7 Easy Ways to Take Screenshots on a Chromebook Without the Windows Key

ByJim Miller

Taking screenshots is an essential feature for any device, including Chromebooks. However, what if your Chromebook doesn't have a Windows key or the key isn't working? Don't worry! In this article, we will explore seven alternative methods to take screenshots on a Chromebook without the Windows key. Let's dive in!

Using Quick Settings

All Chromebooks, regardless of the brand, provide a screenshot button in the Quick Settings menu. Here's how you can use it:

  1. Click on the time in the bottom-right corner of the Chromebook shelf.
  2. The Quick settings menu will appear. Click on the up arrow to expand the menu.
  3. Look for the “Screen capture” button and click on it.
  4. The screenshot toolbar will appear at the bottom of the screen. Press the “Screenshot” button to take a full-page screenshot, or choose “Partial screenshot” or “Window screenshot” for more specific captures.
  5. Select the desired option, and the screenshot will be taken, copied to the clipboard, and saved on your Chromebook.

Using Physical Buttons

If you own a convertible, tablet-style, or 2-in-1 Chromebook, you can take a screenshot using the physical buttons. Simply press the “Power + Volume down” buttons simultaneously to capture a full-screen screenshot. Please note that the Volume button is different from the volume keys on your keyboard. You can find the Volume button on either the right or left side of your Chromebook.

Using Chrome

If you want to capture screenshots of web pages, you can use Chrome's built-in screenshot tool. However, keep in mind that this method only works within the Chrome browser. Here's how to use it:

  1. Open Chrome and click on the three-dot icon at the top.
  2. Go to “More tools” and select “Take screenshot.”
  3. The screen will darken, and a screenshot will be captured. You will receive a notification, and you can access the screenshot from the clipboard.

Using a Stylus

If your Chromebook supports a stylus, you can use it to take screenshots without the Windows key. Click on the Pen icon in the Chromebook's taskbar, and a menu will appear. From there, you can choose to capture a full-page screenshot or a partial screenshot.

Using an External Keyboard

If you're using an external non-Chrome OS keyboard with your Chromebook, you can still take screenshots. However, the keyboard shortcuts are slightly different:

  • Ctrl + F5: Capture a full screenshot.
  • Ctrl + Shift + F5: Capture a partial screenshot.

Using Google Assistant

You can also utilize Google Assistant to take a screenshot on your Chromebook. Activate Google Assistant by saying “Hey Google,” and then command it to “Take a screenshot.” You will receive a notification confirming the screenshot capture.

Please note that Google Assistant must be enabled on your Chromebook. You can do this by going to “Chromebook Settings > Search & Assistant > Google Assistant” and turning on the toggle switch. Additionally, make sure to select “Always” in the “Hey Google” drop-down box.

Using Chrome Extensions

If none of the above methods suit your needs, you can rely on Chrome extensions to capture screenshots on your Chromebook. These extensions can be downloaded from the Chrome Web Store. Here are some popular and user-friendly screenshot apps for Chromebook:

These extensions allow you to capture screenshots within the Chrome browser and some even enable you to select any open window for capturing. Additionally, many of these extensions also provide the option to capture scrolling screenshots.

Wrapping Up

Taking screenshots on a Chromebook is easy, even without the Windows key. Whether you prefer using the Quick Settings menu, physical buttons, Chrome's built-in tool, a stylus, an external keyboard, Google Assistant, or Chrome extensions, you have plenty of options to choose from. Experiment with these methods and find the one that works best for your needs. Happy screenshotting!