Snipping Tool for Chromebooks: In Chrome OS, use Shift + Ctrl + Show Windows to bring up the snipping tool. The Show Windows key has a stack of rectangles on it that symbolize several windows. On some keyboards, the F5 key can be used instead of the Show Windows key. When you hit the keyboard shortcut, the screen dims somewhat and the mouse pointer arrow transforms into a crosshair icon for the snipping tool.
Snipping Tool for Chromebooks
In Chrome OS, use Shift + Ctrl + Show Windows to bring up the snipping tool. The Show Windows key has a stack of rectangles on it that symbolize several windows. On some keyboards, the F5 key can be used instead of the Show Windows key.
When you hit the keyboard shortcut, the screen dims somewhat and the mouse pointer arrow transforms into a crosshair icon for the snipping tool. At the bottom of the screen, a screen capture/record toolbar will display, with the partial screen grab icon selected.
Click and drag the crosshair over an area of the screen to grab it. As soon as you release the button, the snipped screenshot will display in a preview window in the bottom right corner of the screen.
The screenshot is saved in the Downloads folder by default. To see it, double-click on the highlighted file in the preview window to open it.
On a Chromebook, you can grab images and make videos.
You can take photographs and produce films or GIFs with your Chromebook’s snipping tool, regardless of which one you use. Although the built-in technique may not provide all of the functionality you need to generate, modify, annotate, and share your snips, you can find an appropriate tool among our seven recommendations to help you do just that.
Snipping tool for Chrome OS
If you’re unfamiliar with what Chrome OS can do, switching from Windows or another well-established operating system can seem like a risky move. When it comes to perusing the internet, Chromebooks are economical, fast, and efficient. Unfortunately, they are sometimes dismissed as nothing more than “browsers.”
Nonetheless, most contemporary Chromebooks allow users to create and write code, as well as install and run high-end Linux programs from a dedicated Linux store and even play Nintendo DS games.
Chrome OS is garnished with effective simplicity when it comes to convenience. Taking a screenshot, for example, is a breeze, matching the convenience of the popular Windows snippet tool, which is set to be merged into the Snip & Sketch program in a future release.
Continue reading this post if you’ve been wanting to see if there’s a similar tool for Chrome OS that you can use to take quick screenshots of your screen.
How to use the snipping tool on Chrome OS?
Chrome OS includes an in-built functionality that allows you to reciprocate the usefulness of the Windows snippet tool, also known as a partial screenshot. While clicking the “CTRL + Show Windows” shortcut key combination will snap a fullscreen screenshot, tapping another key will bring up the Chrome OS snipping tool. It’s quick and fluid, and it gets the job done quickly and efficiently.
The “Show Windows” key has two vertical lines beside it and appears like a square. If you’re wondering where it is on your Chromebook’s keyboard, it’s to the left of the brightness reducing key.
To access the Chrome OS snippet tool, press CTRL + Shift + Show Windows at the same time. This will turn your cursor into a crosshair, giving you complete control over how you take the snapshot, similar to the popular Windows snippet tool.
From there, the controls are straightforward: simply click and drag the crosshair until the desired area of your screen is highlighted. After that, simply release your finger from the touchpad and press the “Enter” key to complete the operation.
All screenshots are saved to the “Downloads” folder in the “Files” app on your Chromebook. There are a few more features in the snippet tool that can be used, such as capturing a fullscreen snapshot or simply taking a window screenshot.
You’ll also be able to record your screen as an added advantage. One advantage of the Microsoft Snippet tool over the Chrome OS one is its ability to save screenshots in a variety of file formats.
If that’s something you’re looking for, we propose Monosnap, a free browser plugin available from the Chrome Web Store. Please read one of our articles for more information on this.
Summary
In Chrome OS, use Shift + Ctrl + Show Windows to bring up the snipping tool. When you press the keyboard shortcut, the screen will dim slightly. Snipped screenshots will appear in a preview window in the bottom right corner of the screen when you release the button.
