Многие функции из предыдущей версии Windows перекочевали и в одиннадцатую версию, куда входит и приложение «Ножницы» для создания скриншотов. Некоторые пользователи сталкиваются с проблемами в его работе и не могут сделать снимок экрана.
Я постараюсь разобраться в этой проблеме, представив вашему вниманию все известные методы ее решения.
Перед просмотром следующих рекомендаций убедитесь в том, что скриншоты действительно не создаются. Обычно они сохраняются в папке C:\Users\\Pictures\Screenshots (Снимки экрана). Перейдите в папку и убедитесь в отсутствии изображений в ней.
Способ 1: Использование другой комбинации клавиш
В первую очередь хочется обратить внимание на ситуацию, когда скриншоты не сохраняются исключительно при использовании горячих клавиш для их создания, куда входит PrtSc (Print Screen). Скорее всего, под упомянутую клавишу записано какое-то функциональное действие. Если после нажатия на нее ничего не происходит, рекомендую попробовать комбинацию Fn + PrtSc или Win + PrtSc.
Еще есть сочетание Alt + PrtSc, которое должно создать снимок исключительно активного окна, игнорируя все остальное содержимое. Попробуйте разные варианты и убедитесь в том, что один из них сработал. Если это не так, переходите к следующим методам.
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Способ 2: Проверка установленного времени
Неправильное время, установленное в операционной системе, может сказываться на работе различных системных приложений, в том числе и «Ножниц». Конечно, случается такое редко, но все же стоит проверить текущее время и сравнить его с тем, которое выдаст Гугл или Яндекс при соответствующем запросе.
Если что, вы всегда можете открыть параметр «Изменение даты и времени» через «Пуск», чтобы включить автоматическую синхронизацию или установить правильное значение самостоятельно. Внесенные изменения провоцируют сброс в настройках «Ножниц», что и позволит нормализовать работу приложения, если ошибки действительно возникали из-за времени.
Способ 3: Перезапуск приложения
Может показаться, что это предложение звучит банально, но я веду речь именно о перезапуске. Для этого понадобится завершить процесс, что проще всего сделать через «Диспетчер задач».
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В Windows 11 для открытия «Диспетчера задач» все еще можно использовать горячие клавиши, а также есть другой вариант: нажмите ПКМ по «Пуск» и выберите «Диспетчер задач» из появившегося списка.
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Найдите задачу «Ножницы» и снимите ее, выбрав соответствующий пункт в контекстном меню.
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Отыщите «Ножницы» через «Проводник» и запустите его. Проверьте, создаются ли скриншоты теперь.
Способ 4: Настройка фоновой работы приложения
Иногда «Ножницы» не отвечают на запросы пользователя по причине некорректного функционирования в фоновом режиме. Вам необходимо сделать так, чтобы приложение всегда было активным, выполнив следующую настройку:
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Откройте «Пуск» и нажмите по значку «Параметры».
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На панели слева выберите пункт «Приложения» и щелкните по первой строке «Приложения и возможности».
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Обязательно используйте поиск для нахождения «Ножниц» и нажмите по трем точкам в поле справа.
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Из появившегося списка выберите «Дополнительные параметры».
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Разрешите работу приложения в фоновом режиме, указав вариант «Всегда». После этого можете перезапустить ПК и попробовать сделать снимок экрана.
Способ 5: Исправление и сброс приложения
В Windows 11 есть интересные опции для приложений, позволяющие сбрасывать их или исправлять в автоматическом режиме. Возможно, это поможет решить вашу проблему, если она кроется в некорректном функционировании «Ножницы». Для этого откройте тот же раздел с параметрами так, как это было показано выше, или отыщите «Ножницы» через «Пуск» и в меню справа выберите «Параметры приложения».
Сначала нажмите кнопку «Исправить», а если это не поможет, используйте «Сброс». После выполнения таких манипуляций программа возвращается к стандартным настройкам, а все данные удаляются – это позволяет восстановить ее работоспособность.
