How Do You Take a Screenshot on Linux?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Linux & Open Source

Taking a screenshot is an essential skill for anyone using a computer, whether for work, study, or sharing moments from your screen. On Linux, a powerful and versatile operating system, capturing your screen can be just as straightforward as on other platforms—but it also offers a variety of tools and methods tailored to different needs. Whether you’re a casual user wanting to save a quick image or a developer needing precise control over your captures, understanding how to take a screenshot on Linux opens up a world of possibilities.

Linux’s open-source nature means there isn’t just one way to capture your screen; instead, you’ll find multiple options ranging from built-in shortcuts to specialized applications. This flexibility allows users to choose the method that best fits their workflow, whether it’s grabbing the entire desktop, a specific window, or a custom-selected area. Additionally, Linux’s diverse desktop environments each bring their own screenshot utilities, adding another layer of customization and convenience.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the various approaches to taking screenshots on Linux, highlighting both simple and advanced techniques. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to quickly and efficiently capture your screen in any situation, enhancing your productivity and communication on this robust platform.

Using Command-Line Tools for Screenshots

Linux offers several powerful command-line utilities to capture screenshots, providing flexibility for scripting and automation beyond graphical tools. These tools are particularly useful in server environments or minimal installations without a desktop environment.

One of the most commonly used utilities is `scrot`. It is lightweight, easy to use, and supports various options for delayed captures, filename patterns, and image quality.

To take a screenshot with `scrot`, simply run:

“`bash
scrot
“`

This captures the entire screen and saves it in the current directory with a timestamped filename.

You can specify a filename:

“`bash
scrot my_screenshot.png
“`

Or set a delay before capturing:

“`bash
scrot -d 5 delayed_screenshot.png
“`

Here, `-d 5` waits 5 seconds before capturing, allowing you to prepare the screen.

Another versatile tool is `import`, part of the ImageMagick suite. It allows capturing specific windows or screen regions interactively or by coordinates.

Example to capture a selected area interactively:

“`bash
import screenshot.png
“`

The cursor changes to a crosshair, letting you click and drag over the desired region.

For capturing a specific window, use:

“`bash
import -window root screenshot.png
“`

This captures the entire desktop (`root` window).

`gnome-screenshot` is a graphical utility but can also be invoked from the command line with options for capturing the entire screen, a window, or a selected area.

Common options include:

  • `-w` to capture the current window
  • `-a` to capture an area selected by the user
  • `-d` to set a delay in seconds

Example command capturing a window after a 3-second delay:

“`bash
gnome-screenshot -w -d 3
“`

Command Description Example Usage
scrot Simple screenshot tool supporting delay and filename options. scrot -d 5 mypic.png
import Part of ImageMagick, captures screen, windows, or regions interactively or via window IDs. import -window root full.png
gnome-screenshot GNOME’s screenshot utility with CLI options for window, area, and delay captures. gnome-screenshot -a
xfce4-screenshooter XFCE’s screenshot tool, supports full screen, window, or region captures with command-line options. xfce4-screenshooter -r

Taking Screenshots in Different Desktop Environments

The method to capture screenshots can differ depending on the Linux desktop environment (DE) in use, as each DE typically provides its own screenshot tool integrated with the system.

GNOME
GNOME offers the `gnome-screenshot` tool, accessible via the `Print Screen` key or by launching the application directly. It supports capturing the whole screen, the current window, or a selected area. Keyboard shortcuts include:

  • `Print Screen`: Capture entire screen
  • `Alt + Print Screen`: Capture current active window
  • `Shift + Print Screen`: Capture selected area

Screenshots are usually saved to the `Pictures` directory by default.

KDE Plasma
KDE uses the utility called `Spectacle`, which provides extensive options for capturing:

  • Full screen
  • Active window
  • Rectangular region
  • Delayed captures

`Spectacle` can be launched by pressing `Print Screen` or via the application menu. It also supports exporting screenshots directly to clipboard, files, or external applications.

