Snipping Tool Vs. Snip & Sketch: Windows 10 Screenshot Differences Explained

Microsoft Windows 10 users may have noticed a message come up when using the Snipping Tool instructing them to “Try improved features and snip like usual with the Snip & Sketch tool.” This message may be an indicator that the Snipping Tool is due to be replaced with the Snip & Sketch tool, but what is Snip & Sketch? Equally as importantly, how does it compare to the Snipping Tool?

The Snipping Tool was created in 2002 as a way for users to take screenshots on their Windows computer. The tool not only allowed users to take generic screenshots, but also lasso or rectangle around the specific area they want to capture or write and highlight important information. For several years the Snipping tool was the most efficient way to take screenshots, but in 2018 Microsoft released the Snip and Sketch tool as part of a Windows 10 update.

Like the Snipping Tool, Snip and Sketch was also created to allow users to make very detailed screenshots. The two tools have many similarities with them being nearly identical, marking an odd move by Microsoft to make a second screenshotting software instead of updating the older version. The Snip and Sketch tool does seem to be a more advanced version making it safe to assume that the tool was created to inevitably replace the Snipping tool.

Screenshot Similarities & Differences

Both the Snipping Tool and Snip and Sketch were created to make screenshotting as efficient as possible, with both tools allowing users to lasso around specific areas they would like to capture, highlighting material, adding notes, and even adding borders around the screenshot itself. However, the Snip and Sketch tool gives more detailed options for the users to choose from. For example, there is a larger variety of color highlighters, pens, and border colors. The tool also adds different features, such as using a ruler to make sure the material is aligned correctly. The Snip and Sketch tool also seems to be more deeply integrated with Windows 10. Instead of having to type the name of the tool in the search bar to access it, users can access it through the notification center, using shortcuts by pressing the Windows button + Shift + S. Users can even access the tool through a Surface Pen by clicking the top button.

Snip and Sketch is a more advanced version of the Snipping Tool with a wider array of options and easier access. It seems that Microsoft’s goal in making this tool was to replace the Snipping Tool entirely, although when that will happen remains to be seen. For now, Microsoft might be keeping both screenshotting tools alive to avoid confusing users who rely on the Snipping tool for screen capturing. If that is the case it would make sense for Microsoft to slowly phase out the older screenshot feature and why the message appears when trying to access the Snipping tool.

Source: Microsoft

About The Author