The 7 Best Chromebook Snipping Tools
Taking screen captures on a Chromebook may differ from taking screenshots on a Windows or Mac computer. Regardless of whether you use the native approach or a third-party snipping tool, the process is straightforward.
The keyboard commands make it simple to grab the entire screen or just a portion of it. However, if this solution does not satisfy your requirements, you can find a suitable third-party option.
Read on to learn how to take screenshots on a Chromebook with keyboard shortcuts or a stylus, as well as the finest Chromebook snipping apps for capturing your screen.
The Best Chromebook Snipping Tools
On your Chromebook, the quickest way to capture your entire screen or a piece of it is to use keyboard shortcuts. Press CTRL+Window Switch to capture your Chromebook’s complete screen (Show Windows).
If you only want to capture a certain area, hold CTRL+Shift, press the Window Switch (Show Windows) key, and drag the crosshair symbol to the region you wish to capture with your trackpad.
If your Chromebook comes with a pen, you can use it to capture complete or partial screenshots and annotate them, or you can snap rapid screenshots using the Power+Volume Down buttons.
More thorough instructions on how to capture, edit and manage your screenshots can be found in our guide on how to take screenshots on a Chromebook. Although the Chromebook’s built-in snipping tool is limited, you may supplement it with a variety of Chrome extensions and apps.
1. LightShot
LightShot is a free snipping program for Chromebooks, as well as Windows and Mac PCs. You can use it to take, modify, and post screenshots to the server by downloading it as a Chrome extension or software.
The easy-to-use tool lets you drag and drop screenshots onto any part of your Chromebook’s screen, edit them live, and then download or share them to Google Drive.
To use LightShot, simply tap the extension or the app to bring up the section where you can take your desired screenshot. You can also choose any area of the website to screenshot and then copy the snapshot to the clipboard. The program comes with a robust web editor that you can use to alter your screen captures right now or later.
2. Use ShareX
ShareX is a sophisticated application for taking screenshots of your full screen or a piece of it, cropping them on the fly, or saving them for later editing. You may install the Chrome extension on your Chromebook and use it to snap a variety of screenshots, create GIF files while capturing your screen, and share them wherever you want.
While ShareX may be overkill for certain people, it has a lot of positive features. For example, you can choose from a variety of capture approaches, such as selecting certain regions, windows, and monitors, as well as various shapes to grab the area you want.
In addition, the software includes cropping, pixelating, and adding text or shapes to your screenshot editing and annotation features.
You may also copy, upload, and watermark your snips to share them with others. You can post them to more than 30 destinations and obtain a shortened link. ShareX can also record your screen, which is particularly useful for making GIFs.
3. FireShot
FireShot is a free plugin that allows you to take snippets of your screen or a whole web page and save them as an image without having to take several screenshots. The tool’s user interface is basic and intuitive, making screen capture simple, comfortable, and rapid.
Additionally, FireShot’s advanced editor lets you add effects, arrows, blur, highlights, text annotations, watermarks, and remove unwanted portions to your snips. You may save your screenshots to your computer in a variety of formats, including PDF, GIF, PNG, and JPEG, or send them immediately to email, OneNote, or social media.
4. Awesome Screenshot
Awesome Screenshot is a Chromebook snipping tool that lets you record your screen and camera to explain something and share it fast. Take screenshots, add notes and annotations, blur personal information, and share via one-click uploads to various platforms or simply save to your local disc.
For better cooperation with clients or teams, the tool integrates with popular apps like Trello, Asana, and Slack.
5. Capture of a Nimbus
Nimbus Capture is a free snipping program that lets you capture the entire screen of your Chromebook or only parts of it. Using your webcam, you may doodle, mark up screenshots, and capture videos of your tabs or full desktop.
The application grabs partial or whole web pages and saves time by allowing you to communicate without having to write entire instructions. With only one click, you may record your screen in numerous screenshot modes such as selected areas, fragments, the visible section of a page, or a scrollable page.
Furthermore, its annotation panel has sophisticated editing capabilities to help you make your material and explanations more clear, more helpful, and more effective.