Скорее всего, хотя бы один из перечисленных выше вариантов окажется полезным. Если нет, откройте «Командую строку» и запустите сканирование целостности системных файлов с помощью sfc /scannow. Это займет некоторое время; в случае нахождения ошибок вы будете уведомлены об их исправлении.
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Is the print screen not working on Windows 11? This guide gives you comprehensive solutions to fix the print screen not working issue on Windows 11.
Is the print screen not working on Windows 11? This guide gives you comprehensive solutions to fix the print screen not working issue on Windows 11.
Your print screen not working Windows 11 (prt sc not working) when you want to capture your screen? You would be very frustrated. But don’t panic. You can easily fix this problem and print your screen.
Print screen (prt sc key) is an essential function for many Windows users, allowing them to quickly capture screenshots of their screen.
Some users have reported that the print screen is not working on Windows 11, which can be frustrating.
This article will discuss the common reasons for this issue and provide solutions to help you fix it.
Why is Print Screen Not Working on Windows 11?
There are several reasons why print screen may not work on Windows 11. Some of the most common causes include:
- Keyboard settings: Your keyboard settings may have changed, causing the print screen function to stop working.
- Drivers: Outdated or missing drivers can also cause the print screen function to stop working.
- Windows updates: Windows updates can sometimes interfere with the print screen function.
- Software conflict: Other software installed on your computer can interfere with the print screen function, causing it to stop working.
9 Ways Fix Print Screen Not Working on Windows 11
Here are some of the most effective solutions for fixing the print screen not working issue on Windows 11.
Try these fixes for Windows 11 print screen not working:
- Update your keyboard driver
- Check your keyboard settings (Check if the print screen key is enabled)
- Try Different Keyboard Shortcuts
- Window key + Prtsc key
- FN key + prtsc key
- Windows Key + Shift + S to open Snipping Tool
- Windows Key + G
- Disable all background running programs
- Run keyboard troubleshooter
- Use the snipping tool
- Check third party screenshot software
- Restart your computer
- Update your Windows operating system
How to fix print screen not working Windows 11
#1. Update Your keyboard drivers and other drivers
If your keyboard drivers are outdated or missing, they can cause the print screen function to stop working. Updating your drivers can fix the issue.
To update your drivers:
- Press Windows+ X to open Windows Quick Menu.
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From the list, select Device Manager.
- Find your keyboard in the list of devices > and expand it by clicking on the arrow next to it.
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Right-click on Standard PS/2 Keyboard and choose Update Driver.
- Select “Search automatically for updated driver software” to allow Windows 11 to look for the newest driver on your local computer or online.
- If it finds an update, follow any on-screen instructions.
Once done, check if your Print Screen key is working.
You can immediately see if the method was successful by checking if a new screenshot is added to the “C:\Users\user\Pictures\Screenshots” folder.
#2. Check that print screen key is enabled (prt sc key enabled)
You need to check your keyboard settings and make sure that print screen is enabled. To use the key, ensure the print screen key is not disabled or mapped to another function.
To check your keyboard settings:
- Open the Control Panel (Press Wins Key + R, then type control)
- Click on the «Ease of Access» option.
- Click on the «Keyboard» option. (It may be written as ‘change how your keyboard works.’).
- Got to Keyboard settings.
- Make sure the «Print Screen» key is not disabled or mapped to another function.
Another way is to press the F Mode key or F Lock key (when there is such keys on your keyboard) and then check if Print Screen works. If not, skip this fix. That key may prevent you from using the print screen key.
#3. Try Different Keyboard Shortcuts
If prtsc or print screen key isn’t working on Windows 11, you can try a few keyboard shortcuts to take a screenshot. Don’t panic before you try the following shortcuts first:
- Try Windows Key+ PrtScn to take a shot and save it to a file.
- Try Alt+ PrtScn to take a shot of an active window.
- Try fn+ PrtScn to take the screenshot (or launch a third-party app like Lightshot)
- Try Windows Key+ Shift+ S to launch the Snipping Tool for screenshots.
