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:
- Navigate to the screen you want to capture.
- Press the Power button and the Volume Down button simultaneously.
- Hold both buttons for about 1–2 seconds until you see a flash animation and hear a shutter sound.
- 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:
- Go to Settings > Advanced Features > Motions and Gestures.
- Enable Palm Swipe to Capture.
- 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:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Interaction and Dexterity > Assistant Menu.
- Toggle it on to add a floating button to your screen.
- 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
| Method | How to Use | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Button Combo | Power + Volume Down | All users, any situation |
| Palm Swipe | Swipe hand across screen | Hands-free convenience |
| Bixby Voice | "Hey Bixby, take a screenshot" | Completely hands-free |
| Assistant Menu | Floating accessibility button | Accessibility needs |
With these methods, you'll never miss capturing an important moment on your Samsung Galaxy device.