How to Enable Multiple Windows in Snipping Tool on Windows 11
This guide shows you how to make your computer open each new screenshot in its own separate window. By default, Windows 11 keeps all your screenshots in one window. This change lets you see many images at the same time.
Why use Snipping Tool multiple windows?
If you take many screenshots and need to compare them or edit several at once, opening them in individual windows makes your workflow much faster. It prevents you from accidentally overwriting your current work. By default, Windows 11 shows all your snips in a single window. Changing this allows you to work on multiple images at the same time for better Windows 11 productivity.
What happens when done?
Once you enable this feature, every new screenshot you take will pop up in its own independent window. You can easily drag these windows side-by-side on your screen for a side-by-side comparison. The Snipping Tool also lets you save your work automatically. Along with copying to your clipboard, files will save as PNGs in your C:\Users\GenericUser\Pictures\Screenshots folder.
How to enable or disable multiple windows
You do not need special permissions for this. You can adjust this setting as a standard user.
- Open the Start menu and search for Snipping Tool.
- Click on the app to launch it.
- Click the three horizontal dots (the menu icon) in the top right corner.
- Select Settings from the list.
- Look for the Multiple windows option.
- Toggle the switch to On to allow separate windows, or Off to keep them in one.
Your changes apply the moment you flip the switch. You can close the menu and continue taking screenshots. Ensure you have the latest version via the Microsoft Store to access this feature.
Troubleshooting and Error Handling
If you do not see the “Multiple windows” option, your app version may be outdated. Check the Microsoft Store for updates. If the app crashes, try resetting it via Settings > Apps > Installed Apps > Snipping Tool > Advanced options > Reset. This does not require admin privileges but refreshes the app instance.
Technical Considerations
Opening multiple instances of the Snipping Tool does consume slightly more system memory (RAM) than a single instance. However, for most modern computers, this impact is negligible. You can open as many windows as your system memory allows. This setting applies to the app interface; it does not change the behavior of the Win + Shift + S shortcut, which will still capture the screen and send it to the clipboard or the app.
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Summary
- We enabled or disabled the ability to open multiple screenshots in separate windows.
- We accessed these settings directly through the Snipping Tool menu.
- This change helps you manage multiple images more efficiently for better productivity.
- Always keep your app updated via the Microsoft Store to ensure all features are available.
Does this setting affect the Snipping Tool shortcut (Win + Shift + S)?
No, the shortcut remains the same. The shortcut will still trigger the capture overlay. If you have multiple windows enabled, the new capture will simply open in a new, separate window instead of replacing the previous one in the existing instance.
Can I open more than two windows simultaneously?
Yes, you can open as many windows as you need. Each time you take a new screenshot while the setting is enabled, a new instance of the Snipping Tool will launch. This is ideal for complex screenshot workflows where you need to reference many images at once.
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