The Snipping Tool in Windows 11 is one of the most useful built-in apps for capturing screenshots quickly. By default, you can open it with Windows + Shift + S, but what if you want a custom shortcut that’s easier to remember? The good news is that you can change or assign a new shortcut to the Snipping Tool with just a few steps.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to change the Snipping Tool shortcut in Windows 11 — step by step — so you can capture your screen faster and work more efficiently.
📝 Key Takeaways
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Default Snipping Tool shortcut is Win + Shift + S.
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You can create a custom keyboard shortcut by modifying the SnippingTool.exe shortcut.
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Pinning Snipping Tool to Taskbar or Start menu makes it easier to access.
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Third-party apps allow more flexible shortcut customization.
Why Change the Snipping Tool Shortcut?
The default shortcut works, but it might not be the most convenient for everyone. You may want to change it if:
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You prefer a single-key shortcut like F9 or F10.
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You take screenshots frequently and need faster access.
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You want consistency with shortcuts you use on other devices or apps.
Method 1: Assign a Custom Keyboard Shortcut to Snipping Tool
Step 1: Create a Desktop Shortcut
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Press Windows + S and type
Snipping Tool. -
Right-click on Snipping Tool and select Open file location.
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In the File Explorer window, right-click Snipping Tool > Send to > Desktop (create shortcut).
Step 2: Set a Custom Shortcut Key
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Go to your Desktop and right-click the new Snipping Tool shortcut.
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Select Properties.
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In the Shortcut tab, look for the field labeled Shortcut key.
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Click inside the box and press the key combination you want (e.g., Ctrl + Alt + S).
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Click Apply, then OK.
Now, pressing your chosen shortcut will open the Snipping Tool instantly.
Method 2: Pin Snipping Tool for Faster Access
If you don’t want a custom keyboard shortcut, you can still make Snipping Tool easier to reach.
Pin to Taskbar
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Press Windows + S, type Snipping Tool.
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Right-click it and select Pin to taskbar.
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Now you can launch it with a single click.
Pin to Start Menu
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Right-click Snipping Tool > Pin to Start.
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It will appear in your Start menu tiles for quick access.
Method 3: Use Third-Party Tools for More Flexibility
If you want more advanced shortcut customization, tools like AutoHotkey let you:
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Remap the default Snipping Tool shortcut.
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Create one-key triggers (e.g., F9 for screenshots).
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Automate screenshot workflows.
For example, with AutoHotkey, you can create a script that maps F9 to launch the Snipping Tool.
Method 4: Change Print Screen Key to Open Snipping Tool
Windows 11 lets you repurpose the PrtScn (Print Screen) key to launch Snipping Tool.
Steps:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Accessibility > Keyboard.
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Under “Keyboard shortcuts,” toggle on Use the Print screen button to open screen snipping.
Now, pressing the PrtScn key will open Snipping Tool directly — no extra keys needed.
Pros and Cons of Changing the Shortcut
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Faster access to screenshots | Limited customization in Windows without third-party apps |
| Custom shortcut keys for productivity | Risk of conflicting with other shortcuts |
| Easier for frequent screenshot users | Requires extra setup |
✅ Conclusion
Changing the Snipping Tool shortcut in Windows 11 is simple and gives you more control over how you take screenshots. You can:
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Assign a custom shortcut key via the Properties menu.
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Pin Snipping Tool to Taskbar or Start for quick access.
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Use the PrtScn key to launch it instantly.
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Try AutoHotkey for full customization.
Whether you take screenshots occasionally or multiple times a day, customizing the shortcut can save you time and make your workflow smoother.
🔍 FAQs
1. Can I change the default Win + Shift + S shortcut?
Not directly, but you can create a custom shortcut or remap keys with tools like AutoHotkey.
2. How do I set Print Screen to open Snipping Tool?
Go to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard and toggle on the Print Screen option.
3. Can I assign a single key (like F9) to Snipping Tool?
Yes, but only with third-party apps like AutoHotkey.
4. Will my custom shortcut conflict with other apps?
It might. If a shortcut doesn’t work, try a different combination.
5. Do I need admin rights to change shortcuts?
Yes, you’ll need administrator access to set custom keyboard shortcuts.