- Screenshots can be saved to the clipboard or to a folder depending on the method used.
- Windows + Print Screen automatically saves images to the Screenshots folder.
- The Snipping Tool allows you to customize and choose the storage location.
- If screenshots aren't saved, check OneDrive, folder permissions, and key settings.

Doing screenshots In Windows it is a common thing, whether to save important information, share a bug with technical support or simply archive something we see on the screen. However, many users wonder where these screenshots are stored and how to access them easily.
In this article, we will explore all possible locations where Windows stores screenshots based on the method you use to take them. We'll also look at how to change their default location and troubleshoot issues if screenshots aren't saved correctly.
Location of screenshots in Windows
screenshots They can be saved in different places depending on the keyboard shortcut or tool you use to create them. Here we explain each case in detail.
Screenshots saved to clipboard
One of the easiest methods to take a screenshot in Windows is to press the key Print Screen (Print Screen). However, this action does not automatically save a file, but copies the image to the clipboard. This means you have to manually paste it into a program like Paint, Word, or any image editor before saving it.
Another shortcut that works similarly is Windows + Shift + S, which opens the Windows Snipping Tool. This option allows you to select a specific area of the screen and copy it to the clipboard.
Captures automatically saved to a folder
If you want Windows to automatically save the capture to a archive without having to paste it manually, you must use the key combination Windows + Print Screen. Doing so will briefly darken the screen and the image will be stored in the default folder.
To find these screenshots, follow these steps:
- Open the File Browser.
- In the left sidebar, select Images.
- Inside this folder, look for the subfolder called Screenshots.

Using the Snipping Tool
Windows offers an application called cuts, which allows you to capture images of the screen with Greater precision. To open it, press the key Windows and type “Snipping Tool” in the search bar.
With this tool you can:
- Make rectangular or free-form cutouts.
- Capture only a specific window.
- Perform quick edits before saving the image.
In this case, You must manually indicate the location where you want to save the capture, since it is not automatically stored in a default folder.
Screenshots in Windows Game Bar
If you play on your PC, the Xbox Game Bar it allows you capture images without interrupting the game. To open it, use the shortcut Windows + G and select the screenshot option.
By default, these images are stored in the following path:
- Videos > Catches
Where do third-party apps save screenshots?
Some external applications such as ShareX or LightShot allow you to manage screenshots with more options editing and storage. In these cases, each program has its own default folder, which you can usually configure in its settings.
How to change the default capture location
If you want to change the binder where Windows saves automatic captures, follow these steps:
- Open the File Browser and go to the folder Screenshots within Images.
- Right click on the folder and select Properties.
- In the Location, press MOVER and choose the new destination folder.

Solutions if screenshots are not saved
If you notice that catches do not appear in the expected folder, try these solutions:
- Check OneDrive: If you use OneDrive, screenshots may be automatically saved to the cloud instead of your hard drive.
- Check the folder permissions: Make sure you have write permissions to the default location.
- Check Windows settings: Go to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard and confirm that “Use the Print Screen key” is enabled.
- Check the clipboard: If you just press Print Screen without a key combination, the image is on the clipboard and you need to paste it into an editor.

screenshots in Windows They can be stored in different locations depending on the method used to make them. If you make them with Print Screen, they will go to the clipboard. If you use Windows + Print Screen, will be stored in Images > ScreenshotsYou can also use tools like Snipping Tool or Game Bar. If you can't find your screenshots, check OneDrive, change the default folder, or use third-party apps.
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