Taking screenshots is a simple but powerful way to save information, share images, or troubleshoot issues on your Asus laptop. Whether you need to capture the whole screen, a single window, or a specific area, knowing the right shortcuts and tools can save you time and effort. Many users—especially non-native English speakers—find the process confusing due to different methods and software options. This guide walks you through all the main ways to screenshot on Asus laptops, covering both built-in functions and useful third-party apps. Along the way, you’ll get practical tips, examples, and answers to common problems, so you can capture exactly what you need, every time.
Built-in Screenshot Shortcuts On Asus Laptops
Most Asus laptops run on Windows, which offers several ways to take screenshots without installing extra software. These shortcuts work on nearly all Asus models, from basic notebooks to advanced gaming laptops.
Print Screen (prtscn) Key
The most basic way is using the Print Screen key, often labeled as PrtScn, PrtSc, or PrtScn/SysRq.
- Full Screen Capture: Press PrtScn. This copies an image of your entire screen to the clipboard. Open Paint, Word, or another app, and press Ctrl + V to paste the screenshot.
- Active Window Only: Hold Alt and press PrtScn. Only the window you’re working in will be captured.
- Direct to File (Windows 8/10/11): Press Windows + PrtScn. Your screen will briefly dim, and the screenshot is saved automatically in your Pictures > Screenshots folder.
Example
If you’re writing an email and want to include a screenshot, press PrtScn, open your email, and press Ctrl + V. The image appears directly in your message.
Key Placement On Asus Laptops
On many Asus laptops, the PrtScn key is in the top row, often near the F12 key. On compact laptops, you might need to hold Fn + PrtScn if the key shares functions.
Common Beginner Mistakes
- Pressing PrtScn and expecting the file to save automatically (it only copies unless combined with Windows key).
- Not finding the Screenshots folder, which is hidden under Pictures by default.
Using Windows Snipping Tool
The Snipping Tool is a built-in Windows app that allows more control over screenshots. It’s available on all Asus laptops with Windows 7 or later.
How To Use Snipping Tool
- Click the Windows Start button.
- Type “Snipping Tool” and select the app.
- Click New to begin a capture.
- Drag to select the area you want to screenshot.
- Save, copy, or annotate your screenshot.
You can choose from several modes:
- Free-form Snip: Draw any shape.
- Rectangular Snip: Select a rectangle.
- Window Snip: Choose a specific window.
- Full-screen Snip: Capture everything.
Practical Tip
For quick access, pin the Snipping Tool to your taskbar. Right-click its icon and select “Pin to taskbar. ”
Limitations
Snipping Tool has a slight delay before capturing, which can be frustrating if you need to screenshot menus or pop-ups. Use the Snip & Sketch tool (Windows 10/11) for more flexibility.
Snip & Sketch: The Modern Alternative
Snip & Sketch is newer and replaces Snipping Tool in Windows 10 and Windows 11. It brings extra features and better integration.
How To Use Snip & Sketch
- Press Windows + Shift + S. The screen dims, and you see four icons at the top.
- Choose your snip style: Rectangular, freeform, window, or fullscreen.
- Your screenshot is copied to the clipboard. Click the notification to open Snip & Sketch for editing or saving.
Why Use Snip & Sketch?
- Draw or highlight directly on your screenshot.
- Save in different formats (PNG, JPG, GIF).
- Easily share or print from the app.
Non-obvious Insight
Many users don’t realize that Windows + Shift + S works even if you don’t have Snip & Sketch open. Windows handles the shortcut in the background.
Comparing Screenshot Methods
Different methods suit different needs. Here’s a quick comparison of the main options:
| Method | Shortcut/Access | Area Selection | Auto-save | Editing Tools |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Print Screen | PrtScn / Alt + PrtScn | No | No (except Win + PrtScn) | No |
| Snipping Tool | Start Menu | Yes | No | Basic |
| Snip & Sketch | Win + Shift + S | Yes | No | Good |
Screenshots With Asus Laptop Function (fn) Keys
Some Asus models require using the Fn key in combination with PrtScn, especially on compact or gaming laptops.
How To Use Fn Key For Screenshots
- Fn + PrtScn: On some models, this replaces a normal PrtScn.
- Fn + Windows + PrtScn: Screenshots the entire screen and saves automatically.
- Fn + Alt + PrtScn: Captures the active window.
Why Does This Happen?
Asus saves space by combining functions on one key. The Fn key activates secondary functions, like volume or screen brightness. If PrtScn is a secondary function, you must hold Fn.