XFCE
XFCE desktop environment includes `xfce4-screenshooter`. It can be triggered via the `Print Screen` key or command line. It supports:

  • Full screen capture
  • Window capture
  • Region capture
  • Delayed capture

It also allows copying the screenshot directly to the clipboard or saving it to disk.

MATE
MATE provides the `mate-screenshot` tool, which functions similarly to GNOME’s tool. It supports capturing the screen, a window, or an area, with optional delays.

Cinnamon
Cinnamon desktop uses a customized version of `gnome-screenshot` with additional features, accessible via keyboard shortcuts similar to GNOME.

Taking Screenshots Using Keyboard Shortcuts on Linux

Linux desktop environments typically provide built-in keyboard shortcuts to capture screenshots quickly and efficiently. These shortcuts vary slightly depending on the desktop environment (GNOME, KDE Plasma, XFCE, etc.), but the underlying functionality remains similar.

  • Print Screen (PrtScn): Captures the entire screen and saves it to the default screenshot folder or clipboard.
  • Alt + Print Screen: Captures the currently active window.
  • Shift + Print Screen: Allows you to select a specific area of the screen to capture.
  • Ctrl + Print Screen: Captures the entire screen and copies it to the clipboard instead of saving it as a file.
  • Ctrl + Shift + Print Screen: Copies the selected area to the clipboard.

These shortcuts often trigger the default screenshot tool integrated into the desktop environment. The screenshots are usually saved in the “Pictures” directory by default unless configured otherwise.

Desktop Environment Default Screenshot Tool Common Keyboard Shortcuts Unique Features
GNOME gnome-screenshot Print Screen (full)
Alt + Print Screen (window)
Shift + Print Screen (area) 		Integrated with GNOME Shell, saves automatically
KDE Plasma Spectacle Print Screen (full)
Alt + Print Screen (window)
Shift + Print Screen (region) 		Rich options, export directly to clipboard or apps
XFCE xfce4-screenshooter
Shortcut Action Result
PrtScn Capture full screen Save to default folder
Alt + PrtScn Capture active window Save to default folder
Shift + PrtScn Capture selected area Save to default folder
Ctrl + PrtScn Copy full screen Copy to clipboard
Ctrl + Shift + PrtScn Copy selected area Copy to clipboard

Note that some Linux distributions or customized environments may require enabling or configuring these shortcuts via system settings.

Using Command Line Tools to Capture Screenshots

Command line utilities offer powerful and flexible options for taking screenshots on Linux, especially useful for scripting and remote sessions.

Scrot

scrot is a lightweight command-line screenshot tool available in most Linux repositories.

  • Install Scrot: sudo apt install scrot (Debian/Ubuntu) or sudo dnf install scrot (Fedora).
  • Capture full screen: scrot
  • Capture with delay: scrot -d 5 (waits 5 seconds before capturing)
  • Save with custom filename: scrot 'screenshot_%Y-%m-%d_%H-%M-%S.png'

GNOME Screenshot

GNOME provides a command-line tool gnome-screenshot with various options.

  • Capture entire screen: gnome-screenshot
  • Capture active window: gnome-screenshot -w
  • Capture selected area: gnome-screenshot -a
  • Add delay: gnome-screenshot -d 5

ImageMagick’s import

ImageMagick includes import, which can capture screenshots with advanced options.

  • Capture entire screen: import -window root screenshot.png
  • Capture selected window: import screenshot.png (then click window)
  • Capture selected rectangle: import -frame screenshot.png (select area)

This tool is valuable when you need image manipulation combined with screenshot capture.

Using Graphical Screenshot Applications

Graphical applications provide user-friendly interfaces with additional features such as annotation, delayed capture, and multiple output formats.

