How to Screenshot on Android (Complete Guide for All Devices & Versions)

To take a screenshot on most Android devices, press the Power + Volume Down buttons simultaneously. Depending on your device or Android version, there are also gesture-based and voice-enabled options.

Capturing your screen is a basic yet essential task—whether you’re saving receipts, documenting messages, or sharing high scores from a game. But with many manufacturers customizing Android, the method to take a screenshot on Android can vary.

This guide breaks down every possible way to screenshot across Android phones, tablets, brands, and software versions.

Quick Overview: How to Take a Screenshot on Android

Here are the most commonly used methods to take a screenshot on Android phone:

• Button combo: Press Power + Volume Down at the same time
• Palm swipe gesture: Available on some Samsung Galaxy phones
• Google Assistant voice command: Say “Hey Google, take a screenshot”
• Quick Settings panel: Tap the “Screenshot” icon (if available)
• Third-party apps: Tools like Screenshot Easy or Screen Master

Each method works differently depending on the brand and Android version. Let’s explore them all.

Device-Specific Instructions for Capturing Screenshots

How to Screenshot on Samsung Devices

Samsung offers multiple ways to screenshot on Samsung phones:

1. Button Combination

• Press Power + Volume Down for one second
• The screen flashes, and the image is saved in your Gallery

2. Palm Swipe Gesture

• Go to Settings > Advanced Features > Motions and Gestures
• Enable Palm swipe to capture
• Swipe the edge of your hand across the screen to capture

3. S Pen Method (Note Series)

• Remove the S Pen and tap Smart Select or Screen Write from Air Command
• Select the area or write on the screenshot directly

These features apply to models like the Samsung Galaxy S21, S22, and beyond, making the how to take a screenshot on Samsung Galaxy S21 query fully covered.

How to Screenshot on Google Pixel Devices

Google keeps the process simple on Pixel phones:

1. Button Method

• Press Power + Volume Down

2. Recent Apps Method (Android 12 and above)

• Open Recent Apps
• Tap the Screenshot option beneath the app preview

Google Pixel phones like the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 support both options, so users searching how to take a screenshot on Google Pixel 6 will find either method effective.

Capturing Screenshots on OnePlus, Xiaomi, Huawei & More

Most other Android brands follow a similar logic with slight variations:

OnePlus

• Use Power + Volume Down
• Or enable three-finger swipe from Settings > Buttons & Gestures

Xiaomi (MiUI)

• Press Power + Volume Down
• Or use the Quick Ball or three-finger swipe

Huawei

• Use the standard button method
• Or knock twice on the screen with your knuckle to capture (Knuckle Gesture)

These techniques address the long-tail keywords:
how to take a screenshot on OnePlus 9 Pro,
how to take a screenshot on Xiaomi Mi 11, and
how to take a screenshot on Huawei P40 Pro.

Taking Screenshots on Android Tablets

To screenshot on Android tablet devices (Samsung Tab, Lenovo Tab, etc.):

• Use Power + Volume Down
• Some tablets have a screenshot button in the navigation bar or quick settings
• Stylus-enabled tablets may offer advanced screen capture tools

Android tablets generally follow the same rules as phones, but larger screens and custom interfaces can offer alternative methods.

Screenshot Methods for Different Android Versions

How to Take a Screenshot on Android 12

Android 12 introduced a redesigned UI, but the screenshot feature remains consistent:

• Power + Volume Down
• Or Recent Apps > Screenshot for individual app captures

How to Take a Screenshot on Android 13

• Same methods as Android 12
• Includes scrolling screenshot functionality:
  • After taking a screenshot, tap “Capture More” to scroll and capture full content

How to Take a Screenshot on Android 14

• Press Power + Volume Down
• Capture More and edit screenshots directly
• Enhanced clipboard access for quick sharing

These updates ensure coverage of the queries how to take a screenshot on Android 12, Android 13, and Android 14.

Using Google Assistant to Capture Screenshots

Google Assistant can screenshot on Android using voice commands. This method is useful when you want a hands-free option.

Steps:

1. Say “Hey Google, take a screenshot”
2. The Assistant will capture the screen and display sharing options

This method works on most Android devices with Google Assistant enabled. It’s particularly useful for accessibility or when your buttons are broken.

How to Take a Screenshot on Android without Buttons

If your hardware buttons are damaged or not accessible:

Alternative Options:

• Google Assistant voice command
• Gesture controls: Enable three-finger swipe or palm swipe (varies by brand)
• Accessibility menu:
  • Go to Settings > Accessibility > Accessibility Menu
  • Enable shortcut and tap the menu icon, then choose Screenshot

This addresses the keyword how to take a screenshot on Android without buttons and supports users facing physical limitations.

Recommended Screenshot Apps for Android

Sometimes, built-in tools don’t offer what you need. Here are top-rated apps that can help:

1. Screenshot Easy – Customizable shortcuts and built-in editor
2. Screen Master – Floating button, stitching long screenshots, blur tools
3. AZ Screen Recorder – Can also take screenshots alongside video recording

Use these when default methods are unavailable or for additional editing features.

Finding and Managing Your Screenshots

Once captured, your screenshots are saved automatically in:

• Gallery > Screenshots or Photos > Library > Screenshots
• From there, you can:
  • Edit: Crop, annotate, blur
  • Share: Email, social apps, or messaging
  • Backup: Auto-sync with Google Photos

Knowing where your screenshots go ensures you won’t lose important captures.

Troubleshooting Common Screenshot Issues

If your screenshot isn’t working, try these tips:

• Buttons not responding: Try Google Assistant or a third-party app
• App restrictions: Some apps block screenshots (e.g., banking apps)
• Storage full: Clear space to save new images
• Gesture not working: Re-enable it in Settings or restart the device

Fixing these issues helps prevent frustration and improves usability.

Final Thoughts

Mastering how to take a screenshot on Android unlocks a simple yet powerful tool for productivity, sharing, and saving information. Whether you’re using a Samsung Galaxy S21, Google Pixel 6, Android tablet, or running Android 14, there’s a method that fits your needs.

Use built-in button shortcuts, explore gesture controls, or go hands-free with Google Assistant. With so many options, capturing your screen is easier than ever.

FAQs

Kelly

I’m Kelly Hood! I blog about tech, how to use it, and what you should know. I love spending time with my family and sharing stories of the day with them.