Introduction
If you’re an Android user, it’s an essential skill to know how to take a screenshot of your device’s screen. Whether you’re saving an important email, documenting a technical problem, or capturing your high scores in a game, screen captures can be useful in a variety of ways. In this article, we’ll show you multiple ways to take a screenshot on your Android device.
Step-by-Step Guide
There are several ways to take a screenshot on an Android device. We are going to break down each one of them in simple steps.
Using Physical Buttons
This is the most common method of taking a screenshot on Android. It involves using the physical buttons on your device.
- Locate the Volume Down button and the Power Button (located on the side of the phone).
- Find the screen you want to capture.
- Hold the Volume Down and Power Buttons down at the same time. It will capture the screen and save the screenshot to your device’s Photos app.
- You can also tap the screenshot notification that appears at the top of the screen after the capture, which takes you to the captured image stored in your photos. From there, you can use the edit function, share button.
Using One’s Hand
Most Samsung Galaxy phones, come with a feature called Palm swipe to capture, which allows you to take a screenshot by swiping the screen with the side of your hand.
- Go to Settings > Advanced Features > Palm swipe to capture and enable the feature.
- Locate the screen you want to capture.
- Place the side of your hand on the phone’s screen, as if you’re “karate chopping” it.
- Swipe across the screen from left to right, or vice versa.
- The screenshot will be saved to your photos folder.
Using Google Assistant
Google Assistant is a powerful tool in Android which can be used for numerous tasks. It also has a feature that enables you to capture a screenshot by using your voice.
- Hold down the Home button or say ‘Hey Google’ if the hands-free mode is enabled.
- Speak “take a screenshot”.
- Google Assistant will capture the screen and provide you voice feedback.
Using the Notification Shade
Some Android devices, such as the Pixel 3 and later models, have a screenshot button in the notification shade.
- Swipe down on the notification shade from the top of the screen.
- Tap the Screenshot icon.
- Tap the Crop icon to adjust the screen capture.
- Select Save to save the screenshot.
Tips and Tricks
- To take a screenshot of a long page, scroll to the bottom of the page and take a screenshot, then scroll to the top and do the same. Use a screenshot editor or photo editing app to put them together for a seamless image.
- To share a screenshot in a text message, locate the screenshot in your Photos app and select the Share button. It will provide you the option to send the screenshot as a message.
Infographic
This infographic visually illustrates the step-by-step process of taking a screenshot on an Android device. Save it to your phone for easy reference.
Video Tutorial
This short video tutorial showcases the process of taking a screenshot on an Android device.
Troubleshooting
If you are experiencing problems taking a screenshot, here are some practical tips:
- If you receive an error message that says “Unable to capture screenshot” or “Couldn’t save screenshot,” try clearing some space on your device. If your device does not have enough storage space, it will not be able to save new files, including screenshots.
- Check if the screenshot feature is disabled on your device. Some Android phones, like some Sony devices, have the screenshot function disabled. Download a third-party app to take screenshots instead.
Third-Party Apps
If you’re not satisfied with the built-in screenshot function on your device, you can always use a third-party app. Here are some of the best Android apps for taking screenshots:
- Screenshot Touch – This app offers a range of options, such as editing and cropping.
- Screen Master – With this app, you can capture screen video and edit captured images on the go.
- ScreenShot & Screen Recorder – It captures screenshots, but also comes with a recording feature.
Pros and Cons
- Each of these apps has its pros and cons. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which one will work best for your needs. Features such as editing and video recording may tip the scale towards certain apps.
- Third-party apps might come with in-app advertisements or hidden fees, so it’s vital to check any app’s fine print before installing it.
Device-Specific Instructions
Different device manufacturers, like Samsung, have different ways of taking screenshots. Most of these methods differ slightly from the general ways shown above. Here is a guide on how to take a screenshot on the most popular Android devices.
Samsung Galaxy
- Press the power button and the volume down button simultaneously.
- The screen will flaash and make a clicking sound if the screenshot is successful. To view the captured screenshot, go to Photos app.
LG
- Press the volume down button and the power button simultaneously.
- The screen will flash and make a noise if the screenshot is successful. It will be visible in the gallery app.
Google Pixel
- Hold down the Power Button and the Volume Down button at the same time.
- You will hear the camera shutter sound if the screenshot is successful. Open the Photos app to view the capture.
Creative Uses for Screenshots
After you’ve captured a screenshot, the next step is to determine what you will do with it. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Custom wallpaper – Turn your favorite game moment or other image into a wallpaper.
- Edit – Use a photo editor to polish the screenshot further.
- Educate/Remind – Use screenshots to remind yourself of important events like meetings or interviews.
- Share – Share the screenshot with your friends to show off your unique moment.
Conclusion
Taking a screenshot can be an important thing when it comes to capturing important moments or tasks on your Android device. With this ultimate guide, you should be confident in knowing all the different ways you can take a screenshot on your device. Having this skillset can be useful when gathering and sharing information in your personal and professional life, and it’s simple enough that anyone can do it.
