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Use the section that matches your problem: Paint not opening, Paint missing, Microsoft Store errors, crashes while saving, or a feature that is not available on your PC.
How to open Paint in Windows 11
Try one of these methods:
- Select Start, type Paint, and select Paint from the results.
- Press Windows key + R, enter
mspaint.exe, and press Enter. - Open the official Microsoft Store listing: Paint. The Store product ID is
9PCFS5B6T72H.
Current Windows 11 Paint is distributed as a Store app. Therefore, instructions that say Paint must always be located at C:WindowsSystem32mspaint.exe are not dependable for every Windows 11 installation. Copying that file from another PC is also not a recommended repair method.
Use Get Help for a Paint problem
Windows 11 includes the Get Help app, which provides guided troubleshooting, support information, community resources, and routes to Microsoft support when available.
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- 【Stylus for Touch Screen】This stylus can be used on touch screen, designed to replace your fingers, the stylus can free up your fingers and provide higher sensitivity and response on the screen.
- 【Capacitive stylus】This is a capacitive stylus (battery-free, requires no charging, and functions like a fingertip)—not an active stylus. It does not support pressure sensitivity or palm rejection. However, it allows for tapping, scrolling, note-taking, and drawing on touchscreens; if you require professional-grade drawing capabilities on an iPad, please choose an active stylus instead.
- 【2-in-1 Stylus Pen】This stylus features two different tips: a flexible transparent disc tip and a rubber tip. Applying moderate pressure when using the rubber tip ensures full contact with the screen—especially on screens with protective films—thereby enabling stable signal transmission. The combination of the rubber tip and the disc tip offers two distinct touch experiences.Please note that the plastic piece on the transparent disc is an integral part of the tip and cannot be removed.
- 【Works On Capacitive Touch Screens】Compatible with iPad, iPad Air/mini, iPhone, Samsung Galaxy Tab, Android tablets, Kindle and smartphones. Also works over most screen protectors — glide, no scratch. The stylus is used to replace your fingers on a touchscreen, Avoid rubbing your fingers and leaving fingerprints on touchscreen devices. If it cannot be used for writing on some devices, This may be due to limitations in the settings of touchscreen devices. If you cannot find a solution, please contact us at any time, and we will help you resolve the issue.
- 【Multiple Usage Scenarios】Whether you are taking notes in class, reviewing documents at work, drawing creative designs, or enjoying mobile games, this universal stylus pen delivers a smooth and comfortable touch experience. It is ideal for writing, sketching, annotating, scrolling, and precise screen control on tablets and smartphones. From daily tasks to creative projects, this stylus helps you capture ideas anytime and anywhere.
- Select Start.
- Type Get Help.
- Open the Get Help app.
- Enter a specific description of the problem.
Useful searches include:
Paint won't openPaint is missingPaint crashes when savingPaint Microsoft Store installation error
You can also reach support tools through Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters. The exact options offered by Get Help can vary according to the problem and Windows installation.
Report a Paint bug through Feedback Hub
Use Feedback Hub for a Paint-specific bug, missing feature, visual problem, or repeatable failure rather than a general Windows support question.
- Press Windows key + F.
- Search for an existing report or select the category for Apps > Paint.
- Describe what happened and include the exact steps that reproduce it.
- Add your Paint version, Windows version, device type, and relevant hardware details.
A useful report is more specific than “Paint is broken.” For example, state whether the crash occurs when opening a PNG, using Layers, saving a project, or selecting an AI tool. Microsoft’s Paint release notes direct users to Feedback Hub with Win + F under Apps > Paint.
Repair or reset Paint
Windows 11 can expose repair options for Store apps. Repair is the safer first step because it attempts to fix Paint without removing its stored data.
- Open Start > Settings.
- Select Apps > Installed apps.
- Find Paint.
- Select the three-dot More button beside Paint.
- Select Advanced options.
- Under Reset, select Repair.
- Open Paint again.
If Paint still fails, return to the same page and select Reset. Reset is more destructive: it can remove Paint’s stored data and settings. It does not reset Windows or erase your operating system, but save important image files somewhere outside the app first.
Not every app exposes identical repair and reset controls. If the buttons are absent, continue with the Store update and cache steps below.
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- Creative Freedom, Anywhere: Lightweight aluminum stylus with natural grip. Includes 6 replaceable tips and 3 color stylus pens. Perfect for sharing with friends, family, or colleagues, this bundle ensures you’re always equipped to capture inspiration.
Update Paint and Microsoft Store
Paint is updated separately from the Windows edition. A Home, Pro, Enterprise, or Education installation does not by itself determine which Paint build or features you have.
