Why screenshots are saved to internal memory by default and how to fix it
Xiaomi smartphones (including the Redmi, POCO and Mi lines) save screenshots to the Pictures/Screenshots folder in the device’s internal memory by default, which poses two key challenges: fast memory filling and difficulty migrating files to other devices, especially for users with budget models (such as the Redmi 9A or POCO M3), where the amount of internal storage is often limited to 32-64 GB.
Fortunately, MIUI It allows you to change the way screenshots are saved SD-The map is done through both standard settings and by way of detours for older firmware versions. MIUI 12, the algorithm for working with external drives has changed, and in MIUI 14 there are additional limitations for some models. In this article we will discuss all the current methods, including solutions for devices without a slot for a memory card (for example, Xiaomi 12 Pro).
Before you start setting up, make sure your SD-map:
- 🔹 Formatted as an internal storage (for the purpose of MIUI 12+) or portable (for the purpose of MIUI 11 and older).
- 🔹 Has sufficient free space (recommended at least 5-10 GB).
- 🔹 Supports the speed class UHS-I (U1/U3) steady-work.
Method 1: Reverse the save path through camera settings (for MIUI 13/14)
In the latest versions, the firmware has screenshot settings tied to the Camera app, which is due to the unification of media files in the camera. MIUI. To redirect the conservation to SD-map:
- Open the Camera app.
- Put it on the gear settings (⚙️) top-right.
- Select the Save folder item → SD-map.
- Confirm the selection and restart the device.
After that, all new screenshots (as well as photos and videos) will be saved to the folder. DCIM/Screenshots Importantly, this method only works for the memory card. SD-Cards formatted as internal storage (Adoptable Storage).
Backup of data from the card|Formatting as internal storage (Settings) → Memory)|Checking the free space (minimum 5 GB)|Reboot the phone after formatting-->
If you're an option SD-The card in the camera settings is inactive:
- 🔸 Make sure the memory card is properly inserted and recognized by the system (check in Settings). → Memory).
- 🔸 Try re-extracting and pasting the card – sometimes it resets mounting errors.
- 🔸 For models POCO F3/Xiaomi 11T may require an update MIUI last-minute.
What to do if SD-The card is not displayed in the settings?
Method 2: Manually move Screenshots folder (for MIUI 12 and below)
In older versions of the firmware (for example, MIUI 10-12) there is no direct option to change the way you save screenshots. SD-map with the help of a file manager:
- Install a file manager (e.g., Mi File Explorer or Solid Explorer).
- Go to /storage/emulated/0/Pictures/ and find the Screenshots folder.
- Press Highlight → Move and choose the path to SD-map (e.g., map, /storage/XXXX-XXXX/DCIM/).
- Create a symbolic link (root rights required): -s /storage/XXXX-XXXX/DCIM/Screenshots /storage/emulated/0/Pictures/Screenshots
This method has limitations:
- 📌 Without root rights, the folder can reset after the update MIUI.
- 📌 Some apps (such as Google Photos) may not see files on the site. SD-map.
- 📌 The speed of saving screenshots may fall on 10–15% When using slow cards (class) 4/6).
💡
If screenshots are no longer saved after moving, check the folder permissions. In the file manager, click on Screenshots, select Properties → Permissions, and tick Read/Write for all users.
Method 3: Using third-party applications for forced preservation
If standard methods don’t work (for example, on Xiaomi 13 Ultra or POCO X5 Pro), you can use third-party utilities.
| Annex | Root is required. | Features | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screenshot Easy | ❌ No. | Allows you to select a folder for SD-The card supports the screenshot delay | Google Play |
| Screen Master | ❌ No. | Automatic Save to the Cloud + Path Selection on SD | Google Play |
| Tasker | ⚠️ Partially. | Complicated setup, but flexible rules for file transfer | Google Play |
To set up Screenshot Easy:
- Install the application and open it.
- Go to Settings → Save folder.
- Select the Other Path and point the folder to SD-map (e.g., map, /storage/XXXX-XXXX/Screenshots/).
- Activate the Use as a system option (overlay permission is required).
⚠️ Note: Applications without root rights may conflict with system services MIUI. If after installation, the screenshots are duplicated (are stored both in the internal memory and on the screen). SD), Turn off system capture of screenshots in Settings → Additionally. → Screenshots.
Problem Solving: Screenshots are not saved SD-map
If after all the manipulations screenshots are still stored in the internal memory, check the following points:
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| SD-The card is not displayed in the settings | The map is formatted as a portable | Reformat as internal storage (data will be deleted!) |
| Screenshots are saved in both folders | Conflict of system and third-party application | Disable system capture in Settings → Special. features → Screenshots |
| Error "No access" when saving | Insufficient rights or damaged file system | Check the card for errors via PC (chkdsk) or format again |
For Xiaomi models with a Hybrid slot (for example, Redmi Note 10 Pro), where SD-card SIM, Additional problems may arise due to:
- 🔧 Unstable mounting of the card during restart (reconnected).
- 🔧 Performance restrictions – some cards (such as SanDisk Ultra) may slow down when writing.
- 🔧 Conflict with Dual App (if you use app cloning).
💡
If your Xiaomi is not supported SD-cards (e.g. Xiaomi) 12S Ultra, the only way out is to use cloud services (Google Photos, Mi Cloud) or regularly transfer screenshots to your PC.
Storage optimization: how to automate screenshot cleaning
Even after the screenshots were transferred to SD-The folder map can fill up with garbage to automate cleaning:
- Use Google Photos: 📷 Enable Autoboot for Screenshots folder. 📷 Set up Free up space after download (in the application settings).
Mi File Manager
:
- Automate with MacroDroid: Trigger: New File in /SDCard/DCIM/Screenshots/ Action: Delete files older than 30 days
Alternatives: Cloud and Network Storage
If your Xiaomi model doesn’t support you SD-cards (e.g. Xiaomi 13 or Xiaomi Mix Fold 2), consider the following ways to free up internal memory:
- ☁️ Google Photos: Free storage of screenshots in compressed quality (up to 15 GB). Set up automatic download in Settings → Backup.
- ☁️ Mi Cloud: 5GB free, integration with MIUI. Included in Settings → Xiaomi account → Mi Cloud → gallery.
- 🖥️ FTP-server: Applications like FX File Explorer allows you to configure access to your phone files over a local network.
- 🔗 PC Sync: Use AirDroid or Pushbullet to automatically send screenshots to your computer.
For corporate users or those who work with confidential data, we recommend:
- 🔒 Encryption SD-maps: In Settings → Security → Encryption (not available on all models).
- 🔒 Safe apps: Vaulty or GalleryVault hide screenshots from prying eyes.
⚠️ Note: When using Mi Cloud, screenshots are loaded in original quality, which quickly consumes free space. To save space, convert files to the original file before downloading. JPEG permittingly 1920×1080 Photo Compress application.