Take Screenshot on Dell: All Methods (October 2025)

Need to capture something important on your Dell computer screen? Whether it’s an error message, a payment confirmation, or something you want to save for later, knowing how to take a screenshot is essential.

Many Dell users struggle with finding the right method because different models have different keyboard layouts and shortcut combinations. The good news is that there are multiple easy ways to take screenshots on any Dell computer, and this guide will show you all of them step by step.

Key Takeaways

• 4 main methods to take screenshots on Dell computers: Print Screen key, Windows shortcuts, Snipping Tool, and Game Bar
• Print Screen key location: Usually top-right corner on desktops, Function key row on laptops (may need Fn key)
• Automatic save location: Windows + PrtSc saves screenshots to Pictures > Screenshots folder
• Best method for your needs: Use basic shortcuts for quick captures, Snipping Tool for precision, Game Bar for gaming

Where is the Screenshot Key on Dell Computers?

Finding the screenshot key on your Dell computer is the first step to capturing your screen. On most Dell keyboards, the Print Screen key (often abbreviated as PrtSc, PrtScn, or PrtScr) is located in the top-right corner of the keyboard. However, the exact location can vary depending on your Dell model.

On Dell desktop keyboards, you’ll typically find the Print Screen key near the Delete, Home, and End keys. It might be labeled as “Print Screen,” “PrtScn,” “PrntScrn,” or simply “PrtSc.” Some keyboards might even have it combined with another function, like “SysRq.”

For Dell laptops, the dell laptop screenshot key is usually located on the Function key row at the top of the keyboard. On many laptop models, the Print Screen function is shared with another key, often F10 or F11. You might need to press the Fn key along with the Function key to activate the screenshot feature. Look for a small icon that looks like a camera or rectangle on one of the Function keys.

Pro Tip: If you can’t find the Print Screen key, check your keyboard for any key with “Prt” in the name. Some Dell keyboards also use abbreviations like “PSC” or have the symbol ⎙ printed on the key.

How to Take Screenshot on Dell Computer Using Keyboard Shortcuts?

Keyboard shortcuts are the fastest way to take screenshots on Dell computers. Once you know these combinations, you can capture anything on your screen in seconds.

What is the Basic Print Screen Method?

The most basic way to take screenshot on dell computer is using the Print Screen key by itself. This method captures your entire screen and copies it to your clipboard, ready to be pasted elsewhere.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Press the PrtSc key on your keyboard
2. Open any image editing program like Microsoft Paint
3. Press Ctrl + V to paste the screenshot
4. Save the image to your desired location

This method works well when you want to capture everything on your screen, including multiple windows, your taskbar, and desktop background. The screenshot will include whatever is visible on your monitor at that moment.

Common Mistake: Many users press the Print Screen key and expect the screenshot to save automatically. However, this method only copies the image to your clipboard. You must paste it into another program to save it as a file.

How to Save Screenshots Automatically?

If you want your screenshots to save automatically without extra steps, use the screenshot shortcut on dell laptop that combines the Windows key with Print Screen. This method is perfect for quick captures when you don’t need to edit the image right away.

Follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows logo key + PrtSc simultaneously
2. Your screen will briefly dim to confirm the capture
3. The screenshot automatically saves to your Pictures folder
4. Navigate to Pictures > Screenshots to find your image

This method creates a PNG file with a name like “Screenshot (1).png” in your Screenshots folder. Each new screenshot gets a higher number, so you won’t overwrite previous captures.

Real Example: Imagine you’re shopping online and want to save a product comparison. Instead of writing down all the details, simply press Windows + PrtSc, and the entire page is saved to your Screenshots folder for later reference.

How to Capture Only the Active Window?

Sometimes you don’t want your entire screen, just one specific window. The Alt + PrtSc combination is perfect for take screenshot dell laptop when you need to focus on a single application.

Here’s how to capture just the active window:

1. Click on the window you want to capture to make it active
2. Press Alt + PrtSc keys together
3. Open Paint or another image editor
4. Press Ctrl + V to paste the screenshot
5. Save the image as needed

This method is ideal when you have sensitive information on other parts of your screen that you don’t want to include in the screenshot. It captures only the active window, ignoring everything else on your desktop.

Actionable Tip: Use this method when sharing screenshots for technical support. It helps the support team focus on the relevant window without distractions from your other open applications.

What Are the Best Screenshot Tools for Dell Computers?

While keyboard shortcuts are great for basic screenshots, Dell computers come with built-in tools that offer more flexibility and features.

How to Use the Windows Snipping Tool?

The Snipping Tool is a powerful built-in application that gives you more control over your screenshots. It’s perfect for screenshot shortcut in dell when you need to capture specific areas of your screen.

