Windows 11 came with a lot of visual changes, and one of the biggest updates was the Snipping Tool. Microsoft merged the classic Snipping Tool with Snip & Sketch, creating a redesigned app that looks modern but feels different.
But here’s the thing — many users still prefer the old Snipping Tool. Why? Because it’s lightweight, familiar, and doesn’t try to do too much. If you’re one of those users who want the old tool back, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll walk through multiple methods to restore or use the old Snipping Tool on Windows 11.
Why Bring Back the Old Snipping Tool?
Before jumping in, let’s talk about why people miss the classic Snipping Tool:
Simplicity: Fewer clicks, straight to the point.
Speed: Opens faster than the new version.
Familiarity: Many have used it for years and don’t want to relearn a new interface.
Lightweight: Doesn’t feel bloated compared to Snip & Sketch.
It’s like using a pocket knife instead of a Swiss Army knife — sometimes less is more.
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Nothing complicated here. Just make sure you have:
✅ A Windows 11 PC
✅ Administrator access
✅ Internet connection (for downloading old files, if needed)
Method 1: Check if the Old Snipping Tool is Still Installed
Believe it or not, the old Snipping Tool may already be on your PC, just hidden.
Press Windows + S and type Snipping Tool.
If you see the old-style icon (scissors with a red circle), click it.
If it opens, congrats — you still have it. Pin it to your Start menu or taskbar for easy access.
Method 2: Use Windows.old Folder After Upgrade
If you upgraded from Windows 10 to Windows 11, the old Snipping Tool files may still be on your system.
Open File Explorer.
Go to
C:\Windows.old\Windows\System32.Look for SnippingTool.exe.
Copy it to another folder (e.g., Desktop or Documents).
Create a shortcut to it for quick access.
This works only if you recently upgraded and the Windows.old folder hasn’t been deleted.
Method 3: Copy Snipping Tool Files from Windows 10
If you have another PC running Windows 10, or you can access one, you can copy the files directly:
On the Windows 10 PC, go to
C:\Windows\System32.Copy these files:
SnippingTool.exe
SnippingTool.exe.mui (found in
System32\en-USor your language folder)
Paste them in the same locations on your Windows 11 PC.
Create a shortcut on the desktop or taskbar.
Now you can use the old tool just like before.
Method 4: Download the Old Snipping Tool from a Trusted Source
Several trusted Windows communities preserve old versions of system utilities. You can download SnippingTool.exe and place it in your Windows 11 system.
⚠️ Important: Always download from reputable forums or official archives — never from random sites that may include malware.
Method 5: Use a Portable Version of Old Snipping Tool
Some developers have made portable versions of the old Snipping Tool that don’t require installation.
Download the portable version.
Extract the ZIP file.
Run SnippingTool.exe directly without touching system files.
This is the easiest way if you don’t want to mess with Windows folders.
Method 6: Use Compatibility Mode
Sometimes the new Snipping Tool can be made to behave more like the old one:
Locate SnippingTool.exe in
C:\Windows\System32.Right-click → Properties.
Go to Compatibility tab.
Set it to run as Windows 7 or Windows 10.
It won’t look identical, but it may feel more like the classic tool.
Method 7: Replace New Snipping Tool with Old One
If you want the old Snipping Tool to launch when you press shortcuts like Windows + Shift + S, you can replace the new version:
Rename the new SnippingTool.exe in
System32to something likeSnippingTool_new.exe.Copy the old SnippingTool.exe into
System32.Restart your PC.
Now when you call Snipping Tool, the old version opens.
Method 8: Create a Shortcut for Old Snipping Tool
Once you restore the old tool, you’ll want quick access:
Right-click on SnippingTool.exe.
Choose Send to → Desktop (create shortcut).
Pin it to Start menu or Taskbar.
Method 9: Use Third-Party Alternatives
If you can’t get the old tool working, you can use alternatives that feel similar:
LightShot – Fast and simple.
Greenshot – Lightweight, open-source.
PicPick – Similar interface to old Snipping Tool.
These apps often add extra features while keeping the old-school feel.
Method 10: Use Snip & Sketch but Simplify It
If none of the above work, you can stick with the new tool but make it act simpler:
Open Snipping Tool (new version).
Go to Settings (gear icon).
Turn off advanced options you don’t use.
Pin the app for quick access.
It’s not identical, but with fewer options, it feels closer to the old tool.
Troubleshooting Tips
Snipping Tool won’t launch? Run as administrator or reinstall.
Keyboard shortcut doesn’t open old tool? You may need to remap hotkeys.
Getting errors? Make sure you copied the .mui language files along with the .exe.
Advantages of the Old Snipping Tool
✅ Super quick to open
✅ No extra features cluttering the interface
✅ Reliable for simple screenshots
Disadvantages of the Old Snipping Tool
❌ Lacks advanced editing tools
❌ Not officially supported anymore
❌ May stop working in future updates
When to Stick with the New Tool Instead
You want annotation tools built-in.
You prefer modern design.
You rely on Microsoft Store updates for bug fixes.
Final Thoughts
The old Snipping Tool may be gone officially, but it’s far from forgotten. With a little effort, you can still bring it back to Windows 11 — whether by digging into old system files, copying it from Windows 10, or using a portable version.
At the end of the day, it’s all about comfort and productivity. If the old tool helps you work faster, go ahead and restore it.
FAQs
Q1: Does Windows 11 still have the old Snipping Tool?
Sometimes yes — especially if you upgraded from Windows 10. You can check in the System32 folder.
Q2: Is it safe to copy Snipping Tool from Windows 10 to Windows 11?
Yes, as long as you copy both the .exe and the language .mui file.
Q3: Can I make the old Snipping Tool the default again?
Yes, by replacing the new SnippingTool.exe with the old one or creating a shortcut.
Q4: Will Microsoft block the old Snipping Tool in future updates?
It’s possible, since it’s not officially supported anymore. Always keep a backup copy.
Q5: Are there better alternatives to Snipping Tool?
Yes — apps like LightShot, Greenshot, and PicPick are great lightweight options.