How to Enable Microphone Input in Snipping Tool on Windows 11

This guide explains how to control microphone recording settings in the Snipping Tool on Windows 11. The Snipping Tool is a built-in app that lets you take screenshots or record videos of your screen.

Since the update in Snipping Tool version 11.2307.44.0, Microsoft added the ability to record your own voice along with your screen activity. You can choose to have your microphone turn on automatically whenever you start a new recording.

Why use this setting?

You should turn this setting on if you are making a video tutorial and want to narrate your actions. You should turn it off if you only want to show the visuals on your screen without recording background noise or your voice.

What happens when you change this?

When enabled, your computer will automatically listen for audio through your microphone the moment you start a screen recording. When disabled, the microphone remains off by default, ensuring your recordings stay silent.

How to change your microphone settings

1. Open the Snipping Tool app. You can do this by pressing the Windows key + Shift + S on your keyboard.
2. Click the Settings and more button (the three dots icon) in the top right corner.
3. Select Settings from the menu.

Scroll down until you see the option labeled Include microphone input by default when a screen recording starts.

• Toggle the switch to On if you want your voice included in every new recording.
• Toggle the switch to Off if you want to keep your recordings silent.

Note: This process does not require admin privileges. You can modify these settings using your standard user account.

Summary

You can manage your microphone settings within the Snipping Tool to customize your screen recordings. Enabling the microphone is perfect for voiceovers, while disabling it keeps your recordings clean and quiet. You can find these options quickly within the app’s internal settings menu.