Working with multiple monitors is a productivity game-changer, but it can also bring some small frustrations—like trying to take a screenshot of just one screen. Have you ever pressed the usual screenshot keys, only to capture both monitors? Annoying, right?
Don’t worry! In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to screenshot a single monitor on Windows 11—with simple methods, tips, and shortcuts you can start using right away.
Why Capture Only One Monitor?
Before diving into the steps, let’s talk about why this matters.
- Clarity: You only want to share what’s relevant, not the clutter from other screens.
- Privacy: Sometimes, your second monitor might have sensitive information.
- Efficiency: Editing out the unwanted monitor later is extra work—why not capture only what you need?
Think of it like taking a portrait photo—you wouldn’t want random people in the background, would you?
Method 1: Using the Print Screen Key with Active Monitor Focus
This is one of the quickest ways, but there’s a trick—Windows 11 needs to know which monitor you want to capture.
- Click anywhere on the monitor you want to screenshot to make it active.
- Press Alt + Print Screen (PrtScn).
- Open Paint, Photoshop, or any image editor.
- Press Ctrl + V to paste the screenshot.
This captures only the active window, not the entire screen. If you want the whole monitor instead of just the active window, try Method 2.
Method 2: Windows + Shift + S (Snipping Tool)
Windows 11 comes with a built-in Snipping Tool that makes this super easy.
- Press Windows + Shift + S.
- Your screen will dim, and a small toolbar will appear at the top.
- Select Rectangular Snip (default).
- Drag your mouse to select the area of your monitor you want to capture.
This works perfectly if you want full control over the selection—just make sure to drag only over the monitor you want.
Method 3: Snipping Tool App
Prefer a more visual approach? Use the full Snipping Tool app.
- Search for Snipping Tool in the Start menu.
- Click New.
- Choose the monitor area you want to capture.
- Save the screenshot using Ctrl + S.
This method is slower but great if you take a lot of custom screenshots.
Method 4: Using Print Screen for Full Monitor Only
If your goal is to capture only one monitor without cropping manually, here’s a workaround:
- Arrange your monitors so the one you want to capture is set as primary.
- Press Print Screen (captures your primary monitor).
- Paste it where you need it.
Changing your primary monitor temporarily can help if you frequently capture only one screen.
Method 5: Third-Party Screenshot Tools
Want more control? Third-party tools make this process even smoother.
- Lightshot: Quick capture and instant editing.
- Greenshot: Lets you select specific monitors easily.
- ShareX: A powerful, free tool with advanced capture options.
These tools often include built-in cropping, annotations, and direct sharing options.
How to Quickly Save the Screenshot
After capturing, you might want to skip the whole “paste into Paint” process. Here’s how:
- Windows + PrtScn: Saves a full-screen capture directly to your Pictures → Screenshots folder.
- For a single monitor, use the Snipping Tool, which lets you save instantly after selecting the area.
Where Do Screenshots Go on Windows 11?
By default:
- Full-screen captures: Pictures → Screenshots folder
- Snipping Tool captures: You can save manually wherever you like.
If you’re using OneDrive or Dropbox, check if they auto-save your screenshots too.
Tips for Better Screenshot Management
- Name your screenshots: Avoid “Screenshot (123).png” clutter.
- Use folders: Organize by project or date.
- Consider cloud sync: So your captures are always backed up.
Can You Screenshot Multiple Monitors Separately at Once?
No native shortcut does this automatically. You’ll need to capture each monitor individually or use a tool like ShareX that supports multi-monitor capture modes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to select the right monitor: Always click on it first.
- Cropping too late: Use the Snipping Tool for precise selection.
- Overwriting files: Always rename your screenshots if they’re important.
Will This Work for Gaming Screenshots?
Yes—but with a catch. Games often run in fullscreen exclusive mode, meaning regular shortcuts may not work. Instead:
- Use the game’s built-in screenshot key (F12 on Steam, for example).
- Or, switch the game to borderless window mode and use the Snipping Tool.
The Bottom Line
Taking a screenshot of one monitor on Windows 11 doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you prefer built-in tools like the Snipping Tool or more advanced software, you now know multiple ways to do it.
Once you master this, you’ll save time, avoid messy edits, and keep your workflow smooth.
Conclusion
Your dual-monitor or multi-monitor setup should work for you—not against you. By learning how to capture only the monitor you need, you’ll simplify your sharing process and protect your privacy.
So next time someone asks, “Can you show me just that screen?”, you’ll know exactly how to do it.
FAQs
1. What’s the fastest way to screenshot one monitor?
Use Windows + Shift + S and drag across only that monitor. It’s quick and precise.
2. Does Print Screen capture both monitors?
Yes, by default it captures everything. To avoid this, set the desired monitor as primary or use the Snipping Tool.
3. Can I change the default screenshot save location?
Yes! Right-click the Screenshots folder → Properties → Location → Move.
4. Are third-party screenshot tools safe?
Most reputable ones like Lightshot and ShareX are safe. Always download from official sites.
5. Does this method work for ultrawide monitors?
Yes, all methods here work for ultrawide and curved monitors as well.