How to Screenshot on Microsoft Surface

Method 1: Using the Windows logo + volume down button

If you own a Microsoft Surface device, capturing a screenshot is incredibly easy. One of the simplest and most convenient methods is to use the Windows logo + volume down button combination. This method works on all Surface devices running Windows 10.

Here’s how you can take a screenshot using this method:

First, locate the Windows logo button on your Surface device. On most Surface devices, this button is located on the bottom bezel of the screen, in the middle.
Next, find the volume down button. This button is typically located on the side or top edge of the device, depending on the model.
Once you’ve located both the Windows logo button and the volume down button, simultaneously press and hold them for a brief moment.
You should see a quick animation or hear a camera shutter sound, indicating that the screenshot has been successfully captured.
Open the Photos app or any other image editing software to view or edit your screenshot.

This method is particularly handy when you need to capture a screenshot quickly, as you can press the buttons with one hand while holding the device.

It’s worth noting that screenshots taken using this method are saved to the Screenshots folder in the Pictures library on your Surface device. You can access them by navigating to C:\Users\YourUsername\Pictures\Screenshots.

Whether you want to capture an important moment, save an error message, or simply share something interesting with your friends, using the Windows logo + volume down button is an efficient way to take screenshots on your Microsoft Surface device.

Method 2: Using the Windows logo + power button

Another straightforward method for taking screenshots on your Microsoft Surface device is by using the Windows logo + power button combination. This method is compatible with all Surface devices running Windows 10.

Follow these steps to capture a screenshot using this method:

Locate the Windows logo button on your Surface device. It is typically found on the bottom bezel of the screen.
Identify the power button, which is usually located on the top or side edge of the device.
Press and hold both the Windows logo button and the power button simultaneously for a moment.
After a brief delay, you will see a quick flash on the screen or hear a camera shutter sound, indicating that the screenshot has been successfully captured.
Open the Photos app or any other image editing software to view or edit your screenshot.

This method is especially useful when you don’t have easy access to the volume down button, or if you prefer the convenience of using the power button instead. It allows you to capture screenshots with ease, whether you’re holding the device with one hand or using it in tablet mode.

Once you’ve captured a screenshot using the Windows logo + power button method, it will be saved in the Screenshots folder within the Pictures library on your Surface device. You can locate your screenshots by navigating to C:\Users\YourUsername\Pictures\Screenshots.

Whether you’re capturing a memorable moment, saving important information, or documenting an error message, using the Windows logo + power button is a simple and efficient way to take screenshots on your Microsoft Surface device.

Method 3: Using the Snipping Tool

If you prefer more advanced screenshot options with editing capabilities, the Snipping Tool is a fantastic tool available on Microsoft Surface devices. It allows you to capture screenshots of specific areas on your screen and even annotate them. The Snipping Tool comes pre-installed on most Surface devices running Windows 10.

Follow these steps to use the Snipping Tool:

Open the Start menu by clicking on the Windows icon on the bottom left corner of your screen, then search for “Snipping Tool” and open the application.
In the Snipping Tool window, click on the New button to start the screenshot process.
Using your mouse or touchpad, select the desired area on your screen that you want to capture. You can choose from four different snip types: Free-form Snip, Rectangular Snip, Window Snip, or Full-screen Snip.
Once you’ve made your selection, the captured screenshot will appear in the Snipping Tool window.
You can use the tools provided to annotate, highlight, or crop the screenshot as needed.
Click on the Save button to save the screenshot to your preferred location on your Surface device.

The Snipping Tool provides you with greater flexibility when it comes to capturing screenshots with precision and customizing them according to your needs. It’s an excellent choice for those who require more advanced editing options or frequently capture screenshots for work or personal use.

However, it’s important to note that the Snipping Tool may no longer be available in future Windows updates as Microsoft transitions to the new Snip & Sketch application. For devices running the latest version of Windows 10, you can access the Snip & Sketch app by pressing the Windows logo key + Shift + S. It offers similar functionality to the Snipping Tool, but with an improved user interface and additional features.