Install Paint updates
- Open Microsoft Store.
- Select Library.
- Select Get updates.
- Allow Microsoft Store and Paint updates to complete.
- Close and reopen Paint.
Turn on automatic Store updates
- Open Microsoft Store.
- Select your profile picture.
- Select Store Settings.
- Turn on App updates.
Some publishers manage updates inside their own apps, but this setting allows Microsoft Store apps to update automatically when Store-managed updates are available.
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Install Windows updates
- Open Start > Settings > Windows Update.
- Select Check for updates.
- Install the available updates.
- Restart Windows if requested.
A restart matters after some Windows updates. It can also resolve a Store installation that is waiting for the operating system to finish updating.
Reset the Microsoft Store cache
Use the Store cache reset if Paint cannot be found in Store search, the Paint listing will not load, or installation remains stuck.
- Press Windows key + R.
- Enter
wsreset.exe. - Select OK.
- Wait for the blank command window to close. This normally takes about 10 seconds.
- Microsoft Store should open automatically. Search for Paint and try the installation or update again.
Do not close the blank window immediately; it is the cache-reset process running.
Reinstall Paint with WinGet
If Microsoft Store works but the Paint installation is damaged or missing, reinstall the Store package from Windows Terminal, PowerShell, or Command Prompt.
Rank #3
- 【Stylus Pen for Touchscreen】Our stylus pen requires no Bluetooth pairing or charging, you can unleash your creativity anytime and anywhere, just pick up the stylus and express your thoughts freely on the touchscreen.
- 【2-in-1 Stylus Pen】: Tablet stylus for touchscreen, made of lightweight alloy, no need for Bluetooth connection or charging, ready to use after opening the package, comfortable in hand, sturdy, durable and anti-aging, so you can use it anytime, anywhere Easily capture inspiration and make everything feel like writing on paper, giving you a more accurate writing/drawing/touching experience.
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winget install --id 9PCFS5B6T72H --source msstoreThe ID identifies Microsoft Paint’s Store listing. The msstore source tells WinGet to use the Microsoft Store catalog.
If Windows says winget is not recognized
WinGet is normally delivered through Microsoft’s App Installer package on Windows 11. First test it by opening a terminal and running:
wingetIf it is installed but has not registered after your first sign-in, Microsoft documents this PowerShell command:
Add-AppxPackage -RegisterByFamilyName -MainPackage Microsoft.DesktopAppInstaller_8wekyb3d8bbweThen open a new terminal window and try the Paint installation command again. WinGet requires Windows 10 version 1809 or later; Windows 11 normally meets that requirement.
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What to do when Paint will not start
Work through these steps in order, stopping when Paint works:
- Close Paint completely and open it again.
- Restart Windows.
- Install updates from Settings > Windows Update.
- Update Store apps through Microsoft Store > Library > Get updates.
- Use Settings > Apps > Installed apps > Paint > More > Advanced options > Repair.
- Use Reset if Repair does not help.
- Run
wsreset.exeto reset the Store cache. - Reinstall Paint with the WinGet command.
Paint broke after System Restore
Microsoft documents a specific Windows 10 and Windows 11 problem in which MSIX-packaged apps can fail after System Restore. Paint may display “This app can’t open,” stop responding, crash, or appear multiple times in the Start menu.
Rank #4
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- 【Smart Touch Switch & Power Save】-The touch screen pen stylus is easy to use: just double-tap the top of the android tablet capacitive stylus pen . There's no need for drivers or bluetooth settings. This iphone pen uses the USB-C charging port,just 35 minutes of charging will give you 8-10 hours of operation.Our digital pen has smart energy-saving feature, automatically turn to "sleep mode" after 5 minutes of inactivity and avoid unnecessary battery consumption.
- 【High Precise and Sensitive】-The pom tip of the stylist pen is wear-resistant,designed for professionals who need high precision and accuracy,is a great feature for anyone who uses a stylus pen android for designing work or drawing. They are very smooth and high responseon the screen, without lag or jumping.Luntak android stylus pen also a great gift for family and friends who love to create.
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- 【What You Get】-Our tablet pens for touch screen set includes：1* stylist pens，3* Replaceable POM Tips，1* Type-C charging cable，1* User Manual.We support 1-year product warranty and 1-month free return and exchange policy for our pen with stylus tip. If you encounter any issues, please don't hesitate to contact us. Please note the apple pens does not support palm rejection, so avoid touching the screen with your hands.Does not support pressure sensitivity.
Try opening Paint again first. If it still fails, reinstall it from Microsoft Store and run Windows Update. These remedies address the packaged-app registration problem more directly than copying an executable into a system folder.