These will automatically save the screenshot to your Pictures folder.
If, after the shortcuts, the prt sc key still isn’t working, there’s a last alternative.
Another workaround is the Xbox Game Bar through the keyboard shortcut of Windows Key+ G to launch the Xbox Game Bar. Once it’s open, click the Widgets button > Capture and click the camera icon to take your shot. See if that works.
#4. Stop background running programs
If other software installed on your computer is interfering with the print screen function, you may need to disable it. To disable the software, follow these steps:
- Right click on Windows start.
- Open the Task Manager.
- Find the software that is interfering with the print screen function.
- Right-click on the software and select «End Task.»
Since some programs like OneDrive, Dropbox, Snipping tool can take over the Print Screen key, disable all the running programs on your PC then try to print screen again to see if it works.
#5. Run keyboard troubleshooter
If your print screen isn’t working and you’re unsure whether or not your keyboard is the problem, run the keyboard troubleshooter on Windows 11 to confirm. This will test your keyboard and determine whether or not there is a problem with it. If it’s the problem, the troubleshooter will try to find a solution.
To run the keyboard troubleshooter on Windows 11, use the below steps :
- Click the Start button to open the Settings app (or press Windows key + I).
- In Windows Settings opens, navigate to System > Troubleshoot
- Now, open the Other troubleshooters option.
- Scroll down the list to find Keyboard, then click the Run button next.
- When the troubleshooting starts, it will attempt to find and repair any potential issues – follow the on-screen wizard if a problem is detected.
#6. Use the Snipping Tool
If the print screen function is not working, you can use the Snipping Tool to take screenshots on Windows 11. The Snipping Tool is a built-in utility that allows you to take screenshots on Windows.
To use the Snipping Tool:
- Click the Windows button and type Snipping tool.
- Open the snipping tool app.
- Click on the «New» button.
- Select the area of the screen that you want to capture.
- Save the screenshot to your desired location.
#7. Check third party screenshot software
If your print screen key isn’t working, a third-party screen capture app may be your place to troubleshoot. Specialist screen recording apps like Screenpresso, Lightshot, Snagit, etc. can manipulate your computer’s settings and block the print screen key from working.
Each software app varies, but the best place to go is to the app’s settings or preferences.
Look for the hotkeys assigned to take a shot. For example, if Print Screen is set to the default, you can change it to a different key.
#8. Restart your computer
If all the solutions fail to work, maybe you need to reboot your computer to see if there’s a fix. rebooting the system will restart all the PC functions, inducing the keyboard function. So, restart your computer and see if the print screen key will work again.
#9. Update your operating system
Check if your operating system is up-to-date. An older version operating system or one that’s not updated can affect the functions of the entire PC system. To check the OS update:
- Click Windows+ I together to open Settings.
- On the left pane, scroll down to Windows Update and clicks on it.
- On the right pane, If your Windows s up to date, it will show you the message “You’re up to date.”
- If not, click “Check for Updates”
Just to make sure you’re Windows is up to date, click on “Check for updates” even when it says you’re up to date.
Conclusion
If print screen is not working on Windows 11, these solutions should help you fix the issue.
Whether you need to check your keyboard settings, update your drivers, use the Snipping Tool, use the Windows + Print Screen key combination, or disable other software, there are options available to help you capture screenshots on Windows 11.
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The PrtSc (Print Screen) function in Windows 11 is a handy tool that allows you to capture a screenshot of your computer’s display. However, there may be instances when the PrtSc key stops working, making it difficult to take screenshots. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on this function for your work or personal use. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to fix the issue. From restarting your computer to updating your drivers, and checking for third-party software conflicts, there are multiple ways to resolve the PrtSc not working problem in Windows 11. In this article, we will explore some of the most effective methods to help you get the PrtSc function working again.
Page Contents
FIX 1: Run the keyboard troubleshooter
- Open Settings by clicking Windows + I keys together.
- Then in the Settings Window, click on System then click on Troubleshoot.