6. Flamory
Aside from capturing, editing, and sharing your snips, Flamory has a lot more great features. To make it easier to use, you can create page snapshots with searchable screenshots and text, bookmark them, or make thumbnails.
The application stores a copy of the file or web page you’re viewing on your screen, and when you double-click it, it takes you to the precise spot on the page. Flamory also groups photos by topic, allowing you to see all of your research in one spot. This is true not only for web pages and documents, but also for local files, emails, and PDF books, among other things.
You don’t have to be concerned about sensitive information being exposed all over the internet if your photos contain it. Flamory keeps all snippets and history on your PC, ignoring hidden files and private browsing sessions.
7. Gyazo
Gyazo is a simple but powerful snipping tool that lets you grab action, animation, or how-to GIFs and movies from any app and share them in seconds. After the program saves what’s on your screen, you can alter it using basic and expert tools and store it for later use.
Gyazo will upload and copy a unique yet private URL that you may paste and share immediately after you capture your screen.
You may also easily organize all of your captures by replaying your recordings and capturing every highlight, saving intriguing and valuable moments to your account along with their details, and replaying your recordings to grab every highlight.
Summary
There are plenty of third-party apps and extensions you can use to capture your screen. The best picks include LightShot, which lets you drag and drop screenshots onto any part of your Chromebook’s screen. ShareX is a sophisticated application for taking screenshots of your full screen. FireShot is a free plugin that allows you to take snippets of your screen or whole web page and save them as an image. Flamory is a powerful tool that lets you capture your screen in snips and edit them later. Gyazo is a simple but powerful tool for capturing GIFs, movies, and how-to videos.
What is the purpose of the snipping tool?
The snipping tool is a useful feature that allows you to take a full or partial screenshot of your Chromebook’s display from anywhere on the screen.
It’s useful for quickly capturing simply a portion of the screen, such as fragments of text, images, or memes. Taking screenshots will come in handy more than you think if you’re using a Chromebook for school or work.
Is there a snipping tool installed by default on Chromebooks?
Yes, your Google pals have incorporated a snipping tool within your gadget. Chromebooks come with a built-in snipping tool. You don’t need to download any extensions, apps, or other third-party software to use it because it’s built-in to your Chromebook. It’s also really effective.
It offers all of the essential features for cropping a partial screenshot of anything on your screen. You may also take complete screenshots, save screencaps, and paste them elsewhere, as well as record your screen. All of this is done without the need for any additional software. However, if you require further capabilities, a third-party snipping tool extension may be the answer.
How do I get the snipping tool to work?
The basic snip tool is already incorporated into Chrome OS, so there’s no need to install it. Simply press the following shortcut keys to start it:
-
To cut the full screen, press CTRL + Show Windows on your keyboard.
-
(On a standard Windows keyboard, the “F5” key is located in the middle of the top row.)
-
Press SHIFT + CTRL + Show Windows to conduct a partial clip.
-
After that, you’ll see a box where you may click and drag whatever you want to snip.
“Where is the snipping tool on my Chromebook?”
While it isn’t immediately obvious, you can either utilize the Launcher menu (click Launcher then type “snip”) or the keyboard shortcut to find it. You can add other snipping tools to Chrome via the Chrome Web Store if you’re already familiar with them, such as Evernote’s Web Clipper or Windows Snipping Tool.
What about clipping stuff when you’re not using Chrome?
You can also download one from the Google Play store on your Chromebook. Apps obtained using Chrome will only work in Chrome, therefore I won’t be able to take screenshots outside of it.
You should be able to screenshot other apps you’re using, games, films, photographs, text, memes, Discord, Skype, Slack, or Zoom, utilizing apps downloaded from the Google Play Store.
How can I snip something on Google Chrome?
Simply use the keyboard shortcut to open the snipping tool when you come across something you wish to snip. It comes in helpful when you need to cut anything to save or share with others.
