From Windows to Mac: Snipping Tool Alternatives and How to Use Them

If you’ve recently switched from Windows to a Mac, you might miss the familiar Snipping Tool. While macOS doesn’t have an official snipping tool, fear not! You can achieve the same functionality using the built-in Screenshot app. In this guide, we’ll explore how to master the art of snipping on your Mac.

Taking Screenshots on Mac: A Quick Guide

The Screenshot app on your Mac is your go-to tool for capturing the entire screen, a specific portion, or even a particular window. Unlike on Windows, you don’t need to install any third-party applications. To initiate the snipping tool on your Mac, press Shift + Command + 4 simultaneously. A crosshair will appear, allowing you to select the area you want to capture.

Pro Tip: If you encounter limitations in certain apps due to Digital Rights Management (DRM), the snipping tool may not work.

Snipping Like a Pro: Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional tips to enhance your snipping experience:

• Moving the Snipping Area: Hold down the Space bar while dragging the crosshair to move the selected area.
• Capturing Entire Windows: Press Shift + Command + 4 + Space bar to switch to window capture mode. Hover over the desired window, and click to capture.
• Quick Access with Shortcut Keys: Press Command + Shift + 5 to open the Screenshot app directly. From there, choose your snipping options.

Customizing Snipping Tool Settings

For those using macOS Mojave or later, you can customize the default location for saving your snips. Press Command + Shift + 5, click on Options, select Other Locations, and choose your preferred destination.

Adding Snipping Tool to the Touch Bar

If you own a MacBook with a Touch Bar, streamline your snipping process by adding the Screenshot app shortcut:

1. Go to System Preferences > Keyboard > Keyboard.
2. Select “App Controls” from the “Touch Bar shows” dropdown menu.
3. Click “Customize Control Strip” and drag the Screenshot app shortcut to the Touch Bar.

Now, you can effortlessly access the snipping tool by tapping the Camera icon on your Touch Bar.

Snipping on a Mac is a breeze with the built-in Screenshot app. Whether you’re capturing a specific area, window, or the entire screen, these tips and tricks will make you a snipping pro in no time. Say goodbye to third-party apps – your Mac has everything you need for seamless screen captures.