- Then click on the Other troubleshooters option.
- Next, click on the Run button in the Keyboard section.
Now the troubleshooting will start and then follow the instructions on-screen if any issue has been detected.
Fix 2: If PrtSc or Print Screen not working in Windows then 11 Restart your computer
If the PrtSc (Print Screen) function is not working in Windows 11, one of the easiest solutions to try is to simply restart your computer. This may seem like a basic troubleshooting step, but it can often resolve minor software or system glitches that could be causing the issue. Restarting your computer can clear out any temporary files or settings that might be interfering with the PrtSc function. After the restart, try pressing the PrtSc key again to see if it’s working properly. If the issue persists, there are other fixes you can take to fix the problem.
Fix 3: Update your keyboard drivers and other drivers.
- Open Windows Quick Menu by pressing the Windows + X keys and then click on Device Manager.
- Then, click on the small Keyboards arrow to expand it and next right-click on Standard PS/2 Keyboard.
- Next, click on Update driver > then click on Search automatically for drivers and follow on-screen instructions.
Fix 4: Update your operating system
- Open Settings by pressing the Windows + I keys.
- Then click on Windows update.
- Next, click on Check for Updates.
Fix 5: Try different Keyboard shortcut keys if PrtSc or Print Screen not working in Windows 11.
- Press Win+ PrtSc to take a shot and save it to a file.
- Press Alt+ PrtSc to take a shot of an active window.
- Press fn+ PrtSc to take the screenshot.
- Press Win+ Shift+ S to launch the Snipping Tool for screenshots.
Fix 6: Check that the print screen key is enabled
- Open the Control panel by searching on the search bar of Windows.
- Then, click on the Ease of Access option.
- Then, click on Change how your keyboard works.
After that, click on Keyboard settings.
Then check whether the Print Screen key is not disabled.
Fix 7: Check third-party screenshot software
If the PrtSc (Print Screen) key is not working on your Windows 11 computer, it’s worth checking if any third-party screenshot software is causing the issue. Sometimes, such software can interfere with the default screenshot function of Windows, making it unresponsive. To check this, try disabling any third-party screenshot software you have installed and see if the PrtSc key starts working again. You can do this by opening the Task Manager and ending any processes related to the software or by uninstalling it from the Control Panel. If you find that a particular software was causing the issue, you may need to consider an alternative or contact the software developer for assistance.
Hope this helps!
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Capturing a moment or important information on our screen with the Print Screen key is something we’ve all come to rely on. When the Print Screen function stops working in Windows 11, it disrupts our workflow and can be quite frustrating. The issue might stem from a range of causes, such as broken system files or outdated keyboard drivers. Our intention is to find a solution quickly so we can get back to saving and sharing our screenshots with ease.
We understand how vital it is to address this problem without delay. Many users have encountered this snag, prompting a multitude of troubleshooting steps to be shared within the community. Simple fixes, like checking keyboard shortcuts, can sometimes restore functionality, but there may be occasions when we need to dig a little deeper. It’s not just about getting the Print Screen key to work again; it’s about ensuring that all components of our system are in harmony so that when we capture our screen, it’s saved and shared exactly as we expect.
When we look at solving this issue, we’re considering both built-in tools and third-party software that can diagnose and rectify the underlying problems. Whether it’s running the built-in Windows repair tool or updating our keyboard driver, our approach is to methodically eliminate the common culprits. There are also alternative methods of taking screenshots, like using the Snipping Tool with its handy shortcut Windows logo key + Shift + S, so our productivity doesn’t have to suffer in the meantime. We’ll explore the options and find a way to restore the full functionality of our system’s screenshot capabilities.