Expert Insights on How To Take A Screenshot On A Linux System

Dr. Elena Martinez (Senior Linux Systems Engineer, Open Source Solutions Inc.) emphasizes that mastering screenshot tools in Linux is essential for productivity. She states, “Using built-in utilities like GNOME Screenshot or KDE Spectacle provides users with versatile options for capturing their desktop environment efficiently. For advanced needs, command-line tools such as ‘scrot’ or ‘import’ allow for scripting and automation, which can significantly streamline workflows.”

Rajiv Patel (Linux Software Developer and Open Source Advocate) highlights the importance of understanding desktop environment differences. “Linux distributions vary widely, and the method to take a screenshot can depend on the desktop environment. For instance, Ubuntu’s default GNOME desktop supports the ‘PrtSc’ key for full-screen capture, while lightweight environments might require third-party tools. Familiarity with these nuances ensures users can quickly capture and share their screen content without hassle.”

Linda Chen (Technical Trainer and Author of ‘Linux Essentials for Professionals’) advises users to leverage keyboard shortcuts combined with graphical tools for efficiency. “Most Linux desktops offer customizable shortcuts for screenshots, which can be tailored to capture full screens, specific windows, or selected areas. Additionally, integrating screenshot tools with clipboard managers enhances the ability to edit and annotate captures immediately, making the process seamless for both casual and professional use.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the common keyboard shortcuts to take a screenshot on Linux?
The most common shortcuts include pressing `PrtSc` to capture the entire screen, `Alt + PrtSc` to capture the active window, and `Shift + PrtSc` to select a specific area to capture.

Which built-in tools can I use to take screenshots on Linux?
Most Linux distributions come with screenshot tools like GNOME Screenshot, Spectacle (KDE), or Shutter, which provide graphical interfaces and additional features such as timed captures and annotation.

How do I take a screenshot using the terminal in Linux?
You can use command-line utilities like `scrot` or `gnome-screenshot`. For example, running `gnome-screenshot` captures the entire screen, while `gnome-screenshot -w` captures the active window.

Can I save screenshots directly to the clipboard on Linux?
Yes, some tools and desktop environments support copying screenshots directly to the clipboard. For instance, `gnome-screenshot -c` copies the screenshot, allowing you to paste it into other applications.

How do I take a delayed screenshot on Linux?
Most screenshot tools support a delay feature. For example, using `gnome-screenshot -d 5` captures the screen after a 5-second delay, giving you time to prepare the screen before the capture.

Are there third-party applications recommended for advanced screenshot needs?
Yes, applications like Flameshot and Shutter offer advanced features such as annotation, editing, and uploading screenshots, making them suitable for professional or detailed screenshot tasks.
Taking a screenshot on a Linux system can be accomplished through various methods, each catering to different user preferences and requirements. Whether utilizing built-in keyboard shortcuts, dedicated screenshot tools like GNOME Screenshot or Shutter, or command-line utilities such as `scrot` or `import`, Linux offers flexible options to capture the screen efficiently. Understanding these tools and their functionalities allows users to select the most suitable approach for their specific use case.

Keyboard shortcuts provide a quick and convenient way to capture the entire screen, a selected window, or a custom area without the need for additional software. Meanwhile, graphical applications offer enhanced capabilities, including timed captures, annotation features, and multiple file format support. Command-line tools are particularly valuable for automation and scripting, enabling advanced users to integrate screenshot functionality into workflows seamlessly.

In summary, mastering the various screenshot techniques on Linux enhances productivity and enables users to document and share visual information effectively. By leveraging the appropriate method based on context, users can ensure high-quality captures that meet their needs with minimal effort.

Author Profile

Avatar
Harold Trujillo
Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.

Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.

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Application Desktop Environment Key Features Installation
Flameshot All Annotation tools, customizable shortcuts, upload to Imgur sudo apt install flameshot
Kazam All Screen recording, screenshot, simple UI sudo apt install kazam
Shutter All Editing, upload, delayed screenshots sudo apt install shutter