How to take screenshot on Android

How to Take a Screenshot on Android — Quick & Easy Steps

Need to save something on your phone screen? Here are simple, reliable ways to take a screenshot on most Android phones — no apps required.

What you will learn

Three quick methods to capture the screen: button shortcuts, gesture (if supported), and the quick settings shortcut.

Method 1 — Use the Power + Volume Down buttons (most phones)

1. Open the screen you want to capture (app, webpage, message).
2. Press and hold the Power button and the Volume Down button together for about 1 second.
3. You’ll see a short animation and hear a shutter sound (if sound is on). A thumbnail appears in the corner.
4. Tap the thumbnail to edit or swipe it away to save. Screenshots are saved to the Photos/Gallery → Screenshots folder.

Method 2 — Use gestures (if your phone supports it)

1. Open Settings → Search for “Gestures” or “Motions”.
2. Enable the screenshot gesture (examples: three-finger swipe, swipe palm across screen).
3. Use the gesture on the screen you want to capture — the phone will take a screenshot.

Method 3 — Quick Settings or Assistant

1. Pull down the notification panel to open Quick Settings.
2. Look for a Screenshot or Capture tile and tap it.
3. Alternatively, say “Hey Google, take a screenshot” on phones with Google Assistant enabled.

Alternative Apps (optional)

If your phone lacks quick gestures or shortcuts, apps like Screenshot Easy or built-in phone screen recorders (which can also capture still images) can help. Use only apps from the Play Store and check reviews.

Why screenshots might fail

• Some apps block screenshots (banking apps) for security.
• Button timing — press buttons simultaneously.
• Storage full — free up space in Settings → Storage.

FAQ

Q: Where are screenshots saved?
A: Usually in Photos/Gallery → Screenshots folder.

Q: Can I take a screenshot during a call?
A: Yes, but audio or video calls may be blocked by some apps.

Q: How to edit a screenshot?
A: Tap the thumbnail right after capture or open the screenshot in your Photos/Gallery app and use the edit tool.

Conclusion

Taking a screenshot on Android is fast — try the Power + Volume Down shortcut first. If your phone supports gestures or quick tiles, those are even easier. Always check the Screenshots album to find and share your captures.

Last updated: December 12, 2025