How to Screenshot on HP Laptop in 3 Different Ways [2024]
- If you want to capture entire screen on your HP laptop, press Windows + Prtscn buttons at once.
- When capturing a specific region of the screen on your HP laptop, press Windows + Shift + S keys simultaneously.
- Use the Snipping Tool when you want to capture other types on screenshots.
Are you a new HP user and wondering how you could screenshot on the laptop? Taking screenshots on your HP laptop can be incredibly useful for various reasons. It allows you to capture and save exactly what’s on your screen at a particular moment, providing a visual record that can come in handy in many situations. In this guide, we will tell you how to screenshot on HP laptop. So, let’s get started.
![](https://cdn.appuals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/mika-baumeister-7KLpKCG05vI-unsplash-scaled.jpg)
Table of Contents
Why Take a Screenshot on an HP Laptop?
You might need to take a screenshot on your HP laptop for the following reasons:
- Save important information
- Easily share content with others
- Facilitate technical support by showing specific issues
- Create tutorials and guides with visual aids
- Capture memorable moments from videos or online conversations
READ MORE: Snipping Tool for Mac: How to Screenshot Effortlessly [2023]
How to Screenshot on HP Laptop
Here, we have mentioned different methods of taking screenshots on an HP laptop. You can use whichever suits you the best.
1. Windows + Shift + S Shortcut
The simplest method to partially screenshot a window on an HP laptop is by using the Windows + Shift + S shortcut. Follow the steps to learn how you can do it:
- Press the Windows + Shift + S keys to initiate the snipping tool.
Press these keys at the same time - Choose the desired area to capture, and the screenshot is copied to the clipboard.
- Paste the screenshot into an editor, like Adobe PhotoShop or Paint, or document for further editing or sharing.
2. Print Screen (PrtScn) Key
The Print Screen key (PrtScn) is a key on the keyboard that captures the entire screen or the active window. On some keyboards, it might be labelled as PrtScn, PrtSC, or similar. Here’s how you can utilize it for taking screenshots:
- Press the Windows + PrtScn key to capture the entire screen. Use Alt + PrtScn to capture only the active window.
Press Prtscn with either Windows or Alt key. - The captured screenshot is copied to the clipboard.
- Open an image editing software, like Paint, or document.
- Press Ctrl + V to paste the screenshot.
Paste screenshot using Ctrl + V - Edit the screenshot if necessary.
- Save the edited image to your desired location.
READ MORE: How to Easily Retrieve Deleted Screenshots on Android ➜
3. Snipping Tool
The Snipping Tool is a built-in application on Windows that allows users to capture screenshots in various ways. It provides flexibility by allowing users to select and capture specific regions of the screen, whether it’s a free-form snip, rectangular snip, window snip, or a full-screen snip. Implement the following method to use it:
- Click on the Start menu.
Click on Start - Search for “Snipping Tool” and open the application.
Open the Snipping Tool - In Snipping Tool, choose your snip type (Free-form, Rectangular, Window, or Full-screen).
Select the mode - Once the snip type is selected, click and drag to capture the desired area on your screen.
Capture the screen - Use the pen or highlighter tools to annotate or highlight parts of the screenshot if needed.
- Click on “File” and choose “Save As” to save the screenshot to a specific location.
Click on the Save As icon
READ MORE: How to Troubleshoot and Repair the Snipping Tool in Windows? ➜
How to Save and Edit the Screenshots on an HP Laptop
Now that you know how to take screenshots, let us move on and explore how to save and edit them.
Part 1: Saving Screenshots
Here’s how you can save screenshots on your HP laptop:
1. Choose a Destination Folder:
- After capturing a screenshot, decide where to save it on your computer.
- Click on “Save” in the application you’re using (Snipping Tool, etc.).
Click on the Save icon - Select “Save As” and navigate to the desired folder.
- Choose a meaningful file name and click “Save.”
Save As > Save
2. Select File Format Options (JPEG, PNG, etc.):
When saving the screenshot, you’ll often have format options like JPEG, PNG, or others. Consider the purpose of the screenshot and select the appropriate format based on your needs.
- JPEG for photos and images.
- PNG for higher quality and transparent backgrounds.
Part 2: Editing Screenshots
Consider the following process if you want to edit screenshots on your HP laptop:
Basic Editing Tools
Open the saved screenshot in an image editing software like Paint, Photoshop, or any preferred tool.
Familiarize yourself with basic editing tools:
- Crop: Trim unwanted parts of the screenshot.
- Resize: Adjust the dimensions of the image.
- Rotate: Change the orientation if needed.
- Brightness/Contrast: Enhance visibility.
↪ To annotate:
- Select the annotation tool.