Whichever tool you choose, the Snipping Tool or the Snip & Sketch app, both provide an effective way to capture, edit, and save screenshots on your Microsoft Surface device.

Method 4: Using the Surface Pen

If you’re fortunate enough to own a Surface Pen, you can take advantage of its functionality to capture screenshots on your Microsoft Surface device. The Surface Pen provides a convenient and precise method for capturing screenshots, especially if you frequently use the pen for other tasks.

Here’s how you can use the Surface Pen to take a screenshot:

Ensure that your Surface Pen is connected to your Surface device and working properly.
Locate the area on your screen that you wish to capture.
Press and hold the top button on your Surface Pen.
While still holding the button, tap the screen of your Surface device with the pen tip.
The screenshot will be captured with a quick animation or notification sound.
You can find the screenshot in the Screenshots folder within the Pictures library on your Surface device.

The Surface Pen offers a seamless and intuitive way to capture screenshots with precision, especially if you need to capture a specific area or mark up your screenshots using the pen itself. It’s a valuable tool for artists, designers, note-takers, and anyone who wants more control and flexibility when capturing screenshots.

With the Surface Pen, you can easily capture screenshots that include handwritten notes, annotations, or drawings to enhance your captured content. Whether you’re taking screenshots for work, personal use, or creative endeavors, the Surface Pen provides an incredible level of versatility and convenience.

It’s important to mention that the Surface Pen’s screenshot functionality may vary depending on the Surface device model and the version of Windows 10 you’re using. If you’re unsure about the specific capabilities of your device, refer to the user manual or the Microsoft support website for detailed instructions.

Harness the power of your Surface Pen to capture screenshots effortlessly and express your creativity in the process. Enjoy the seamless integration and enhance your screenshot experience with this remarkable accessory.

Method 5: Using the Windows Game Bar

If you’re an avid gamer or enjoy recording gameplay, you’ll be pleased to know that the Windows Game Bar on your Microsoft Surface device can also be used to capture screenshots. The Windows Game Bar offers a simple and convenient way to capture screenshots while playing games or using other applications.

Follow these steps to use the Windows Game Bar to capture screenshots:

While using a game or any other application, press the Windows logo key + G to open the Windows Game Bar.
Click on the Camera icon on the Game Bar or simply press the Windows logo key + Alt + PrtScn to capture a screenshot.
The captured screenshot will be automatically saved to the Captures folder within the Videos library on your Surface device.
To access your screenshots, open the File Explorer, navigate to Libraries > Videos > Captures.

The Windows Game Bar not only captures screenshots but also offers additional features like recording gameplay footage, capturing audio, and even broadcasting your games live. It’s a comprehensive tool for gamers and those who want to capture their screen activity while using various applications.

Additionally, you can customize the Windows Game Bar’s settings to enable features such as recording system audio, capturing microphone audio, and adjusting video quality. To access and modify these settings, open the Game Bar, click on the Settings icon, and explore the various options available.

Please note that the Windows Game Bar may not be available or enabled by default on all Surface devices. If you don’t see the Game Bar when pressing the shortcut keys, you may need to enable it in the Windows settings. To do so, go to Settings > Gaming > Game Bar and toggle the option to turn on the Game Bar.

With the Windows Game Bar, capturing screenshots during gameplay or while using other applications becomes a breeze. Take advantage of this built-in feature to easily save and share your gaming achievements or important moments on your Surface device.

Method 6: Using a Third-Party Screenshot Tool

If you’re looking for more advanced screenshot capabilities or additional features, using a third-party screenshot tool on your Microsoft Surface device is worth considering. These tools offer greater flexibility, customization options, and sometimes even cloud storage or direct sharing features.

