How to Change Screenshot Location in Windows 11

When you press the Print Screen key or use the Snipping Tool, Windows saves your images to a default folder. Over time, this folder fills up your main drive. Moving this location helps you save space on your system drive and keeps your files organized on a secondary drive.

Why do this? It prevents your primary storage from getting full and makes backing up your files easier. What happens when done? All future screenshots will automatically save to your new chosen folder instead of the default location.

How to Change the Default Screenshots Folder

You can move your standard Screenshots folder using the Properties menu in File Explorer. This is the most reliable way to change where your system saves images taken with the Print Screen key.

1. Open File Explorer and navigate to your Pictures library.
2. Locate the Screenshots folder.
3. Right-click the folder and select Properties.
4. Click the Location tab.
5. Click the Move button.
6. Select your new desired folder or drive and click Select Folder.
7. Click Apply and then OK.
8. Windows will ask if you want to move all existing files to the new location. Click Yes to keep your files together.

How to Change Your Game Captures Location

Game clips and screenshots taken via the Xbox Game Bar use a different setting. Follow these steps to change that path:

1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
2. Click Gaming on the left sidebar.
3. Select Captures.

   

4. Find the Captures location section.

   

5. Click the Open folder button.

   

6. Select your preferred folder and click Select Folder.

   

Registry Editor Method (Advanced)

If the standard method fails, you can edit the registry. Warning: This step requires admin privileges. Incorrect changes can cause system issues.

1. Press Windows key + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\User Shell Folders.
3. Look for the entry named {B7BEDE81-DF94-4825-B262-63462985392D}.
4. Double-click it and enter your new file path.
5. Restart your computer for changes to take effect.

Summary

Changing your screenshot location in Windows 11 helps manage storage and keeps your files organized. You can move the standard Screenshots folder via the Properties menu or change Game Captures through the Gaming settings. Always remember to check your OneDrive sync settings if you prefer to keep files local. Moving these folders ensures your main drive stays clean and your media is easy to find.” }