How to take a screenshot on Xiaomi: 7 proven ways

Taking a screenshot on Xiaomi devices seems like a simple task, as long as you don’t come across unexpected nuances, like why some models don’t have the usual button combination? Or how to take a screenshot if the sensor stops responding? In this article, we’ll look at all the current ways to create screenshots on Xiaomi smartphones and tablets, including the little-known features of MIUI 14/15 that simplify the process.

Xiaomi devices have the flexibility to set up, and you can not only take standard screenshots, but you can also edit them immediately after you create them, save them to the Mi Cloud cloud or share them via Quick Share in seconds, and if you use Redmi, POCO or Black Shark, some of the methods will be different, and we'll talk about that too.

But before we get to the instructions, the big question is why should we even explore alternatives? Because the classic button combination (Loudness down + Power) wears down physical keys over time, especially on budget models. And in some games or applications (like PUBG Mobile or Genshin Impact), clicking buttons can interfere with gameplay. So the ability to use gestures, voice commands, or even a quick setup panel will be a real salvation.

1. Standard method: Volume and power buttons

This is the most versatile method that works on all Xiaomi devices, regardless of the model and version of MIUI.

1. Open the screen you want to capture.
2. Simultaneously press the Volume Down button and the Power button 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. On some models (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro or POCO F5), a quick edit panel will appear after you create the picture - you can immediately crop the image, add text or a picture.

⚠️ Note: On devices with hardware buttons turned off (e.g., Xiaomi Mix Fold 3), this method may not work.

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If the screenshot is not saved, check if the Do Not Disturb mode is enabled with blocking notifications. It can prevent the creation of screenshots.

2. Three-finger gesture - quick screenshot without buttons

One of the most convenient ways, especially for owners of devices with MIUI 12 and later, is to activate it:

1. Go to Settings → Additional functions → Gestures.
2. Find the screenshot option with three fingers and turn it on.
3. Swipe the screen from top to bottom with three fingers at the same time.

Advantages of the method:

• 👆 No physical buttons (extends the life of the buttons).
• 🎯 It works even in games where buttons are busy with control.
• ⚡ Faster than the standard method by 30-40%.

On some models (like the Redmi Note 12 Pro+), you can adjust the gesture differently, swipe left to right or vice versa, which is convenient if you often take screenshots in landscape orientation.

3. Screenshot via notification panel

If you are uncomfortable remembering gestures or button combinations, use the Quick Settings Panel:

1. Swipe down from the top edge of the screen to open the notification bar.
2. Find the Screenshot icon (usually hidden under the More or Edit button).
3. Slip it on it - the picture will be taken instantly.

If the badge is not:

• 🔧 Click Edit (pencil in the upper right corner of the panel).
• 📱 Find a screenshot in the list and drag it to the active area.
• 💾 Save the changes.

This method is especially useful if you don't have a sensor or use a one-handed device, and you can take screenshots without sound (if you turn off the system sounds in the settings).

4. Voice assistant Google or Xiao AI

You can take a screenshot without touching the screen, using voice commands, and this is true for users with disabilities or in situations where hands are busy.

Method 1: Google Assistant

1. Activate the assistant with your voice (OK, Google) or hold the Home button.
2. Say, Take a screenshot or take a picture of the screen.

Method 2: Xiao AI (China/Global Firmware with Sina-based features only)

1. Hold the Power button to call Xiao AI.
2. Say in Chinese or English: Take a screenshot.

⚠️ Note: Voice commands may not work in some limited-enabled apps (e.g., banking programs or Netflix) and make sure Google Assistant has permission to control the screen in the special features settings.

5. Screenshot of the page being scrolled (long screenshot)

If you want to save the entire chat, the long web page, or the list from the app, a standard screenshot is not suitable. MIUI has a scrolling feature:

1. Take a regular screenshot of any of the above methods.
2. Immediately after the miniature appears in the lower right corner, tap it.
3. Select the Scrolling option (or Long Screenshot).
4. Wait until the system automatically scrolls the page and connects the frames.

Limitations of the method:

• ❌ It doesn’t work in some apps (like Instagram or TikTok because of content protection).
• ⏳ It can take up to 10 seconds on long pages.
• 📏 Maximum length: about 5 screens (depending on model).

On Xiaomi 14 Ultra and POCO F6 Pro, the feature supports saving scrolling screenshots in PDF format – this is convenient for sending by mail or printing.

6. Hidden features: screenshot via ADB and engineering menu

For advanced users who want to automate the process or take screenshots on a faulty device, these methods are suitable.

Method 1: ADB (Android Debug Bridge)

1. Connect your phone to your PC and activate USB Debugging in Settings → About Phone → MIUI version (tap 7 times to unlock the developer menu).
2. In the command line, type: adb shell screencap -p /sdcard/screen.png
3. The screenshot will be saved in the root folder of the device under the name screen.png.

Method 2: Engineering menu (only for power users!)

1. Type the code on your phone keyboard: ##4636##.
2. Go to the phone information section.
3. Find the Screenshot option (not available on all firmware).

⚠️ Note: Using the engineering menu can cause resets or damage to the system if you change the wrong settings.

7. Editing and managing screenshots

After taking a screenshot, MIUI offers several options for quick processing:

If you need to automatically delete screenshots after a day, activate the option in Settings → Storage → Auto Clean. This will help save space if you take many screenshots a day.

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On Xiaomi with MIUI 15 appeared Smart Select function – it allows you to select and copy text directly from the screen without creating a screenshot (analogue Live Text from Apple).

FAQ: Frequent questions about screenshots on Xiaomi