How to Record Your Screen with Snipping Tool in Windows 11
Screen recording in Windows 11 lets you capture video of your computer display directly through the built-in Snipping Tool app without needing extra software. Microsoft added this video capture feature to version 11.2211.35.0 and newer, turning the classic screenshot tool into a handy recorder for desktop clips.
When you finish recording, you can trim the video right inside the app and save it as an MP4 file on your PC.
Open Snipping Tool, click the Record icon, then New. Select your desired screen area and click Start . Click the red Stop button when finished to preview and save your MP4 recording.
Prerequisites
Using this feature requires Windows 11. Ensure the Snipping Tool app is updated to version 11.2211.35.0 or higher via the Microsoft Store. This feature lacks support on Windows 10.
Keyboard Shortcuts
Shortcuts make capturing faster. Refer to the following table to navigate the tool:
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Open Snipping Tool | Win+Shift+S |
| Start Recording | Click Record button |
How to Record Your Screen
- Open the Snipping Tool app from your Start menu .
- Click the Record icon on the menu bar.
- Click the New button.
- Use your mouse to drag and select the area of your screen you want to capture.
- Click the Start button to begin recording.
- When finished, click the red Stop recording button.
Recording screen footage with the Snipping Tool in Windows 11 requires no extra apps. Open the Snipping Tool, click the record icon, and then click New to select the area for capture. Hit Start to begin recording and press the red stop button when finished.
Troubleshooting and Settings
Why is the video recording option missing?
Missing record buttons point to an outdated app version. Open the Microsoft Store, go to Library, and click Get updates to fetch the latest version of the Snipping Tool.
Microphone Permissions
Silent recordings require checking privacy permissions. Go to Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone and make sure Microphone access is turned On. Note: Work or school PCs might block this change, requiring an administrator to unlock the setting.
Summary
- The Snipping Tool is a powerful Windows 11 screen recorder that requires no extra software.
- Always ensure your app is updated via the Microsoft Store to access the latest features.
- Videos are saved as MP4 files in your user videos folder by default.
- Check your microphone permissions if you intend to record voice-over audio.
Built straight into the operating system, this utility keeps things efficient without bogging down storage. Videos export as standard MP4 files, ready to share or upload.
Does Snipping Tool record system audio?
Right now, the Snipping Tool focuses primarily on what appears on screen rather than capturing internal system audio.
Can I edit the video after recording in Snipping Tool?
The Snipping Tool offers basic trimming functionality immediately after recording stops. Adjusting start and end points happens right inside the preview window. Exporting the file to a dedicated video editor works best for advanced editing needs like text overlays or transitions.
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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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