day, disabling Snipping Tool isn’t just about removing a feature—it’s about customizing Windows 11 to fit your needs.
FAQs
1. Can I completely uninstall the Snipping Tool in Windows 11?
Yes, using PowerShell you can remove it. But the safest methods are Group Policy or Registry changes.
2. Does disabling Snipping Tool also block keyboard shortcuts like Win + Shift + S?
Yes, if you disable or uninstall the app, the shortcuts won’t work.
3. Is it safe to disable Snipping Tool?
Absolutely. It doesn’t harm your system—it just removes one screenshot option.
4. Can I disable Snipping Tool for only one user?
Yes, if you use Group Policy under User Configuration, it applies only to that account.
5. What’s the best alternative to Snipping Tool?
If you want something lightweight, go for Lightshot. For advanced features, Snagit is excellent.