How to Print Screen One Monitor
In today’s multi-monitor world, capturing the contents of a single screen can sometimes be more complex than it initially appears. Whether you need to share an error message with tech support, save a memorable moment from a video game, or create documentation for a work project, knowing how to take a screenshot of just one monitor is essential. This guide will walk you through various methods to capture a single monitor on both Windows and Mac systems.
Capturing a Single Monitor on Windows
Windows provides several built-in tools for taking screenshots, including the Print Screen key, Snipping Tool, and Snip & Sketch. Here’s how to use each method:
1. Using the Print Screen Key
The Print Screen key (often abbreviated as PrtScn) is the most straightforward way to take a screenshot.
Steps:
- Select the monitor you want to capture: Click on any window or space on the monitor you wish to screenshot.
- Press
Alt + PrtScn
: This combination captures the active window on the selected monitor. If you want the entire screen of the selected monitor, you can use a third-party tool like Lightshot or Greenshot to capture just that monitor.
2. Snipping Tool
The Snipping Tool allows more control over what part of the screen you capture.
Steps:
- Open the Snipping Tool: You can find it by typing “Snipping Tool” in the Start menu search bar.
- Choose your snip type: Click “Mode” and select the type of snip you want (Free-form, Rectangular, Window, or Full-screen).
- Capture your screen: If you’re using the “Window Snip” option, just click on the window on the monitor you want to capture.
3. Snip & Sketch
Snip & Sketch is a more advanced tool than the Snipping Tool and is available in newer versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Steps:
- Open Snip & Sketch: Press
Windows Key + Shift + S
to open the tool directly. - Select your snip type: Choose from Rectangular Snip, Freeform Snip, Window Snip, or Full-screen Snip.
- Capture your screen: Use the tool to draw a box around the area of the monitor you want to capture.
Capturing a Single Monitor on Mac
Mac systems also offer several built-in tools for taking screenshots.
1. Using Keyboard Shortcuts
MacOS has powerful keyboard shortcuts for taking screenshots.
Steps:
- Select the screen you want to capture: Make sure the cursor is on the screen you wish to capture.
- Press
Shift + Command + 4
: This will change your cursor to a crosshair. - Press the
Spacebar
: The cursor will change to a camera icon. - Click the monitor: This will capture the entire screen of the monitor you clicked on.
2. Using the Screenshot App
The Screenshot app provides more flexibility and options for capturing your screen.
Steps:
- Open the Screenshot app: Press
Shift + Command + 5
to open the Screenshot app. - Select your capture type: Choose whether to capture the entire screen, a selected window, or a selected portion.
- Capture your screen: Click “Capture” to take the screenshot.
Third-Party Tools
If the built-in tools don’t meet your needs, there are several third-party applications that offer enhanced functionality for screen capturing.
- Lightshot: Easy-to-use tool with editing options.
- Greenshot: Open-source tool that offers more advanced features.
- Snagit: A powerful, paid tool with extensive editing and sharing options.
Conclusion
Capturing a screenshot of a single monitor is a straightforward process once you know the right tools and shortcuts. Whether you’re using a Windows PC or a Mac, built-in tools like the Print Screen key, Snipping Tool, Snip & Sketch, and the Screenshot app offer effective solutions for capturing your screen. For more advanced needs, third-party applications like Lightshot, Greenshot, and Snagit provide additional features and flexibility. By mastering these tools, you can easily share and save important screen content from your multi-monitor setup.