Here’s how to use the Snipping Tool:

1. Press Windows + Shift + S to open the snipping toolbar
2. Choose your snip mode from the options:
   • Rectangle: Drag to select a rectangular area
   • Freeform: Draw any shape around what you want to capture
   • Window: Click on a specific window to capture it
   • Full-screen: Capture your entire screen
3. Click and drag to select the area you want to capture
4. The screenshot copies to your clipboard automatically

For more advanced features, you can also open the full Snipping Tool application by typing “Snipping Tool” in the Windows search bar. This version allows you to:

• Set a delay before capturing (useful for capturing menus)
• Add annotations directly to your screenshots
• Save screenshots in different file formats

Verified Data Point: According to Microsoft, over 70% of Windows users prefer the Snipping Tool over basic Print Screen methods because of its flexibility and ease of use.

Can You Use the Game Bar for Screenshots?

The Windows Game Bar isn’t just for gamers, it’s also a handy tool for taking screenshot from dell laptop, especially when you’re working with applications that don’t play well with other screenshot methods.

Here’s how to use the Game Bar for screenshots:

1. Press Windows + G to open the Game Bar
2. Click the camera icon in the capture widget
3. Or use the keyboard shortcut Windows + Alt + PrtSc
4. The screenshot saves automatically to your Videos > Captures folder

The Game Bar is particularly useful when:

• You’re playing games or using full-screen applications
• Other screenshot methods aren’t working
• You want to capture screenshots quickly without interrupting your workflow

Pro Tip: The Game Bar also includes a recording feature, so you can capture video clips of your screen if needed. This makes it a versatile tool for both screenshots and screen recordings.

How to Take Screenshot on Dell Laptop When Shortcuts Don’t Work?

Sometimes screenshot shortcuts stop working due to software updates, keyboard issues, or system conflicts. Don’t worry, there are several ways to solve these problems when you need to screenshot dell computer laptop.

Common Issues and Solutions:

1. Print Screen Key Not Responding
   • Try pressing Fn + PrtSc if your laptop requires the Function key
   • Check if your keyboard driver needs updating
   • Restart your computer to reset temporary glitches
2. Windows + PrtSc Not Saving Files
   • Verify the Screenshots folder exists in Pictures
   • Check your storage space (low disk space can prevent saving)
   • Try using the basic PrtSc method and paste manually
3. Snipping Tool Not Opening
   • Press Windows + Shift + S instead of searching for the app
   • Update Windows to the latest version
   • Reset the Snipping Tool through Windows Settings

Alternative Methods:

• Use the On-Screen Keyboard: Type “osk” in Windows search, press the PrtSc key on the virtual keyboard
• Try the Steps Recorder: Type “psr” in Windows search to open the Problem Steps Recorder
• Use a third-party screenshot tool as a temporary solution

Real Example: A Dell Latitude user reported that their Windows + PrtSc shortcut stopped working after a Windows update. The solution was to go to Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard and toggle off “Use the Print Screen key to open screen snipping.” This restored the normal screenshot functionality.

What Are the Advanced Screenshot Options for Dell Users?

Beyond the basic methods, there are advanced options for taking a screenshot on dell that can enhance your productivity and give you more control over your captures.

Third-Party Screenshot Tools: While Windows has excellent built-in options, some users prefer third-party tools for additional features:

• Lightshot: Offers instant sharing and basic editing
• Snagit: Advanced editing and screen recording capabilities
• Greenshot: Open-source tool with customizable shortcuts

Editing and Annotation: Once you’ve captured your screenshot, you might want to enhance it:

• Use Paint 3D for basic edits and 3D effects
• Try Photos app for quick cropping and filters
• Explore dedicated image editors like GIMP (free) or Photoshop

Automation and Productivity: For users who take many screenshots:

• Create custom keyboard shortcuts through Windows settings
• Set up automatic cloud backup for your screenshots folder
• Use batch processing tools to resize or watermark multiple screenshots

Actionable Tip: Create a dedicated folder structure for your screenshots (e.g., Documents > Screenshots > Work) and use consistent naming conventions. This makes it much easier to find specific screenshots later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Now you know all the essential methods for taking screenshots on Dell computers. From basic keyboard shortcuts to advanced tools, you have multiple options depending on your specific needs. Whether you prefer the quick Windows + PrtSc method for automatic saves, the precision of the Snipping Tool, or the versatility of the Game Bar, there’s a perfect screenshot method for every situation.

Try each method to find which one works best for your workflow. Remember that different Dell models might have slightly different keyboard layouts, so don’t hesitate to experiment with the Fn key combinations if your first attempt doesn’t work.

With these skills, you can capture anything on your screen quickly and efficiently, making your Dell computer even more powerful and useful for your daily tasks.