Introduction

The Snipping Tool is a staple screenshot utility for Windows users, allowing quick and flexible screen captures. However, many users report that the Snipping Tool sometimes disappears or fails to launch—especially after Windows updates. If you're asking, "Why is my Windows Snipping Tool not showing up?", you're not alone.

This article offers practical fixes to get your Snipping Tool back and working properly. Whether it's missing from the Start Menu or not launching at all, we've got you covered.

Common Causes

Before diving into solutions, here are the most common reasons your Snipping Tool might not be showing:

🔄 Windows Update Glitches
⚙️ Disabled Optional Features
❌ Corrupt App Installation
🧹 Third-Party App Conflicts
👤 User Account Permissions

Fix 1: Search Manually via Windows Search

Sometimes it's there—but hidden.

Press Win + S and type Snipping Tool.
If found, right-click and select Pin to taskbar or Pin to Start.
Still not found? Try searching Snip & Sketch, especially on Windows 10 systems.

✅ Note: Starting with Windows 11, Snipping Tool and Snip & Sketch have merged into a unified tool.

Fix 2: Enable the App in Optional Features

If you're using Windows 11 and it's missing, the tool might be disabled.

Go to Settings > Apps > Optional Features.
Scroll down and look for Snipping Tool.
If not installed, click Add a feature, search for Snipping Tool, and install it.
Restart your system.

Fix 3: Use System Repair Tools

Sometimes system files are corrupt. These commands can help:

Open Command Prompt (Admin) and run:

sfc /scannow

Follow up with:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Reboot and check again.

Fix 4: Reinstall or Reset Snipping Tool

Go to:

Settings > Apps > Installed Apps
Search Snipping Tool
Click the three dots ... > Advanced Options
Choose Repair or Reset

Still not working? Uninstall it and reinstall from the Microsoft Store.

Fix 5: Keyboard Shortcut Still Works?

Even if it's not visually accessible, the shortcut might still function.

Try:

Windows key + Shift + S

If this opens the snipping overlay, your app is working but not linked properly. You can manually link it back using Start Menu search or shortcut creation.

Fix 6: Check for Conflicting Applications

Screen capture tools like Lightshot, Greenshot, or even antivirus utilities sometimes override Windows screenshot shortcuts.

Close all third-party apps
Disable or uninstall conflicting screenshot tools
Restart your PC

Fix 7: Create a New User Profile

If nothing else works, your Windows profile might be corrupted.

Create a new user account via Settings > Accounts > Family & other users
Log into the new account
Check if Snipping Tool appears

If it works in the new profile, consider migrating your files and settings.

Bonus Tip: System Restore

Use this only if the issue started recently.

Press Win + R, type rstrui, press Enter
Follow the wizard and select a restore point before the issue occurred

Final Thoughts

The Snipping Tool is simple but essential. When it goes missing, it can feel like a major productivity blocker. Fortunately, the solutions above cover most root causes—from misconfigured settings to deeper system corruption.

By following these steps, you should be able to restore access and get back to snipping effortlessly.

If the issue persists, consider checking for updates or reinstalling the entire system UI via PowerShell (advanced users only).

💡 Pro Tip: Want a better screenshot experience? Try third-party tools like ShareX, Greenshot, or Snagit for advanced functionality.

Why Is My Windows Snipping Tool Not Showing Up: Troubleshooting Guide