How to Fix Snip Could Not Be Sent Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Snip & Sketch is a handy tool in Windows 11 that allows you to quickly capture and share screenshots. Sometimes, you might encounter an error message saying, “Snip could not be sent.” This issue can be frustrating, especially when you need to share your screenshots promptly.

Fortunately, there are several straightforward ways to fix this problem. The solutions range from simple checks to more detailed troubleshooting steps.

This guide will walk you through each method step-by-step to help you resolve the error and get Snip & Sketch working smoothly again.

By following these instructions, you’ll be able to send your snips without any trouble.

Quick Note: Before You Start

Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Updates often fix bugs and improve app performance.
Check your internet connection because sending snips may require online access.
Confirm that Snip & Sketch has the necessary permissions to run and send files.
Restart your computer. Sometimes a simple reboot fixes temporary glitches.

Step 1: Check the Clipboard Functionality

Snip & Sketch uses the clipboard to copy images before sending. If the clipboard is not working properly, you might see the “Snip could not be sent” error.

To check the clipboard:

Press Windows + V to open the clipboard history. If it’s empty or disabled, enable clipboard history by clicking Turn on.
Try copying a simple text or image using Ctrl + C and see if you can paste it somewhere else, like Notepad.

If copying and pasting doesn’t work, the clipboard may be malfunctioning, which will affect Snip & Sketch’s ability to send snips.

Step 2: Restart the Snip & Sketch App

Sometimes the app itself might be stuck or not functioning correctly. Restarting it can help fix minor problems.

Close the Snip & Sketch app completely.
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Look for any processes named Snip & Sketch or Screen Sketch and select End task.
Open Snip & Sketch again and try to send your snip.

Restarting the app clears temporary data and can resolve glitches preventing snips from sending.

Step 3: Reset Snip & Sketch Settings

If restarting doesn’t work, resetting the app to default settings can help fix corrupted configurations.

To reset Snip & Sketch:

Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
Go to Apps & Features.
Find Snip & Sketch in the list and click on the three dots next to it.
Choose Advanced options.
Scroll down and click Reset.
Confirm the reset and wait for it to finish.

Resetting removes any corrupted app data and restores default settings, which often fixes sending errors.

Step 4: Check Mail or Messaging App Integration

Snip & Sketch’s “send” function may use your default mail or messaging app to share screenshots. If these apps are not set up properly, the snip cannot be sent.

To verify this:

Open Settings and go to Apps > Default apps.
Look for the default Email or Messaging app and make sure it is set correctly (e.g., Mail app or your preferred mail client).
If no default app is set, select an app to handle emails or messages.
Try sending the snip again.

Setting a proper default app ensures Snip & Sketch knows where to send the image.

Step 5: Update or Reinstall Snip & Sketch

If none of the above steps work, your Snip & Sketch app might be outdated or corrupted.

To update or reinstall:

Open the Microsoft Store.
Search for Snip & Sketch.
If an update is available, click Update.
If updating does not fix the issue, uninstall the app by right-clicking it in the Start menu and choosing Uninstall.
After uninstalling, reinstall Snip & Sketch from the Microsoft Store.

Reinstalling ensures you have the latest, clean version of the app free from bugs.

Alternative Method: Use Snipping Tool Instead

Windows 11 also includes the Snipping Tool, which is similar to Snip & Sketch but sometimes more stable.

To use Snipping Tool:

Press Windows + Shift + S to open the snip toolbar.
Select the area you want to capture.
Click the notification that appears to open the snip in the Snipping Tool.
From here, you can save or share the screenshot using your preferred method.

This alternative can bypass Snip & Sketch issues while you troubleshoot.

FAQs

Why does Snip & Sketch show “Snip could not be sent”?

This usually happens due to clipboard issues, incorrect app settings, missing default mail client, or corrupted app data.

Do I need an internet connection to send snips?

Yes, if you are sending snips via email or messaging apps, an active internet connection is required.

Can antivirus software block Snip & Sketch from sending snips?

Sometimes, security software may block app functions. Temporarily disable your antivirus and test if sending works, then re-enable it.

Is resetting Snip & Sketch safe?

Yes, resetting only clears app data and settings, it does not affect your personal files.

Can I use third-party screenshot tools instead?

Yes, tools like Greenshot, Lightshot, or ShareX can be alternatives if Snip & Sketch keeps failing.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still face the issue, consider the following options:

Run the Windows Troubleshooter for Apps. Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter.
Create a new Windows user account to see if the problem is user-specific.
Check for any pending Windows updates and install them.
Visit the official Microsoft support page for Snip & Sketch: Microsoft Snip & Sketch Support.

Conclusion

The “Snip could not be sent” error in Windows 11 can be fixed by following a few simple steps. Start by checking the clipboard and restarting the app, then move on to resetting app settings and verifying default mail or messaging apps. Updating or reinstalling Snip & Sketch often solves persistent problems.

If you prefer, using the built-in Snipping Tool offers a reliable alternative for capturing and sharing screenshots.

By systematically going through these solutions, you will be able to fix the error and enjoy seamless screenshot sharing again.