Taking a screenshot on a new laptop depends entirely on your operating system, but the fastest universal method for modern Windows laptops is pressing to open the Snipping Tool, while Mac users should press Command + Shift + 3 .
Press Windows logo key + Shift + S . It works on every new Windows laptop sold in 2024 and 2025. Master this, and you will never hunt for the Print Screen key again.
For speed and efficiency, the following keyboard shortcuts are your best tools: how to print screen on laptop new
✅ Best for: Screen recording or when you want to draw/highlight before saving.
. This opens a toolbar at the top allowing you to choose between rectangular, freeform, window, or full-screen snips. Active Window Only: Alt + PrtScn Taking a screenshot on a new laptop depends
If nothing happens when you press your keys, don't panic. Here is the 2026 checklist:
: Saved directly as a file in Pictures > Screenshots . 3. The Classic Clipboard Copy: Print Screen (PrtScn) Master this, and you will never hunt for
Modern laptops are getting thinner, which means keys are being doubled up. If your PrtSc text is inside a box or a different color (usually blue or white), it means it is a secondary function.
The built-in Windows Snipping Tool is great for 90% of users, but power users often need more.