How to Extract Text from Screenshots on Windows 11

Extracting text from images is effortless on Android or iPhone, thanks to their built-in tools. However, on Windows 11, it has often been challenging due to the limited availability of reliable OCR (Optical Character Recognition) software. While some OCR tools exist for Windows, many are either premium or lack the accuracy needed for effective text extraction.

Fortunately, Microsoft has enhanced the Snipping Tool in Windows 11, making it a versatile solution. Known for its lightweight design and simplicity, the Snipping Tool now includes a feature to extract text directly from screenshots. This update means you can easily capture screenshots and copy text from them without relying on third-party software.

With this new functionality, the Snipping Tool becomes an efficient and free option for text extraction on Windows 11, bridging a gap that users have long faced. It’s a game-changer for productivity and convenience.

How to Extract Text from Screenshots on Windows 11? Snipping Tool

download the latest version of the Snipping Tool for Windows 11, follow these steps:

Open Microsoft Store: Press Win + S, type Microsoft Store, and hit Enter.
Search for Snipping Tool: Type Snipping Tool in the search bar.
Update or Install: If the app is already installed, click Update to get the latest version. If not, click Get or Install to download it.
Launch the Snipping Tool: After installation, find it in the Start menu or search bar.

Now the latest Snipping Tool installed on your Windows 11 PC, copying text from screenshots is now seamless. Simply capture your screenshot, use the Text Actions feature to extract the text, and click Copy Text. This streamlined process makes text extraction easy and efficient directly from your screen captures.

Press Win + S and type Snipping Tool.
Click on the app to open it.

Click the New button in the Snipping Tool.
Select the area of the screen you want to capture.

After capturing the screenshot, look for the Text Actions button (typically represented by a text icon).
Click it, and the Snipping Tool will process the image to detect text.
Once processed, the detected text will be highlighted.

Click the Copy Text button to copy the extracted text to your clipboard.
Paste it into any application (e.g., Word, Notepad, or a browser) using Ctrl + V.

Why Snipping Tool to Use Extract Text from Screenshots on Windows 11?

The Snipping Tool is a great choice for extracting text from screenshots on Windows 11 due to its simplicity, reliability, and built-in functionality. Here’s why:

No Third-Party Software Needed

The Snipping Tool is pre-installed on Windows 11, saving you from downloading or purchasing additional OCR software.

User-Friendly Interface

It has an intuitive interface, making it easy for anyone to capture screenshots and extract text with minimal effort.

Accurate Text Recognition

The new Text Actions feature provides accurate OCR capabilities, ensuring precise text extraction from images.

Integrated Workflow

You can capture, edit, and extract text all within one app, streamlining your workflow.

Free and Lightweight

The Snipping Tool is a free, lightweight solution compared to many premium OCR tools, making it accessible for all users.

Its enhanced features make it a convenient and efficient tool for text extraction on Windows 11.

How Extract Text from Images using PowerToys?

Microsoft PowerToys is another excellent tool for extracting text from images on Windows 11. It offers a feature called Text Extractor, which allows you to copy text directly from screenshots or any image on your screen. Here’s how to use it:

Step 1: Install Microsoft PowerToys

Download PowerToys: Go to the official PowerToys GitHub page and download the latest release.
Install the Application: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 2: Enable the Text Extractor Tool