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Chromebook⏱ 1 min

How to Take a Screenshot on Chromebook

Capture your full screen or a selected region using built-in shortcuts.

Last verified: February 21, 2026

Chromebook replaces the traditional Print Screen key with a dedicated Show Windows key — the key showing overlapping rectangles — which doubles as the screenshot trigger. The shortcut Ctrl + Show Windows captures the full screen instantly to the clipboard and Downloads folder, while Ctrl + Shift + Show Windows opens a floating toolbar letting you choose between partial region, specific window, or full-screen capture. Captures open automatically in the Gallery app where you can crop, annotate, and share without any additional software.

Quick Steps

Follow in order for the fastest result.

  1. 1Press Ctrl + Show Windows key. The screenshot saves to the Downloads folder automatically.
  2. 2Open the screenshot from the notification bar or Screenshots / Desktop folder to verify it captured correctly.
  3. 3Rename and move the file to your preferred location.

Still Not Working?

Try these if the steps above didn't help.

Verify the Fix

Confirm everything is fully working before closing this guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Chromebook have a built-in screenshot tool?
Yes. Chromebook uses Ctrl + Show Windows for a full screenshot or Ctrl + Shift + Show Windows for a partial capture, saved to Downloads.
Where do screenshots save on Chromebook?
Screenshots save to the Downloads folder automatically.
Why is my screenshot shortcut not working on Chromebook?
This usually happens when a game overlay, remote desktop client, or screen utility has captured the same keyboard shortcut. Try an alternative shortcut, close background apps, or open the screenshot tool directly from the app list.
Can I take a screenshot on Chromebook without a keyboard?
Yes. Open the Screen Capture tool from the Chromebook Launcher and use the on-screen toolbar.

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