Windows 10 can keep a history of items you copy so you can paste something other than the most recent clipboard entry. Clipboard history must be enabled before Windows can show previously copied items.
Open clipboard history
- Press Windows + V.
- If clipboard history is off, select the option to turn it on.
- Copy text or another supported item.
- Press Windows + V again to see the history.
- Select an item to paste it into the active application.
You can pin items you want to keep available. The clipboard panel also lets you remove individual entries or clear unpinned history.
Privacy considerations
A clipboard can contain passwords, account numbers, private messages, or other sensitive text. Clear entries you do not want left in history and be cautious about clipboard synchronization between devices if that feature is enabled.
For PCs still using clipboard history on Windows 10, remember that Microsoft’s standard free support for that operating system ended in October 2025. Clipboard history remains a useful feature, but the operating system’s support status should be considered separately when deciding whether to keep a PC on Windows 10.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.