Changing where your screenshots are saved in Windows 10 is a simple process that involves a few clicks and some basic navigation. By default, Windows 10 saves screenshots in the Screenshots folder within the Pictures library. This article will guide you through the steps to change the default save location for your screenshots to a folder of your choice.
How to Change Where Screenshots are Saved in Windows 10
In this section, we will walk through the necessary steps to change the default save location for screenshots in Windows 10. By the end of these steps, your screenshots will be saved in the new folder that you have selected.
Step 1: Locate the Current Screenshots Folder
First, open File Explorer and navigate to the current Screenshots folder within the Pictures library.
Finding the current save location is key. By default, it’s usually located in This PC > Pictures > Screenshots. Once you locate this folder, you can proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Right-Click on the Screenshots Folder
Right-click on the Screenshots folder and select "Properties" from the context menu.
This will open the Properties dialog box, which contains several tabs with different settings for the folder.
Step 3: Go to the Location Tab
In the Properties dialog box, click on the "Location" tab.
The Location tab allows you to see the current path where screenshots are saved and provides options to move this folder to a new location.
Step 4: Click the Move Button
Click the "Move" button within the Location tab.
This action will open a new dialog box where you can navigate to and select the new folder where you want to save your screenshots.
Step 5: Select or Create New Folder
Navigate to the new folder where you want your screenshots to be saved, or create a new folder if necessary. Click "Select Folder."
After selecting or creating the new folder, click "Select Folder" to confirm your choice. This will set the new folder as the default location for screenshots.
Step 6: Confirm the Change
Click "Apply," then "OK" to confirm and save the changes.
Windows will now move any existing screenshots to the new folder and change the default save location for future screenshots.
After completing these steps, your screenshots will be saved in the new location you have chosen. This change is permanent until you decide to move the folder again.
Tips for Changing Where Screenshots are Saved in Windows 10
- Make sure the new folder location is easily accessible to streamline your workflow.
- Consider creating a dedicated folder for screenshots to keep them organized.
- Regularly back up your new screenshot folder to avoid losing important images.
- If you share your computer, ensure that the new folder’s location is in a secure area.
- Remember, you can change the save location as often as needed following the same steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the screenshot save location back to the default?
Yes, you can follow the same steps and select the original Screenshots folder in the Pictures library.
Will changing the save location affect the PrtScn key functionality?
No, changing the save location will not affect how the PrtScn key works. Screenshots will still be captured and saved to the new location.
Can I use an external drive as the new save location?
Yes, you can set an external drive as the save location, but ensure it is always connected when taking screenshots.
What happens if I delete the new screenshots folder?
If you delete the folder that you set as the new save location, Windows will default back to saving screenshots in the Pictures > Screenshots folder.
Is it possible to use OneDrive for storing screenshots?
Yes, you can select a folder within your OneDrive as the save location to sync screenshots across devices.
Summary
- Locate the current Screenshots folder.
- Right-click on the Screenshots folder.
- Go to the Location tab.
- Click the Move button.
- Select or create a new folder.
- Confirm the change.
Conclusion
Changing where screenshots are saved in Windows 10 allows you to tailor your computer to better fit your needs. Whether you are a student, professional, or just someone who likes to keep things organized, knowing how to direct your screenshots to a specific folder can save you time and hassle. This small adjustment can make a big difference in your daily workflow.
If you run into any issues while changing your screenshot save location, don’t hesitate to revisit this guide. You can also explore additional settings and features within Windows 10 that help optimize your experience. Now that you have the know-how, why not customize your screenshot save location today? It’s a quick and easy way to make your digital life a bit more organized.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.