How to Take a Screenshot on PC: Step-by-Step Guide

Capturing screenshots on your PC is helpful. You can save important information. It allows you to troubleshoot issues. You can also share what’s on your screen with others. You may need to capture the entire screen. Sometimes you only need a specific window.

Guide to Taking a Screenshot on Your PC

You might just need part of your display. There are several methods available in Windows. In this guide, we’ll walk you through easy steps on how to take a screenshot on a PC. This information will help you choose the best option for your needs. Learn more at How To Got Technology.

Method 1: Using the Print Screen (PrtScn) Key

1. Capture the Full Screen:

• Press the PrtScn key (sometimes labeled “Print Screen”) on your keyboard. This is a basic step in mastering how to take screenshots effectively on your PC.
• This will capture the entire screen and copy it to the clipboard.

1. Paste the Screenshot:

• Open a program like Paint, Word, or an image editor.
• Press Ctrl + V to paste the screenshot.
• Save your file by selecting File > Save As and choosing a location and format (JPEG, PNG).

Method 2: Using Alt + PrtScn for Active Window Only

1. Capture the Active Window:

• Click on the window you want to capture so it’s selected.
• Press Alt + PrtScn to capture only that window.

1. Paste and Save:

• Open Paint or another program, press Ctrl + V to paste the screenshot and save it as needed. Learning how to take a screenshot on a PC can be simple with practice.

Method 3: Using the Snipping Tool

1. Open the Snipping Tool:

• Type Snipping Tool in the Windows search bar and open it.

1. Choose a Snip Mode:

• Select Rectangular, Free-form, Window, or Full-screen Snip based on what you need.
• Click New and capture your selection.

1. Edit and Save the Screenshot:

• Annotate or highlight if necessary, then go to File > Save As to save your snip.

Method 4: Windows + Shift + S, Custom Screenshots

1. Press Windows + Shift + S:

• Your screen will dim, and a toolbar will appear at the top.

1. Select Your Snip Mode:

• Choose from Rectangular Snip, Freeform Snip, Window Snip, or Full-screen Snip.
• Make your selection, and it will be copied to your clipboard. These steps are part of mastering how to take a screenshot on a PC.

1. Paste and Save the Screenshot:

• Open a program like Paint and press Ctrl + V to paste the snip. You now understand part of how to take a screenshot on a PC.
• Save your file by choosing File > Save As.

Method 5: Windows + PrtScn for Automatic Saving

1. Press Windows + PrtScn:

• The screen will flash briefly, and the screenshot will be saved automatically to help you in capturing content. Mastering how to take a screenshot on a PC includes knowing where the files save.

1. Locate the Saved Screenshot:

• Go to Pictures > Screenshots to find your saved image.

With these simple steps, you now know how to take a screenshot on a PC with ease. Taking screenshots on your PC is a breeze. Now you can easily capture what’s on your screen. You can take a full-screen shot, capture a specific window, or create a custom snip.

Each method has its benefits, so choose the one that best suits your needs. If you found this guide helpful, please share it in the comments below. Alternatively, you might have a preferred method of your own to take a screenshot on a PC. Feel free to share it too! We’d love to hear your feedback and any additional tips you’d like to add.

Product Overview

This renewed Dell OptiPlex 5090 Small Form Factor (SFF) is equipped with a 10th-gen Intel Core i7‑10700 (8 cores, up to 4.8 GHz), 32 GB DDR4 RAM, and a speedy 512 GB SSD. It comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro. It features Intel UHD Graphics 630. This makes it a solid choice for office productivity and general-purpose use.

Pros

1. Compact and Sturdy Build

The SFF chassis is sleek and space-saving, with solid construction—ideal for clutter-free setup areas.

2. Strong Performance for Daily Use

The Core i7‑10700 delivers reliable multitasking and smoothly handles office software, browsing, streaming, and even light media tasks.

3. Ample Memory and Fast Storage

With 32 GB RAM and a 512 GB SSD, it’s well-equipped for modern productivity needs. This includes handling multiple browser tabs and running virtual machines. It offers fast responsiveness.

4. Modern Connectivity

Two USB 3.x ports on the front, plus additional USB-A, USB-C, dual DisplayPort outputs, and Gigabit Ethernet, offer flexible connectivity.

5. Windows 11 Ready with Security Features

Includes TPM 2.0 and a license for Windows 11 Pro, ensuring up-to-date OS support and enterprise-grade security.

Cons

1. Limited Graphics Capability

Relying solely on integrated Intel UHD 630 graphics makes it weak for gaming, video editing, or graphics-intensive tasks.

2. Upgrade Constraints

Some upgrades are supported, including RAM, SSD, and low-profile GPUs. However, you’re limited by the SFF form factor. Proprietary power connections and a modest power supply (typically 200–300 W) also restrict your options.

DSL PSU–GPU Limitations

The small power supply restricts GPU upgrades. Low-profile, low-power cards like the RX 6400, GTX 1650 LP, or RTX A2000 are possible. However, anything higher may need a PSU upgrade. This isn’t always easy due to Dell’s custom connectors.

4. No Webcam or Optical Drive in Some Configurations

Lacks an integrated webcam and optical drive, common in business units. External peripherals may be needed for video conferencing or disc access.

5. Possible Fan Noise Under Load

In SFF models, fan noise may become noticeable during CPU-heavy tasks.

Real-World Insights (from users)

Reddit users offer additional context:

“I bought an Optiplex 5090… with an i7‑10700, 32 GB RAM and a 512 GB SSD. Then I got an RTX 3050 LP… and installed it. I’m pretty happy with it.”

But upgrading the power supply can be tricky due to Dell’s proprietary connectors.

Summary Table

Conclusion

Consider this renewed Dell OptiPlex 5090 SFF if you need a dependable, compact, and pre-configured machine. It’s excellent for everyday productivity. You’ll also appreciate the savings from choosing a refurbished product. Its Core i7, 32 GB RAM, and SSD combo ensures longevity in performance.

If you require gaming, heavy graphics, or significant upgrades, be aware of the limitations tied to the SFF design. There are also power constraints. For straight-up office work, media streaming, and general productivity, though, this machine offers excellent value and capability in 2025.