Why Paint may be missing from Microsoft Store
If the official Paint listing is unavailable or cannot be installed, possible causes include:
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- Microsoft Family settings are hiding the app.
- The device is incompatible.
- Windows was recently updated but has not been restarted.
- You are not signed in with an account authorized to use Microsoft Store apps.
- Microsoft Store is disabled by a work or school policy.
Open the official listing using Paint’s product ID, 9PCFS5B6T72H, and confirm that Microsoft Store is signed in. On a managed computer, contact the organization’s administrator if Store access is blocked. A personal repair command cannot bypass an organization policy.
Check your Paint version before troubleshooting features
Paint’s toolbar, Copilot menu, AI tools, dialogs, and project options can differ between Windows 11 computers because Paint updates through Microsoft Store and features may roll out gradually.
- Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Find Paint.
- Select the three-dot More button.
- Select Advanced options.
- Inspect the Paint app information and version, if shown.
You can also open Microsoft Store and inspect Paint’s status through Library.
| Feature | Availability notes |
|---|---|
| Layers and transparency | Introduced from Paint version 11.2308.18.0; includes transparent PNG support and a Layers panel. |
| Image Creator | Formerly called Cocreator. Availability depends on the rollout and device requirements. |
| Generative erase | Documented in the 2024 rollout for Windows 11 PCs. |
| Generative fill | Documented for Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs running Windows 11 version 24H2 or later. |
| Project files | Paint version 11.2508.361.0 introduced File > Save as project, which saves an editable .paint file. |
| Opacity slider | Added for Pencil and Brush tools in the same 11.2508.361.0 rollout. |
| Restyle | Introduced in version 11.2509.441.0 for Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs; Microsoft account sign-in is required. |
| Coloring book | Introduced in version 11.2512.191.0 for Copilot+ PCs; Microsoft account sign-in is required. |
| Fill tolerance | Introduced in version 11.2512.191.0. |
| Freeform rotate | Introduced in version 11.2601.391.0; supports arbitrary-angle rotation for shapes, text, and active selections. |
These version notes do not mean every Windows 11 PC has every feature. Hardware, Windows version, Microsoft account sign-in, region, rollout channel, and staged availability can all matter. Paint and Paint 3D are separate applications; a Paint 3D installation does not provide current Microsoft Paint features.
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Do not confuse Paint Reset with Reset this PC
Settings > Apps > Installed apps > Paint > Advanced options > Reset resets only the Paint app and its stored data.
Settings > System > Recovery > Reset PC reinstalls Windows. Depending on the option selected, it can remove applications, settings, and personal files. Use the Paint app’s Reset option for a Paint problem; do not choose Reset PC unless you intend to perform a Windows recovery operation.
Microsoft support links
- About the Get Help app
- Repair apps and programs in Windows
- Fix problems with Microsoft Store apps
- Find or install an app from Microsoft Store
- Microsoft WinGet documentation
FAQ
How do I get help with Paint in Windows 11?
Open Start, search for Get Help, and enter a specific query such as “Paint won’t open” or “Paint crashes when saving.” For a Paint-specific bug, press Windows key + F and submit feedback under Apps > Paint.
How do I repair Paint in Windows 11?
Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, select the three-dot button beside Paint, choose Advanced options, and select Repair. If that fails, return to the same page and select Reset.
How do I reinstall Paint in Windows 11?
Open Windows Terminal, PowerShell, or Command Prompt and run winget install --id 9PCFS5B6T72H --source msstore. You can also reinstall Paint from its official Microsoft Store listing.
Why is Paint missing from the Microsoft Store?
The app may be unavailable in your region, hidden by Family settings, incompatible with the device, blocked by an organization policy, or affected by a pending Windows restart or Store sign-in problem.
Is Paint the same as Paint 3D?
No. They are separate applications. Features such as Layers, transparency, Generative erase, and Paint project files belong to current Microsoft Paint and are not automatically available in Paint 3D.
Why does my Paint not have the same features as another Windows 11 PC?
Paint is updated through Microsoft Store, and features can depend on the Paint version, Windows version, hardware, Microsoft account, region, and staged rollout. Windows 11 edition alone does not guarantee a particular feature.
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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteThe Bottom Line
For most Paint problems, use this sequence: restart Windows, update Paint through Microsoft Store > Library > Get updates, repair Paint from its Advanced options, reset it if necessary, reset the Store cache with wsreset.exe, and reinstall it with WinGet. Use Get Help for guided support and Feedback Hub for a reproducible Paint bug. Avoid copying old mspaint.exe files or using Windows’ full Reset this PC feature for an ordinary Paint failure.
Quick Recap
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