Example
On an Asus VivoBook, you might see PrtScn in a different color. Hold Fn to activate it.
Using Game Bar For Screenshots (windows 10/11)
The Xbox Game Bar offers screen recording and screenshot tools aimed at gamers, but anyone can use it.
How To Take A Screenshot With Game Bar
- Press Windows + G to open Game Bar.
- Click the camera icon or press Windows + Alt + PrtScn.
- The screenshot is saved to Videos > Captures.
Benefits
- Works in games and most apps.
- Saves screenshots as files (no need to paste).
- Also allows screen recording.
Note
Game Bar may not work in some older apps or when using certain display drivers. Make sure your graphics drivers are updated.
Using Third-party Screenshot Tools
Sometimes, built-in tools aren’t enough. Third-party apps offer extra features like scrolling captures, cloud saving, or advanced editing. Here are three popular options for Asus laptops.
1. Lightshot
Lightshot is a free app for fast area selection and instant sharing.
- Press PrtScn (after installing Lightshot) to select an area.
- Annotate, save, or upload your screenshot.
- Simple interface, works well on older hardware.
2. Greenshot
Greenshot is a lightweight open-source tool.
- Custom shortcuts for different screenshot types.
- Add arrows, text, and highlights.
- Integrates with image editors like Paint or Photoshop.
3. Sharex
ShareX is powerful and free, ideal for advanced users.
- Take screenshots, record video, or make GIFs.
- Automatic upload to cloud storage.
- Bulk capture, scrolling screenshots, and automation.
| App | Features | Best For | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lightshot | Area select, quick share | Simple needs | Free |
| Greenshot | Annotations, export options | Office/educational use | Free |
| ShareX | Advanced capture, cloud, video | Power users | Free |
Non-obvious Insight
Many Asus users don’t realize that third-party tools can often be set to override the default PrtScn key, making them act as the main screenshot tool.
Capturing Scrolling Screenshots
Capturing long web pages or chat conversations can be challenging. Windows’ built-in tools don’t support scrolling screenshots, but third-party apps like ShareX or PicPick do.
How To Capture A Scrolling Screenshot (with Sharex)
- Open the app.
- Choose “Scrolling capture.”
- Select the window or area.
- Follow prompts to scroll the page.
- The tool stitches images together into one file.
Example
If you want to capture a whole website page for a report, use ShareX’s scrolling feature. This saves time compared to taking multiple screenshots and merging them.
Taking Screenshots In Specific Apps
Sometimes, certain apps (like games, video players, or secure browsers) block standard screenshot methods. Here are tips for these cases:
Games
Most games on Asus laptops support Windows + Alt + PrtScn (Game Bar). Steam and other platforms also have their own shortcuts.
Video Playback
Some video players block screenshots for copyright reasons. Try using Game Bar or a third-party tool like ShareX, but respect copyright laws.
Secure Apps
Banking apps or secure browsers may block screenshots. There’s no easy workaround, and trying to bypass these blocks can be a security risk.
Where To Find Your Screenshots
A common source of confusion is where screenshots are saved. Here’s what to expect:
- PrtScn or Alt + PrtScn: Clipboard only. Paste into Paint, Word, or chat.
- Windows + PrtScn: Saved to Pictures > Screenshots.
- Snip & Sketch: Clipboard by default; save manually.
- Game Bar: Videos > Captures folder.
- Third-party apps: Check app settings for default save folder.
Changing The Default Save Location
You can change the default save folder for screenshots by right-clicking the Screenshots folder, choosing Properties, and updating the location under the “Location” tab.
Editing And Annotating Screenshots
Sometimes, you need to highlight part of your screenshot or add text. Here are your main options:
Built-in Windows Tools
- Snip & Sketch: Edit, draw, and crop.
- Paint: Basic editing (arrows, text, cropping).
Third-party Tools
- Greenshot and ShareX offer more annotation and blur options.
- Lightshot allows quick arrows and highlights before saving.
Example
If you’re making a guide for a colleague, use Snip & Sketch to circle important buttons or steps.
Screenshots And Privacy
Remember that screenshots can contain sensitive data. Before sharing:
- Check for personal information (emails, account numbers, faces).
- Blur or crop sensitive parts using an editor.
- Avoid uploading confidential screenshots to public cloud services.
It’s also smart to clear screenshots from shared folders if your laptop is used by others.
Troubleshooting Screenshot Problems
Sometimes, screenshots don’t work as expected. Here’s how to solve common issues on Asus laptops.