Contents
- 1 Understanding Print Screen in Windows 11
- 1.1 Exploring the Print Screen Function
- 1.2 Print Screen vs. Snipping Tool
- 2 Common Issues and Fixes
- 2.1 Keyboard Related Problems
- 2.2 Operating System and Software Conflicts
- 2.3 Hardware Troubleshooting
- 3 Advanced Solutions and Tools
- 3.1 Utilizing Third-Party Software
- 3.2 Configuring System Settings and Shortcuts
- 4 Preventive Measures and Best Practices
Understanding Print Screen in Windows 11
In Windows 11, mastering the functionality of the Print Screen key is essential for efficient screen capturing. We’ll explore how it operates as well as its differences from the Snipping Tool.
Exploring the Print Screen Function
When we press the Print Screen (PrtScn) key on our keyboards, it captures the entire screen and copies the image to the clipboard. From there, we can paste it into various applications such as Paint or Word. Some keyboards label this key as PrtSc or PrtScn, and on others, it may be necessary to use the Function (Fn) key simultaneously.
Quick Access Keys:
- Print Screen alone captures the whole screen.
- Alt + Print Screen captures only the active window.
- Windows logo key + Print Screen saves the capture to a file.
Print Screen vs. Snipping Tool
While the Print Screen key offers immediate captures, the Snipping Tool provides a more nuanced approach. With the Snipping Tool, we can select specific areas of the screen to capture, annotate the screenshots, and save them directly. Windows 11 has updated the Snipping Tool experience, even integrating it with the Print Screen key functionality.
| Print Screen | Snipping Tool |
| Captures entire screen or active window. | Offers free-form, rectangular, window, and full-screen snips. |
| Immediate copy to clipboard. | Option to edit and annotate before saving. |
| Quick shortcut keys available. | Can be triggered by Print Screen key in Settings. |
Common Issues and Fixes
In addressing the issue of the Print Screen function not working in Windows 11, we’ll explore common problems and their respective solutions across three critical areas.
At times, the issue might stem from the keyboard itself. If the Print Screen key isn’t functioning:
Update your keyboard driver: Navigate to Device Manager, find the keyboard, right-click, and select ‘Update driver’. If updates are available, install them.
Use the keyboard troubleshooter: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot. Select ‘Keyboard’ and run the troubleshooter to fix potential issues.
Operating System and Software Conflicts
Software glitches and operating system errors may also interfere with the Print Screen function:
| Running Tasks | Update and Repair | Restart Processes |
| Open Task Manager and close any unnecessary applications that might be causing conflicts. | Check for updates in Settings and apply any pending updates. Running Windows repair tools can also rectify system file issues. | Sometimes, a simple restart of the computer can resolve what seems like a persistent issue. |
Hardware Troubleshooting
When confronted with a possible hardware issue:
Check external hardware: Ensure that your keyboard is properly connected. If you’re using a laptop, try an external keyboard to see if the issue persists.
By methodically inspecting each of these facets, we can typically isolate the root of the problem and implement a targeted fix. Remember, staying current with updates and regularly performing system maintenance can help prevent these issues from occurring in the first place.
Advanced Solutions and Tools
In addressing the issue of Windows 11 Print Screen not functioning, we leverage specific advanced solutions and tools. Whether it’s software conflicts or settings mishaps, pinpoint methods can restore functionality.
Utilizing Third-Party Software
When the built-in options fail, we turn to trusted third-party software. Applications like Snagit provide a robust set of features for capturing and editing screenshots. They can act as solid alternatives when the Print Screen key does not work.
We’ve found that these programs often come with customizable hotkeys, which bypass potential system shortcut issues. Moreover, they can directly upload captures to services like OneDrive or Dropbox, streamlining the process of sharing screenshots.
Configuring System Settings and Shortcuts
Problems with Print Screen functionality can sometimes be tied to system settings. We access Windows Settings to check for any overridden shortcuts and correct them. Here’s a table summarizing key configurations we ensure to check and adjust:
| Hotkey Configuration | Action | Tools/Settings |
| Function Key (Fn) | Ensure it’s not suppressing the Print Screen function. | BIOS Settings, Keyboard Settings |
| Alt + PrtScn | Verify it captures the active window. | Keyboard Shortcuts |
| Win+Shift+S | Check if it launches the Snipping Tool in freeform mode. | Snipping Tool, Keyboard Shortcuts |
In addition to fine-tuning settings, we ensure the F Lock key is turned on, as its state might affect the overall functionality of Print Screen. We also recommend using the Windows Key + Shift + S shortcut, which directly opens the Snipping Tool, granting access to freeform and rectangular capture modes. Whether using hotkeys or adjusting system settings, these steps contribute considerably to resolving the Print Screen issues in Windows 11.
