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There are several screen capture tool questions already on this site, but I think I have a slight tweak to the usual. I'd like a handy screen capture utility that can:

  • Run in Windows 7
  • Capture a sub-region of the screen
  • Show the current state of the mouse cursor and any active menus

I'd like to use it for writing docs that refer to specific application menu items. I like the built-in snipping tool in Windows 7, but the act of using it dismisses my menus, and it doesn't get the mouse cursor either.

Do any such tools exist?

EDIT: Ahh, I wasn't familiar with the "delayed capture" options of these tools, but they all seem to fit the bill. Thanks!

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4 Answers

up vote 5 down vote accepted

If you want to also capture menus, the best bet is just do a PrtSc (Print Screen button on keyboard), and then paste the captured image into an image editing software for cropping.

EDIT : PrtSc does not capture the mouse pointer. Editing answer to suggest alternative solution.

FastStone Capture is a free, extremely capable screen capture program, and I recommend it. To capture the menu item, use the "delayed screen capture" function, where it will have an audible countdown, and you can position the menu and pointer ready for that perfect moment of computing bliss.

FastStone Capture (Free + Portable)

Faststone Capture (Updated version + Shareware)

Actually, you can use any screen-capture software you like now, as long as it supports delayed capturing.

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It does not save the mouse pointer. – Snark Sep 9 '09 at 15:51
I'm editing my answer - recommending FastStone Capture and use the delayed screen capture function. :) – caliban Sep 9 '09 at 16:03
Thanks for the delayed capture pointer. – Chris Farmer Sep 9 '09 at 16:32
No worries, I learnt something new along the way too! :) consider it as exchange of knowledge. – caliban Sep 9 '09 at 16:35
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up vote 6 down vote

SnagIt is worth every penny and does what you require, as well as supporting auto-scrolling

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I bought SnagIt myself because it IS that useful. I (not kidding) would gladly pay two or three times as much for it. It's the best tool I've ever used for this type of thing. – Max Schmeling Sep 9 '09 at 16:56
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up vote 1 down vote

Bug Shooting

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The installer said 32-bit only, but I installed it anyway in my 64-bit windows 7 machine. It seems to work as advertised, but I don't see any way to capture the mouse pointer position. Am I missing something? – Chris Farmer Sep 9 '09 at 16:18
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up vote 1 down vote

I had a good experience with screenpresso -- quick, simple, aesthetically attractive and has great support.

demo screenshot

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