Samsung Dex Full Tutorial - Features & Settings

Naveen Thakur
4 Mar, 2023

What is Samsung DeX?

Samsung DeX (short for Desktop eXperience) is one of Samsung's most underrated but incredibly powerful features. It allows you to use your Galaxy smartphone or tablet like a full-fledged PC desktop. Whether you're working on documents, browsing the web, editing photos, or running multiple apps side-by-side, Samsung DeX gives you the flexibility of a computer while running on your mobile device.

In this comprehensive tutorial, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Samsung DeX—from setup to its best features and advanced settings.

Supported Devices for Samsung DeX

Samsung DeX is supported on many flagship and premium Samsung devices, including:

  • Galaxy S Series: S8 and above (including S24 series)

  • Galaxy Note Series: Note 8 and above

  • Galaxy Z Series: Z Fold, Z Fold 2, 3, 4, 5, and Z Fold 6

  • Galaxy Tab S Series: Tab S4, S6, S7, S8, S9, and newer

  • Select Galaxy A series with DeX support

Note: Not all Galaxy A models support DeX. Always check your device’s official specs.

How to Set Up Samsung DeX (3 Methods)

1. Samsung DeX on a Monitor (Wired Mode)

What You Need:

  • USB-C to HDMI cable or a DeX Station/Pad

  • Monitor or TV with HDMI port

  • Optional: Bluetooth or USB mouse and keyboard

Steps:

  1. Connect your Galaxy device to the monitor via USB-C to HDMI.

  2. Your phone will detect the connection and prompt you to launch Samsung DeX.

  3. Tap “Start Samsung DeX” on your phone screen.

  4. The monitor will switch to DeX mode with a desktop-like interface.

2. Samsung DeX on Windows or Mac (DeX for PC)

What You Need:

  • DeX for PC software (download from Samsung’s official website)

  • Windows 10 or higher / macOS 10.13 or later

  • USB cable

Steps:

  1. Install Samsung DeX for PC on your computer.

  2. Connect your phone via USB.

  3. Tap “Start Samsung DeX” on your phone.

  4. A DeX window will appear on your PC—use it like a second desktop.

3. Wireless DeX (Wi-Fi Mode)

What You Need:

  • Smart TV or monitor with Miracast support

  • Both phone and display on the same Wi-Fi network

Steps:

  1. Swipe down the quick panel on your phone.

  2. Tap DeX > Select your TV from the available devices.

  3. Accept the prompt on the TV.

  4. DeX launches wirelessly.

Tip: Wireless DeX is best when you’re giving presentations or watching media.

Samsung DeX Interface: The Desktop Feel

When DeX launches, you'll see a Windows-like desktop environment:

  • Start Menu-style Apps Tray (bottom-left)

  • Taskbar with running apps (bottom center)

  • Status Panel (bottom right with Wi-Fi, battery, etc.)

  • Multiple Resizable Windows

  • Right-click options (with mouse)

  • Drag-and-drop file support

It truly feels like a mini laptop replacement!

Top Samsung DeX Features You Should Use

1. Multitasking with Multi-Window

Open several apps in floating windows:

  • Resize, minimize, or maximize apps just like on a PC

  • Run YouTube in one window and take notes in another

  • Use drag-and-drop to move content between apps

2. Samsung Keyboard Shortcuts

If you’re using a physical keyboard, here are some useful shortcuts:

  • Alt + Tab: Switch between apps

  • Alt + F4: Close current window

  • Ctrl + C / V: Copy and paste

  • Ctrl + Z: Undo

  • Win + D: Show desktop

3. File Access & Transfers

Access files easily:

  • Use the My Files app to manage phone storage

  • Drag files to/from PC in DeX for PC mode

  • Connect USB drives via OTG to import/export files

4. Samsung Notes & Microsoft Office Integration

Take notes while in DeX mode:

  • Samsung Notes supports drawing and typing

  • You can sync notes across devices via Samsung Cloud

  • Open and edit Word, Excel, PowerPoint via Microsoft 365 integration

5. DeX Labs – Hidden Experimental Features

Enable DeX Labs from settings to try experimental features:

  • Force apps to resize: Some apps are fixed in portrait mode—this feature overrides that

  • Auto open last apps: Resume where you left off when reconnecting to DeX

  • High-res screen scaling

Navigate to Settings > Samsung DeX > DeX Labs to activate.

Samsung DeX Settings You Must Know

1. Screen Resolution

Choose the best resolution for your monitor:

Settings > Samsung DeX > Screen Resolution

Options may include:

  • 720p

  • 1080p

  • WQHD (if monitor supports it)

2. Change Pointer Speed

Settings > Samsung DeX > Mouse/Touchpad > Pointer Speed

Adjust how fast your pointer moves—ideal when switching between devices.

3. Auto-Start DeX When Connected

If you always use DeX with a particular monitor:

Settings > Samsung DeX > Auto Start When HDMI is Connected

4. Keyboard Input Settings

Customize shortcuts and language preferences:

Settings > General Management > Physical Keyboard

Samsung DeX Use Cases: How It Boosts Productivity

✅ Office Work:

  • Write documents, prepare presentations, and attend Zoom meetings—all from your phone

  • Use cloud storage like OneDrive or Google Drive for seamless workflow

✅ Media & Entertainment:

  • Watch YouTube, Netflix, or Prime Video on a big screen

  • Play games using a Bluetooth controller

✅ Remote Access:

  • Use TeamViewer or Chrome Remote Desktop to access your PC or server remotely

✅ Programming:

  • Pair with a Bluetooth keyboard, install Termux, or use VS Code via browser—code from your Galaxy!

Samsung DeX: Pros and Cons

Pros:

✅ Full desktop-like UI
✅ No need to carry a laptop
✅ Seamless Samsung ecosystem integration
✅ Microsoft Office and DeX synergy
✅ Excellent for presentations and work

Cons:

❌ Not all apps are DeX optimized
❌ Gaming performance varies
❌ Requires peripherals for best experience
❌ Some A-series devices lack DeX support

Samsung DeX Tips & Tricks

🔹 Use your phone as a trackpad when no mouse is available
🔹 Connect Galaxy Buds to get audio while the phone is in DeX mode
🔹 Pin apps to the taskbar for quick access
🔹 Use Split-Screen and Pop-up View on tablets like the Galaxy Tab S9 in DeX
🔹 Store DeX shortcuts on your PC desktop (in DeX for PC mode)

Final Thoughts: Is Samsung DeX Worth Using?

Absolutely! If you're a Galaxy power user, student, or mobile professional, Samsung DeX can significantly improve your multitasking and productivity. Whether you need a quick way to prepare presentations, edit documents, or even code on the go—Samsung DeX is a hidden gem.

As Samsung continues to develop DeX alongside its One UI updates, we can expect even better features, app compatibility, and performance boosts in future versions.

FAQs About Samsung DeX

❓Can I use Samsung DeX without any cables?

Yes, via Wireless DeX—just ensure your TV supports Miracast.

❓Does Samsung DeX consume more battery?

Yes, especially during wireless mode. It’s recommended to plug in your phone while using DeX.

❓Is DeX supported on Galaxy A series?

Only a few A-series models (like A90 5G) support DeX.

❓Can I play games on Samsung DeX?

Yes, but performance and compatibility vary by game. Try lighter games or emulators.

Don’t Miss Out:
Try Samsung DeX today and unlock a PC-like experience powered directly by your Galaxy phone or tablet.



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