Preventive Measures and Best Practices
To avoid disruptions in using the Print Screen function on Windows 11 systems, we emphasize the importance of keeping our PCs updated. Regularly check for Windows updates which can resolve known bugs and enhance system performance. This includes choosing to install firmware updates which can improve hardware like keyboards working seamlessly with Windows 11.
Often, it’s simple measures that prevent complications. We make it a practice to check our keyboard’s Firmware update, as an outdated firmware can cause issues with the Print Screen functionality. Additionally, we inspect settings within the Settings app, ensuring shortcuts like the Print Screen key are configured to their default operations, and we clear the clipboard from time to time to prevent clutter.
| Entity | Best Practice | Benefit |
| System Health | Regularly update Windows and firmware | Maintains functionality |
| Settings App | Verify Print Screen settings | Ensures proper operations |
| Background Apps | Close unnecessary programs | Reduces conflicts |
| OneDrive | Sync screenshots folder | Automatically saves screenshots |
We manage our digital environment by keeping background apps and programs to a minimum. This decreases system strain and prevents any application conflicts. For ensuring our screenshots are immediately accessible, we sync our Screenshots folder with OneDrive, which allows for efficient file management and sharing.
By adopting these best practices, we aim to minimize disruptions and maintain efficiency with our system’s screenshot capabilities. We believe in taking proactive steps to safeguard our workflow and productivity, knowing that a smooth-running system is the backbone of our digital activities.
Try Movavi Screen Recorder:
- Capture fast and easy screenshots while recording
- Take high-resolution screen captures
- Draw and add captions
By clicking the download button, you’re downloading a trial version of the program.*
What do you do when you need to take a quick screenshot but the Print Screen is not working for you? Let’s walk through a few fixes and alternatives to help you get the job done without a ton of hassle.
Special pick: Movavi Screen Recorder
If the Print Screen is not working in Windows 10, Movavi Screen Recorder is a great alternative. This easy-to-use program includes a free trial version and allows you to capture screenshots of part or all of your screen. Plus, you can enhance screenshots and video recordings with its built-in editing tools and features. So, if the Print Screen button is not working on your computer, you might want to try Movavi Screen Recorder instead.
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When selecting products to include in our reviews, we research both demand and popularity.
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The team tests all the products mentioned in this article.
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When testing, we compare the key characteristics of the products, which include selecting capture area, schedule recording, showing keystrokes and mouse, and other significant features.
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We study user reviews from popular review platforms and make use of this information when writing our product reviews.
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We collect feedback from our users and analyze their opinions of Movavi software as well as products from other companies.
6 quick fixes for the Print Screen button not working
1. Enable the Print Screen shortcut
If you’re wondering, “Why is my screenshot not working?” you may not have the keyboard shortcut for your computer enabled. The easiest way to troubleshoot this issue is to press the Win button and U at the same time. This will open Ease of Access. Click on Keyboard and make sure that Print Screen shortcut is toggled on.
2. Check for interfering background programs
If you’re running Windows 10 and the Print Screen is not working, you may have one or more programs running in the background that have taken over the functionality of your computer’s Print Screen key. While this can be really annoying, it’s a pretty easy fix. Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc. Right-click on the programs that you’re not currently using and choose End Task from the dropdown menu to close them. When you’ve closed all your background programs, try hitting the Print Screen button on your keyboard again to capture your screen.
3. Try one or more hotkey combinations
If the PrtSc is not working, you may still be able to print your screen without using another application or navigating to your computer’s screen capture feature. If the actual Print Screen button isn’t working, try one of these hotkey combos:
- Press and hold Win + PrtScn to capture your screen and save the image directly to your computer. It will save automatically as “Screenshot [NUMBER]” and you should be able to find it in the Screenshots folder.
