Taking a screenshot on an Android device sounds like a simple task, but the method varies depending on the manufacturer and OS version.
Unlike the iPhone, where screenshots work the same way on all devices, Android phones like Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, Motorola, and OnePlus offer different ways to capture the screen.
Whether you want to share something with friends, family, or followers, knowing the best method to take a screenshot is essential.
Most phones allow you to press a combination of buttons, but some come with built-in features for extra convenience. On a recent version of Android, you might even find new capabilities that make the process faster.
No matter which smartphone you use, mastering these methods ensures you can save and access your photos easily. With a few quick steps, you’ll be able to take, edit, and manage your screenshots effortlessly.
Screenshot on Android- The Short Answer
1. Taking a Screenshot on an Android device
How to Screenshot on Samsung
- Press and hold the Power button and Volume down at the same time for 1 to 2 seconds. The screen will flash, showing that the screenshot is taken.
- Use Bixby by saying, “Take a screenshot” for a hands-free method. This works on supported Samsung phones.
- Enable Palm swipe in Settings under Advanced features and Motion and gestures. Then, swipe the entire side of your hand across the screen from left to right.
- If the screenshot doesn’t work, check if the gesture setting is enabled or restart your phone.
How to Screenshot on Google Pixel
- Open the screen that you want to capture before taking a screenshot.
- Press the Power and Volume down buttons at the same time to save the picture.
- The phone will show a preview at the bottom left of the screen.
- If your Google Assistant is enabled, use a voice command to ask the voice assistant to take a screenshot for you.
Once captured, the screenshot is automatically saved and can be accessed from your gallery or photos app.
How to Screenshot on Chromebook
- Press the Show Windows key on your keyboard to capture the entire screen instantly.
- To take a screenshot of a specific window, press Shift + Ctrl + Show Windows and choose the area you want.
- Your screenshot will be automatically copied to the clipboard, making it easy to paste anywhere.
- You can find all your screenshots in the Files app under the Downloads folder.
If you often take screenshots, using a keyboard shortcut is the fastest way to save what’s on your device.
2. How to Take a Screenshot With Gestures
Some Android phones let you take a screenshot using gestures, making it easier than pressing buttons.
On Pixel 4a 5G and later, enable Quick Tap in Settings > System > Gestures, then double-tap the back of your phone.
Samsung Galaxy users can use Palm swipe—just slide your hand across the screen after enabling it in Advanced Features > Motion and gestures.
If you have a Motorola or OnePlus phone, try the three-finger screenshot method. Motorola users can enable it in the Moto app > Moto Actions, while OnePlus users can turn it on in Settings > Buttons & gestures > Quick gestures.
Each phone has its own way, but swiping down, double-tapping, or using your hand movement can make taking a screenshot quick and simple.
3. How to Take a Screenshot With the Accessibility Menu
If you want an easier way to take a screenshot, the Accessibility Menu is a great option. It adds a floating button or dedicated menu that lets you navigate your screen, adjust the volume, power off the phone, and more.
To enable it on stock Android, go to Settings > Accessibility > Accessibility Menu, turn on the shortcut, and allow the required permissions.
For Samsung devices, check Settings > Accessibility > Interaction and dexterity.
OnePlus users can find it under Settings > System > Accessibility > Accessibility Menu.
Motorola users should go to Settings > Accessibility > Accessibility Menu to activate this feature. Once set up, simply tap the button overlay and select screenshot from the menu.
4. How to Take a Screenshot with Voice Control
If you prefer using voice control, your digital assistant can take a screenshot for you. Just say, “Hey Google, take a screenshot,” and the assistant will do it instantly.
Another way is to long-press the Power button to bring up the assistant, then ask it to capture your screen. This is a quick and hands-free way to save what’s on your device without pressing any buttons.
5. How to Take a Screenshot with your Galaxy’s S Pen
If you have a Galaxy phone, taking a screenshot is simple with the S Pen. Just remove the stylus, tap the Air command menu, and select Screen write to instantly capture your screen.
However, if you’re using the Galaxy S25 Ultra, keep in mind that Samsung has removed Bluetooth functionality, so Air command features like screenshots won’t work.
6. How to Take a Scrolling Screenshot on Android
A scrolling screenshot helps you capture the entire page instead of just the portion that appears on screen. This is useful for saving longer pages like news articles.
To take one, first capture a normal screenshot, then tap the scrolling capture button next to the screenshot thumbnail. On Pixel, tap Capture more; on Galaxy, choose Scroll Capture; and on OnePlus, select Scroll.
On Android, this will open a new window showing the long image of the page. You’ll see the original screenshot inside a crop window, which you can resize or drag to cover the full page.
Simply pull the bottom of the crop window all the way down to capture everything. While different smartphones may handle this differently, the function remains the same.
Where do Screenshots go on Android?
When you take a screenshot on your Android phone, it automatically saves in the Photos app. If you’re using Google Photos, open it, go to Collections, and select Screenshots. Some devices also store them in the Albums section.
How to take a Screen Recording on Android
- Open Quick settings by swiping down from the top of your screen.
- Tap the pencil icon in the bottom left corner to edit and add the Screen recorder feature.
- Drag the Screen recorder icon to your Quick settings panel for easy access.
- Tap the Screen recorder icon, then press the Start button to begin recording.
- When done, swipe down to find the notification bar and select Tap to stop. Your recording is saved in the default camera roll, usually in Google Photos.
What To Do if You Have a Different Device or Computer
If your device has no built-in option, open a search engine and look up how to take a screenshot or screen recording for your specific model.
You can also find apps on Google Play by searching for screen capture or screen recorder. Some methods may vary, so try different ways until you find one that works.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the shortcut for screenshot?
To take a screenshot, press the Windows logo key and PrtScr key together. On tablets, press the Windows logo button and volume down button at the same time. Your screenshot is automatically saved in the Screenshots folder inside the Pictures folder.
Does Samsung have a tap to screenshot?
Yes, Samsung devices offer a tap to screenshot feature using Back-tap actions or the Side-key press. You can enable it through Settings > Advanced features or install Good Lock from the Galaxy Store and use the RegiStar module for custom actions like Palm swipe to capture.
Why is my screenshot not working on Android?
If your screenshot isn’t working, your storage might be full, or an app restriction could be blocking it. Try rebooting your device, using Android storage manager, or moving files to cloud storage or an SD card to free up space.
How do I turn on screenshot options?
You can enable screenshot options by going to Settings, then selecting Advanced features or Gestures. Some Android phones let you use Palm swipe or add the screenshot button to the Quick settings panel. If these don’t work, check the Power menu for a screenshot shortcut.
Final remarks
Taking a screenshot on Android is simple, whether you use buttons, gestures, or quick settings. If one method doesn’t work, try enabling screenshot options in Settings. For extra features, some Android phones offer tools like scrolling screenshots and Palm swipe. No matter the method, capturing your screen is quick and easy!
That’s all! You can also check out How to Find Recently Deleted Apps on Android/iPhone 2025 and How to Reset Android Auto: A Step-by-Step Guide
What are you waiting for? Follow our advice to stay updated and keep your device in top condition. If you like this article, please follow us on WhatsApp and Pinterest for more free technology tutorials and updates.
Note: AndroidApp101 is a website development and content writing agency. If you’re interested in our services, feel free to reach out through our contact form.