1. Prtscn Key Not Working
- Check if you need to use Fn + PrtScn.
- Try another keyboard, especially if yours is old or damaged.
- Update keyboard drivers in Device Manager.
2. Screenshots Not Saving
- Make sure there’s enough disk space.
- Check if the Pictures > Screenshots folder exists.
- Use a different method (Snip & Sketch, Game Bar).
3. Clipboard Issues
- If PrtScn isn’t pasting, try copying and pasting something else to refresh the clipboard.
- Restart the laptop if the clipboard is stuck.
4. Third-party Apps Not Capturing
- Some apps need admin rights—right-click and choose “Run as administrator.”
- Update the app to the latest version.
- Check for compatibility issues, especially after Windows updates.
Non-obvious Insight
If screenshots suddenly stop working, background apps (like security software or clipboard managers) may block them. Try disabling these apps one by one to test.
Accessibility: Screenshots For All Users
Asus laptops come with Windows accessibility features, making screenshots easier for users with disabilities.
Narrator And Magnifier
- Use Magnifier (Windows + Plus key) to zoom before capturing.
- Narrator can describe what’s on screen, which helps when taking screenshots for documentation.
On-screen Keyboard
- If your keyboard is broken, use the On-Screen Keyboard (search in Start Menu) to click PrtScn.
Comparing Asus To Other Laptops
Asus laptops use standard Windows shortcuts, but some differences exist compared to Apple or Chromebook devices.
| Device | Main Screenshot Shortcut | Default Save Location | Area Selection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asus (Windows) | PrtScn / Win + PrtScn | Pictures > Screenshots | Yes (with tools) |
| MacBook | Cmd + Shift + 3 or 4 | Desktop | Yes (built-in) |
| Chromebook | Ctrl + Show Windows | Downloads | Yes (partial) |
Advanced Tips For Power Users
If you use screenshots often on your Asus laptop, these advanced tips will help you work faster.
Custom Shortcuts
Many third-party tools let you set custom screenshot shortcuts. This can avoid conflicts with other software or make capturing easier for left-handed users.
Automation
ShareX and similar tools can automatically upload screenshots to Dropbox, Google Drive, or your company’s server. You can set rules to name files, resize images, or even email captures.
Clipboard History
Enable Clipboard history in Windows (Windows + V) to access past screenshots, not just the last one.
Batch Processing
If you take many screenshots for work, tools like ShareX let you edit, watermark, or resize images in bulk.
When To Choose Each Method
With so many options, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Here’s a quick summary to help you choose:
- Need a quick image for chat or email? Use PrtScn or Alt + PrtScn.
- Want to highlight or crop? Use Snip & Sketch.
- Need scrolling screenshots or advanced editing? Try ShareX or Greenshot.
- Capturing games? Use Game Bar.
- Broken keyboard? Use the On-Screen Keyboard.
If you want to learn more about Windows screenshot tools, Microsoft’s official documentation is a good place to start: Microsoft Support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Screenshot A Specific Part Of The Screen On An Asus Laptop?
Press Windows + Shift + S to open Snip & Sketch. Select the area you want to capture. The screenshot goes to your clipboard—open an app and press Ctrl + V to paste, or click the notification to edit and save.
Why Isn’t My Print Screen Button Working On My Asus Laptop?
You may need to hold Fn with PrtScn if your laptop uses combined keys. Check your keyboard settings, or try an external keyboard to test. If the key is physically damaged, use Snip & Sketch or the On-Screen Keyboard.
Where Are My Screenshots Saved On An Asus Laptop?
Screenshots taken with Windows + PrtScn are in Pictures > Screenshots. Game Bar saves to Videos > Captures. With Snip & Sketch or PrtScn alone, you must paste and save manually.
Can I Change The Screenshot Shortcut On My Asus Laptop?
Built-in shortcuts can’t be changed, but third-party apps like ShareX or Greenshot let you set custom shortcuts. This is useful if you need a different key combination.
How Do I Take A Screenshot On An Asus Laptop If My Keyboard Is Broken?
Use the On-Screen Keyboard (search in Start Menu) to press PrtScn, or use Snip & Sketch with your mouse. Some Asus models also have dedicated screenshot buttons in their software.
Capturing screenshots on your Asus laptop is simple once you know the right shortcuts and tools. Whether you’re a student, professional, or gamer, these methods let you save, share, and edit your screen with ease. With the right method, you’ll never miss important information again—and you’ll save time on every task.
