How to take a screenshot on a Xiaomi phone: all the ways for Redmi, POCO and Mi

Screenshots on Xiaomi smartphones are one of the most popular features that can be used to save important information, share data in messengers or fix errors in the work of applications. Despite the apparent simplicity, many users face difficulties: standard button combinations do not work, gestures in MIUI are inactive, or simply do not know about the hidden capabilities of the system. This article covers all the current ways to create screenshots from classic to little-known, including solutions for devices with faulty buttons or a sensor.

The thing about MIUI is that it offers more options than standard Android, and there's voice control through Alice, there's a three-finger swipe, and even a screenshot through Quick Ball, which is a floating toolbar, and we'll break down each method with MIUI versions (12 to 14) and popular models like Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13, and more. If your phone doesn't respond to the usual combinations, you'll find an alternative.

1. Classical method: button combination

The most versatile method that works on all Xiaomi models is to press power buttons and reduce volume simultaneously, which is independent of the MIUI version and works even on older devices like the Redmi 4X or Mi A1.

1. Open the screen that you need to lock.
2. Press the Power button (right) and the Volume Down button (left) for 1-2 seconds.
3. Wait for the characteristic shutter sound (if the sound is on) and visual animation.

The screenshot will be saved in the gallery in the Screenshots folder or Screenshots. New models (such as Xiaomi 14) can have vibration instead of sound, which is normal. If the combination does not work, check if the hardware buttons are disabled in the special features settings.

⚠️ Note: On certain devices (e.g, POCO F4) Long-term button retention can cause the reset menu. Press quickly and synchronously!

2.Gest method: three-finger swipe

MIUI's signature feature is the ability to take screenshots without buttons using a three-finger gesture, which is enabled by default on most devices, but can be configured or disabled to check its performance:

1. Open the screen.
2. Swipe three fingers from the bottom up (as when closing the application).
3. Keep your fingers on the screen for 0.5-1 seconds until the animation appears.

If the gesture does not work, check the settings:

1. Go to Settings → Additional → Special features → Gestures.
2. Find the screenshot item with three fingers and activate it.
3. If necessary, change the direction of the swipe (up or down).

- Gesture is enabled in the settings

Fingers touch the screen at the same time.

No conflicts with other gestures (e.g. unlocking)

The screen is not blocked from gestures (check in "Security")

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This method is particularly useful for devices with failed buttons or for users who often take screenshots in games (such as Genshin Impact or PUBG Mobile) where physical buttons interfere with gameplay.

3.The Quick Ball Panel: Hidden MIUI Tool

Quick Ball is a floating bar that appears on top of any screen and gives quick access to key features, including screenshots. It is disabled by default, but it is easy to activate:

1. Open the Settings. → Additionally. → Quick Ball.
2. Switch the slider to the position on.
3. Customize the appearance (size, transparency) and the location of the panel.
4. In the Functions section, add the Screenshot icon.

Now to take a screenshot:

1. Touch the Quick Ball floating mug.
2. Select the Screenshot icon.
3. Confirm the action (if required).

The advantage of this method is instant access without remembering button combinations, so you can move the panel around the edges of the screen so that it doesn't interfere. POCO-Quick Ball devices can be called the Assistant Menu.

4.Voice assistant: screenshot on command

If you have Xiaomi Voice Assistant enabled (or Alice on Russian firmware), you can take screenshots with your voice, which is useful when your hands are busy or your buttons are not working.

1. Activate Voice Assistant: Long-term Home button retention (if physical). Voice command: OK, Google (if Google Assistant is configured). Microphone button in the search bar.

• "Take a screenshot"
• "Photograph the screen."
• "Save the Screen" (for Alice)

Limitations of function:

• 📱 It doesn’t work in some apps (like VKontakte or Telegram because of their content protection).
• 🔄 Can “short” dynamic content (e.g., news feed).
• 📏 Maximum length: 10 screens (depending on model).

On the Xiaomi 13 Pro and new flagships, the feature supports manual scrolling: you can manually flip through the screen while the system captures parts of it. PDF-viewers).

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If a long screenshot is cropped, try to take it in Read Mode (turns on in the notification curtain) which simplifies the structure of the page and increases the chances of a successful capture.

6. Alternative methods for non-standard situations

If none of the above methods work (for example, due to broken buttons or a faulty sensor), use these solutions:

The ADB method will require you to enable USB debugging in Settings → About Phone → MIUI version (click 7 times, then return to Additional → For developers) This solution is suitable for advanced users or cases where the phone is physically damaged.

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If the sensor is completely inoperable and the ADB is not available, the only way is to connect the phone to a PC and use Scrcpy to control from the computer and take screenshots.

Editing and managing screenshots

After taking a screenshot, MIUI offers tools for quick editing:

• 🖌️ Pruning: changing sizes and proportions.
• 🎨 Drawing: brushes, markers, addition of text.
• 🔍 Blurring: Hiding identity.
• 📤 Instant sending: share menu for messengers and social networks.