Taking a screenshot is one of the most useful tasks in Windows. Whether you want to quickly capture an error message, save an online image, or record something important, knowing how to take a SS on Windows 10 helps a lot. Windows provides multiple built-in tools, keyboard shortcuts, and auto-save options for taking screenshots easily.
In this guide, you will learn how to take a SS on Windows 10 laptop, how to capture screenshots without the PrtScn button, and even how to take screenshots using a German keyboard. We will also explain the Snipping Tool modes, which allow you to capture specific parts of your screen.
1. How to Take a Screenshot on Windows 10 with Keyboard (Fastest Ways)
The easiest and fastest method is using keyboard shortcuts. If you are looking for how to take a screenshot on Windows 10 with keyboard, here are the best methods:
A. PrtScn Key – Copy to Clipboard
Press PrtScn
→ Captures the entire screen
→ You can paste it into Paint, Word, or any app.
B. Alt + PrtScn – Capture Active Window Only
Press Alt + PrtScn
→ Captures only the currently active window
→ Saves time and avoids cropping.
C. Windows + PrtScn – Auto Save Screenshot
If you want how to take a screenshot on Windows 10 and save it automatically, this is the best shortcut.
Press Windows Key + PrtScn
→ The screen dims
→ Screenshot saves automatically in:
Pictures → Screenshots
2. How to Take a Screenshot on Windows 10 Without PrtScn
If your PrtScn button is missing, broken, or not working, don’t worry. Here are the alternatives:
A. Windows + Shift + S (Snip & Sketch Overlay)
This is the best method for how to take a screenshot on Windows 10 without PrtScn.
Steps:
- Press Windows + Shift + S
- Select snip type
- Screenshot appears in the clipboard with a preview
- Save it manually
B. On-Screen Keyboard
- Open Start → search On-Screen Keyboard
- Click the PrtScn button on it
- Paste anywhere
Useful when the physical keyboard fails.
3. How to Take a SS on Windows 10 Laptop
Most laptop keyboards require combination keys along with the PrtScn button.
Common Laptop Shortcuts:
- Fn + PrtScn – Full screenshot
- Fn + Alt + PrtScn – Active window
- Fn + Windows + PrtScn – Auto-save screenshot
This covers all laptop models including HP, Dell, Acer, Lenovo, ASUS, and MSI.
4. How to Take a Screenshot on Windows 10 German Keyboard
If you have a German keyboard layout, the Print Screen key appears as Druck, Drucken, or Druck S-Abf.
German Keyboard Shortcuts:
- Druck → Full screenshot
- Alt + Druck → Active window
- Windows + Druck → Auto-save
This answers how to take a screenshot on Windows 10 German keyboard perfectly.
5. Snipping Tool and Its Modes of Screenshot
Windows 10 includes a built-in Snipping Tool, which allows advanced screen capturing.
How to Open Snipping Tool:
- Search Snipping Tool in Start Menu
- Or press Windows + Shift + S for modern Snip & Sketch mode
Snipping Tool Modes Explained
The Snipping Tool offers four useful screenshot modes:
1. Free-form Snip
Draw any random shape around the screen area and capture it.
2. Rectangular Snip
Drag the cursor to select a rectangular portion—most commonly used mode.
3. Window Snip
Captures a specific window, like a browser or app.
4. Full-screen Snip
Captures the entire display instantly.
These modes make screenshot capturing more flexible and precise.
6. Where Screenshots are Saved by Default
If you use Windows + PrtScn, Windows saves screenshots automatically to:
This PC → Pictures → Screenshots
You can change the location by right-clicking the folder → Properties → Location.
7. Internal Links (Add Them Naturally in Blog)
- How to do a voice over on PowerPoint
https://multicaretechnical.com/how-to-do-a-voice-over-on-powerpoint-complete-step-by-step-guide - How to update drivers on Windows 11
https://multicaretechnical.com/how-to-update-drivers-on-windows-11-complete-guide - Windows 11 setup without internet
https://multicaretechnical.com/windows-11-setup-without-internet-complete-guide
FAQs – How to Take a SS on Windows 10
1. What is the easiest way to take a SS on Windows 10?
Press PrtScn to copy the full screen or Windows + PrtScn to auto-save.
2. How do I take a screenshot without using the PrtScn button?
Use Windows + Shift + S to capture a screenshot without the Print Screen key.
3. How to take a SS on Windows 10 laptop?
Use combinations like Fn + PrtScn or Fn + Windows + PrtScn, depending on the laptop model.
4. How do I use Snipping Tool modes?
Open Snipping Tool and choose from Free-form, Rectangular, Window, or Full-screen snip.
5. How to take a screenshot on Windows 10 using a German keyboard?
Use Druck, Alt + Druck, or Windows + Druck for full or partial screenshots.