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How to Change the Screen Recordings Folder for Snipping Tool in Windows 11

Richard
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Richard
Feb 1, 2026 Updated Aug 13, 2026 2 min read
How to Change the Screen Recordings Folder for Snipping Tool in Windows 11
How to Change the Screen Recordings Folder for Snipping Tool in Windows 11

Screen recordings in the Windows 11 Snipping Tool save to the 📁C:\Users\[Username]\Videos\Captures folder by default, but you can move this folder to any other drive or location on your PC. Changing this save path stops large video files from filling up your main hard drive.

You can change the folder location by right-clicking the Captures folder in File Explorer , opening its properties, and choosing a new spot on your computer.

⚡ Quick Answer

Open Snipping Tool, click the three dots, select Settings, then click “Change” next to “Screen recordings are saved to” to select a new folder. This will update the default save location for all future screen recordings.

What is the Snipping Tool?

The Snipping Tool is a built-in Windows 11 app for taking screenshots and recording your screen. Capturing exact desktop activity helps demonstrate workflows or document errors quickly.

Alongside taking screenshots, the app records video clips. Custom menus let control over system sounds, microphone audio, and default save destinations. These include options for:

  • Including or excluding system sounds and microphone audio
  • Automatically saving screenshots
  • Changing where screenshots and videos are saved
  • Why Change the Screen Recordings Folder?

    By default, videos you record with the Snipping Tool are saved in C:\Users\UserName\Videos\Screen Recordings. Relocating these files to secondary storage prevents primary drive clutter. Managing large video archives requires flexible storage choices.

    How to Change the Screen Recordings Folder

    Customizing the capture directory takes only a few clicks inside the app settings. Visual guides make navigation faster, especially when digging through unfamiliar app menus.

    1. Open the Snipping Tool app. You can find it by typing Snipping Tool in the Start menu search bar and clicking the app.
    2. Click the See more button (three dots) in the top-right corner. Then select Settings.
    3. In Settings, find the section that says "Screen recordings are saved to". Click the Change link next to it.
    4. Choose a new folder. A File Explorer window will open. Browse to the folder where you want your recordings saved. Then click Select Folder.
    5. Close the Snipping Tool when done. Your new folder setting will be saved automatically.
  • Open Snipping Tool, click the three dots, and select Settings.
  • Click "Change" to pick a new folder for your recordings.
  • Use File Explorer to select your preferred folder.
  • Here are some pictures to help you:

    Snipping Tool settings menu with See more button
    Snipping Tool settings on menu

    Open Snipping Tool, click the three dots, and select Settings.

    Screen recordings folder change option in Snipping Tool settings
    Screen recordings folder change option in Snipping Tool settings

    Click "Change" to pick a new folder for your recordings.

    Selecting a new folder in File Explorer
    Selecting a new folder in File Explorer

    Use File Explorer to select your preferred folder.

    Summary

    Version 11.2408.13.0 and newer support custom save paths for screen captures. Opening the settings menu reveals the directory toggle immediately.

    Configuring the path requires navigating to Settings and updating the "Screen recordings are saved to" field.

    Proper file organization prevents lost footage.

    Closing the app finalizes configuration changes successfully.

    Executing these configuration steps keeps media libraries structured across local drives.

    Where do I find my screen recordings saved?

    By default, the location should be C:\Users\(Username)\Videos\Captures.

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    Tags: #Windows 11
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    Richard

    About the Author

    Richard

    Tech Writer, IT Professional

    Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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