How to take a screenshot on Redmi 9: all the ways from buttons to gestures

Why can’t we get a screenshot of Redmi 9?

Xiaomi Redmi 9 is one of the most popular budget devices with a proprietary shell MIUI, but even its users regularly face problems when creating screenshots. Most often, the fault of the gestures, disabled system functions or banal ignorance of alternative methods. For example, many try to take a screenshot only through a combination of buttons, unaware of the existence of a three-finger swipe or voice command for Google Assistant.

Another common mistake is to try to take a picture in secure applications (banks, encrypted messengers). Redmi 9 blocks screenshots from SberBank Online, Telegram Secret Chats and some games by default, and the system either simply ignores your action or shows a notification of the ban, which is solved through security settings — but more on that later.

In this article, we’ll look at all the current ways to capture screenshots on Redmi 9, including the little-known MIUI 12/13/14 chips, and how to get around app restrictions and what to do if screenshots don’t save.

1. Classic method: power buttons + volume

It is a versatile method that works on all Xiaomi smartphones, including the Redmi 9, Redmi Note 9 and other MIUI-based models.

1. Open the screen you want to capture (social network, game, settings).
2. At the same time, press the power button (right) and the volume reduction button (left).
3. Hold them for 1-2 seconds until you hear the camera shutter sound and see the save animation.

⚠️ Note: If your Redmi 9 doesn’t work this combination, check if the hardware buttons are disabled in the special features settings. → Special facilities → System settings → The power button completes the call and make sure the option is turned off.

Where to look for a screenshot? By default, all screenshots are saved in the DCIM → Screenshots folder or in the gallery in the Screenshots album. If there are no files, check the storage settings:

Open the Files app | Go to DCIM| Make sure the Screenshots folder is not hidden | Check the free space on your device-->

2.Three-finger swipe: the fastest way

MIUI's signature feature is the ability to take a screenshot with a simple gesture across the screen, which works even with one hand and is especially useful in games or applications where power and volume buttons are busy.

How to set up:

1. Go to Settings → Additional → Screenshot.
2. Activate the switch "Swipe with three fingers".
3. Select the direction of the swipe (default - down).

How to use:

• 👆 Swipe three fingers across the screen from top to bottom (or in the direction you choose).
• 📱 Hold your fingers on the screen for 0.5-1 seconds to recognize the gesture.
• 🔊 Wait for the sound signal and vibration – the screenshot is ready!

⚠️ Warning: If the gesture doesn't work, check if it conflicts with other functions (such as navigation gestures). → Display. → Full screen mode.

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To take a long screenshot (scrollable), after a normal shot, click on the thumbnail in the lower right corner and select "Scroll." This works in browsers, chats and some applications.

3. Screenshot through the Quick Settings panel

Few people know, but Redmi 9 can take a screenshot directly from the notification curtain, which is useful if the hardware buttons are broken or unresponsive.

Instructions:

1. Swipe down from the top edge of the screen to open the notification bar.
2. Swipe again to open the full Quick Settings panel.
3. Find the screenshot icon (usually hidden – click on the screenshot «⋯» or “Edit»).
4. Drag it to the active area and tap the icon.

If the icon is not on the list, add it:

• 🔧 Press «⋯» → «Edit" in the Quick Settings Panel.
• 🔍 Find the screenshot list and drag it to the top.
• 📱 Save the changes.

4. Voice command for Google Assistant

If you're too lazy to use buttons or gestures, you can take a voice screenshot, which requires a Google Assistant activated and works even on a locked screen (if OK, Google is enabled).

How to set up:

1. Make sure that Google Assistant is installed and enabled (download from the Play Market if removed).
2. Go to the Assistant settings: press the Home button or say “OK, Google.”
3. Enable the “Voice input” option and allow access to the screen.

How to use:

• 🎤 Say, OK, Google, take a screenshot».
• 📱 Or, "Okay, Google, take the screen off».
• 🔊 Wait for confirmation – the picture will be saved automatically.

⚠️ Note: In some Redmi 9 regional firmware (e.g. China), Google Assistant may be disabled by default, in which case install it manually or use the alternative, Alice from Yandex (but it does not support screenshots).

5. Screenshot via computer (ADB)

This is a way for advanced users, but it helps if the touch screen is not working or you need to take a picture of the system menu (for example, Recovery Mode), you will need a computer with Xiaomi drivers installed and USB debugging enabled.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn on Developer Mode on Redmi 9: Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version (shap 7 times)
2. Activate USB Debugging in Settings → Additional → For developers.
3. Connect your phone to your PC and confirm your trust in your computer.
4. Open the command line (Windows) or terminal (Mac/Linux) and type in: adb shell screencap -p /sdcard/screen.png
5. Copy the file on PC: adb pull /sdcard/screen.png

This method also allows you to take a screenshot without notice (useful for covert monitoring), however, be careful: unauthorized use of such features may violate privacy law.

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ADB-teams work even on a locked phone if debugging was previously enabled USB. This is the only way to take a screenshot in Fastboot Mode or EDL Mode.

Comparison of all methods: which one to choose?

To make it easier for you to decide, we have compiled a table with the pros and cons of each method:

For most Redmi 9 users, a three-finger swipe is optimal, it’s fast, intuitive and works 90% of the time; power and volume buttons are suitable for those who are used to the classics, and voice commands are for fans of smart assistants.

What to do if screenshots are not saved?

Sometimes screenshots are taken, but they don't show up in the gallery.

• 📁 Screenshots folder removed: Create it manually in DCIM via file manager.
• 🚫 Recording ban: Check permissions for the Screenshots app in Settings → Annexes → Permits.
• 🗑️ Lack of memory: Clear the cache or transfer files to SD-map.
• 🔄 Failure MIUI: Restart your phone or reset the settings of the Gallery app».

If the problem persists, try using third-party screenshot apps (like Screenshot Easy or Screen Master) that bypass system limitations but require additional permissions.

FAQ: Frequent questions about screenshots on Redmi 9