-
Google Slides or PowerPoint presentations
-
Important things to note or remember for later
-
Random text on websites
-
Pictures
-
Video screenshots
-
Emails
-
Research citations/references
-
Lectures, deadlines, or dates
-
Documents (whole page or partially)
-
Sharing something cool with your friends or colleagues
-
Pasting memes to your friends in Discord, Zoom, or Slack
-
Random snippets you come across online that you want to save for later
-
Recipes, tutorials, or books
How do I snip in Google Docs?
Simply take advantage of the built-in utility. There’s no need to install a separate Google Docs plugin. You can easily screen capture with it. You can download a third-party extension from the Chrome Web Store if the default one isn’t good enough or doesn’t provide the features you require.
Extensions should work with Google Docs because it runs on Chrome. You can then copy and paste any text from a document, spreadsheet, slide, or another source.
The right-click menu in Google Docs does not allow you to cut, copy, or paste (note that this has been fixed in newer versions). It works if you use the hotkey commands CTRL+C, CTRL+V, or CTRL+X. Unless you acquire the add-on, which is nice, it’s pointless.
Using the snipping tool or a Chrome extension like PicFlip or Screenshot Tool, you can rapidly clip a paragraph of text. Unfortunately, there are no screen clipping Add-Ons accessible in Docs that I could locate. Please leave a remark if you have any suggestions.
Regardless, I believe it is excessive for the average user. Do you have a base utility that is unique to Chrome OS, extensions that are unique to Chrome, and then Add-Ons that are unique to the Google Suite of tools? Yikes.
Summary
Chromebooks come with a built-in snipping tool. You don’t need to download any extensions, apps, or other third-party software to use it. It offers all of the essential features for cropping a partial screenshot of anything on your screen. The snipping tool is built-in on Google Chrome, but you can also download one from the Google Play store.
Some more Chromebook Snipping Tools
This tool, as its name suggests, does exactly what it says. Straightforward Chrome adds on with no frills. One disadvantage of this tool is that it lacks a hotkey. To find it, hit the Launch key and then search for “snipping tool.” After that, you’ll see the tool startup with a familiar Windows-style overlay!
To meet your needs, you can choose from a variety of cropping tools:
-
Rectangle
-
Only crop a window
-
Full-screen snipping
-
Or, if you prefer, free form, which allows you to clip wherever
-
Select your clipping mode by pressing “ALT + M,” then cut away. You can either save the clip to your machine or paste it somewhere else.
-
Tip: When using the rectangle tool, hold down the Shift key and use the arrow keys to select the area to clip.
1. Capture Editor - Screenshot Tool
There is no need to register for this tool! You can use it right now because it’s fully offline. You can take photos and then pick whether to take a screenshot of a specific region or the entire website. Cropping, captioning, arrows, and even paint tools are among the basic features.
It only takes one click to take a picture, and no online resources are required. According to what I discovered when testing the program, it does not transfer your screenshot to any servers, allowing it to work offline. There are no file size limitations, so you can capture photos in their entirety.
It’s quite simple to use, and there are no logins required! When you’re ready to take a screenshot, simply click the extension icon, choose where you want to take it, and save it to your Chromebook.
This snipping tool is available for free. It offers some great features that you’ll have to pay for with other extensions. This is great if you want something that just works the first time you install it.
2. SimpleShot
SimpleShot is a lightweight Chrome web clipper. You simply click the button, and it will record your current tab, taskbar, or any other apps you have launched, exactly like the other extensions.
It also doesn’t take a screenshot of the mouse cursor, so you can email screenshots to others without being distracted. It also looks more professional.
Nobody wants to see their pointer over a piece of text or a picture. That’s infuriating. It’s worth noting that, rather than creating a new image, this extension pulls the image from your Chrome cache.
Instant downloads are possible as a result of this. It’s extremely little, taking up less than 1MB at the time of writing. A clip is controlled by a single button. That concludes our discussion. There are no advertisements and compatibility in the offline world.
Plus, the permissions are simple: for privacy, it simply permits access to the current tab. New file naming is also done automatically. It has configurable settings and keyboard shortcuts for launching it.
