How to Take a Screenshot on Any Samsung Galaxy Device

Samsung Galaxy phones offer several ways to capture what's on your screen. Whether you're using a flagship Galaxy S series, an A series mid-ranger, or an older Galaxy Note, this guide covers every method available to you.

Method 1: Button Combination (Works on All Samsung Galaxy Phones)

The most universal way to take a screenshot on any Samsung Galaxy device is using the physical buttons:

  1. Navigate to the screen you want to capture.
  2. Press the Power button and the Volume Down button simultaneously.
  3. Hold both buttons for about 1–2 seconds until you see a flash animation and hear a shutter sound.
  4. A screenshot toolbar will appear at the bottom of the screen.

Your screenshot is automatically saved to Gallery > Screenshots or Gallery > Pictures > Screenshots.

Method 2: Palm Swipe Gesture

Samsung's Palm Swipe feature lets you take a screenshot without pressing any buttons:

  1. Go to Settings > Advanced Features > Motions and Gestures.
  2. Enable Palm Swipe to Capture.
  3. Place the side of your hand on the screen's edge and swipe horizontally across the display.

You'll see the same capture animation confirming the screenshot was taken.

Method 3: Bixby Voice Command

If your Samsung device has Bixby installed, you can say: "Hey Bixby, take a screenshot" — and it will capture the screen instantly without any button press.

Method 4: Screenshot Toolbar & Scroll Capture

After taking a screenshot, Samsung's Smart Capture toolbar appears at the bottom. From here you can:

  • Scroll Capture — Extend the screenshot to capture content below the visible screen.
  • Crop — Trim the image before saving.
  • Draw — Annotate the screenshot immediately.
  • Share — Send it directly to apps or contacts.

Method 5: Assistant Menu (Accessibility)

If you have difficulty with button presses, enable the Assistant Menu shortcut:

  1. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Interaction and Dexterity > Assistant Menu.
  2. Toggle it on to add a floating button to your screen.
  3. Tap the floating button and select Screenshot.

Where Are Screenshots Saved on Samsung?

All screenshots are stored in your device's internal storage under the DCIM/Screenshots or Pictures/Screenshots folder. You can access them through the Gallery app or via a file manager.

Quick Reference Table

MethodHow to UseBest For
Button ComboPower + Volume DownAll users, any situation
Palm SwipeSwipe hand across screenHands-free convenience
Bixby Voice"Hey Bixby, take a screenshot"Completely hands-free
Assistant MenuFloating accessibility buttonAccessibility needs

With these methods, you'll never miss capturing an important moment on your Samsung Galaxy device.