How to Record Screen with Snipping Tool in Windows 11

Windows 11 includes a built-in screen recording feature inside the Snipping Tool, allowing users to capture video clips without installing third-party software. This feature is especially useful for recording tutorials, demonstrating software steps, capturing gameplay snippets, or sharing on-screen activity quickly and efficiently.

Unlike traditional screenshot tools, the updated Snipping Tool in Windows 11 supports both image capture and screen recording in a single interface. Once enabled and updated, you can record specific portions of your screen and save them as video files directly from the app.

This guide explains how to record screen with Snipping Tool in Windows 11 step by step.

How to Record Screen with Snipping Tool in Windows 11

Follow the steps below to start recording your screen using Snipping Tool.

1. Ensure Snipping Tool Is Updated

Screen recording requires the latest version of Snipping Tool.

1. Open Microsoft Store.
2. Click Library in the bottom-left corner.
3. Select Get updates.
4. Update Snipping Tool if an update is available.
5. Restart your computer if necessary.

Using the latest version ensures the screen recording option is available.

2. Open Snipping Tool

Launch the application to access recording features.

1. Press Windows + S.
2. Type Snipping Tool.
3. Click the app from the search results.

The Snipping Tool interface will open.

3. Switch to Screen Recording Mode

The tool includes both screenshot and video modes.

1. At the top of the Snipping Tool window, locate the recording icon (video camera icon).
2. Click the Record tab.
3. Click New to begin selecting the recording area.

This prepares the tool to capture video instead of images.

4. Select the Recording Area

You can choose the portion of the screen to record.

1. Click and drag your mouse to select the area you want to record.
2. Adjust the selection if necessary.
3. Click Start to begin recording.

A short countdown may appear before recording starts.

5. Record Your Screen

During recording:

1. Perform the actions you want to capture.
2. Ensure the selected area remains visible.
3. Use the on-screen toolbar if available.

The recording will continue until you stop it manually.

6. Stop the Recording

Once finished:

1. Click the Stop button on the recording toolbar.
2. The recorded video will open automatically in Snipping Tool.

You can review the video before saving it.

7. Save the Recorded Video

After reviewing the recording:

1. Click the Save icon.
2. Choose a location on your computer.
3. Enter a file name.
4. Click Save.

The video is typically saved in MP4 format.

8. Share or Edit the Recording

You can share the file immediately.

1. Click the Share button within Snipping Tool.
2. Choose an app to share the video.
3. Alternatively, open the saved file in a video editor for further editing.

This allows you to refine or distribute your recording.

Conclusion

Recording your screen with Snipping Tool in Windows 11 is a convenient way to capture on-screen activity without installing additional software. By updating the app, switching to recording mode, selecting your capture area, and saving the video after recording, you can quickly create screen recordings for tutorials, presentations, or troubleshooting demonstrations.