3. Easy Screenshot
This Chromebook snipping tool addon is popular, with over 10,000 users. It now has a 5-star rating, making it the best screenshot tool on the market. It’s free, simple to use, and comes with built-in editing capabilities. Click the extension, select your screenshot region, and instantly modify your screenshots as you take them. It’s available for purchase here.
4. Handy Screenshot
This is about as simple as it gets simple. Simply drag and drop your clipping tool after clicking the extension button. It has a few bugs on specific websites, but it works for the most part. It’s similar to Clipular if you’ve ever tried it.
My only complaint is that it defaults filenames to a default name, requiring you to resave if you want to change them. Aside from that, it’s as simple as it gets. There is no support for the right-click context menu.
5. PicFlip
PicFlip is a screenshot plugin that allows you to take, print, modify, and save screenshots. You can choose from a variety of formats, including jpg, GIF, PNG, and even PDF. You can choose to do a portion of your screen or the entire thing.
You may also add text to it using the caption/annotation tool. You don’t need internet access to utilize this screenshot, unlike many other programs. After you snap an image, it is immediately saved.
They download to the Download folder on your Chromebook but are not uploaded. Some capabilities, such as the PDF version and the ability to add text, arrows, blurring, and other filters to your photos, are charged.
The basic version functions as a simple tool. PicFlip allows you to upload to several cloud sites or even email it to OneNote.
6. Snippyly
Although it has a humorous name, it is a serious tool. This is one of the most popular snapshot programs, allowing you to capture your screen, add markups and comments, and share it via a generated URL.
You can get things done in one location because it allows you to convert web pages into documents that your group can utilize to easily add comments or markup. With a single click, you can capture your Chromebook’s screen and share it with a link (yep, it’s simply one touch on your touchpad).
There is no need to set anything up!
The technology was created by former Google employees, which makes it quite distinctive. Your screenshots are completely encrypted.
This application is designed for collaborative work, in which you collaborate with others by exchanging ideas visually and marking them up jointly. For a single person, it may be disregarded.
How to take a screenshot on a Chromebook from Dell, HP, Samsung, or Acer
It doesn’t matter if you have a Chromebook from HP, Acer, Dell, Samsung, or any other manufacturer. They’re all running the same operating system (ChromeOS), so everything should operate the same. The operating system is the same regardless of the brand, model, or make.
It’s the equivalent of asking, “How do I take a screenshot on an iPhone 12 versus. 13?” Because they’re both running the same operating system, they’re identical. (Perhaps I should have used Android as an example instead.)
By the way, did you know that you can use your Chromebook to link to your phone, receive SMS, and send them? Combine that with a fast LTE connection, and you’ve got yourself a winner. To effortlessly cut your screen, follow the methods indicated earlier in this guide.
Summary
You can screenshot a Chromebook from HP, Acer, Dell, Samsung, or any other manufacturer they’re all running the same operating system (ChromeOS) so everything should operate the same. If something isn’t working properly, your Chromebook may require an update. If you’re having issues with Chrome’s snipping tool extension, make sure you’re using the most recent version. To update Chrome OS, you’ll need to restart it completely. Leave a comment on the extension’s website to inform the developer of the problem that needs to be addressed.
My Chromebook’s snipping function isn’t working.
Here are some suggestions for getting the snipping tool to work again:
Update Chrome on your Chromebook to the most recent version. Google frequently provides updates that address a variety of issues. It also aids in the enhancement of your device’s security. If something isn’t working properly, your Chromebook may require an update.
This is especially true if you haven’t shut it down or restarted it in a long time. To update Chrome OS, you’ll need to restart it completely. Occasionally, a fresh restart of the tool will resolve the issue.
Use the menu to thoroughly restart your Chromebook. This does not imply just closing and then reopening the lid. That doesn’t clean the cache, RAM, or other components that might be causing a malfunction or leftover data in the background.
