14 DAY TRIAL // The Windows Vista Snipping Tool will not revolutionize the way you take screenshots in Microsoft's latest operating system, but it sure comes in handy if you don't want to use third party solutions. You can access it via the Start Menu, Programs and Accessories. Alternatively, you also have the possibility to enter snipping tool into the search box under the Start Menu and hit enter on the highlighted result. The Snipping Tool ships by default with Windows Vista Home Premium, Business and Ultimate. The tool's name is self explanatory, and it is a great alternative to Print Screen.
"I've had several Tablet PCs, the Snipping Tool is something that I've used for some time. Because it's a tool familiar to me, I admit that I was caught a bit by surprise when a desktop user said that he loves the Snipping Tool in Windows Vista and that he uses it all the time. This is just one example of the functionality of Tablet PCs that can be used on computers that don't support ink or touch. It's a quick and easy way to capture a screen shot that can then be pasted into another document or email. Much more versatile than the old Alt-Print Screen option, it might be something that you may have overlooked," said Nick White, Microsoft Program Manager.
The tool does have its beauty, but this does not mean that it comes without limitations. For example, the Snipping Tool only supports Portable Network Graphic (PNG), GIF, JPEG and HTML file formats. A shortcoming in this sense is the fact that formats such as BMP, TIFF, PDF or even Microsoft's own HD Photo. Otherwise supported in Vista, are overlooked. Free-form, Rectangular, Window and Full Screen snips are the only options available to users. They do come in handy, and the Snipping Tool even allows you to annotate and easily email a snip. Still, you cannot configure a snip outside of the default options, and the lack of keyboard shortcuts will make your work harder.