- Press and hold Alt + PrtScn to grab a screenshot of the window you currently have selected on your screen. Doing this should automatically add the screenshot to your clipboard, and you can then paste it into Paint or another image-editing app to make edits and save it to your preferred destination on your computer.
Sometimes, just hitting Ctrl + Print Screen or Alt + Print Screen will fix the issue and allow you to take screen captures from your keyboard again.
4. Use an alternative application – Movavi Screen Recorder
If you’ve been trying different fixes, and you figure out a solution for the Windows 10 Print Screen not working, the simplest fix might be to try a screenshot application like Movavi Screen Recorder. Not only is this program extremely easy to use, but it also includes a lot of incredible features, like capturing video recordings of your screen in up to 4K resolution, editing tools, and the ability to save your screenshots and videos in multiple popular file formats. To take a screenshot with Movavi Screen Recorder when the PrtSc button’s not working, follow these simple steps:
- Download the Windows version of Movavi Screen Recorder (compatible with Windows 11, 10, and some previous versions), follow the installation prompts, and launch the program.
- On the recording panel, click on the Screenshot icon (the one that looks like a camera).
- When your cursor turns into a crosshair, you have a few easy options:
- To capture part of your screen, drag the crosshair over the area you want to capture.
- To grab a specific window, just hover over it until a frame appears around it and click to capture the shot.
- To take a screenshot of your full screen, just click on any empty space on the screen.
With this option, you can easily grab screenshots on your Dell laptop, HP laptop or desktop, or any Windows 10 or 11 computer, even if hitting the Print Screen button is not taking screenshots for you.
5. Make sure F-lock is off
Sometimes, when the screenshot is not working for Windows 10, it’s because the F-lock is turned on. So, if your Print Screen key’s not working, take a look at your keyboard. If you have an F-lock key, push it, and then try hitting your Print Screen key again. If that fixed the problem, then your F-lock was turned on by mistake, and you should be able to print your screen from your keyboard without further issues.
6. Update your keyboard driver
If you’ve tried a few of these options and you’re still stuck wondering, “Why can’t I take a screenshot?” you may need to update your keyboard driver. Out of date hardware drivers won’t communicate properly on a PC, but fortunately, we have a pretty quick method for how to fix this issue.
First, hold Win + X together. From the menu, select Device Manager. Next, open the Keyboards directory, right-click on Standard PS/2 Keyboard, and choose Update driver. If your print screen button still won’t work, you may need to use an external app like Movavi Screen Recorder.
Summary
Now that you have solutions for when your Windows screenshot is not working, you should have all the info you need to capture part or all of your screen without spending a ton of time and energy trying to troubleshoot your computer. Instead of asking yourself, “Why is my Print Screen not working?” and banging your head against your desk in frustration, try a few of these options… Or skip all the frustration and try out Movavi Screen Recorder instead!
The perfect way to record anything from your screen
Disclaimer: Please be aware that Movavi Screen Recorder does not allow capture of copy-protected video and audio streams.
Frequently asked questions
Your screenshot may not be working because a program running in the background, like OneDrive or Dropbox, may have taken over the function of the PrtScn button. Your PrtScn shortcut may be turned off. If you can’t diagnose the problem, you can take a screenshot with an application like Movavi Screen Recorder.
A few possible reasons that your Print Screen button may have stopped working include:
- A background program interfering with the Print Screen functionality
- Your Print Screen keyboard shortcut is turned off
- Your keyboard driver needs to be updated
- You haven’t updated to the latest version of Windows 10
If the Print Screen doesn’t work, you may be able to fix it by:
- Enabling the Print Screen keyboard shortcut
- Closing background programs
- Trying hotkey combinations
- Using an alternative application like Movavi Screen Recorder
- Making sure the F-lock is off
- Updating your keyboard driver
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