You must completely shut it down and then restart it. Furthermore, this will allow your system to get fresh updates. If you’re using a snipping tool extension in Chrome, make sure you’re using the most recent version. To access the update changelog, go to the extension website and look at the version history.
Whether you have the most recent version, restart Chrome and see if the tool resolves the issue. If not, leave a comment on the extension’s website to inform the developer that there is a problem that needs to be addressed. Describe the problem in detail.
If the developer is still working on it, they’ll correct it and make an update. Google Product Forums is where you should report the problem. You can start a post about the issue you’re having and receive useful advice from other users. They can also try it out, allowing you to figure out if it’s just you or if it’s a frequent issue. They can also duplicate it and then assist you in finding a technological solution.
Include as much information as possible when posting:
-
Your Chromebook’s model and make
-
Your Chromebook’s model and make
-
Screenshots or videos of the bug
-
The version of ChromeOS you’re running
-
Extension names if you’re using one
-
Other useful information
FAQ’s
1. What is the difference between Chromebook and a laptop?
The operating system is, of course, the most significant distinction between Chromebooks and laptops. Chromebooks run on the web-based Chrome OS, which is essentially a skinned version of the Chrome browser with some added functionality. While laptops run on the most common operating system, Windows, Chromebooks run on the web-based Chrome OS.
2. What is a Chromebook good for?
You can use it to run full-featured Windows programs. However, it is designed primarily for business users and is not the ideal option for everyday consumer use. You can also connect to other computers that have the Chrome browser installed using a Chromebook and Chrome Remote Desktop.
3. Can you use the zoom on a Chromebook?
Zoom is a Google Chrome extension. To get it, go to the Chrome Web Store on your Chromebook first. Look for Zoom in the ‘Apps’ area. There will be several options, but the one you want is the official app from 'zoom.us. 'Click ‘Add to Chrome’ to install the app on your Chromebook.
4. What is the shortcut key for Snipping Tool?
Make Your Keyboard Shortcuts. Finding the Snipping Tool in Windows Explorer is a multi-step process. Instead, I’ve given the Snipping Tool the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Alt + K, which allows me to use it in a matter of seconds.
5. Can I download Microsoft Snipping Tool?
Available on the following platforms: The CloudApp Microsoft Windows Snipping Tool is simple to install. Simply download the program from GetCloudApp or the Microsoft Windows Store, create a free account, install it, and begin snipping.
6. How do I snip something on Google Chrome?
On your keyboard, use Ctrl + Shift + see all windows. Then move your cursor over the screen area you want to capture.
7. Is the Snipping Tool missing in Windows 11?
Microsoft decided to merge the old Snip & Sketch and Snipping Tool into one application, which is also called Snipping Tool, which is why Snipping Tool is gone in Windows 11. This article explains how to take a screenshot on Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 in-depth using a variety of methods.
8. Is there a better tool than Snipping Tool?
There are many better tools than the Snipping Tool if you require more than just screenshots. Snagit is a professional-level application with a plethora of features for creating high-quality how-to content.
9. Why are Chromebooks so cheap?
Are Chromebooks affordable? Chromebooks can be lighter and smaller than the conventional laptop because of Chrome OS’s modest hardware needs, and they’re also generally less expensive. New Windows laptops under $200 are hard to come by, and they’re rarely worth the money.
10. Do Chromebooks have cameras?
Your Chromebook has an integrated camera that allows you to take images, save them, and share them on social media.
Conclusion
In Chrome OS, use Shift + Ctrl + Show Windows to bring up the snipping tool. The screen will dim slightly once you press the keyboard shortcut. Snipped screenshots will appear in a preview window in the bottom right corner of the screen when you release the button. There are plenty of third-party apps and extensions you can use to capture your screen. The best picks include LightShot, ShareX, FireShot, Flamory, and Gyazo. Chromebooks come with a built-in snipping tool. You don’t need to download any extensions, apps, or other third-party software to use it. It offers all of the essential features for cropping a partial screenshot of anything on your screen. The snipping tool is built-in on Google Chrome, but you can also download one from the Google Play store.