- Click on the screenshot where you want to add text or shapes.
![](https://cdn.appuals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/c.png)
↪ To crop:
- Use the crop tool to select the area you want to keep.
- Press “Enter” or confirm through the software’s interface.
![](https://cdn.appuals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/xc.png)
READ MORE: How to Use the Crop Tool in Adobe Photoshop ➜
Troubleshooting Common Problems
If you are having trouble saving your screenshot or the screenshot appears to be black, or issues like that, here’s what you can do:
1. Screenshots Not Saving
- Check if you have the necessary permissions to save in the selected folder.
- Ensure the destination folder is not full.
- Try saving to a different location.
- Verify if your computer has sufficient storage space.
2. Blank or Black Screenshots
![](https://cdn.appuals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/chrome_3D9RRXavPG-1024x558.jpg)
- Ensure the application or content you’re capturing is visible on the screen.
- Check if there are conflicting applications or graphics driver issues.
- Restart the application or laptop and try capturing again.
- If using a third-party tool, check for updates or use an alternative method.
3. Clipboard Issues (Copy-Paste)
- Confirm that the screenshot is successfully copied to the clipboard.
- Try pasting the screenshot into a different application to check for clipboard functionality.
4. Low Image Quality
![](https://cdn.appuals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/chrome_qRbj7rML5L.jpg)
- If saving in JPEG format, consider switching to PNG for higher quality.
- Check the resolution settings in your snipping or editing tool.
- Capture the screenshot in the highest resolution possible.
- Avoid excessive compression when saving images.
READ MORE: How to Make A Picture Less Blurry – 4 Easy Solutions for 2024 ➜
Third-party Alternative Screenshotting Tools
If you are having trouble screenshotting through the HP laptop’s built-in tools, there are some third-party tools you can use.
1. ShareX
ShareX is a versatile and open-source screenshot and screencasting tool that provides users with a comprehensive set of features for capturing, editing, and sharing visual content. With its intuitive interface and powerful capabilities, ShareX stands out as a preferred choice among users seeking a robust solution.
![](https://cdn.appuals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Screenshot-2024-01-14-160045.png)
The software also supports a wide array of screenshot capture methods, including full screen, active window, and customizable regions, offering flexibility for diverse needs. The tool’s customization options, extensive format support, and integration with popular cloud services make ShareX a valuable asset for individuals and professionals.
2. Lightshot
Lightshot is a user-friendly and efficient screenshot tool for HP laptops. With its straightforward interface, users can capture and annotate screenshots effortlessly. The tool allows for quick sharing options, making it ideal for collaboration and communication.
![](https://cdn.appuals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/chrome_KTDkuGYZxR-1024x537.jpg)
It offers instant editing capabilities, allowing users to annotate, highlight, or add text to their captures. Moreover, it supports various file formats, providing flexibility in saving and sharing screenshots.
3. Snagit
Snagit is a powerful screenshot and screen recording tool perfect for HP laptops. It’s user-friendly with advanced features. You can easily capture, edit, and share screenshots.
![](https://cdn.appuals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/chrome_3MEyUit05C.jpg)
Snagit stands out for its video recording capabilities, making tutorials and demos a breeze. The tool’s simplicity and cloud integration make it a top choice for anyone needing an efficient solution for capturing and editing screenshots on their HP laptops.
READ MORE: The 13 Best Android Photo Apps [Editing, Gallery, Camera] ➜
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, mastering the art of screenshotting on your HP laptop opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re preserving important information, sharing content with others, troubleshooting tech issues, or simply capturing memorable moments, the right tools and techniques make the process seamless.
Remember, taking screenshots isn’t just a utility; it’s a practical skill that enhances your overall computing experience. Explore these methods, troubleshoot common issues, and find the tools that fit your preferences to make screenshotting on your HP laptop a breeze.
FAQs
By default, screenshots captured using the “PrtScn” key are copied to the clipboard and can be pasted into an image editor. Screenshots taken with Snipping Tool may prompt you to choose a saving location.
Yes, you can edit screenshots on your HP laptop. After capturing, use built-in tools or third-party applications like Paint, Photoshop, or Snagit to annotate, crop, or make other edits to your screenshots.
Yes, you can. Use Snipping Tool or Snip & Sketch to capture dropdown menus or context menus by selecting the appropriate snipping mode and capturing the area.
While the default tools like Snipping Tool and Snip & Sketch don’t have a timer feature, third-party tools like Lightshot and Snagit may offer timed capture options. Check the settings or options within the specific tool you’re using for this feature.
While most default tools may not offer this feature, some third-party tools like Snagit allow you to set specific dimensions or aspect ratios for your screenshots. Check the tool’s settings or options for customization features.