There are several reliable third-party screenshot tools available for Windows that you can install and use on your Microsoft Surface device. Here are a few popular options:

Snagit: Snagit is a powerful screenshot and screen recording tool that provides a wide range of capture options, editing features, and other advanced functionalities. It allows you to capture screenshots, annotate them, add callouts, and even record videos of your screen.
Lightshot: Lightshot is a lightweight screenshot tool with a user-friendly interface. It lets you capture screenshots of selected areas or the entire screen and provides basic editing options.
Greenshot: Greenshot is an open-source screenshot tool that offers various capture modes, including region, window, full screen, and scroll capture. It also provides editing features like annotations, obfuscation, and highlighting.

To use a third-party screenshot tool on your Microsoft Surface device, follow these general steps:

Search for the desired screenshot tool online and download it from a trusted source.
Install the tool and launch it on your Surface device.
Identify the capture options and settings within the tool’s user interface.
Select the preferred capture method (region, window, full screen, etc.) and customize any additional settings as needed.
Capture the screenshot using the designated capture function within the tool.
Depending on the tool, you may have the option to edit, annotate, save, or share the captured screenshot directly from the tool’s interface.

By using a third-party screenshot tool, you can take advantage of advanced features, such as timed captures, scrolling captures, delayed captures, and more. These tools often provide additional customization options and various formats for saving your screenshots.

Ensure to choose a reputable and trustworthy third-party screenshot tool, and be mindful of privacy and security concerns, especially when it comes to handling sensitive information or storing your screenshots in the cloud.

With the flexibility and expanded options offered by third-party screenshot tools, you can enhance your screenshot experience on your Microsoft Surface device and tailor it to your specific needs and preferences.

Additional Tips and Tricks for Taking Screenshots on Microsoft Surface

While the methods mentioned above cover the basic ways to capture screenshots on your Microsoft Surface device, there are a few additional tips and tricks that can further enhance your screenshot-taking experience. These tips can help you increase efficiency, customize your screenshots, and troubleshoot common issues.

Use the Snip & Sketch app: For devices running the latest version of Windows 10, you can access the Snip & Sketch app by pressing the Windows logo key + Shift + S. This app allows you to take quick and customizable screenshots, annotate them, and easily share or save them.
Utilize the Print Screen key: On some Surface devices, you may find a dedicated Print Screen key (usually labeled “PrtScn” or something similar) on the keyboard. Pressing this key captures the entire screen and saves it to the clipboard. You can then paste the screenshot into an image editing program or document.
Use shortcut keys: Different Surface models and Windows versions may have specific keyboard shortcuts for capturing screenshots. Explore the options by pressing the Windows logo key in combination with various function keys, such as F2 or F3, to see if any of them trigger a screenshot.
Explore the Windows Settings: Windows provides several options to customize and modify screenshot settings. Open the Windows Settings, go to System > Display > Advanced display settings > Graphic settings, and check if there are any specific settings related to capturing screenshots that can be adjusted.
Experiment with third-party screenshot tools: As mentioned in Method 6, consider trying out different third-party screenshot tools that offer unique features and functionalities. You may find one that suits your needs better than the built-in methods.
Clear the clutter: Before capturing a screenshot, close unnecessary windows or applications and clean up your desktop. This helps ensure that your screenshot captures only the desired content and appears clean and uncluttered.
Review your screenshots: After capturing a screenshot, take a moment to review it. If needed, you can make adjustments, crop, or annotate the screenshot using built-in or third-party image editing tools before sharing or saving it.
Experiment with different file formats: Windows allows you to save screenshots in various file formats, such as PNG, JPEG, or GIF. Test different formats to find the one that best suits your requirements in terms of image clarity, size, and compatibility.
Check for updated drivers: Occasionally, issues with capturing screenshots may be related to outdated or incompatible drivers. Make sure to keep your Surface device’s drivers updated by regularly checking for driver updates through Windows Update or the manufacturer’s website.

By employing these additional tips and tricks, you can further optimize your screenshot-taking process on your Microsoft Surface device. Explore the different options and customize your settings to meet your specific needs, whether it’s for personal, professional, or creative purposes.